Our local governments are losing millions of dollars in taxes because "big box" retailers are unfairly having their property assessments slashed through appeals. Lawmakers from both parties introduced bills aimed at stopping the reduced assessments. Support HB 4909 and SB 524.
Why is this important?
The result of the dark stores rulings reduces the stores' taxable value by 50% or more. This takes away local control of funding. Key services to citizens are being severely impacted: libraries, fire protection, search and rescue, sheriff/police services, roads, veterans, recreational, public transit, schools and seniors.
Upper Peninsula lawmakers have been working on this problem since 2011-12, but previous legislation never got out of committee. Our communities are suffering and we need to convince committee members to support all Michigan communities through solid tax legislation and updated Tax Tribunal policies.
