Issue of the Month: Kent County Senior Millage

Each of us will have to weigh in on two special tax millages on the ballot August 5. I will highlight the first of these—senior millage—this month, and the second—Kent District Library—next month. The Kent Senior Millage was first approved in 1998, and has been overwhelmingly approved each of the two times renewal was requested. This renewal request is for an increase from the present .33 Mill to .50 Mill—an increase of $12.50 per year over what a homeowner with a $150,000 valued home will pay above what is being taxed presently. This increase in millage rate—along with an extension of 8 years—is necessary because of the dramatic increase in older adults in our county, and the expected continued increase to occur over the next couple of decades. The number of older adults has increased over 30% since 2000, and will likely double over the next two decades. Unfortunately, over 15% of these older adults have less than 150% of the federal poverty level income ($16,000) and are not able to afford needed health supports to maintain living at home and not in an institution most likely paid from their eligibility for Medicaid. Helping more seniors stay in their home makes quality of life sense, as well as economic sense. It is anticipated the increase in Senior Millage funding will be used to provide more meals to home bound seniors, as well as more home care services. I will be voting yes, and ask you to join me.