Dear GRPS Staff,
We’re writing to share information regarding the August 4, 2026, election and a sinking fund millage proposal that affects GRPS.
A sinking fund is a limited property tax used to fund building maintenance, infrastructure, and technology projects on a “pay-as-you-go” basis. Sinking funds are primarily used for major repairs, renovations, and construction of school buildings, as well as technology upgrades and school security improvements. Unlike bonds, a sinking fund does not create debt or incur interest. The tax is collected annually, and the revenue is specifically allocated for facility repairs and upgrades. All funds are publicly reported on the district’s website, and an independent audit is conducted annually by the state to ensure transparency and accountability.
Many neighboring districts, including Kentwood, East Grand Rapids, Godwin Heights, Grandville, and Wyoming, have or have recently had sinking funds. In 2011, taxpayers approved a 1.0 mill sinking fund for five years for GRPS, which expired at the end of 2016.
The current 0.95 millage proposal would cost a homeowner with a $300,000 market value home, approximately $142.50 annually, $11.88 monthly, or $0.39 daily. Funding would focus on facility needs such as repairing roofs, updating plumbing, and ensuring HVAC systems and windows are efficient, reducing long-term costs. If approved, this proposal is expected to generate approximately $7 million annually for the district.
Currently, GRPS has a total millage debt rate of 3.85, ranking 24th out of 27 school districts in Kent County. If approved, 20 other school districts would still have a higher millage debt rate than GRPS.
As an employee, you may not use public funds, resources, or school time to advocate for or against this proposal. This includes the use of express advocacy terms such as “vote for,” “elect,” “support,” “cast your ballot for,” “vote against,” “defeat,” or “reject.”
However, you may provide informational materials as a staff member. Local public schools are prohibited from using public funds to distribute anything other than objectively neutral, factual information. Even a statement like “the millage will allow us to provide better [service or program]” may be considered promotional rather than factual.
You may engage as an individual and private citizen on your own time. When public resources are not involved and you are not acting on behalf of the school, you may participate in advocacy or campaigning for or against this proposal.
If you would like to participate in the August 4 election, here are your options:
Vote by Mail
If you are a registered Michigan voter, you may request an absentee ballot without providing a reason using either of the methods outlined below:
- Online (requires personal ID information and signature upload) — until 5 p.m. the Friday before Election Day
- By mail — must be received by your local clerk by 5 p.m. the Friday before Election Day; it is recommended to mail at least 15 days early
Vote in Person
- At your polling location — find your polling location by visiting michigan.gov/vote
We look forward to sharing more information with you in the coming weeks.
Leadriane Roby, Ph.D.
Superintendent