Canton Township

Canton Township Municipal Water Report Info

Michigan stands among 20 states that maintain township governance systems. Across the United States, over 16,600 towns and townships exist, serving more than 60 million people – approximately 20% of the nation's population. Townships actually preceded statehood in many Midwestern regions, established by the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 as the initial governing structure for territories before they achieved statehood.

Townships primarily appear in three U.S. regions: New England, Mid-Atlantic, and the Midwest, with notable regional differences in responsibilities and operations.

Grid Pattern Structure
Michigan townships follow a grid pattern design. A standard township measures 6 miles by 6 miles (totaling 36 square miles). Some townships have diminished in area as villages and cities developed within their boundaries. Others have smaller footprints due to their proximity to Michigan's Great Lakes. Cities like Livonia and Taylor were once "true townships" (36 square miles), while Canton remains a true township.

Governmental Authority
Michigan township powers have evolved substantially, though key differences from cities and villages remain. Townships and counties are statutory units with powers expressly granted by state law, while cities and most villages possess home rule powers allowing them to undertake almost any action not legally prohibited.

Michigan Township Facts
Michigan features two township categories – general law and charter townships. The Michigan Legislature created charter townships in 1947 as a special classification offering greater protection against city annexation. Canton is among Michigan's 128 charter townships, with 1,242 townships total across the state varying significantly in geographical size, population, location and organizational structure.

Michigan townships range from communities of just 10 residents to those with over 95,000 people. Larger townships operate under a seven-member township board – including a supervisor, clerk, treasurer and four trustees. Township boards may employ managers, assessors, police and fire chiefs, and other necessary personnel.