Message from Superintendent Dr. VanWagoner
October 11, 2024
Dear TCAPS Families,
I would like to provide you with information relating to the November 5 election. The ballot includes a ten year operating millage renewal for Traverse City Area Public Schools. While all who reside in the TCAPS boundaries will have this proposal on their ballots, it is only levied against properties considered non-primary residence properties, which are essentially businesses, industrial properties, and second homes located within the school district boundary. To clarify, a non-homestead operating millage does not apply to primary residences and other exempt property.
In order to receive the full per-pupil funding allowance amount set by the state, the district is required to levy 18 mills on non-homestead property. Financially, the operating millage renewal generates revenue to support the district’s general operating budget. This includes essential day-to-day expenses such as staffing, utilities, supplies, materials, and all costs associated with educational and co-curricular programs.
Information about this operating millage renewal, including ballot language, can be found on our website. Additionally, questions can be brought to the Board of Education Office Hours on October 24 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Horizon Books or you are encouraged to email me directly to discuss.
Thank you for taking time to learn about this ballot proposal.
Sincerely,
John R. VanWagoner II, Ph.D.
Superintendent