East Grand Rapids — A sinking fund proposal will go before East Grand Rapids voters on the Nov. 4 ballot. If approved, it would allow the district to get the most out of the sinking fund revenue it collects.
The 0.5-mill proposal would replace the current 0.5-mill sinking fund, which expires in 2026. The district is seeking a new millage rather than a renewal of its existing one because the rules have changed regarding how sinking fund dollars can be used, and districts are now able to do more with the dollars than they were when East’s last sinking fund was approved in 2016, explained Anthony Morey, assistant superintendent of finance and operations.
“The (proposed) sinking fund is technically new,” Morey said. “The board could have asked for a renewal; however, we would not then be able to use those funds for three newly allowed uses: security infrastructure, transportation vehicles and instructional technology.”
Sinking funds originally supported the construction and repair of school facilities, but the new uses have been added through legislative actions amending the school code.
If approved, the 10-year proposal is expected to generate around $548,320 in its first year, according to the ballot language. Morey said the district would use the funds to tackle needs as they arise, including repairs to electrical, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems; doors; fire alarm systems; elevators; and parking lots.
“Our facilities have repairs that are required every week,” Morey said, noting that the district’s buildings date back to the 1960s and have significant infrastructure needs.
In the absence of a sinking fund, funding for repairs would have to be drawn from the district’s general fund, Morey said.
Morey stressed that the proposal is separate from the Kent ISD enhancement millage, which will also appear on the ballot in East and throughout Kent County.
The public is invited to an informational session at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7 at Woodcliff Early Childhood Center, 2915 Hall St SE. More information can be found on the district’s website.
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