Officials in Oakland and Wayne counties are setting up a regional museum authority. This new entity could place a property tax proposal before voters on Nov. 3. The Southeast Michigan Public Historical Museum Authority would gain the power to propose a dedicated levy to stabilize museum funding across both counties.
The Oakland County legislative affairs and government operations committee voted 5-2 to approve a resolution creating the authority. Commissioners Robert Hoffman and Karen Joliat opposed it, according to MLive. The proposal now goes to the full commission.
A five-member board would oversee the authority, with two representatives from each county and a fifth member appointed by county executives on an alternating basis. That board could put a 10-year, 0.2-mill levy before voters.
Oakland County would collect an estimated $16 million in the first year. Roughly $2.5 million would be set aside to support more than two dozen museums and historical sites in the county, according to MLive. A home with a $300,000 taxable value would pay an estimated $30 per year.
Wayne County commissioners must pass an identical resolution. Without it, the plan can’t move ahead. If voters in either county reject the millage on Nov. 3, the proposed authority would be dissolved.
The resolution cites Michigan’s Recreational Authorities Act as the legal basis. This state law permits local units to establish public authorities that may issue bonds and levy property taxes with voter approval.
Supporters say a regional authority would provide steady funding that reflects museums’ roles in tourism, education, and the local economy. Critics point to the additional burden on homeowners. The upcoming commission votes and the Nov. 3 ballot will determine whether the region adopts a coordinated model for supporting these institutions.