Voters in Muskegon County Tuesday approved a millage renewal proposal that will provide security and technology funding to the area’s 18 public school districts and charter schools.
Spearheaded by the Muskegon Area ISD, officials say, provided the funds are used solely for technology or security purposes, each district will have the authority to use the funds however they choose, while a coordinated effort and response plan with Muskegon Law Enforcement will be put in place across the Lakeshore in the event of an active shooter situation or other threat to student safety.
Steve Edwards is the Superintendent of Reeths-Puffer Schools. He says, if kids feel unsafe at school, it is nearly impossible to focus in the classroom.
“It is the thing that keep me up at night, and you see reminders whether it is Michigan State, or Nashville, you see reminders of what can happen, and it does absolutely, absolutely cause sleepless nights on the part of all educators," Edwards said. "We want nothing more than for our kids to feel safe, welcome, secure, and to see those reminders—it is devastating."
It’s a big win for the Muskegon Area ISD, considering voters rejected a special education millage proposed by the district almost exactly a year ago today.
The home-owner tax will continue to levy roughly $.98 for every $1,000 of taxable property beginning in 2024 and lasting until the year 2033.
