Film Tax Debate Leaves Producers Shakey And On The Move

DETROIT (WWJ) - City officials in Detroit say they're worried about the governor's plans to cut tax incentives.  Planning Commission Director Marcell Todd tells the City Council that the proposed cuts means producers of the TV series "Detroit 187" are less likely to commit to a second season.

"With "Detroit 187" you not only had a film, but you had a series being produced regularly providing ongoing activity and economic impact within the city and the metropolitan area," says Todd.

Economic Growth Corporation Vice President Art Papapanos  told Council the cuts would cripple many re-development projects in Detroit including the Uniroyal site near Belle Isle.

While the debate over the state's film tax incentives continues,  another film slated for Michigan production looks like it's hitting the road.  The director of the West Michigan Film Office says the 50-Cent bio-pic  "Freelancers" is switching locations to New Orleans. 

The Grand Rapids Press reports that the movie is among 15 film projects currently in limbo as the state reviews the governor's plan to cap the tax incentives.