MAPS Bond Town Hall of March 3, 2026

The Marquette Area Public Schools held a MAPS Bond Town Hall on March 3, 2026, to discuss a proposed $60 million bond measure aimed at addressing critical infrastructure needs across the district's facilities. The presentation highlighted the district's aging buildings, with an average age of 60 years, and emphasized the importance of safety, infrastructure upgrades, and programming improvements. The district faces over $100 million in critical infrastructure needs, as identified by both state and internal studies, but receives no state funding for such projects, making voter approval essential. The bond proposal includes renovations and additions to multiple schools, ADA accessibility improvements, upgrades to heating, ventilation, and electrical systems, and enhancements to athletic and arts facilities. The proposed 1.55 mill increase would raise the total millage to approximately 2.86, which remains below many neighboring districts. The board unanimously approved placing the bond on the May 5 ballot, with a 28-year payback period. The meeting also addressed community questions about bond language, project prioritization, and fiscal responsibility, underscoring the district's commitment to phased borrowing and future refinancing to minimize tax impacts.