Northville Public Schools Operating Millage Replacement on August 4 Ballot

Local voters will head to the polls on August 4th to decide on a ballot proposal aimed at maintaining current funding levels for Northville Public Schools.

The proposal asks community members to consider replacing the school district’s expiring operating millage rate of 18 mills for a ten-year period, 2027 to 2036. District officials emphasize that this is a replacement proposal only and will not impose any new or increase in the tax rate on local homeowners' primary residences or businesses.

Understanding the Ballot Proposal

If approved, the measure allows Northville Public Schools to continue levying the statutory maximum of 18 operating mills. By Michigan law, this levy is applied exclusively to non-homestead properties, which include commercial buildings, business properties, rental units, and vacation homes.

Tax Impact Summary:

• Primary Homeowners: Zero tax impact. Your primary residence remains entirely exempt.
• Local Businesses: No added taxes. This maintains the tax rate currently in place.

What Is at Stake for Northville Public Schools

The operating millage represents a large component of the district's day-to-day funding structure. Under Michigan’s school financing system (Proposal A), local operational funding relies heavily on this specific mechanism.

The decision regarding the August ballot holds major financial considerations for the district:

• Full State Funding: Approval ensures Northville Public Schools continues to receive the maximum operational dollars per pupil currently authorized by the State of Michigan.
• The State's Funding Assumption: The State of Michigan assumes all local school districts levy the full 18-mill operating tax. The state will not compensate or bail out a school district for lost revenues if its local millage fails to pass.
• Potential $11 Million Shortfall: If voters reject the replacement, Northville Public Schools faces a loss of $11,776,352 in annual operating revenue, based on estimated 2026 taxable property values. Such a deficit would severely impact general operations, classroom supplies, and staffing.

Residents seeking further details about the proposal can find comprehensive information on the district's website at

Northville Public Schools.