November 2026 Bond Information
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the library asking for the bond?
The current library building was planned in the late 1980s and opened in 1989, when Orion Township’s population was significantly smaller and community needs were very different from today. At that time, the Township’s future population was projected at approximately 30,000 people. Today, the library serves a growing population of nearly 40,000 people with evolving educational, technological and community-space needs. Over the past several decades, libraries have expanded beyond traditional book collections to include technology access, collaborative learning and meeting spaces, makerspaces, digital resources, children’s programming areas, and flexible spaces for studying, remote work, and community engagement. In 2024, the library conducted a space utilization study informed by public feedback to evaluate how the facility can better serve the current and future needs of the Orion community. The proposed improvements reflect the outcome of the 2024 study and are intended to help the library better serve the needs of the current and future Orion community.
What will the bond cost?
The library is seeking voter authorization to issue up to $13.3 million in bonds to fund library facility improvements. If approved by the voters, the bonds would be repaid over a period of up to 20 years through the proposed millage The estimated average millage rate to repay the bonds is 0.3117 mills. For a house with an estimated market value of $300,000 (taxable value of $150,000), the estimated average cost would be about $47 per year.
If the bond is passed, how will the money be used?
All the money will be used for library building and facility improvements.
What improvements will the library be making?
The library has worked with architects to address the pressing needs of the library building. There are many new amenities including:
- An expanded children’s area and children’s programming area
- Outdoor children’s learning and play space
- Larger makerspace
- Reconfigured interior that facilitates learning and working
- A new café style gathering space for the community
- Nine new group study rooms for adults and children
How much space will be added to the library?
An estimated 5,830 square feet would be added to the library with the current plans. Most of that area would be dedicated to public services including children’s resources, children’s programming, makerspace, and community gathering space. A portion (approximately 900 square feet) would be used for Bookmobile materials.
What will happen if the bond is not approved?
The library would continue to prioritize maintenance and repairs within available funds.
What does the ballot language say?
Shall the Charter Township of Orion, County of Oakland, Michigan, borrow the principal sum of not to exceed Thirteen Million Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($13,300,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds, payable in not to exceed twenty (20) years from the date of issuance, to pay the cost of constructing, furnishing and equipping additions, renovations, and improvements to the Orion Township Public Library facility to support children’s programming and resources, community gathering and learning spaces, technology upgrades and infrastructure, accessibility improvements, and other library facility enhancements and related site improvements? The estimated millage to be levied in 2027 is 0.3116 mill ($0.31 per $1,000 of taxable value) and the estimated simple average annual millage rate required to retire the bonds is 0.3117 mill ($0.31 per $1,000 of taxable value).
- Yes
- No
Does the library receive money from the Charter Township of Orion?
No. The library is a separate government entity from the Township, governed by an elected Board of Trustees. The library has its own operating millage that was approved by voters. The Township collects and disperses these funds on behalf of the library.
Why does the ballot language refer to the Charter Township of Orion?
The Orion Township Public Library is organized as a PA 164 township library and cannot independently issue general obligation bonds. Under Michigan law, the Charter Township of Orion would issue the bonds on behalf of the library if the ballot measure is approved by the voters. Bond proceeds then would be used for eligible library facility, building and site improvements related to the project.
How is the library funded?
The library is funded primarily by its operating millage, which accounts for over 90% of its annual revenue most years. The library also receives some funding from the State of Michigan through State Aid and penal fines and receives some revenue from interest bearing accounts, fees from services like copying and passport services, and donations.
Does the library have a fund balance?
Through careful budgeting and cost management, the Library Board of Trustees has maintained a fund balance or savings to have on hand for repairs and other capital improvements. Most recently, a portion of these funds were used to install a new parking lot, drive through hold pick-up/book return, and replace the library’s roof. Most of the funds are reserved for:
- Cash flow while the library is waiting for tax collections to be disbursed
- Major maintenance work or capital projects taking place in the future
- Unforeseen expenses and emergencies
How does the library benefit the community?
The library works to benefit the community in many ways:
- Supports an active, informed community by providing access to books, music, movies, and more. Our special collections serve specific community needs: lending mobile hotspots, technology, tools, seeds, puzzles, and more.
- Provides well-trained and knowledgeable staff to meet informational needs for all ages.
- Works to preserve historical information about the community and makes it accessible through digitization.
- Offers a place to work, study, and grow with access to high-speed internet and meeting spaces.
- Partners with parents and schools to encourage reading with events and story time classes.
When is the bond issue on the ballot?
The library bond will be on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
How do I vote?
Go to Michigan.gov/vote to check if you are registered to vote and find your polling location. Make a plan to vote. If you have a question about your precinct, call the Office of the Orion Township Clerk at (248) 391-0304 ext. 4001.
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