#factsmatter, The Citizens Research Council Of Michigan Podcast

Guy and Eric Lupher delve into the weeds, discussing the pros and cons — more pros — of allowing local units of government in Michigan to have a local tax option. Michigan is one of just a few states that doesn't allow local governments to levy a local tax without state legislative approval. Most states, including those with conservative leadership such as Indiana and Ohio, provide multiple means for their local governments to raise revenue for their local communities. One unintended consequence of the prohibition on local tax options is intense pressure on Michigan property taxes, which are among the highest in the nation. Michigan relies too heavily on property taxes for nearly all local government expenses. "In simple terms, cities and villages should have the ability to determine how they want to operate. They can decide things like how many city council members there should be, whether they should elect or appoint the clerk, and all kinds of other details and niceties related to state and city operatio