FAQ


What does the Macomb County Public Transportation Millage do?

Renewing the Macomb County Public Transportation Millage helps our most vulnerable residents like veterans, seniors and people with disabilities get where they need to go by continuing support for the SMART bus program for Macomb County residents.

When will it be on the ballot?

You will have the opportunity to vote “Yes” to renew the Macomb County Public Transportation Millage on the Nov. 8 ballot.

How much will this cost me?

This renewal of an existing public transportation millage costs the average Macomb County homeowner just $6 per month to keep public transportation available for seniors, veterans, low-income residents and people with disabilities who depend on the SMART bus.

How do I know the taxpayer dollars will be spent wisely?

100% of funds generated by the millage will stay in Macomb County and all funds are subject to annual independent audits to promote fiscal responsibility.

Every dollar collected or spent will be tracked publicly online to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and transparently.

How does public transportation help residents?

By renewing the Macomb County Public Transportation Millage, you’re helping our most vulnerable residents like veterans, seniors and people with disabilities get to and from work, school, doctors’ appointments and the grocery store.

This millage also helps low-income residents and working parents who also use the SMART bus get to and from work every day.

How does public transportation help our county?

Renewing the Macomb County Public Transportation Millage helps our local economy by attracting new business, connecting people to jobs and making our area more competitive. Public transportation is a vital service that helps connect doctors with patients, employers with employees and businesses with customers.

Research shows public transportation is a vital component of thriving communities with every $1 invested in public transportation creating $4 in economic output by attracting new businesses and expanding the talent pool for local employers.

Who is supporting this proposal?

This is a local, Macomb County solution to public transportation and is supported by elected leaders, such as Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, community groups and business groups, such as the Detroit Regional Chamber.

I never use the SMART bus. Why should I care?

Voting “Yes’’ to renew the Macomb County Public Transportation Millage helps vulnerable residents in our community like seniors, veterans and people with disabilities, and it helps boost our economy by attracting new business and expanding the talent pool for local employers.