Rockford voters will decide on Tuesday, Nov. 3, whether to approve an 18‑mill non‑homestead operating millage that targets businesses, commercial properties and second homes. The measure does not affect a homeowner’s primary residence, Superintendent Steve Matthews said.
Funding the schools’ day‑to‑day needs
Matthews explained that the millage would bring in roughly $9.5 million each year for the district’s daily operations. “That money pays for our teachers, programs and services that shape the everyday classroom experience,” said Rita Proctor, a local mother of three who moved to Rockford three and a half years ago because of the schools.
Proctor, who volunteers with Support RPS, warned that a failure to pass the millage could force teacher layoffs and larger class sizes. “It’s not a new tax or a rate increase; it’s been part of our funding structure for over 30 years,” she added, noting that the millage has been in place since 1994.
Consequences of a “no” vote
If the millage does not pass, the state will reduce the district’s per‑pupil allocation because Rockford would not be contributing the required 18 mills on non‑homestead property. Matthews illustrated the impact: “The state looks at our district, sees we’re not contributing, and subtracts $1,200 per student from the $10,300 allocation we would otherwise receive.”
He emphasized that strong school districts help create strong communities, and that maintaining the millage is a commitment to keep schools well‑funded for the benefit of families throughout Rockford.
Voting details
Absentee voting is already underway. Early in‑person voting for the city of Rockford begins Saturday, Oct. 24, and continues through the election day deadline on Nov. 3. Residents are encouraged to review the ballot measure and consider the long‑term impact on local education.
The millage is a non‑homestead operating levy, meaning it applies only to non‑primary‑residence properties. It has been a stable source of revenue for the district for three decades, and supporters argue that preserving it is essential to avoid state‑mandated funding cuts.
Community members who support the measure say it protects the quality of education and keeps class sizes manageable. Opponents, while not quoted in this report, typically raise concerns about any tax on commercial property. The district’s leadership, however, stresses that the millage does not raise the overall tax rate for homeowners.
Rockford’s school board will monitor the vote outcome closely, as the decision will directly affect the district’s ability to fund teachers, programs, and essential services for the upcoming school year.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
