Bold initiatives are ringing in the air in Oakland County, with an assortment of proposals up for discussion in the upcoming Aug. 6 primary electoral ballot. A compelling mix of bond and millage proposals stirred up by four school districts, millage renewals for library and parks and recreations, and funding decisions for emergency services will be on the table.
As a word of caution, voters must remember that though primary elections typically see low participation, their vote counts more in such scenarios. As Dave Dulio, a political science professor, puts it, “1 vote out of 10,000 cast versus 1 vote out of 1,000,000 cast comes with stronger voice. Being engaged, doing your homework and voting will ensure that you have a voice on the issues that matter most to you.”
Let’s delve into the heart of the matter and examine the proposals on the upcoming primary ballots:
Addison Township
Among three key proposals before Addison Township residents are renewals for the fire department and the library millage. The fire department, which has been serving the township since 1949, is seeking to reset its millage to meet modern regulatory requirements and continue serving the community with advanced life support services.
Almont and Avondale
Both Almont and Avondale school districts have placed significant bond proposals that could bring sweeping changes and improvements. While Avondale is looking for a complete overhaul of its architecture, Almont is seeking funds for its infrastructure and for additional improvements at Orchard Primary School and Almont Middle School.
Bloomfield Hills Schools and Township
Residents of Bloomfield Hills Schools district are faced with an operating proposal for renewing millage rates, which make up a substantial 31% of the school district’s budget. In contrast, Bloomfield Township is thinking ahead, seeking a renewal of its public safety millage, which would begin once the current one expires in 2026.
Pontiac
For the first time in over four decades, Pontiac is revising its city charter and seeking voter approval. The changes include a restructured city council representation, a new code of ethics, limit on the sale of park property, and regular city council meetings.
Rochester Hills and Royal Oak Township
The Rochester Hills Public Library is seeing its first millage increase in over a century. Meanwhile, Royal Oak Township is seeking to renew its general operating millage for another four years.
Springfield Township and Waterford Township
Springfield Township voters will review the sole funding source for the Springfield Township Parks and Recreation Department, the current rate is now up for renewal. On the other side, Waterford residents will be able to decide on renewals for the parks and recreation department as well as for police services.
The key to a vibrant democracy is an informed and engaged citizenry, so remember to turn out and vote on Aug. 6. Your voice matters and your vote counts!
