PONTIAC, Mich. – For the second time this year, voters in Pontiac have rejected a sinking fund millage that sought $35 million to pay for building repairs in the Pontiac Public Schools district.
The 2.87 millage failed by 116 votes on Tuesday.
After the millage was first defeated in May, Superintendent Kelley Williams said some -- or all -- schools in the district would have to close if the millage didn't pass.
"I am disappointed to learn that the Sinking Fund Millage, which would have provided much needed building repairs and upgrades for PSD students, was narrowly defeated," Williams said in a statement. "Our students continue to perform their best despite having to learn in less-than-optimal conditions. Many of our buildings are over 50 years old and in significant need of upgrades and repairs. We will review the options that are available to us and continue to make decisions that are in the best interests of our students."
The millage could go up for a third and final vote in November.