KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM)– The effort to eliminate a notorious odor on the northeast side of Kalamazoo has hit a snag.
Kalamazoo Commissioners hoped they could guarantee Graphic Packaging’s cooperation in reducing the odors, by doling out an industrial tax break one year at a time. Commissioners approved the 12-year abatement last year, but the State Taxing Commission has informed the city that is not how they do business.
“So what that means is that there would have to be multiple extensions over multiple years. It could get a little dicey over time with the changing of commissioners and mayors.” – Planning Director Antonio Mitchell
Commissioners will be asked tonight to extend the abatement from the one-year already granted…for an additional 11-years. Commissioners want assurances from Graphic Packaging they are committed to clean air.
“Now we’re having to revisit this thing and take a deep breath. What it comes down to is trust. So we’ll just see how much trust there is.” – Commissioner Jack Urban
The paper recycling firm is seeking a 50% local tax break on their $191,000,000 dollar expansion at the old Checker Motors site. It will make the plant the largest paperboard recycling center in North America.
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