Judge makes decision in suit challenging Wayne County transit millage

June 2, 2026

A Wayne County Circuit Court judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by residents opposing a transit millage proposal scheduled for the August ballot. The group Not Smart Wayne had challenged the ballot measure on grounds of inadequate public notification and confusing ballot language, seeking to have it removed from the ballot. Judge Kathleen McCarthy ruled that the plaintiffs failed to demonstrate legal violations or irreparable harm, finding that proper notification procedures were followed and ballot language was clear.

Who is affected

Residents and property owners in 17 Wayne County communities not currently in the SMART system (who would face a new tax)
Residents in 26 municipalities already in the SMART system (who would not see a millage increase)
Not Smart Wayne group members and lawsuit plaintiffs, including Matthew Wilk
Wayne County Transit Authority (WCTA)
Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART)
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans
SMART General Manager and CEO Tiffany Gunter
Judge Kathleen McCarthy

What action is being taken

The millage proposal is proceeding to the ballot for the August 4 vote
Plaintiffs are evaluating their legal options, including a potential appeal
SMART and transit advocates are preparing to engage directly with residents about the millage between now and August 4

Why it matters

This ruling ensures Wayne County voters will have the opportunity to decide on a significant transit funding measure that could expand public transportation services across the county. The millage aims to close service gaps and connect communities that currently lack SMART transit access, which supporters argue will support seniors, improve regional connectivity, and strengthen the local economy. The decision also clarifies that the county followed proper legal procedures in advancing the ballot measure, despite criticism about minimal public outreach efforts.

What's next

The transit millage will appear on the ballot for voters to decide on August 4
Plaintiffs are evaluating legal options, including filing an appeal
SMART and transit supporters plan to campaign and communicate directly with residents about the millage proposal between now and the August 4 vote

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com