After Years of Debate, Flint Township Could Finally Get a New Name

Okay, here's something that's been talked about for years...changing the name of Flint Township. Well, now it's officially headed to the ballot, and voters will get the final say this November.

According to ABC12, the Flint Township Board of Trustees voted to put the question on the November 3 ballot, where residents will decide whether the township should officially become Oak Hills Charter Township.

Honestly, the name change wouldn't really affect my day-to-day life, so I'm fine with it either way. That said, it'll definitely be strange calling the area Oak Hills after referring to it as Flint Township for so many years.

Why Does Flint Township Want to Change Its Name?

Supporters say it's all about giving the township its own identity.

Several business owners told the board they believe people still connect the word "Flint" with the city's water crisis and other negative headlines. Even though Flint Township is a separate community, they say the shared name creates confusion and can hurt efforts to attract new businesses and customers.

That's how the name Oak Hills ended up rising to the top when the township asked residents and business owners for suggestions a few years back.

Why Some People Oppose the Flint Township Name Change

Not everyone thinks changing the name is worth it.

Some residents and at least one township trustee say there are bigger issues facing the township that deserve more attention. They believe the focus should be on improving the community rather than changing what it's called.

I mean, I get the argument, but I can't imagine changing the name takes up all that much time. It seems like you could do that and still work on everything else people are concerned about.

When Will Flint Township Voters Decide?

The decision now belongs to voters.

When residents head to the polls on November 3, they'll decide whether the community stays Flint Charter Township or officially becomes Oak Hills Charter Township.