Welcome to the Michigan Library Association

In 2008-09 libraries were reimbursed 100% or $3,320,714 for taxes captured by Renaissance Zones. During last year's budget battle, Renaissance Zone Reimbursements were originally cut 12% across the board for all entities that were legally required to receive reimbursements.  That included libraries, community colleges and intermediate school districts. Public schools are treated separately and weren't cut.  As the budget process proceeded, funds were restored for community colleges and intermediate school districts, but not for public libraries. This resulted in a 12% or $419,500 cut in funding for public libraries.

SB1092 as originally introduced essentially would codify into law that public libraries would be reimbursed based on the amounts received in 2008-09 and not receive any reimbursements for future Renaissance Zones. While not able to defeat this bill outright, MLA was able to secure an amendment that states that going forward all entities will be treated the same, including community colleges, intermediate school districts and public libraries. While this is still a cut to public libraries, it
is noteworthy as also aligns us with other organizations fighting tax capture.