Marcellus Community Schools August 5 Special Election FAQ

-submitted by Superintendent Dr. Michael Dunn

On August 5, 2025, Marcellus Community Schools will have a ballot issue which will be a Non-Homestead Operating Millage Renewal. Below are answers to frequently asked questions about the renewal:

What does “non-homestead” mean?
Non-homestead represents industrial, commercial and some agricultural property and “second homes.” It does not include a family’s primary home.

Is this a new tax?
No – this is a RENEWAL of a millage approved most recently by the voters in 2020, NOT a new tax. The district has voter approval to levy up to a maximum of 18 mills on non-homestead property. This millage began in 1995 and is voted on every five years.

Will my residential school taxes increase too?
No. This tax is on non-homestead property and does not apply to your primary place of residence. Your millage rate won’t go up. Also, this is a RENEWAL and not a new tax.

Why is there a millage renewal?
All Michigan school districts must levy 18 mills on non-homestead property to receive their full foundation allowance.

Districts receive most of their funding on a per-pupil basis. The amount a school district receives per-pupil is called the Foundation Allowance.

   The foundation allowance represents the major portion of Marcellus Community Schools’ revenue and is funded from two sources:

(1) Local Revenue – 18 mills collected on non-homestead property
(2) State Revenue

   Funding for school districts changed significantly in 1993/94 when the Michigan voters passed Proposal A. Under Proposal A, the State pays the majority of the cost, but to receive full funding, schools must levy 18 mills on non-homestead property in their district.

What if the millage is voted down?
The revenue generated from the 18 mills totals about 20% of the school district’s budget. If this millage does not pass, the State will not replace the funding for Marcellus Schools. These are the funds used to pay for teachers, textbooks, technology, classroom supplies, gas/electric, etc.

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