Traverse City Record-Eagle

Election 2007

November 2, 2007

Editorial: Don't take out frustrations on TCAPS' millage issue

Judging from letters to the editor and other comments heard about town, a lot of people are angry at the Traverse City Area Public Schools board and administration right now. The district's recent decision to close three elementary schools has many folks up in arms.

In short, it is not the best of times for the district to be seeking a millage renewal.

But no matter how upset voters may be the worst thing they could do is take it out on the debt millage renewal issue.

The 3.1-mill levy is all about bricks and mortar, nuts and bolts, and it is critical for the district's future. None of the money can be used for operations, such as the pay or perks for administrators or teachers; those seeking to make a statement would be better off writing a sternly worded letter.

This is the money that pays to fix leaky roofs or buy buses, and over the years it has paid for renovations and upgrades at district elementary schools; it will also pay for pending repair and renovation work at the middle and high schools and new science labs.

According to the district, the 3.1-mill levy brings in $2 million a year for capital equipment; over 10 years it will bring in $105 million.

A 20-person citizen group called TCAPS Citizens for Students has raised more than $8,000 for a pro-millage campaign. Several TCAPS administrators and teachers have contributed; district employee unions are also backing the campaign.

This is basic stuff. The state of Michigan does not take into account bricks and mortar needs in its per-pupil allocations; raising that money is left up to local communities.

Traverse City voters have a long track record of being practical about spending money where it must be spent, and this should be no exception.

Vote "yes" on TCAPS' bond renewal millage.

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