Benton Harbor income tax narrowly passes

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — The results are in and voters in Benton Harbor have decided to finally do something about nagging pothole problems in the city.

The adoption of an income tax, city officials say would address crumbling streets, just narrowly passed Tuesday night.

51 percent of voters decided in favor of the tax.

The ordinance would see a one percent tax on residents’ income and a half percent tax on non-residents working in the city.

As for the other city races, every incumbent commissioner up for re-election retained.

Ron Singleton and Duane Seats kept their two at large seats.

Edward Isom retained his at large seat as well for another partial term.

Junaita Henry, Ward 3 Commissioner and Ruthie McCoy Haralson, Ward 4 Commissioner also won their re-election bids.

In Chickaming Township, a ballot proposal calling for a tax increase that would also help fund road improvements was approved by about 62 percent of voters.

A millage renewal for Lake Shore Public Schools was approved by 59 percent of voters.

However, the bonding proposal for the district failed by fewer than 100 votes.

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