The Brighton Area Schools Board of Education voted 4-1 at its meeting Monday to put a “ZERO Mill Tax Rate Increase” before voters on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot.
“Our district has heard the feedback from the community following the narrow defeat of the May bond proposal,” wrote Superintendent Matthew S. Outlaw, who said significant adjustments were made based on the feedback.
In explaining the new issue, Outlaw said it would drop the tax rate from 2.92 mills to 2.73 mills. The tax rate is projected to stay at 2.73 mills for 6 years before dropping again. That rate would make Brighton’s millage the lowest in Livingston County at present, the lowest in Brighton since at least 1987, and among the lowest in the state.
The new bond issue is 40% lower than the $156 million request that lost by less than 350 votes in May. This new $93.6 million issue — described as focusing on needs only — includes funding for a district-wide safety lockout system, secure vestibules, investments in safer traffic flow, roofs, HVAC, mechanical systems, expansion of elementary and performing arts classrooms, elementary gymnasium, science classroom improvements, and technology.
For more information, click here for the district’s bond issue website to which more information will be added soon.
A community Q&A session is expected to take place around the third week of September.
In the meantime, you can contact Outlaw at outlawm@brightonk12.com with any questions.
