Bold initiatives are ringing in the air in Oakland County, with an assortment of proposals up for discussion in the upcoming Aug. 6 primary electoral ballot. A compelling mix of bond and millage proposals stirred up by four school districts, millage renewals for library and parks and recreations, and funding decisions for emergency services will be on the table.
As a word of caution, voters must remember that though primary elections typically see low participation, their vote counts more in such scenarios. As Dave Dulio, a political science professor, puts it, “1 vote out of 10,000 cast versus 1 vote out of 1,000,000 cast comes with stronger voice. Being engaged, doing your homework and voting will ensure that you have a voice on the issues that matter most to you.”
Let’s delve into the heart of the matter and examine the proposals on the upcoming primary ballots:
Addison Township
Among three key proposals before Addison Township residents are renewals for the fire department and the library millage. The fire department, which has been serving the township since 1949, is seeking to reset its millage to meet modern regulatory requirements and continue serving the community with advanced life support services.
Almont and Avondale
Both Almont and Avondale school districts have placed significant bond proposals that could bring sweeping changes and improvements. While Avondale is looking for a complete overhaul of its architecture, Almont is seeking funds for its infrastructure and for additional improvements at Orchard Primary School and Almont Middle School.
Bloomfield Hills Schools and Township
Residents of Bloomfield Hills Schools district are faced with an operating proposal for renewing millage rates, which make up a substantial 31% of the school district’s budget. In contrast, Bloomfield Township is thinking ahead, seeking a renewal of its public safety millage, which would begin once the current one expires in 2026.
Pontiac
For the first time in over four decades, Pontiac is revising its city charter and seeking voter approval. The changes include a restructured city council representation, a new code of ethics, limit on the sale of park property, and regular city council meetings.
Rochester Hills and Royal Oak Township
The Rochester Hills Public Library is seeing its first millage increase in over a century. Meanwhile, Royal Oak Township is seeking to renew its general operating millage for another four years.
Springfield Township and Waterford Township
Springfield Township voters will review the sole funding source for the Springfield Township Parks and Recreation Department, the current rate is now up for renewal. On the other side, Waterford residents will be able to decide on renewals for the parks and recreation department as well as for police services.
The key to a vibrant democracy is an informed and engaged citizenry, so remember to turn out and vote on Aug. 6. Your voice matters and your vote counts!
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
