By Tim Rath
Herald Correspondent
Alma Public Schools will move forward with a nearly $30 million plan to improve facilities across the district after voters approved a bond proposal in last Tuesday’s special election.
According to unofficial results posted on the Gratiot County Clerk’s Office website, 1,002 voters (54.8 percent) turned out in support of the school bond, as compared to 826 (45.2 percent) no votes. Voter turnout was 16 percent; in Alma, there were no other items up for vote.
“We are deeply grateful for the community’s support of Alma Public Schools,” superintendent Stacey Criner said. “These facility improvements will enhance safety and security, expand and improve instructional environments, and protect the long-term infrastructure of our school buildings. This investment reflects a strong commitment to our students’ success and the future of education in Alma.”
Support for the bond was strongest in city precincts, with more than 70 percent of voters backing the proposal in Alma Precincts 1 and 2. Precinct 3, however, rejected the proposal, 140 to 117. Several surrounding townships split on the issue. Pine River and Emerson townships narrowly backed the bond, while voters in Seville and Sumner townships voted against it. Precincts in Ferris Township (Montcalm County) and Fremont Township (Isabella County), which are also part of the district, reported no votes.
“I think Stacey Criner deserves a lot of credit on this great day for our community,” said Peggy Yates, vice president of the Alma Public Schools Board of Education. “She created a very smart proposal that the board of education was able to unanimously support. She ran a transparent, engaging informational campaign. It’s impressive that this proposal passed in our first attempt.
“It’s also very affirming, as a member of the board and someone who has been with Alma schools in a variety of capacities through the years. Our children will continue to have quality facilities because our community sees what we’re doing and supports us.”
District officials say the $29.945-million bond will address critical needs, focusing on replacing aging infrastructure without raising the current 7.0-mill levy. Among the top priorities are a new roof at Alma High School, secure entrances at Pine Avenue and Hillcrest elementary schools, and safety and mechanical upgrades at other buildings.
The bond will fund replacements and updates at every school building in the district, including HVAC systems, playground equipment, fencing, updated technology, and carpet. Bond funds, by law, cannot be used for salaries. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2026.