Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the role of an Indiana township?
The responsibilities of a township are fairly narrow. They include safe-keeping of township assets, fire protection, and assistance (welfare). In some instances it includes maintenance of abandoned cemeteries. A township can opt to provide additional services, for example maintaining a park.
One resource for additional information is the Indiana Township Association https://indianatownshipassoc.org/township-government/

Where is Harris Township?
In the northeast corner of St. Joseph County, Indiana.

Is it possible to reserve a pavilion at a Harris Township Park?
Not at this time. All use is shared. However, any use by ten or more requires prior approval. See here for details.

Is it possible to reserve a court or field at a Harris Township Park?
At Elm Road, no.
At Brummitt Road, fields may be reserved. There is an application process and there may be a fee. See here for details.

Why do you want me to take my trash with me, rather than use park trash cans?
Trash can capacity is limited and, due to our minimal staffing, it isn’t easy to keep up with the volume. Overflowing trash cans are unsightly and unsanitary. We’re glad you like to eat lunch at the park, and to gather with friends, but please take away your trash if at all possible. Thank you!
Our cemeteries do not have trash cans, so even decorations past their useful life should be taken with you.

Are there plots for sale in Harris Prairie or Salem Cemeteries?
No, the township maintains those cemeteries but is not offering plots for sale.
If you’d like to be notified if plots ever come available, please send a written request to the township.

Can you help me pay my bills?
In some instances, based on the type of bill and household income levels. You must live in the township. Contact the township for more information including how to apply.

Would the township give money to my organization?
No. While there are many fine non-profits in our area, the township is focused on delivering excellent government services while keeping taxes low. The more we save the taxpayers, the more money they’ll have to give to worthy causes.

Are food trucks allowed at township parks?
They can be allowed at HTP@Brummitt Road, with prior, written approval by the township. Given the relatively small parking lot at HTP@Elm Road, they are not allowed. If you operate a food truck, please contact the trustee.

May I have a party at the park and cook food?
You’re invited to enjoy the parks. In return, the township requests your cooperation with some guidelines including notifying us ahead of time for any use by 10 or more people. With regard to cooking, please note there is no water source, pavilions are always shared use, and one of the pavilions is made almost exclusively of wood. There are no receptacles for hot coals, so we really prefer no charcoal grills are used.

Whom do I call to get a street issue repaired?
Street repair is on of many areas outside the township’s control. Depending on where it is located, you might need to contact St. Joseph County, the City of Mishawaka, the State of Indiana, or perhaps even a neighborhood homeowners’ association.
As a courtesy, this website provides starter information about how to identify responsible parties.
A Granger Gazette article also touches on the process.

You’re the county, right?
No, Harris township is much smaller than St. Joseph County (Indiana) in which it resides. The township has narrower responsibilities, and a much smaller budget.

Is Granger a city?
No, Granger has no governmental structure. It is a “Census Designated Place”, residing partially in Harris Township but also partially in Clay Township, and more fully in St. Joseph County. Portions of the 46530 zip code extend into Elkhart County. The City of Mishawaka now includes portions of Granger.

Who are the representatives for Harris Township?
One trustee and three board members who are elected for four year terms, in even years off the presidential election cycle. For example, an election in November of 2022 results in four year terms which run from 1/1/2022 through 12/31/2025.

What does Harris Township do, and how much does it cost?
The township provides Fire Protections through the Clay Fire Territory, preserves township assets, maintains two cemeteries, provides a level of welfare, and offers two parks. The operating budget is typically less than $150,000 per year, not including fire protection. Capital expenditures are made possible by, and are highly dependent on, Local Income Tax (LIT) proceeds as collected and distributed by St. Joseph County. A series of articles provides additional details and insights.

When does the township board meet?
Typically in January to organize for the new year, in February to approve the prior year’s Annual Financial Report, twice in the fall to take input on the proposed next year’s budget and for approval of the same, and otherwise as needed.
Watch for meeting announcements on the township website, the township Facebook page, Indiana’s Gateway website, and the South Bend Tribune for details.

Any recommendations on ways to support the township?
Beyond respecting the parks, click here for some ideas.

Will there be lights at Harris Township Park at Elm Road?
No, sorry. The park is in a residential neighborhood, and backs up directly to several houses. Would you like to hear the pop of pickleballs, or bouncing basketballs, all night long? Or at 6:30 am? (We like the Golden Rule.) The community told us loud and clear, as we planned for the creation of this park, to manage parking and not become a nuisance. Accordingly, we don’t allow reserved, organized sports, and ask people to play at reasonable hours - for example not before 8 am. Natural summer light is one thing, but further facilitating night play is not on our agenda.