(MENDON) – Residents of the Mendon School District are being asked to go to the polls next Tuesday.

The Mendon Community Schools will be asking voters to approve a Non Homestead Operating Millage renewal. The renewal is crucial because it allows the District to continue levying 18 mills on non homestead properties, such as businesses, second homes and rental properties. This millage is essential for Mendon to receive its full State funding and supports various District operations, including staff, learning resources and student programs.

Mendon’s current operating millage expires, so this renewal allows the District to continue collecting this important revenue source. School officials say this is not a new tax and there will be no increase in the tax rate for this levy.

Voters will see the ballot is asking for 19.5 mills. However, the District can only collect 18 mills. By asking for 19.5 mills, it will allow Mendon Schools to collect the full 18 mills if future property values increase greater than the rate of inflation.

If approved, the millage will allow Mendon Schools to collect approximately $1.7 million for operating expenses. If the millage is not approved, Mendon will lose a significant amount of State funding which will impact its ability to operate.

Polls will be open August 5 from 7 AM to 8 PM.