Local Economic Impact

The Blazing Star Solar Project will provide long-term economic value for Wayland Township, Allegan County, and local schools. An independent property tax analysis shows the project is expected to generate more than $24.6 million in total property tax revenue over its 30-year life.

Key Benefits to the Community

• More than $24.6 million in total property taxes paid to all taxing districts.

• More than $14.2 million in total school district property taxes.

• More than $5.0 million in county property taxes for Allegan County.

• More than $2.0 million in township property taxes for Wayland Township.

Property tax revenue begins during construction and continues across three decades of operations. Payments exceed $1.1 million in the first full year and average more than $820,000 per year throughout the project life.

Where the Revenue Goes

The Blazing Star Solar Project supports a wide range of essential local services across Allegan County and Wayland Township.

County and Local Services

Over 30 years, the project will generate:

• $5,062,012 for Allegan County

• $980,649 for Roads

• $237,905 for the Medical Care Facility

• $95,123 for the Allegan Conservation District

These funds help maintain roads, support essential health services, and contribute to countywide conservation initiatives.

Township Services

Wayland Township also receives direct long-term benefits, including:

• $1,026,543 for Township Operating

• $980,649 for Fire and Ambulance Services

• $1,324,465 for the Henika District Library

This steady revenue helps the township budget for emergency response, community programs, and public services residents rely on.

Strengthening Local Schools

Local schools are the largest beneficiaries of the project’s tax revenue. Over 30 years, the Wayland Union School District and the Allegan Area Educational Service Agency (AAESA) are expected to receive more than $14.2 million in combined property tax revenue.

Why This Revenue Matters for Schools

According to the analysis, local tax revenue from solar provides several advantages over state school aid:

• The project is permanent and stays within the district’s boundaries.

• Revenue is predictable and on time, year after year.

• The project does not increase enrollment, so schools receive funding without adding classroom costs.

• Debt millages benefit directly—these funds reduce the property tax burden on residents.

• Districts retain local control over millage decisions.

School Revenue Breakdown

Over the life of the project, schools are projected to receive:

• $1,972,080 to Wayland Union Schools – Operating Millage

• $8,237,452 to Wayland Union Schools – Debt Millage

• $3,016,575 to AAESA

• $1,031,737 to AAESA – Vocational Education

These funds support academic programs, facility improvements, career training, and districtwide services that help students thrive.

A Long-Term Community Asset

With predictable tax revenue, no added strain on public services, and meaningful support for schools, Blazing Star Solar provides a strong and stable economic benefit to the community for decades. The entire report is available as a downloadable document.