GHAPS Operating Millage Proposal on May 7 Ballot
Grand Haven voters will determine whether to renew the non-homestead operating millage for Grand Haven Area Public Schools in the Ottawa County Special Election to be held Tues., May 7. Polling hours are from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“The operating millage provides the funding necessary for the district to maintain programming and services at their existing levels,” shares GHAPS Superintendent Scott Grimes. “If renewed, the millage would generate more than $17 million in revenue and would provide for day-to-day expenses such as salaries, facilities operations and maintenance, and other operational expenses.”
The one-year proposal is an annual renewal of 18 mills, which accounts for approximately 20% of the school district’s total budget. Renewed by voters at its current level for more than 20 years, this non-homestead operating millage applies only to non-homestead properties such as second homes and businesses. It comes at no cost against a homeowner's primary residence and certain other properties exempted by law. The proposal is as follows:
Ballot language for Grand Haven Area Public Schools Operating Millage Renewal Proposal
This proposal will allow the school district to continue to levy the statutory rate of not to exceed 18 mills on all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, required for the school district to receive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance.
I. Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property, except principal residence and other property exempted by law, in Grand Haven Area Public Schools, Ottawa and Muskegon Counties, Michigan, be increased by 18 mills ($18.00 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for the year 2024, to provide funds for operating purposes; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2024 is approximately $17,350,000 (this is a renewal of millage that expired with the 2023 tax levy)?
Additional information is available at www.ghaps.org/millage or the Ottawa County Elections Division.
Grand Haven Area Public Schools is a district of distinction for students in preschool through 12th grade. With a goal of providing exceptional educational experiences, GHAPS is committed to Success for All students and strives to provide exemplary programs and opportunities to meet their diverse needs. Visit ghaps.org for additional information.