GLADSTONE, Mich. (WZMQ) – In Tuesday’s special election, voters rejected two bond proposals to fund projects within Gladstone Area Public Schools.
The district asked voters to pass one proposal that would have allowed the high school to build an additional multi-use facility. The other proposal would have covered projects at several schools, like security upgrades, parking lot work, and a new multi-use room at Cameron Elementary.
In a previous interview with WZMQ 19, a member of the advocacy group Brighter Braves Future told WZMQ 19 that Cameron’s existing gymnasium doubles as its cafeteria. She said having to prepare the facility for lunchtime, physical education classes, and recess cuts into the students’ allotted time for those activities.
That proposal also would have included four new early education classrooms, updates to the Cameron Elementary playground, and other improvement projects. Because the district’s most recent millages are set to be paid off in 2026, the proposals would have resulted in an extension of the current millage rate rather than an increase.
Both bond proposals failed, one with 44.08% voter support and the other with 41.68% support. Voter turnout was low at 26%. with precincts reporting a 26% turnout. Out of 8,619 registered voters, only 2,211 ballots were cast.
WZMQ 19 has reached out to Gladstone Area Public Schools and Brighter Braves Future for comment on the results of this election. To see the full election results, click here.
