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Board approves 3‑mill sinking fund proposal for Nov. ballot to fund building repairs
Summary
The board approved ballot language asking voters to levy a 3‑mill building and site sinking fund for 10 years (Dec. 1, 2024–Dec. 1, 2034) to pay for facility repairs and infrastructure, with trustees debating whether to ask for two or three mills.
Madison District Public Schools trustees voted on Aug. 5 to place a three‑mill building and site sinking fund proposal on the November 2024 ballot, a 10‑year levy the board said would fund construction and repairs to district facilities.
The proposed ballot language states that, if approved, the district would be authorized to levy three mills ($3 per $1,000 of taxable valuation) from Dec. 1, 2024, through Dec. 1, 2034, to create a building and site sinking fund for purposes authorized under Michigan law. The district presented an estimated revenue figure of approximately $1,500,158 for the 2024 calendar year if the levy were approved and levied.
Trustees debated whether to ask voters for two mills or three. Trustee Mark Kimble argued a two‑mill ask might be more politically viable and estimated two mills would produce about $1 million per year; Trustee Rebecca Chamblas and supporters said three mills better matched the district’s capital priorities, including roofing, HVAC and lab upgrades. Several trustees urged board members to be active in community outreach explaining how the funds would be used.
The board approved the three‑mill ballot language by unanimous roll call. No additional voter education or campaign action was formally approved at the meeting; trustees discussed outreach and asked staff to include the language on the ballot.
