Attention: Bear Lake Schools Residents

On Election Day, November 3, 2026, voters in the Bear Lake School District will see the 18-mill Operating Millage Renewal on the ballot.

Under Michigan law, public school districts must periodically (typically every 5 years) ask voters to renew the non-homestead operating millage in order to continue receiving the full per-pupil funding provided through the State of Michigan.

What is the 18-mill non-homestead millage?

The 18-mill operating millage is a renewal, not a new millage. It applies to non-homestead property, such as commercial property, vacant property, and second homes. It does not apply to a homeowner's primary residence.

The State of Michigan currently provides approximately $10,300 in funding per student. The non-homestead operating millage allows Bear Lake Schools to continue receiving the full amount ($10,300) of per-pupil funding available through the state funding system.

In 2028, this millage is estimated to account for approximately $1.2 million of Bear Lake Schools' operating budget.

What does the millage fund?

The 18-mill non-homestead operating millage supports the district's day-to-day operations, including expenses such as:

• Curriculum and instructional materials

• Transportation

• Teacher and staff salaries

• Building maintenance and improvements

• Technology and other operational needs

The millage generally does not fund new construction or major capital projects. Those types of projects are generally funded through separate capital or bond proposals.

Questions?

If you have questions about the ballot language or the 18-mill Operating Millage Renewal, please contact:

Jake Veith, Superintendent

Bear Lake Schools

231-846-3133

We encourage Bear Lake Schools residents to review the ballot language and the information available to them before making their decision on Election Day.