FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: FAQ'S
It sounds like a funny name for something that is used to help a school district maintain and enhance facilities and technology. Under Michigan law, a school may collect taxes for a "sinking fund" that can be used for major repairs and renovations (as well as other construction)
WHAT IS A SINKING FUND?
HOW WILL THIS IMPACT HEMLOCK PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT?
If approved, these funds will help the district maintain our facilities inside and out with things like:
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Safety (e.g. service drive to K.C. Ling, additional security camera, etc.).
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Efficiency (e.g. replace single pane windows from 1959 at high school).
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Curriculum (e.g. develop/enhance STEAM areas)
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Technology to Buses (e.g. offset general fund expenditure with technology, frees up monies for updating buses).
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HS - 21st Century Media Center/Library.
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Fitness Area (e.g. provide students with an updated fitness area like those found in Frankenmuth, St. Charles, and other area schools).
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Maintenance (e.g. roofs, boilers, HVAC, equipment, etc.).
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There are very few opportunities outside the state per pupil funding for schools to secure funds. A sinking fund would help Hemlock Public School District maintain and improve facilities and technology for student learning.
If approved, it will cost the average homeowner with a $150k home ($75k SEV) $112.50 annually or less than $10 a month. This will generate approximately $500k toward maintaining and improving the school district’s facilities and curriculum.
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HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST?
WHY A SINKING FUND?
WHO IS INVOLVED WITH A SINKING FUND?
A sinking fund involves many individuals. First, members of the Hemlock Public Schools Board of Education had to vote to have this on the ballot for voters to consider. Now, this matter is available for our community to consider. If approved by voters, it will continue to involve various stakeholders (in helping set annual priorities) and the Board of Education (annual review and approval of the budget and acceptance of bids). Much of the work will be completed through a bid process involving, but not limited to, area vendors and companies.
HOW DOES HEMLOCK'S MILLAGE RATE COMPARE TO OUR NEIGHBORS?
Most school districts in Michigan address facility and transportation needs with a bond or sinking fund proposal.
In some cases area schools have double (Merrill) or nearly double (Swan Valley) the levy that Hemlock has:
Merrill ............... 7.83
Swan Valley ...... 7.00
St. Charles ....... 4.50
Hemlock .......... 3.64
