Six-mill levy to appear on November ballot

Every 10 years since 1948, the people of this great state have provided the cornerstone of financial support for the Montana University System by renewing a statewide property tax mill levy.

This Nov. 4, Montana voters once again will be asked to renew the six-mill levy to ensure higher education opportunities are accessible, affordable and continue to contribute to the economic security of our communities.

Legislative Referendum 118 asks voters to keep in place six mills levied on all property in the state for the next 10 years. The levy raises nearly $13 million each year to fund direct student services at the 11 statewide campuses, including UM and its affiliated campuses.

Students are the beneficiaries of the six-mill levy funding. Whether it’s Montana’s high school graduates, nontraditional students retooling their skills or community members pursuing lifelong learning opportunities, the six mills help provide direct academic services that ensure students have access to quality programs and classes.

Affordability and accessibility are the keys to every successful higher education system, and Montanans are fortunate to have quality programs offered across the state. The academic and technical programs offered by the Montana University System lay the groundwork for a skilled work force that is vital to Montana businesses in an increasingly competitive economic landscape.

Businesses need well-trained employees for both the companies and the individuals to succeed. And a skilled work force contributes to higher wages for workers and strengthens the economic well-being in every corner of this vast state.

Montanans have a proud heritage of offering access to affordable, quality higher education opportunities. Whether it’s a recent high school graduate enrolling as a traditional student, people seeking to improve their job skills or local businesses partnering with campuses to ensure a well-trained work force, success turns on the widespread availability and affordability of quality educational programs.