Dearborn council agrees to put 1‑mill library renewal on August ballot

Summary

Council authorized placing a 1‑mill library millage renewal (10‑year term, effective 06/30/2027) on the August ballot; finance director estimated 1 mill yields roughly $4.23 million and contributes nearly 60% of the library's operating budget. Attorney General review of ballot language was noted.

The Dearborn City Council voted Jan. 13 to place a proposed ballot question in the August 4, 2026 primary election to renew a one‑mill library millage for 10 years, with an effective date of June 30, 2027, if approved by voters.

Council reviewed state law timelines for ballot language review; the clerk and administration noted the Michigan Department of Attorney General must review ballot text and that draft language should be submitted in advance. Interim Library Director Patty Podzakowski and CFO Michael Kennedy attended the meeting. Kennedy told council that one mill generates roughly $4.23 million annually and the millage accounts for about 60% of the library system’s operating budget. Council members described the renewal as necessary to sustain library operations and services.

Council approved placing the question on the ballot and requested immediate effect for the resolution as presented on the agenda. The measure will proceed through the attorney‑general review and election‑code deadlines before final placement on the ballot.