Question 1 - Proposal for Millage to Maintain and Expand Public Transportation

The proposal would authorize the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority (TheRide) to levy a property tax: to be used for public transportation purposes, including public transit and paratransit services for seniors and persons with disabilities; at a rate of 2.380 mills ($2.38 for each $1,000 in taxable value), replacing a current authorized millage of 0.700 that expires in 2023 and resulting in 1.680 in net new mills; for five years beginning in 2024 and continuing through 2028; and that may not be increased, renewed, or used for other purposes without voter approval. If this new additional millage is approved and levied, revenue will be distributed to The Ride. It is estimated that $22,110,122.57 will be collected in the first year (2024). Under current state law, the downtown development authorities of the cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, the local development finance authorities of the cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti and of the Charter Township of Ypsilanti, and the Washtenaw County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority may capture and use for authorized purposes tax increment revenues from the millage, if approved. Should this proposal be approved?