GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – Grand Rapids voters will weigh in on a sinking fund millage for Grand Rapids Public Schools in the August 4 election.
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 and a $150,000 taxable value 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. 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.
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 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
- Go to your polling location — find your polling location by visiting michigan.gov/vote.
For more information, please visit grpsmillage.com.
