Livonia City Council approves $150 million millage proposal for civic center improvements

Livonia City Council is moving forward with a significant proposal that could reshape the city's civic landscape. During the regular meeting on April 14, 2025, council members discussed a ballot proposal that, if approved, would seek $150 million in funding for improvements to the city's civic center campus. This proposal is set to be presented to residents during the August 5 primary election.

The funding would be structured as a millage, which is a tax assessed on property owners to finance public projects. The last time Livonia residents voted on a similar measure was in 1999, when funds were allocated for the construction of the Jack E. Kirksey Recreational Center. The proposed millage would be paid over 25 years, with the first series of borrowing amounting to $100 million, followed by a second series that could range from $30 million to $50 million, depending on future evaluations.

Council discussions highlighted the financial implications for residents. Approximately 50% of homeowners would see an increase of about $12 per month, while 85% could expect around $18 monthly, depending on property tax evaluations. Commercial properties would also contribute, with estimates suggesting that 55% of commercial buildings would incur costs of about $42 monthly.

In addition to the millage proposal, the council is considering renovations to the Civic Center library, which could enhance the overall functionality of the campus. The administration has been tasked with formally presenting the proposal to the city council for further discussion at an upcoming study meeting.

The council emphasized transparency throughout the process, encouraging residents to access detailed information available on the city council website and LivoniaBuilt.org. This initiative aims to engage the community and ensure that residents are well-informed about the potential changes to their civic infrastructure.

As the city prepares for the upcoming vote, the council's commitment to involving residents in the decision-making process remains a priority, setting the stage for a potential transformation of Livonia's civic center.