MARQUETTE — Marquette Area Public Schools is encouraging district residents to learn about the May 5 bond proposal and make a plan to vote as in‒person absentee and early voting opportunities begin in the coming weeks.

The District’s $59.995 million bond proposal is designed to address aging school facilities, improve safety and accessibility, and support more modern learning environments across all MAPS schools. If approved, bond funding would be used for building and site improvements such as security upgrades, heating and electrical system replacements, ADA accessibility improvements and updates to instructional spaces.

Under Michigan law, bond funds may only be used for facility‒related projects, not for salaries or daily operating expenses.  MAPS has spent the past several years evaluating building conditions and long‒term facility needs across the district. The proposed projects focus on maintaining existing schools, improving reliability of critical systems, and ensuring buildings remain safe, functional, and accessible for students, staff and the community, impacting every building and every student.  

Voting information: 

The bond proposal will appear on the ballot for MAPS voters on Election Day, Tuesday, May 5. In‒person absentee voting begins Thursday, March 26, which is 40 days before Election Day. Voters may request and cast an absentee ballot at their local clerk’s office during regular business hours.

Voter registration deadlines:

• Online or by mail: Monday, April 20

• In person at the clerk’s office: through Election Day, May 5 (with proof of residency)

Early voting for city of Marquette residents will be held from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, April 30 through Saturday, May 2, at the Peter White Public Library, 217 N. Front St. All city of Marquette precincts may vote at this location during early voting.

For more information about all municipalities’ voting information, please visit www.michigan.gov/vote.

Voters may also choose to vote by mail by requesting an absentee ballot. Absentee ballots are available beginning March 26 and must be received by the clerk no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.