Seven Ballot Questions Await Kalamazoo County Voters

*KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Kalamazoo County residents will head to the polls on May 5, 2026* to decide on seven critical proposals that could reshape local education funding, waste management, and infrastructure for years to come. The off-cycle special election brings together three millage renewals, three bond proposals, and one ordinance amendment — all requiring voter approval to move forward.

While off-cycle elections notoriously experience low turnout, the stakes for each of these seven proposals are nothing short of transformative for Kalamazoo County communities.

The School Millages: Keeping Education Services Funded

Three of the ballot questions focus on keeping essential school services running, with one of the most widely supported being the Special Education Millage Renewal and Restoration Proposal for the Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA).

"These funds are distributed to all nine school districts KRESA works with for special education," said Dedrick Martin, superintendent of KRESA. "School districts are mandated to have special education programs. Without these funds, they'd take money from other areas such as athletics and general education."

The KRESA millage would renew a property tax levy supporting mandated special education programs, continuing for six more years at the originally authorized 1.5-mill rate. The millage was last approved by voters in 2021 and its renewal would not change residents' current tax rate.

If approved, the millage would collect approximately $16.8 million per year for special education purposes. According to KRESA, failure to pass the millage would result in a loss of just under $500 per student.

KRESA serves as an intermediary school district for the Greater Kalamazoo region, partnering with local school districts to provide services and programs in early childhood education, special education, career learning, and educator support.

School districts supported by KRESA:

  • Climax-Scotts Community Schools
  • Comstock Public Schools
  • Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools
  • Gull Lake Community Schools
  • Kalamazoo Public Schools
  • Parchment School District
  • Portage Public Schools
  • Schoolcraft Community Schools
  • Vicksburg Community Schools

Also on the ballot are two other millage renewals:

The Colon Community Schools Sinking Fund Millage Renewal Proposal would allow the district to continue levying the building and site sinking fund millage that expires with the 2026 tax levy. The millage would be utilized as a savings account intended for long-term building repairs, renovations and safety improvements. The currently authorized millage rate is 1.2906 mills and would be renewed at the same rate until 2034. It was originally approved by voters in 2018 and this renewal would not change residents' current tax rate. The school district would collect an estimated $328,989 if the millage is approved.

The Mattawan Consolidated Schools Operating Millage Renewal Proposal would allow the district to continue levying up to 18 mills on secondary residences and industrial properties. This millage is required for the school district to receive its revenue per pupil foundation allowance and renews millage that will expire with the 2026 tax levy.

Two Major Bond Proposals Could Transform Infrastructure

Two bond proposals could deliver significant infrastructure improvements across the county if voters give the green light.

Colon Community Schools Building Bond

The Colon Community Schools Building Bond Proposal would allow the district to construct, purchase, lease, renovate, remodel or alter existing buildings or facilities. The bond is limited to $2.75 million and would be repaid over 20 years at an estimated interest rate of 4.25%.

If approved, the bond would be used to:

  • Renovate existing facilities to improve learning environments
  • Upgrade technology and security systems
  • Modernize aging infrastructure

The proposal would not increase residents' property taxes, as bonds are typically repaid through existing millages.

Portage Sanitation District Infrastructure Bond

The Portage Sanitation District Infrastructure Improvement Bond Proposal would fund critical upgrades to the waste management system serving Portage and surrounding communities. The bond is capped at $3.5 million and would be repaid over 25 years.

Proposed improvements include:

  • Upgrading collection vehicles to reduce maintenance costs
  • Modernizing transfer station facilities
  • Improving waste processing equipment
  • Enhancing environmental compliance measures

Portage city officials have noted that the waste management system serves approximately 20,000 residents across multiple communities including Portage, Plainwell, and portions of Kalamazoo County.

Controversial Trash Ordinance Amendment Could Change How Waste is Managed

Perhaps the most contentious ballot question is the Ordinance Amendment Relating to the Portage Sanitation District, which would fundamentally alter how waste services are provided and paid for in the region.

The ordinance amendment would:

  • Require all customers in the Portage Sanitation District to use the district's waste collection services
  • Prohibit private haulers from operating within the district boundaries
  • Establish a tiered pricing structure based on household size and waste volume

"This is a hot-button issue that has divided residents and businesses for months," said Ben Jones, editor at NowKalamazoo. "The question is whether centralized waste management will serve the community's best interests."

Proponents of the ordinance argue that:

  • A unified waste management system provides economies of scale
  • Centralized oversight ensures environmental compliance
  • Residents benefit from consistent service levels
  • Private haulers have been accused of providing inconsistent service

Opponents raise concerns about:

  • Loss of competition and choice
  • Potential rate increases
  • Impact on mobile workers and businesses
  • Reduced options for residents seeking alternative waste solutions

The ordinance amendment has sparked the formation of advocacy groups on both sides of the issue, with some residents organizing under the banner "Take Back the Trash" to oppose the measure.

Election Details and Voting Information

Election Date: May 5, 2026

Poll Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Absentee Ballot Deadline: May 30, 2026 (5 p.m. for mail requests)

Early Voting: Available at local clerks' offices until 4 p.m. on May 4, 2026

Voters can register to vote in any manner other than in-person with the local clerk by Monday, April 20, 2026. All eligible voters in Michigan can vote by absentee ballot.

Find Your Local Clerk's Office

Local clerks' offices across Kalamazoo County will serve as early voting and absentee ballot drop-off locations. Visit the county clerk's website to locate the nearest office to your residence.

Why This Election Matters

The May 5 special election represents a critical juncture for Kalamazoo County, with decisions on school funding, waste management, and infrastructure that could shape the region for decades.

"These aren't just questions to be answered in a few hours," said Kayla Lambert, reporting for NowKalamazoo. "These are decisions that will affect schools, businesses, and families for years to come. Every voter has a role to play in determining the future of our community."

With absentee ballots already distributed and early voting sites preparing for the influx of voters, election officials are urging all eligible Kalamazoo County residents to participate in the democratic process.

The outcome of this election will determine whether Kalamazoo County continues its current trajectory or pivots toward new approaches in education funding, waste management, and infrastructure development.