Waterford voters are headed for an August 4 decision that could lock in a crucial slice of school funding for the next decade, as the district asks residents to approve a replacement operating millage on non-homestead property.
The proposal keeps existing non-homestead levies in place, meaning it applies only to businesses, rental properties and second homes, and does not touch the tax bill on an owner’s primary residence.
What The Ballot Asks
According to the Oakland County Official Proposal List, the measure would raise the district’s tax limitation to 22 mills, with 18 mills as the maximum levy ($18.00 per $1,000 of taxable valuation), for a ten-year period from 2026 through 2035.
The ballot language specifies that 17.6749 mills would replace authorized millage that otherwise expires on December 31, 2033, and 0.3251 mills would restore millage lost under the Michigan Constitution.
Who Pays And Why It Matters
On its information page, the district emphasizes that the proposal applies only to non-homestead property and is “NOT a new tax and has no impact on a homeowner’s property taxes.” Waterford School District says the levy helps ensure it receives the full per-pupil foundation allowance the state uses to fund classroom operations and staffing.
How Much Money Is At Stake
The county’s official summary estimates the measure would generate about $17,701,778 during the 2026 calendar year for “general operating purposes” if voters sign off.
Oakland County notes that the authorization would also allow the district to continue levying 18 mills in the event of future Headlee rollbacks, up to four mills.
Timeline And Voter Information
The district’s millage information page lays out the key dates. Absentee ballots become available June 25. The deadline to register to vote for the August election is July 20. Polls on August 4 will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Waterford School District also offers FAQs and an informational video for local taxpayers who want more details before heading to the polls.
Where This Fits In The County Picture
Waterford’s replacement millage will not be the only education funding question on the August 4 ballot. Voters will also weigh in on a separate Oakland County regional enhancement millage, a countywide 1.5-mill proposal that would raise additional per-pupil funding for districts across Oakland County if approved.
Information about that countywide measure is available at the Oakland County enhancement millage information site.
