Public Transportation Millage on November 2026 Ballot
Macomb County
Summary
The county is moving toward putting a transit millage renewal on the November 3 ballot at about 0.94 mills — slightly less than the current levy, so no tax increase. The new structure dedicates 12.5% of each community's millage revenue back to that community for local transit needs, with a master service agreement and annual renewal provisions. SMART reports ridership up 30% this quarter and on-time performance improving.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 2
Last discussed Jul 23, 2026.
Impact analysis
No tax increase — the rate is a renewal at roughly 0.94 mills, slightly below the current Headlee-reduced rate, with 12.5% of revenue redirected to local communities.
Riders, seniors, students (who now ride free), and communities gaining local transit funding — particularly northern Macomb residents who currently face service gaps and wait lists.
Critics note Macomb Township currently receives back only about 3% of its $5 million annual SMART contribution; taxpayers in underserved communities have historically gotten little direct return.
Mentions & discussions (4)
Voters say yes to transit, veterans, zoo millages in Macomb County
Voters say yes to transit, veterans, zoo millages in Macomb County Detroit Free Press
What proposals will Macomb County voters see on the November ballot? Here’s the list.
What proposals will Macomb County voters see on the November ballot? Here’s the list. ClickOnDetroit | WDIV Local 4
Board of Commissioners - Full Board - Jul 23, 2026
A second millage question would fund public transportation, paired with a new SMART service agreement and levy-sharing deals with local communities.
Board of Commissioners - Joint Goverment Oversight and Health and Human Services Committees - Jun 9, 2026
The county is moving toward putting a transit millage renewal on the November 3 ballot at about 0.94 mills — slightly less than the current levy, so no tax increase. The new structure dedicates 12.5% of each community's millage revenue back to that community for local transit needs, with a master service agreement and annual renewal provisions. SMART reports ridership up 30% this quarter and on-time performance improving.
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