AxMITAX — what would it mean for Manchester?

by Marsha Chartrand

A current ballot proposal in Michigan called AxMITax is collecting signatures to appear on the ballot in November. This proposal seeks to eliminate — not reform — all real and personal property taxes in Michigan, cutting more than $17 billion in funding for schools, roads, recreation, and public safety across the state. Closer to home, if passed and implemented it would greatly impact the City of Manchester.

The proposal provides only fractional and restricted replacement funding to cities, villages, townships, and counties; with no replacement revenue to schools or other authorities. It proposes to redistribute state tax revenue from sales, income, marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco to cities villages, townships, and counties. Opponents point out that there could be far-reaching societal and economic impacts of the proposal, and that it would affect the ability of libraries, community colleges, public transportation, park authorities, and more to provide their routine services. They predict it could cause widespread unemployment across the public sector.

While reducing taxes may seem appealing, the elimination of these resources could make it impossible for state and local governments to deliver core services, invest in our infrastructure, and spur economic growth. Michael Sessions, Manchester City Manager, broke down what it would mean for the City. He stated, “Essentially, it would do away with about $800,000 of General Fund revenue for the City of Manchester and replace it with probably $200,000 of revenue. We would probably not have much left of our organization and would likely not be able to provide many functions to our residents.”

Questions about the ballot proposal and what it would mean for the City? Ask any City Council member or call the city office at 734-428-7877.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.