The June election will give voters an opportunity to further shape the Clarkston School district.
The first and foremost issue on the ballot will be the selection of two new board members. While I can only speak for the boards that have served this community since 1996, I can say that the integrity, dignity and sincerity of these unselfish and generous individuals have made a difference. Readers may remember their names: Tom Howard, Barry Bomier, Bill Craig, Bill McGregor and Rick Crigger.
This June, Janet Thomas and Kurt Shanks will join the ranks of former board members who have contributed to the district and our students. Kurt has spent the last eight years and Janet has spent 28 years working to make our schools the best they can be. Parents, students, teachers, administrators and the community at large have seen them in action and can attest to their leadership, commitment and their ability to see the “big picture.”
While they will be missed, a number of citizens have expressed interest in running for the vacant seats. I am proud to say that our community has no shortage of people who possess the talent, skills and desire necessary to be exceptional board members. Yes, there is a pretty steep learning curve, but the good news is that candidates will receive as much assistance as they want. In fact, Kurt and Janet have offered to run a workshop for the candidates, and the remaining members of the board are very interested in helping with the transition.
In addition to selecting two new board members, the June ballot will ask citizens to vote on a non-homestead millage renewal and an $83 million bond issue.

Non-Homestead Millage
The non-homestead millage issue is a difficult one for many people to understand. Frankly, some don’t pay much attention to this because it doesn’t impact taxpayers, unless they own non-residential property or run a business in the district. This non-homestead renewal will allow the district to continue to levy 18 mills on non-homestead property. If approved, homeowners will not see an increase in their property taxes.
Non-homestead property refers to business, industrial or rental properties as well as second homes in the school district. By law, all districts are entitled to levy 18 mills against such property and the state assumes that all 18 mills are collected. If a district’s non-homestead millage rate drops below that level, those dollars are lost to the school system. As important, the district’s per-pupil formula is negatively impacted. Next year we will lose more than $1 million if our 18-mill non-homestead is not restored.

Bond Issue
Over the past month or so, facts about the proposed $83 million bond issue have been shared with various community and employee groups. On March 10, our board of education approved the ballot language and officially set the matters to be voted on.
I am convinced that the community will see the value of this plan and support our attempts to deal with overcrowding. I also believe that our citizens will understand the value of consolidating to make us more efficient and effective.
Furthermore, our community should be pleased that our plan focuses on capital improvements and long-term cost control. Perhaps, the best news in these economic times is that the tax rate will not change. Yes, if this bond issue is approved, it will not raise the current tax rate.
It is my sincere hope that readers will take the time to learn about the candidates running for school board and about the two other ballot issues. I encourage you to ask any question that you may have about the election.
You see, in my opinion, a community can only be as good as its schools, and good schools are only possible in communities that value education. In Clarkston, I know that value exists. Readers can be assured that we will work hard to earn the trust and support of the school community.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns, or if you would like to set up a time for a group presentation. By sharing this important message, we ensure that our community will be well-informed voters.