TO THE EDITOR:
A letter from a reader that appeared in the Oct. 20 edition of The Record contained numerous factual errors regarding the Romeo Community Schools Nov. 2 election.
First, there is one bond proposal on the ballot. It will not raise the current tax rate.
Second, to reduce interest costs, the bonds will be sold in two series: the first in 2022 and the second in 2025.
Third, the Barton Malow Company’s briefing presented to the Board of Education was the result of consultation with architects, construction managers and engineers. Barton Malow did not develop the cost information in isolation. Additionally, all cost information was presented to and approved by the Michigan Department of Treasury.
Fourth, some previous bond money was used to upgrade the bus fleet. The money in this bond will continue the process of upgrading the bus fleet. Note that buses have a life expectancy based on age and mileage. When they reach the end of this life expectancy, they will not pass Michigan State Police inspection and have to be replaced. That is what is happening here.
Fifth, the bond will not be paid by “non-homestead, second homeowners, and businesses.” It will, by law, be paid for by all Romeo Community School District taxpayers, as is currently the case.
Sixth, there is a second proposal on the November ballot. It is a renewal and restoration of the non-homestead property tax that Michigan law requires Michigan school districts to levy to receive their full share of state funding. This millage needs to be periodically renewed. Romeo voters have approved this non-homestead millage periodically since the law was passed in 1994. This tax is not levied on the homes in which people live (homesteads.)
Seventh, neither the bond proposal nor the non-homestead proposal is being “imposed on others.” They are being presented to Romeo Community Schools voters for their consideration and approval.
In every election it is important for voters to know the facts and not depend on misinformation.
I continue to invite Romeo voters to go to www.romeok12.org or to call me for factual election information.
Dr. Todd R. Robinson
Superintendent
Romeo Community Schools
