Fiscal Indicators  
 
Highland Township derives most of its revenue from state revenue sharing and from its operating millage, currently set at 0.6 mills annually over a taxable value of all properties of $795,018,950. Other revenues come from directed millages for police services (2.7805mills), and fire services (1.4372). Other minor revenue streams include a cable franchise fee (approximately $100,000 per year), permit and review fees (which vary according to building activity in any given year), and some project specific grant revenues.

The tax base grew steadily throughout the last decade, allowing the community to roll back the tax millage rate while maintaining basic services:

                             Tax Base                         Operating Millage                   Revenue 
     2006               $745,625,000                    .6000                                      $447,375
     2007               $779,623,000                    .6000                                      $467,774
     2008               $815,770,000                    .6000                                      $489,462

Projections for 2009 and 2010 show a decline in tax base for the Township, as market values of existing homes and non-residential facilities fall below the current taxable values.

State revenue sharing formulas are based on population. The Township fell short of reaching the 20,000 population mark in the 2000 census, which would have significantly increased the revenue share, enabling the Township to provide new infrastructure and utility services. In addition, state legislators have threatened to significantly reduce the revenue sharing formula to address state budget shortfalls.

The Township is aggressively addressing projected declines in revenue through staff reductions and other cost-cutting measures.

There are two active industrial tax incentive programs. A third manufacturing firm operating under a tax abatement agreement failed after three years, and reverted some of its real property to the Township as compensation.

The DDA captures a tax increment over a base value established in 2001 and then expanded in 2004. The TIF plan will capture $14.8 M over 25 years.

The Township actively seeks grants and technical assistance wherever possible to assist its residents and property owners in obtaining the highest quality of life, protecting the natural resources and character of the community, as well as a reasonable return on their economic investments.
 

(updated July 1, 2009)