Big millage question on Tuesday’s ballot for Plymouth voters

Nov. 5, 2023  PLYMOUTH EAGLE.

Plymouth Michigan News

Plymouth voters will be asked on Tuesday to approve a new 1.75 mill tax to fund new recreation opportunities for the city.

The new tax, if approved on the Nov. 7 ballot, would be in effect for 12 years and would generate an estimated $1.3 million annually for recreational expenses in the community through 2035. The new millage would cost homeowners about $1.75 for every $1,000 of market value of their property. Homes with a $600,000 market value would pay an increase of approximately $520 if the measure is approved.

The question on the ballot asks for an amendment to the city charter which would require any and all funding generated by the millage be dedicated solely to recreation and park expenses in the city. The new tax would be effective on city residents only.

Approval of the charter amendment would allow for the acquisition of new property to provide recreational opportunities and fund the improvement and maintenance of the current facilities.

Plans also include the purchase of the former Lumber Mart site on Mill Street for construction of new athletic fields, including soccer fields, pickleball courts and play structures on the 3 acres of property near the Ann Arbor Trail and Mill St. CSX railroad crossing.

Voters will be asked to vote YES or NO on the ballot language: “Shall Section 8.5 of the Charter of the City of Plymouth, Wayne County, Michigan, be amended to permit the levy by the City of a new additional ad valorem property tax in an amount not to exceed one and three-quarters (1.75) mills, for 12 years, from 2024 through 2035, to provide funds to the City to acquire, construct, improve, furnish, operate and maintain parks and recreation facilities?” It is estimated that 1.75 mills would raise approximately $1,275,955 when first levied in 2024.

Plymouth Voice.