MICD Announces Endorsement: Yes on Proposals A & B, No on Proposals C & D for Ann Arbor Ballot

Lansing, Michigan | October 17th, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --

On Thursday, October 17th, the Michigan College Democrats officially endorsed the following Ann Arbor ballot measures: YES on Proposal A, YES on Proposal B, NO on Proposal C, and NO on Proposal D. These endorsements reflect our commitment to responsibly using taxpayer dollars, addressing climate change, creating community spaces, and upholding election laws and integrity.

Proposal A would allow the City to establish a community-owned Sustainable Energy Utility, providing 100% renewable energy on an opt-in basis without increasing taxes. We urge a YES vote to help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Proposal B involves renewing the Park Maintenance and Capital Improvements Millage, the main source of funding for park repairs and restoration. Since this renewal does not raise taxes, we support a YES vote to maintain vibrant parks that foster community engagement.

Proposal C would eliminate the August Primary election and remove party affiliations. We recommend voting NO because this change could enable candidates to win without majority support, even if their views are extreme, and lead to chaotic November elections with an overwhelming number of candidates. Additionally, it would reduce transparency, potentially allowing extremists to secure city council seats.

Proposal D would create a public financing program (9:1 match for campaign donations) funded by taxpayer dollars. We encourage a NO vote as the initiative is illegal under state law (per the Attorney General), misleads voters, lacks safeguards on who gets funds, and could result in higher taxes or cuts to essential services.

###