On August 4th, 2020, voters will consider a millage funding request for 9-1-1 and public safety dispatch services:

911 MILLAGE - BALLOT PROPOSAL LANGUAGE

For the purpose of funding a central public safety communication system and 9-1-1 service system, shall the constitutional limitation upon the total amount of taxes which may be assessed in one (1) year upon all  property within the County of Kalamazoo, Michigan, be increased in an amount up to but not to exceed 0.65 mills ($0.65 on each $1,000 of taxable value) for a period of ten (10) years (2020-2029 inclusive),  to be distributed to the Kalamazoo County Consolidated Dispatch Authority for countywide 9-1-1 facilities, functions and services as provided in the Kalamazoo County Emergency 9-1-1 Service System Plan? If approved and levied in full, this millage would raise an estimated $6,111,513 in the first calendar year of its levy based on taxable value.

YES   ____

NO    ____

HOW MUCH WILL .65 MILLS COST ME?

The millage will cost the average household $47 per year in Kalamazoo County based on the median market value of $145,900; that is less than $.13 cents per day.

WILL ANY OF THIS MONEY GO TO POLICE, FIRE OR EMS?

No - the monies generated from this millage will go to Kalamazoo County Consolidated Dispatch Authority (KCCDA) for operating the 911 and public safety dispatch center.  KCCDA is an independent entity; separate from but partners with all police, fire and EMS agencies.

WHAT DOES THE MONEY GO TO?

The millage will provide funding for KCCDA's 911 and public safety dispatch service for 10 years and update/expand the county-wide public safety radio communications system.  

DON'T WE PAY A SURCHARGE FOR 911 TODAY?

All devices in Kalamazoo County pay a $.42 local 911 surcharge today and that will still continue.  This proposal combines property taxes with local 911 surcharge to fund 911 service.