LANSING (WKZO-AM) — Legislation on “dark stores” has cleared the House Committee on Tax Policy and is now headed for a vote.
It’s called the “dark store” bill because big box retailers like Meijer, Walmart, Lowe’s and Home Depot have been arguing that, because their structures are so large and usually deed restricted, they aren’t worth much on the open market and should be taxed as if they are a big dark empty building.
The Michigan Tax Tribunal agreed. They have been trimming millions off the value of the structures during property tax appeal hearings.
Rep. David Maturen, R-Vicksburg, disagrees. He proposed legislation to require that big box stores be appraised like any other structure.
Maturen, who is an appraiser by trade, says Michigan is the only state that permits it.
It could mean millions more in property tax payments flowing to local governments if it becomes law. The bill still needs to get through the House and Senate and score a signature from Gov. Rick Snyder.
