Unfortunately MCOLES (Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards) requires police officers to receive at least minimum wage in order to retain their police powers. This prevents exactly what you suggest.
Understand that Ingham county is the Lansing area, very liberal. Almost all rulings against common sense laws come from one or two judges in Ingham county. The appeals court also ruled to day to support other sensible fiscal matters.
Lots of laws requiring law enforcement.
My little town could get rid of our local police department but only if we contracted with the county to patrol. It was supposed to save us money but the cost of the county patrols has nearly reached the same cost as paying our own guys. We’re virtually crime free here as it is.
I did grow up in a town with a part time Constable.