UNDATED (WSAU) -- In addition to referendum questions on medical/recreational marijuana use and school funding, voters in several Wisconsin counties had their say on non-binding issues surrounding the state's "Dark store" loophole as well.
Both Portage County and the City of Merrill passed the straw-poll question with overwhelming support. The same goes for voters in Brown, Green Lake, Manitowoc, Winnebago, and Outagamie Counties as well.
Lawmakers have been trying to close the loophole for several years, but have run into roadblocks set up by big box stores who argue that their property should be taxed as if it is "dark," or vacant.
Municipalities say that the stores should be taxed at a higher rate because they require more services than a store that is closed. They also argue that a lower tax rate for the stores means residents end up paying a higher rate for their taxes to make up the difference.
All told some 17 counties and six cities/villages support their version of the non-binding referendum. The information will now be passed on to state lawmakers in hopes that the tax loophole will be closed in the coming session.
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