Authority authorizes counsel to pursue state small-business taxpayer-exemption distributions

The Wayne County Art Authority voted to authorize its legal counsel, together with the authority chair and vice chair, to take the steps necessary to register and set up an account to receive small-business taxpayer-exemption distributions being distributed by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Why it matters: The state has informed several local boards and authorities that they may be eligible for distribution under a new small-business taxpayer-exemption program, but the state has not yet calculated distribution amounts. Counsel told the authority that to receive any funds the authority must register with the state and provide banking information (including a bank account and routing/ABA number, and tax identification information). The state described the timeline as immediate; counsel said the authority could choose not to register and therefore would not receive funds.

During discussion counsel said the program is new and the state does not yet know the amount any given body will receive. Counsel recommended the authority authorize staff and counsel to set up the necessary accounts and return to the chair and vice chair with cost/pricing information before finalizing any receipt or expenditure.

The motion was made by a member identified in the transcript as "Miss Betty" and supported by a member identified as "Member Sales." The authority approved the motion by voice vote; the transcript records "All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries." Counsel will work with the chair and vice chair and report back before any funds are accepted or spent.