Michigan voters participated in local elections on Tuesday, with 72 of the 83 counties casting ballots for mayoral positions, community initiatives, and various offices. Significant among the outcomes was the approval of a millage by voters in Washtenaw County, aimed at enhancing career and technical education (CTE) programs provided by the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD).
The millage, which garnered support from 54% of voters, will impose a property tax of one mill, equating to $1 for every $1,000 of taxable property value, and is expected to generate approximately $25 million in its first year. This tax will be in effect for a decade, running from 2026 to 2035. The proposal received endorsements from several organizations, including the Huron Valley Area Labor Federation and the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber of Commerce.
However, not all residents are in favor of the millage. The Citizens Against Regressive Taxes coalition expressed opposition, labeling the tax as wasteful and a potential burden on taxpayers, particularly those with fixed incomes and middle-class households. Their statement criticized the necessity of the millage, suggesting it contributes to unnecessary duplication of services already funded.
Despite the dissent, WISD promotes the benefits of CTE programs, which include over 70 high school initiatives aimed at connecting students to educational advancements and career readiness. Programs available encompass disciplines such as accounting, computer programming, health sciences, and culinary arts. Notably, enrollment in these programs has surged by 69% in the last four years, indicating a rising demand, with more than 300 students currently on waitlists for the upcoming school year.
In response to the approval, WISD Superintendent Naomi Norman expressed appreciation for the community’s support, stating that the millage will help remove financial barriers and expand access to practical, hands-on learning opportunities across Washtenaw County. Norman highlighted the commitment to transparently collaborate with local partners to ensure that the educational framework benefits students from preschool through 12th grade and strengthens the region’s talent development.
This initiative underscores a collective effort towards enhancing educational resources, reflecting a positive investment in the future of students and the local economy.