Voters in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties have approved the Detroit Zoo millage renewal, preserving regional funding for the 125-acre attraction and its animal-care and education programmes.
The measure passed with about 70 per cent support across south-east Michigan, with the strongest backing recorded in Wayne County.
Detroit Zoo millage renewal results
Wayne County voters approved the proposal with 73.5 per cent of the vote, while support reached 70.6 per cent in Oakland County and 69 per cent in Macomb County.
The levy will remain at 0.1 mill, equivalent to 10 cents for every $1,000 of taxable property value. It is expected to raise about $8.8 million in its first year without increasing the tax rate.
For a homeowner with a property valued at $200,000, the annual cost is expected to remain about $10, according to the campaign supporting the renewal.
The three county authorities first approved the funding in 2008 and renewed it in 2016. Wayne County records say the current levy is due to expire in 2027. ([waynecountymi.gov](https://www.waynecountymi.gov/Government/Boards-Authorities/WC-Zoological-Authority?utm_source=openai))
The Detroit Zoological Society said the millage provides a stable source of funding, contributing about a third of its revenue and helping support both the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Center. ([bridgedetroit.com](https://www.bridgedetroit.com/election-2026-detroit-museums-zoo-millages-passing-in-early-results/?utm_source=openai))
The renewed funding will support care for more than 2,000 animals representing about 200 species, as well as school visits, educational programmes and field trips for children across the region.
It will also help fund the five-acre Belle Isle Nature Center, which focuses on Michigan wildlife and includes bird-viewing areas and interactive indoor exhibits.
