Dark Store Legislation

In response to the financial loss dark stores have caused communities throughout Michigan, State Senator Ed McBroom has introduced SB0019 and SB0020 that would change who oversees tax dispute cases.

Across Michigan, nearly 90% of funding for public libraries comes directly from local sources. With continued attempts by big box retailers to secure lowball evaluations of their storefronts, known as “dark store theory,” we have seen disastrous effects on local tax bases, city services, schools, and libraries. when successfully implemented by big box stores, this commonly used but disputed form of property tax evaluation diverts those critical operating funds away from public libraries.

Proposed Updates to MLA Bylaws

The MLA Board has reviewed and voted on extensive amendments to the MLA bylaws and is sending them to the membership to approve them in totality. Eligible members will vote online to adopt or reject the proposed changes in full. The summary document below has included all of the amendments – text to be deleted is shown with a cross out, and new text to be inserted or substituted is bolded. If approved by the membership, the bylaws will go into effect on July 1, 2023.