City Council Backs Replacement for Personal Property Tax, OKs Animal Care Services Deal

With a short agenda for Monday night’s meeting at , the took care of business quickly, discussing various agenda items in less than 45 minutes. 

Support to replace personal property tax

In light of state legislators proposing a reduction or elimination of the personal property tax that businesses pay on such items as machinery, equipment and furniture in their buildings, Berkley City Council members approved a resolution to support a personal property tax replacement. Council members believe a replacement would better help balance the budget. Various ideas were mentioned, including the use of expiring tax credits, but nothing has yet been set in stone. 

Leftover appropriation moved to 2011-12

A leftover appropriation from the 2010-11 fiscal year was moved to the 2011-12 fiscal year to help with construction of a parking lot along 12 Mile between Robina Street and Griffith Avenue. It is part of the Downtown Development Authority Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Fund.

Animal care services agreement renewed

A resolution was approved to renew a contract with Oakland County for the city’s animal care services. The approval of the contract signifies a three-year agreement.

New video editing computer 

A bid from B&H Photo-Video-Pro Audio Inc. was accepted for a new video editing computer for the Berkley Communications Department. Council members said hey believe the equipment will improve the department. Of six bids, B&H was the lowest and $6,000 less than originally expected. The computer is an Apple GS with Avid editing software and will be quicker and more efficient than the 6-year-old computer it will replace. To further save the city money, the department will seek standard online training programs instead of in-person training.