Tuesday is the big day for Lake Michigan College as it asks voters to approve a 20-year renewal of its operating millage. LMC Director of Government and Community Relations Al Pscholka tells us this is only a renewal and will not increase taxes. In fact, he says approval of the ballot question will lock taxes that support the college into their current rate through 2043. Pscholka says the millage is extremely important to LMC’s budget.
“In Michigan, 50% of our revenue for community colleges comes from property taxes,” Pscholka said. “This particular levy is 25% of the operational budget of Lake Michigan College, so it is critical that it passes so we can continue to offer programs for the community.”
A mass text message went out Monday morning that claimed the millage renewal will raise taxes. The senders of the message did not identify themselves. Pscholka says he also got the text, but it’s wrong.
“That text message is not true. That is a lie. Anyone who reads the ballot will see very plainly that this is a renewal. This is not a tax increase.”
Pscholka says voters have been supporting the millage on Tuesday’s ballot since 1963. He asks them to reaffirm it. Also on the ballot today in Berrien County is the Benton Harbor City Commission primary for commissioner at large seats. Four candidates out of five will then advance to the November election. There’s also a Chikaming Township road millage on the ballot. Polls will close at 8 p.m. and we’ll have the results for you as they become available.
