UPDATE: Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 Board has just approved a critical $55 million property tax levy increase of 4.9998%, marking the first hike in six years. This urgent decision was made during a Board meeting on Tuesday at the Education Service Center in Waukegan.
The tax increase comes as inflation continues to outpace revenue growth, forcing real estate owners within the district to face rising financial burdens. Several board members expressed that this tax hike is essential for maintaining educational quality for students.
Board member Christine Lensing, who voted for the levy, emphasized the importance of this decision: “Unfortunately, we need to understand the biggest hardship is on our students. We have a responsibility to these kids to give them the best possible future we can.”
With the district’s budget previously approved at $323 million, projected revenue from all sources is forecasted at just over $283.6 million. The board’s vote signals a response to the looming uncertainty in federal and state funding, which could impact the district by around $30 million.
The decision was not unanimous; board member Anita Hanna opposed the levy, advocating for spending cuts instead. “We knew this was coming. I just wish that there had been a plan that we could look at what we could reduce in spending,” Hanna remarked.
Despite differing opinions, a majority of the board recognized that increased taxes are necessary to sustain educational standards. Board President Michael Rodriguez stated, “It is the responsibility of the board members to raise the levy. We have to make sure for our children the funds are there especially in light of all the uncertainty that exists in this modern day and age.”
The final tax amount will not be determined until late March or early April, when the assessment extension is received. However, board members indicated that if the tax hike is implemented, homeowners with an assessed value of $103,205 will see an annual increase of approximately $155. Senior citizens will face a lesser increase of $170, as they typically pay lower property taxes.
The urgency of this decision is heightened by rising costs outpacing revenue and federal funding challenges. “If the CPI is 2.9% and we’re giving 4% raises to the union members, it tells you we’re not getting enough revenue in to match what we’re giving out in raises,” said Gwen Polk, the district’s associate superintendent for business and financial services.
As the district navigates these financial challenges, the board is committed to ensuring that students receive the educational resources they need. The potential tax increase is seen as a necessary step to weather the economic storm ahead.
Developing updates are expected as the board prepares for the upcoming assessment period and considers further financial strategies to support the district’s educational mission. Share this news to keep your community informed about important developments affecting local education!
