It’s clear that people in Wayne County appreciate the parks services and the Detroit Public Libraries, as proof by voters’ overwhelming support of two millages that showed up on the Aug. 6 ballots for the Michigan primary elections.
Voters elected to pass Proposition P, a parks renewal millage aimed at enhancing and continuing operations of Wayne County Parks and recreational facilities. With more than 220,000 votes reported, 165,587 (74%) voted to renew the millage, while 26% of people (58,381) voted against the renewal.
This modest levy of 0.2442 mills, approximately $0.24 per $1,000 of taxable valuation, will generate vital funds to improve and maintain beloved parks like Hines Park, Elizabeth Park, and the Wayne County Family Aquatic Center. It is expected that the millage will cost the average homeowner an additional $12 per year and generate approximately $14 million in 2026, the first year of the four-year millage.
Proposition P ensures equitable distribution of funds, allocating at least $50,000 or 15% of total funds generated from each commission district to municipal parks in all 43 communities. This thoughtful approach guarantees that every corner of Wayne County benefits from this investment.
By renewing this millage, Wayne County can continue to prioritize quality of life, public health, and community development, as parks are more than just green spaces – they are hubs for social connection, physical activity, and environmental stewardship.
This renewal is seen as a wise investment in the region’s collective well-being, as money from the millage will be used to fund capital improvements, environmental, and infrastructure projects for the 5,600 acres of parks in Wayne County.
The parks are also positioned as a quality-of-life benefit for the state’s initiative to grow its population, attract new talent to the region, and retain existing residents.
In addition to the passing of the parks millage, Proposal L – the Detroit Library Operating Millage Renewal – also passed with significant support, as 54,419 people voted for the millage (85%) while just 9,300 (15%) opposed. The passing of this 10-year millage will go a long way to ensuring the prosperity of the state’s second-largest library system, which has a collection of more than 4.4 million items, including books and DVDs, and access to more than 800 computers across 18 branches. Three of the 21 branches – Conely in southwest Detroit, Skillman in downtown, and Monteith on the far east side of the city – are currently closed.
The millage supporting Detroit Public Libraries a ensures that vital funding continues to flow to the city’s libraries so they can provide essential resources, programs, and services for Detroiters of all ages. By approving Proposal L, residents showed their willingness to invest in literacy, education, and community development. The estimated $42 million in annual revenue will help maintain and enhance library operations, benefiting the city’s most valuable assets – our children, seniors, and families.
This millage combines two taxes that are currently being paid by Wayne County voters, which is set to expire in 2025. The millage accounts for about 85% of the library’s annual operating budget. The millage also ensures that the Detroit Public Library will be exempt from certain tax captures, which add about $3.2 million to the library budget. With the additional funds, the library could address deferred maintenance, improve buildings, and bolster programming.