Voters in Chelsea Schools will Decide Two Millages

The August 4 ballot has two questions for voters in the Chelsea School District that are billed as two millages with one vision.

One is the Operating Millage Renewal and the other the Sinking Fund Millage Replacement. This will not be a new tax, but rather if approved it would continue funding that’s been in place but about to expire.

The school district’s webpage puts it this way, “On August 4, 2026, voters in the Chelsea School District will consider two separate millage proposals. While they serve different purposes, both help the district continue the support our community provides today.”

These proposals:

•    Address millages that are expiring
•    Fund different needs and cannot replace each other
•    Help maintain funding without shifting costs between operations and facilities

According to the school district, the operating millage supports day-to-day classroom learning and is required for the district to receive its full per-pupil funding from the State of Michigan. It helps fund teachers, programs, and student services.
•    6-year renewal (2027-2032)
•    Estimated revenue: approximately $6.26 million per year
•    Does not apply to owner-occupied homes

The school district said the sinking fund supports school buildings, safety, and equipment. It helps the district maintain and improve facilities over time, while keeping those costs separate from classroom budgets.
•    10-year term (2027-2036)
•    Estimated revenue: approximately $1.33 million per year
•    Cannot be used for staff salaries

The school district said together, “these proposals help Chelsea schools:

•    Continue strong classroom learning for students
•    Maintain safe, well-kept school buildings
•    Care for what our community has built over time
•    Plan ahead without taking resources away from classrooms”

To learn more go to https://www.chelseaschools.org/vote.