The 2025 bond proposal focuses on three main upgrades: improving classroom learning environments, enhancing safety and updating building infrastructure.
The district includes five schools and a total of approximately 2,100 students. The bond will affect four buildings in the district: Whitehall High School, Whitehall Middle School, Ealy Elementary and Shoreline Elementary.
The estimated millage that would be levied for the proposed bonds in 2026 ($1.80 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) allows it to return to 5.0 mills, the same level last levied in 2024.
For someone with a home with a taxable value of $100,000, that equates to $180 annually.
Whitehall Superintendent CJ Van Wieren said that as a district, they’ve held a few community forums at the high school and middle school, including a building tour.
“You’re asking for 20 years to repay these bonds. We want to be very aware of that tax and how it impacts people and do what’s best for the entire community while also being able to accomplish some of these upgrades,” Van Wieren said. “We’re trying to be as transparent as possible and explain to people why it’s a priority.”
The estimated annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 2.37 mills ($2.37 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation), according to the Muskegon County ballot language.
Van Wieren said many of the upgrades haven’t occurred in quite some time, such as the heating, cooling and ventilation systems.
“The ultimate goal is to create better learning environments,” he told MLive. “Our slogan for this has been ‘safe, warm and dry.’”
At Ealy Elementary, the proposed work includes replacing the steam boiler system, updating the media center, installing new classroom furniture and equipment where needed, and upgrading technology and electrical systems throughout the building.
For Shoreline Elementary, the work would include heating and cooling upgrades, cafeteria and kitchen updates, front office and learning space improvements, updated classroom technology and electrical upgrades.
At Whitehall Middle School, the proposed upgrades include replacing the steam boiler systems, in-unit ventilators in classrooms, cafeteria and kitchen renovations, media center updates, new classroom technology, electrical upgrades and replacement of select flooring.
Whitehall High School’s main project consists of a new secure entry and administration area, heating and cooling upgrades, a new fire alarm, cafeteria updates, new technology for classrooms, new furniture and updated electrical work.
The proposal also focuses on replacing failing roofs across the district, developed with input from students, staff and community members.
“We are looking to protect our community investment in our school buildings,” Van Wieren said. “There are needs that need to be addressed across the district to keep our buildings in good shape and keep them operating daily.”
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