Oak Park voters came out in force to vote at Tuesday’s Primary Election resulting in overwhelming support for two millage renewals for public safety purposes.

“There are many people to thank for the hard work that has gone into getting these measures passed, but there are none more important than our residents.  These men and women have shown us they will continue to give us their support to turn this city around and do great things,” said Oak Park City Manager Erik Tungate. “Our appreciation for that support goes beyond words.”

As renewals, the passing of these two millages allow the City to continue capturing tax revenue at current rates which in turn allows funding and service to continue at current levels. “With the gracious support of our amazing residents, these renewals will help us to fund our long-term Public Safety pensions and retiree health care and support the personnel, equipment and operations of the Public Safety Department,” said Mr. Tungate.

The Headlee Override Millage Renewal for Public Safety (Ballot Proposal No. 18-01) enjoyed 74.6% voter approval (4,778 of 6,402 votes), while the Public Safety Retirement System Millage Renewal - Act 345 (Ballot Proposal No. 18-02) received 70.06% voter approval (4,489 of 6,407 votes).

Voter turnout was impressive for the City. Out of the 24,034 registered voters in Oak Park, preliminary reports are showing 7,335, or 34%, ballots were cast. By comparison, during the City’s two previous primary elections, voter turnout averaged between 17% to 21% voter turnout. 

“I would like to say thank you to the residents of Oak Park for all the support you have shown the Public Safety Department over the years. It truly is humbling,” said Public Safety Director Steve Cooper. “Together, we can pride ourselves on the progress we have been able to make in having the best officers, tools and relationships in place to keep our community safe.”

*Election results have yet to be certified by Oakland County. Oakland County election results can be found on the Oakland County Clerk’s website at http://bit.ly/PrimaryElectionAug2018.

Oak Park Public Safety Renewal Ballot Results
Primary Election 2018

Source:  Oakland County Election Division, http://bit.ly/PrimaryElectionAug2018

Ballot Proposal No. 18-01 - Headlee Override Millage Renewal for Public Safety
Primary Election 2018

Source:  Oakland County Election Division, http://bit.ly/PrimaryElectionAug2018

Ballot Proposal No. 18-02 - Public Safety Retirement System Millage Renewal - Act 345
Primary Election 2018

Source:  Oakland County Election Division, http://bit.ly/PrimaryElectionAug2018

Oak Park Voter Turnout by Precinct
Primary Election 2018

Source:  Oakland County Election Division, http://bit.ly/PrimaryElectionAug2018