Michigan Compiled Laws, Chapter 324. Natural Resources and Environmental Protection § 324.9312

Sec. 9312. (1) One or more conservation districts may petition the department for a revision in the boundaries of 1 or more conservation districts. The department shall not take action on the petition unless it is signed by a majority of the directors of each of the districts involved in the proposed revision. Within 30 days after receipt of a proper petition, the department shall cause notice of hearing to be given to the residents in the area or areas affected by the proposed revision as identified by the directors of a district and within 60 days hold a hearing to receive comments relative to the proposed change.

(2) The department shall determine if the proposed revision as petitioned for is desirable. If it finds in the affirmative, the department shall issue an order that states that the boundaries of the districts are to be moved, merged, consolidated, or separated at a date specified in the order and includes the name and the revision of the boundaries of the revised district or districts.

(3) Upon transmission of the order to the secretary of state, a certificate of due organization under seal of the state shall issue, if necessary, to the directors of the district as provided in this part. The revised district or districts shall have the same powers, duties, and functions as other districts organized under this part.

(4) The department shall appoint the first board of directors of the revised district, 1 of whom shall be appointed for a term of 1 year, 2 for a term of 2 years, and 2 for a term of 3 years. Thereafter, directors shall be elected as provided in section 9307.  1

(5) All assets, liabilities, records, documents, writings, or other property of whatever kind of the districts of which the consolidated district is composed shall become the property of the consolidated district, and all agreements made by, and obligations of, the former districts shall be binding upon and enforceable by the consolidated district. At the date specified in the department's order, the districts of which the consolidated district is composed shall cease to exist, and their powers and duties shall cease after that date. The consolidated district shall be governed by this part.