Politics & Government

Voters Pass Millage Increase to Keep Clawson Services

City departments will not suffer cuts after voters pass a tax increase in Tuesday's primary election.

Clawson voters approved a 4.2 mill tax increase to maintain city services in  Tuesday's election.

With 28 percent of registered voters casting ballots, 54 percent supported the millage proposal compared to 46 percent who voted against it. The millage will generate the $700,000 the city says it needs to maintain services such as the the and Public Works.

City Clerk Machele Kukuk reported a 28 percent voter turnout, which is the same as for the presidential primary in 2008. Kukuk had originally predicted a 25-28 percent voter turnout for today's election.

Find out what's happening in Clawsonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Mayor Penny Luebs said she was pleased with the voter turnout and the passing of the millage. However, she said she expected the results to be close.

"It is a nice vote of confidence that people support the millage in order to continue the life we have in Clawson with our services, new businesses, community events," Luebs said. "Once again the character of Clawson shines."

Find out what's happening in Clawsonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The millage proposal has been a controversial topic for some taxpayers who cited poor timing because of an already . Results show most voters were willing to sacrifice the tax increase to maintain their city's services. Luebs said Clawson thrives on services such as leaf pick-up and snow removal. 

Adam Walsh casted his vote at Schalm earlier today and said he voted in favor of the millage proposal.

"I know a lot of cities are struggling," Walsh said "I think it's important that we keep up the local fire and police (departments)."

The impact on most property owners from 2011 to 2012 taxes should be less than a $90 increase, or about $7.50 a month, City Manager Mark Pollock said.

Councilman Greg Kucera Jr. said Tuesday night he was confident the millage would pass.

"It's a great city and I felt people would vote for it," Kucera said. "They came through for us."


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