Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero has proposed to give tax
payers a 50 percent break on the increased taxes they have to pay after
making improvements to their home. Bernero hopes the proposal will encourage
homeowners to spruce up their property.
According to excerpts from the article:
City officials classify "qualified
improvements" as additions and expansions that can cost thousands of
dollars.
"This goes beyond your general maintenance,"
acknowledged Bob Johnson, Lansing's
Planning and Neighborhood Development director.
Roof repairs and new paint, which do not affect a home's
taxable value, would not be considered, he said.
Still, some are applauding the residential tax break
program Johnson said will be part of the spring budget negotiations between
Bernero and the City Council.
"It's encouraging," said Joan Nelson, director
of the Allen Neighborhood Center.
A significant number of homes on Lansing's east side were built in the first
half of the 20th century.
"Old housing stock needs constant upkeep,"
Nelson said.
Read the entire article here.