The following is a joint statement from the Michigan Townships Association, Michigan Municipal League and Michigan Association of Counties in response to the passage of House Bill 5351:
Today, the state continued its long-standing practice of using local government funding to pay for other priorities with the passage of HB 5351. This legislation more than doubles the personal property tax exemption for small taxpayers. While a one-year revenue replacement was included, the ongoing erosion of funding that supports local services will be permanent unless the Legislature and the Governor fulfill their commitment to find revenue replacements.
Following the comments during today’s debate, we fully intend to have our members hold the Senate, the House, and the Governor’s feet to the fire to devise a permanent funding solution that will preserve essential services in our local communities. Our organizations stand ready today to help implement creative solutions to fix the long-term funding deficit that today’s action creates.
Vibrant, livable, safe communities depend on thriving families and businesses. Their success hinges on investments for improved competitiveness and increasing shared prosperity. Investments in people, place and business will deliver the strong and prosperous Michigan we all desire.