Several MidMichigan communities have pocketbook issues on the ballot Tuesday.

One of them is Lapeer County. It's asking residents for money to upgrade its 9-1-1 service from analog to digital.

911 Dispatch Director Victor Martin says, "They don't make analog systems anymore."

that's one of the reasons why the Lapeer County Central Dispatch says an upgrade is needed.

It says, it's the way the world is going.

Televisions, cell phones, and now emergency communications are all digital.

There were two breakdowns in the analog system last December in Lapeer County. Emergency personnel were able to work around the issue, and Motorola was able to find used parts to replace faulty ones, but the county doesn't know how much longer the system will hold out efficiently.

The millage could cost the owner of a $200,000 home around $75 a year. That breaks down to $6.25 a month.

Government grants and stimulus dollars could help off-set some of the costs of the new digital system.

Several local departments have already began purchasing dual-purpose radios compatible with the current system and a digital system.

Martin says, "They've replaced a lot of the radios already, so when it comes time to change over, they don't have to do anything."

Around 350 have already been purchased. Around 600 more would have to be bought.

If voters approve the 10-year measure, it would be at least 18-months before the digital system is in place.