LIVONIA, Mich. – Livonia voters will weigh in on a $150 million bond proposal on Aug. 5 that would fund the construction of a new police station and library, renovate all fire stations, and create a Central Park Plaza.
City officials estimate that the 25-year bond would cost average homeowners less than $12 per month.
“This bond proposal is just too large for what they want to do,” said Jim Biga, a vocal critic of the initiative. “Quite frankly, everybody is tired of paying more and more in taxes.”
City Councilman Robert Donovic defends the proposal, arguing it would generate long-term savings for taxpayers.
“The number one thing that’s been my driving force is fiscal responsibility,” Donovic said. “Making sure that we stop spending really good tax dollars on bad buildings that were built way too long ago and that are not built to today’s standards.”
The proposal represents Phase 3 of Livonia’s four-phase plan to revitalize its city center.
Unlike other phases funded through grants and existing city resources, this phase requires voter approval for the bond measure.
Brian Quinn, who lives near the proposed development area, said he supports the initiative.
“I think it is good to invest in the city,” Quinn says. “We also live in proximity to where the proposed development will be, and I feel like it is going to be an increase in my home value.”