New Survey on Resident Willingness to Fork Over for Roads

All agree that the roads in Michigan are in need of repair.  But not all are on the same page on how to get there.

A new survey, though, seems to indicate most in the state are willing to pay for road repairs if the cost doesn't break the bank.

MLive.com is reporting today the results of a poll by Marketing Resource Group of Lansing.  It found 68% of respondents would pay an extra $10 a month in taxes if that money would go to fix roads.

"People believe, frankly, we have reached a point that we just need to do something," said MRG Presidnet Tom Shields.  He said 56% of those surveyed said they would normally not favor an increase in taxes, but would do so to fix roads if it were a 'reasonable increase."

The article says the poll was commissioned by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce which has been pushing along with Governor Snyder to find a way to raise the estimated $2 billion a year that the administration says is needed for the next decade.

A Senate committee this week will be considering a plan to hike the gas take from 19-cents on unleaded to more than 32-cents per gallon to generate the money needed.

A House proposal would change the tax on fuel based on the wholesale price rather than per gallon.

But at least one group is already pushing back on any plan.  Those with Americans for Prosperity-Michigan say it could take power away from the people.

"It woud put gas tax hikes on autopilot."