GR residents to see 2013 taxes fall

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - The reinvention of the way the city of Grand Rapids hauls garbage and the downturn in the housing market mean Grand Rapids residents will pay less in property taxes next year.

The overall millage rate will drop slightly from 8.3 to 8.2 mils.

Part of the drop in the millage rate is a result in cuts to the refuse tax. The refuse system saw major changes resulting in a more efficient, money saving service according to city officials.

House values in the city are also contributing to smaller tax bills.

Right now, the average home in the city has a taxable value of $45, 564 , down from $47,704 last year. That puts the average residential tax bill at $372.33.

City commissioners will hold a public hearing on the rate June 12. The state requires hearings on both the budget and the tax rate.