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Proposed Kent County tax increase would fund zoo, museum

Tiger
flickr user Rez
/
http://j.mp/1SPGCl0, cropped
A tiger catches a snooze at the John Ball Zoo near Grand Rapids. The millage would help update exhibits and facilities at the zoo and the Grand Rapids Public Museum.

It will be up to Kent County voters to decide a proposed tax increase to fund the John Ball Zoo and Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Last Thursday, county commissioners voted to include the millage proposal on the ballot in November.

The zoo and museum are asking for a 10-year, .44 mill tax levy that would go toward funding facility and exhibit updates.

Peter D’Arienzo, CEO of the John Ball Zoo, says the proposal is necessary and would create a reliable source of revenue.

“The zoo and museum are valuable cultural assets that enhance the quality of life for Kent County residents, students and visitors, and this proposal would preserve these signature institutions and ensure both receive the maintenance and repairs they need,” D'Arienzo said in a statement.

Supporters say the increase would come out to about $3 per month for the average Kent County homeowner.

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