Jena Brooker

Michigan cities are losing millions in tax revenue from pollution exemptions but have little say in granting them, and aren’t required to track or report the cost.

BridgeDetroit spent months investigating pollution control laws in Michigan and the impact when companies aren’t required to follow the laws.

Critics say the Air Pollution Control Exemption is outdated, poorly enforced, and subsidizes companies for doing what they’re already legally required to do — even when they violate pollution laws.

In Detroit, over the last decade, five companies - three owned by Marathon Petroleum - have received 28 exemptions under the law, equaling about $46 million.

A 1965 law exempts facilities that install air pollution control equipment from property taxes.

A 1965 law exempts facilities that install air pollution control equipment from property taxes.

Cities in Michigan lose big tax revenue from pollution-control tax breaks, and many do not track what they give up.

These highlights were written by the reporters and editors who worked on this story. The abandoned house next door meant a lot to Christina Kary.

After a Moroun-owned company erected a concrete plant in a quiet neighborhood with the aid of the city, residents began battling clouds of dust and other problems. They say local and state officials have been little help.

Crown Enterprises acquired 160+ lots in historically Black Cadillac Heights. Longtime residents face dust, noise, and industrial expansion.