BTL STRONGLY ENDORSES A YES VOTE AUG. 7
The DIA is seeking a millage in Macomb, Wayne and Oakland counties.
The proposed millage rate is 0.2 mils. It would cost homeowners approximately $15 per year for every $150,00 of a home's fair market value. The DIA will provide free general admission any time for all residents of approving counties – a value well in excess of the small amount paid per household. It currently costs a household with two adults and two children $24 for general admission.
The millage vote takes place on August 7, 2012. The millage would provide $23 million per year: $10 million in Oakland, $8 million in Wayne and $5 million in Macomb.
In 2009 the DIA reduced its workforce by nearly 20% (more than 60 full and part time positions), and reduced its total operating budget by $9 million, achieving as many cost efficiencies as possible before requesting public support.
The DIA has an annual unrestricted operating budget of $25 million.
The DIA receives no financial support from the State of Michigan.
Public Support for the DIA would contribute to the economic health of the tri-county area. ArtServe Michigan confirms that for every $1 invested in nonprofit arts and cultural groups in 2009, those organizations pumped $51 back into Michigan's economy through spending on rent, programs, travel and salaries.
BTL strongly supports a YES Vote on August 7.
