MARQUETTE, MI-- A Marquette-area group is striving to make residents more aware of the “dark store” issue and how it affects them.
Marquette County Citizens for Fair Share is holding a forum Thursday to discuss the topic. Moderator Robert Kulisheck says the group was formed out of growing concern for the ability of local units of government to deliver essential services because of a change in which big box stores are valuated. They’re comparing themselves to vacant buildings for property tax purposes, which can reduce the amount of tax revenue going into local governments by about 50 percent.
Kulisheck says the situation affects every resident.
“Well, I think this is something that has a direct impact on all citizens because it will affect police and fire protection—all services provided by county, township, and city government will be more difficult if tax revenue is lost,” he says.
Kulisheck says people need to contact their legislators and urge them to try to resolve the issue.
The forum will include presentations by local municipalities and services, including Peter White Public Library. It takes place Thursday, 11/5, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Marquette Ramada Inn.
