The operating millage for Alpena Public Schools has been successfully renewed. The millage, which is levied on non-homestead properties, is the local component of funding required for the district to receive the state's foundation allowance.

Superintendent Brent Holcomb was happy and appreciative of the results and voter turnout.

"I really appreciate the voters support of the schools," he said, adding he believes that's what makes Alpena such a great community.

He said knowing the results is just a relief and appreciates the fact the businesses and the community support something so critical to the school systems. Because money from the millage goes directly to the school, Holcomb said the millage funds are used for the district's operating needs and cited busing and paying employees as examples.

The millage accounts for approximately 21 percent, or $7.7 million, of the districts $39 million revenue. It's levied at 18 mills per $1,000 on business, industrial and recreational property and the funds go directly to the schools. It replaces the current millage which expires Dec. 31 and will be levied in 2010. Because it's a seven year millage, it won't have to be renewed until 2016.

Four board members running unopposed - one for the Alpena Public Schools board of education, and three for the Alpena Community College Board of Trustees - were re-elected.

Joe Stenz has been elected to serve another four years for the APS board of education. Stenz is currently vice president of the board and originally was elected to the position in 2005.

Alpena Community College Trustees Marc Ferguson, Judith Grenkowicz and Lisa Hilberg were re-elected to the college's board for another six years. Ferguson was first appointed, then elected to the board in 2003, Grenkowicz was also elected in 2003 and Hilberg was appointed to the board in October 2008.