Voters came out to the Cass County Special Elections Tuesday, passing a renewal for Dowagiac Union Schools’ 18 mill non-homestead proposal, or $18 for every $1,000 of taxable valuation.

“This proposal allows us 18 mills on non-homestead property,” Dawn Copley, finance director for Dowagiac Union Schools, said. “This applies to those with second homes, or vacation homes, and excludes people that live within the district.”

The initial levy was set at 18 mills in 1995. The proposal on Tuesday was asking for a restoration of the funding, which must be renewed every year.

“This will generate approximately $4.6 million in operating revenue,” said

Copley, explaining the millage renewal accounts for 23 percent of the district’s total general fund revenues.

Five proposals were on the county ballot, three of which were asking for millage renewals, including Dowagiac. White Pigeon Schools was denied its request for a renewal.

Edwardsburg Schools requested 18 mills as well, which would generate more than $1.5 million for operating costs. Voters approved this request. A millage also was approved for Marcellus Schools.

Finally, voters refused a millage for Ontwa Township, which asked for money to maintain and operate its police department.