Regional Enhancement Millage
On Aug. 4, 2026, voters in Oakland County, Michigan, will be asked to consider a new regional enhancement millage.
If approved by voters, the proposal would levy 1.5 mills for six years to provide additional funding to all public school districts and eligible public school academies in Oakland County. This funding would be distributed on a per-student basis, estimated at approximately $781 per student annually, or $4,686 per student over the life of the millage.
A regional enhancement millage is the only mechanism school districts may use to increase per-pupil funding beyond what is provided by the state. It passes or fails on a countywide basis, not by local communities. If approved, the money is collected by the intermediate school district and distributed equally to all public school districts and public school academies on a per student basis. Each district has local control over how the money is spent.
The proposal is a voter-approved property tax that would cost approximately $300 per year on a home valued at $400,000 (taxable value of $200,000). A tax calculator is available for all Oakland County residents to review their individual costs if the millage were to pass. Rochester Community Schools serves as a donor district of approximately $202,300 but would benefit from receiving an estimated $10.7 million annually for six years.
If approved, the millage collection would begin December 2026.
How schools are funded in Michigan
Why this matters
School districts across Oakland County continue to face financial pressures as costs rise faster than state funding. Districts are working to address staff recruitment and retention, rising operational and supply costs, and increasing student academic, safety and wellness needs.
Currently, approximately 44 percent of students in Michigan already benefit from a regional enhancement millage in their county.
The enhancement millage would generate approximately $781 per pupil annually for a 6-year period for each Oakland County public school student.
As good stewards of taxpayer dollars, Rochester Community Schools has been consistently recognized by the Association of School Business Officials International for excellence in school budget presentation, transparent budget development, and financial reporting and transparency. These designations are awarded only to school districts who have undergone a rigorous review by professional auditors and continue to meet or exceed the program’s stringent criteria.