City manager outlines countywide transit millage plan and grant application

The city manager briefed the Alma City Commission on regional efforts to expand transit services countywide and the next steps for funding and public outreach.

At a recent county commission meeting staff and county leaders advanced ballot language for a countywide transit millage; the county board voted 4–1 to put the proposal on the November ballot. The city manager said the proposed limit discussed by the county was 0.5 mill and that the county will not levy the millage if state grant funding is insufficient to front the startup costs.

The manager explained that the city’s role now is to engage in education and coordination with townships and other local partners; he said staff will attend joint administrative meetings and that a successful state application depends on documented local commitment. The manager noted the city has previously levied up to one mill for transportation purposes since 1974 and that outreach to the electorate is needed because city residents have not previously voted on a transportation millage.

Why it matters: A successful millage and grant would provide funding to expand transit service countywide, affecting mobility for residents and the structure of local transit funding. The county’s decision to place language on the ballot enables the city to proceed with grant application work.

What’s next: Staff will continue coordination with county partners, attend scheduled intergovernmental meetings, and participate in public education before the November ballot.