NEGAUNEE, Mich. (WZMQ) — Voters across the county weighed in Tuesday on several local proposals, including funding measures for schools and community projects. Marquette County Clerk Linda Talsma said the overall turnout was typical for an off-year special election, coming in just under 23 percent.
“It was probably on the normal side for voter turnout,” Talsma said. “So what we’re looking at is a not quite 23% turnout which is about average, sadly enough. I would love to see more voters come out for these.”
Talsma said timing plays a major role in voter participation, noting that turnout is much higher during presidential election years.
“When you get into the off-year elections, voter turnout is always lacking,” she said. “It’s the same amount of work for everyone, the same amount of time, and the same taxpayer dollars. We would always love to see a larger voter turnout.”
In Negaunee, participation was slightly higher than in some other parts of the county due to the school sinking fund proposal that passed 1,005 to 627. Talsma said the results showed clear support among those who voted.
“There was a wide range of the yes and no votes, so you don’t have any close races, which was very nice,” she said. “It was very clear by the voters that did vote what they wanted to see the outcome be.”
The measure renews and expands Negaunee Public Schools’ existing sinking fund, allowing the district to raise about 2.45 mills annually for the next 10 years. A recent change in state law permits districts to use sinking funds for student transportation costs, including buses.
The district says the funding will be used for long-term maintenance, security upgrades, technology improvements, and maintaining its transportation fleet. In a statement posted after the vote, Negaunee Public Schools thanked residents for their support.
“The results of this election demonstrate how fortunate we are to be a part of such an amazing community,” the statement read. “The passing of this millage will allow NPS to continue to focus on long range planning for necessary maintenance, as well as security upgrades in our buildings. We will also be able to enhance technology for student needs and maintain our transportation fleet.”
Talsma said that kind of community engagement is what local elections are all about.
“It’s always important to get the voter attention for these elections,” she said. “Any time you can come and vote and have your voice be heard, it’s always a privilege to that voter, and I thank you.”
The renewed sinking fund will take effect in 2027 and run through 2036.
