Muskegon County voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to adopt a proposed half‑mill parks and recreation millage. The measure would run for ten years and add an extra 50 cents for every $1,000 of taxable property value.
For a typical homeowner with a taxable assessment of $125,000, the levy translates to about $62.50 more in property taxes each year. If approved, the revenue would be split between the county government and the individual municipalities within the county.
How the Money Would Be Distributed
County Community Development Director Bob Lukens says roughly 70 % of the millage proceeds would go to Muskegon County for county‑wide parks and trail projects, while the remaining 30 % would be allocated to local cities and townships for their own park, recreation and trail improvements.
That could mean upgrades to existing parks, new amenities, and an expansion of the county’s trail network. Muskegon County currently maintains about 65‑70 miles of paved recreational trails. A recent study identified roughly 180 miles of potential trail corridors that could eventually be developed.
Growing Demand for Outdoor Spaces
Lukens notes that demand for trails has risen sharply since the pandemic, as more residents seek safe, outdoor venues for walking, running, cycling and hiking. “We’ve seen an increase in trail usage for recreational purposes, cycling, hiking, walking, running after the pandemic, and I think that’s continuing on,” he said.
Supporters of the millage argue that a dedicated funding source would allow the county to keep pace with this demand without relying on ad‑hoc revenue streams.
Impact on Park Fees
If the measure passes, daily entrance fees and seasonal parking passes at county parks would be eliminated, making recreation more affordable for families. Currently, the county park system relies on a mix of camping fees, entrance and parking fees, donations and other funding sources.
Should voters reject the proposal, those fees would remain in place, and the county would need to explore alternative revenue options to fund future park improvements.
What Voters Need to Know
The millage appears on the ballot as a property‑tax question. Voters who support the measure will see a modest increase in their annual tax bill but gain a permanent, dedicated stream of money for parks, trails and recreation. Those who oppose it will keep current fee structures but may face limited funding for new projects.
Both outcomes have implications for the quality of outdoor amenities that families rely on for healthy, faith‑centered recreation and community building.
Next Steps
The county will hold informational sessions and distribute literature to help residents understand the proposal. Final results will be announced after the Nov. 3 election, and if approved, the millage will take effect at the start of the next fiscal year.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
