The Monroe Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced on April 28, 2026, that it is not prepared to support the upcoming Monroe City Schools millage renewal scheduled for the May 16 ballot. The Chamber is calling for increased transparency and accountability regarding the proposed investment, which totals more than $9 million annually over the next decade.
While the measures are described as renewals for “operations and maintenance,” the Chamber noted that the public has not received sufficient detail on how the resulting $80+ million in taxpayer funds would be allocated or measured.
“Our position is not one of opposition, but of partnership, grounded in the belief that transparency and accountability must come before long-term financial commitments,” the Chamber’s Board of Directors stated in a press release.
Four Steps for Reconsideration
Following a review by its Government Advocacy Committee, the Chamber outlined four specific requirements that must be addressed before it will reconsider its support for the millage:
- Strategic Planning: A detailed plan outlining the use of funds with clear accountability measures and measurable outcomes.
- Financial Assessment: An updated look at current surpluses and revenue trends.
- Audit Transparency: The completion and public presentation of the ongoing forensic audit, including a plan to address any findings.
- Extended Timeline: Moving the review period to September 1, 2026, to allow for better community engagement, with the possibility of placing the renewal on the November 2026 ballot.
The Chamber emphasized that these steps are essential for responsible governance and building public trust.
Commitment to Education
Despite withholding immediate support, the Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to the success of regional public education, noting its vital role in Monroe’s economic future. The organization expressed a willingness to work collaboratively with district leadership to develop a transparent path forward.
“Monroe’s families, businesses, and taxpayers deserve clarity before being asked to commit more than $80 million in property taxes,” the Board concluded.
