Racial Diversity Slow to Grow in Shelby, Despite Increase in Population

Although Shelby Township’s population has grown in the past 10 years, the racial diversity and city’s general budget has remained largely unchanged.

The city's population has grown 13.3 percent since 2000. It went from 65,159 residents to 73,804 residents in 2010.

Nearly 99 percent of the residents are of one single race, and 92 percent of those people are white.

The Asian population has grown by 1 percent—from 2.1 percent in 2000, to 3.1 percent in 2010, and the Hispanic and Latino community only grew by .3 percent—from 1.7 percent in 2000 to 2 percent in 2010.

However, the black and African community has seen the largest growth with a 2 percent increase in the past 10 years. In 2000 there were 553 black or African residents, and in 2010 there were 2,381.

When asked how the population increase has affected the city, Supervisor Rick Stathakis said he is proud that even though the general budget has declined since 2004, which were the most recent figures he had analyzed, the public services’ budget has increased and remained on par with the growth of the city.

“Police and fire services have been expanded to meet the larger population and increased development of the township, while the general government costs have declined over the years,” Stathakis said.  

The general fund went from about $15 million in 2004 to a projected $14.61 million in 2011.

“It’s a little concerning that our general budget is actually lower than it was seven years ago; however, I am happy we are doing more with less,” Stathakis said.

The largest increase in funds has gone to the police and fire departments.

The fire department’s budget rose from $8.9 million in 2004 to $13.8 million in 2011.

The police department’s budget went from $10.68 million in 2004 to $15.98 million in 2011.

Included in the figures are a $1.5 million in pension millage increase to the fire department and a $1.6 million pension millage increase to the police department’s budget. The money was not previously accounted for due to changes in the city’s accounting procedures.

The city’s reputation for safety and quick EMS response time has often been a draw for many residents.

“It’s a wonderful, safe community and a great place to raise a family,” said resident Dave Daynko.