Non-Homestead Operating Millage RENEWAL
On August 3, 2020, Linden Community Schools will seek a renewal of the current, not to exceed 18 mills non-homestead operating millage. The actual ballot language will ask district voters to keep the current millage rate of 20.3746 mills for nine years (2021-2030). The Non-Homestead Operating millage does not apply to primary residences and, or other exempt properties such as qualified agricultural property. For non-homestead property owners (commercial, business, rental properties, and etc.), this millage request is to maintain current tax levels, not to increase them.
Why is the renewal of the Non-Homestead Operating millage important? The current millage comprises about $2 million of the district’s operating budget. These funds can be used to pay for classroom supplies, classroom resources, staffing, and other items needed to operate the district’s buildings. If this millage renewal is not approved, the state will not make up the difference and Linden Community Schools would lose approximately $2 million in revenue a year.
The Non-Homestead Operating millage renewal is not a new tax and not a tax increase. The Non-Homestead Operating millage has been in place since 1995 as part of Michigan’s school funding program under Proposal A. With a renewal, non-homestead properties will continue to pay their current millage rate of 18 mills.
LCS COVID-19 Restrictions Lifted
On June 22, 2021, a new Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) order rescinded prior emergency orders, including the most recent Gatherings and Face Mask Order. Additionally, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) issued updated Emergency Rules. After reviewing the current lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, communication with the Genesee County Health Department, and working with our legal counsel, Linden Community Schools, including Argentine Early Childhood Center, will be implementing the following changes to COVID-19 restrictions.
- Face masks, regardless of vaccination status, are no longer required for students, employees, parents, or visitors.
- Anyone (regardless of vaccination status) when on public transportation, including school buses, pursuant to a federal order from the CDC, will be required to wear a face mask.
- Physical distancing, regardless of vaccination status, is no longer required for students, employees, parents, or visitors.
- Capacity limits are no longer in place.
- COVID-19 testing for MHSAA participation is no longer required.
- Daily COVID-19 self-screening for employees is no longer required.
We understand that vaccinated, and unvaccinated, staff and students may choose to wear masks and we will fully support the choices our families make regarding these new restrictions. Please note, as we have experienced throughout this pandemic, restrictions may change and flexibility will still be important. As always, we thank you for your continued support