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BIZ BRIEFS

Three farms earn historical certification

Three Northeast Michigan farms, inlcuding the Hardies farm in Presque Isle County’s BelknapTownship, have been named Centennial Farms by the the Historical Society of Michigan for being owned by the same family for more than 100 years, the Presque Isle Electric and Gas Co-op said in a news release.

The other two farms are the Budzinski and Reimann farms in Cheboygan County.

The Hardies farm was purchased by William Hardies Sr. in 1869, PIE&G said.

Holidays help retailers

Michiagn retailers reported higher sales in November and a strong winter outlook, according to the Michigan Retailers Association’s Retail Index.

The 100-point index showed a 52.2 for November, down from November 2018’s 63.5 but up from October 2019’s 43. Index numbers greater than 50 indicate positive retail activity, the association said in a news release.

The survey found 36% of retailers saw sales increases over October, 39% recorded declines, and 25% reported no change. Meanwhile, 39% of Michigan retailers expect increased sales through February, 35% predict a decrease, and 26% expect no change.

“Consumers still are in a good place, with low interest rates, inflation and unemployment,” William Hallan, President and CEO of the association, said in a statement. “We’re hoping that’s a good sign for December sales.”

Treasury: Don’t count on tax refund for shopping

Some tax may require additional review and take longer to process, so counting on a refund check for big holiday purchases is ill-advised, Michigan Treasury said in a news release.

“Every state income tax return is unique,” Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said in a news release. “That means every income tax refund is also unique. While most refunds are typically issued two weeks after being accepted by the state, it’s best to plan ahead and understand that receiving your refund could take longer than expected due to unforeseen circumstances.”

Security reviews, incomplete or inaccurate information, mathematical errors, or other special circumstances all can delay refunds, the state said.

State offers up to $70K for electric vehicle chargers

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy says public or private groups can apply for up to $70,000 to install direct current fast chargers for electric vehicles.

The rebate program is meant to encourage construction of a network of chargers across the state. Money comes from the state’s share of a settlement with Volkswagen over that automaker’s emissions scandal.

The grants are expected to cover up to a third of the total project costs with the host site and local utility each also contributing a third.

Call 800-662-9278 or check the Michigan Fuel Transformation website for more information.

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