After months of planning and with input from the community, The Glen Oaks Board of Trustees approved a capital millage request for 0.5 mill (one half of one mill) for the November ballot at yesterday’s board meeting.“After learning that the College will be receiving a state grant of $1.5 million, and reviewing the Citizen Task Force’s recommendations, we have decided to reduce the length of the proposed millage to five years,” said Bruce Gosling, board chair. “We feel this funding proposal meets the needs of our students, local employers and the community.”

The half mill request represents an estimated tax impact of $2.08 per month per $100,000 of a property’s market value ($50,000 taxable value). The voter-improved millage request would address:

• Renovating outdated technology laboratories to support workforce training
• Improving accessibility improvements to entrances, elevators and restrooms
• Addressing aging infrastructure including outdated fixtures and plumbing, deteriorated flooring, walls and ceilings
• Improving campus safety and security through entrances and exterior doors
• Improving energy efficiency by replacing 50-year-old windows and insulating exterior walls
• Upgrading information technology infrastructure
• Creating flexible learning spaces and renovating the College’s aging library

“It is important to note that the millage proposal excludes any kind of funding for salaries or for the residence halls,” said Gosling. “The funds raised from the millage will be used solely for the stated capital improvements.”

“All in all, we are working to keep college affordable by providing more high school students the opportunity to take college classes while still in high school and better prepare students for the workforce,” said David Devier, Glen Oaks president. “Maintaining and extending the life of our facilities positions the college well into the future.”

“Many thanks to the 1,000 plus residents who participated in our recent mail survey, phone poll, and/or community outreach meetings,” said Devier, “as well as the 35-member Citizen Task Force who have worked diligently to arrive at this millage recommendation.”