Van Buren Township ‘mandates’ vaccinations for its employees, says those who don’t comply won’t lose jobs Unions criticize rule, say members consider leaving departments Updated: July 22, 2021 7:55 pm Van Buren Township 'mandates' vaccinations but says non-compliers won't lose jobs VAN BUREN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – From the moment COVID vaccines became widely available, there’s been pushback against the idea of employers forcing their workers to get the shot. That’s now come to a head in Van Buren Township where the board has passed a mandate for those who work for the city to be vaccinated. “Our board has been debating what the best course of action is to preserve the safety of its employees and its residents,” said Township Supervisor Kevin McNamara.