House passes legislation that could boost support for Detroit museums

Charles H. Wright Museum | Susan J. Demas

House lawmakers last week approved legislation asking Wayne County residents to vote on a new millage to create the History Museum Authorities Act. 

If the millage is approved, voters will be empowering the Wayne County Board of Commissioners to establish a history museum authority to provide funding support for historical museums owned by the city of Detroit, according to a news release from state Rep. Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit), who sponsored the bill. 

Additionally, the Detroit Historical Society — which operates the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum — and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History — would also receive funding and support. 

“We’ve heard testimony from leadership of both organizations in committee about the underfunding and large amounts of deferred maintenance for their museums. These cultural resources in our community deserve sustainable funding support. With this legislation, residents can enjoy the perks and access to the museums. This is similar to what places like The Detroit Zoo and the Detroit Institute of Arts already receive,” Carter said in a statement. 

House Bill 4177 passed the House Thursday along party lines, winning support from the chamber’s slim 56 member majority, as 53 Republicans voted against the bill, with one member not present and voting.

After the bill passed the House, state Rep. Mike Harris (R-Waterford) released a statement criticizing the legislation for potentially raising property taxes. 

“Property taxes should support essential community services, but this proposal could tax Oakland County homeowners to subsidize museums in Detroit that they may not ever visit,” Harris said. 

“Taxpayers in our county are already subsidizing an art museum and metro-area buses regardless of whether we use them. People can voluntarily support historical education by paying museum admission or making donations. Oakland County residents don’t need yet another property tax hike to pay for attractions outside our county,” he said.

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