Section 324.30927 - Costs of projects; computation; expenditures; representation by attorney(1) Within 10 days after the letting of contracts or, in case of an appeal, immediately after the appeal has been decided, the lake board shall make a computation of the entire cost of a project under this part that includes all preliminary costs and engineering and inspection costs incurred and all of the following: (a) The fees and expenses of special commissioners.(b) The contracts for dredging or other work to be done on the project.(c) The estimated cost of an appeal if the apportionment made by the lake board is not sustained.(d) The estimated cost of inspection.(e) The cost of publishing all notices required.(f) All costs of the circuit court.(g) Any legal expenses incurred in connection with the project, including litigation expenses, the costs of any judgments or orders entered against the lake board or special assessment district, and attorney fees.(h) Fees for any permits required in connection with the project.(i) Interest on bonds for the first year, if bonds are to be issued.(j) Any other costs necessary for the administration of lake board proceedings, including, but not limited to, compensation of the members of the lake board, record compilation and retention, and state, county, or local government professional staff services.(2) In addition to the amounts computed under subsection (1), the lake board may add not less than 10% or more than 15% of the gross sum to cover contingent expenses, including additional necessary hydrological studies by the department. The sum of the amounts computed under subsection (1) plus the amount added under this subsection is considered to be the cost of the lake improvement project.(3) A lake board shall not expend money for improvements, services, or other purposes unless the lake board has adopted an annual budget.(4) A lake board may retain an attorney to advise the lake board in the proper performance of its duties. The attorney shall represent the lake board in actions brought by or against the lake board.Amended by 2004, Act 522, s 2, eff. 3/1/2005.Add. 1995, Act 59, Imd. Eff. 5/24/1995.