© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Governor Declares A Fiscal Emergency In Pontiac Schools

Governor Rick Snyder has agreed with a review team’s finding that the Pontiac school district is in a state of financial emergency.

As we hear from The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Rick Pluta, the school board still has time to ask the governor to reconsider.

The Pontiac school board can decide to appeal the decision. If it decides to go ahead with an appeal, that hearing will take place next week. But Pontiac’s numbers are pretty grim – an almost $38 million deficit. The size of the shortfall has quadrupled since 2009, and grown by more than 50 percent in the past. It’s missed paying some critical bills. The teachers union took the district to court for failing to pay employee health insurance premiums.

If the governor sticks by his decision, the district gets to choose whether to negotiate a deficit-elimination plan, ask the governor for permission to file for bankruptcy, or request a state-appointed emergency manager.

Hello, I'm Brad Walker, head of operations for WKAR Radio and manager for WKAR Radio Reading Service, which is our service for blind and visually-impaired persons in mid-Michigan. You may also hear me from time to time on WKAR TV and Radio talking about many of our wonderful sponsors.
Related Content
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.