Waukegan School District Approves Urgent Tax Levy Increase

UPDATE: Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 has just approved a significant property tax levy increase of 4.9998%, marking the first hike in six years. This decision, finalized on Tuesday at the Education Service Center in Waukegan, is a direct response to rising inflation and stagnant revenue growth, impacting local homeowners immediately.

The district’s Board of Education voted 5-1 to pass an approximate $55 million real estate tax levy. With this increase, property owners can expect to feel the financial strain, particularly as inflation continues to outpace income growth. Board members highlighted the necessity of this hike to ensure the quality of education for the district’s students.

According to Gwen Polk, the district’s associate superintendent for business and financial services, the exact tax amount will be determined after assessments are released in late March or early April. However, it is clear that the board is leaning towards a tax hike, with a vote expected in spring 2024. “We have a responsibility to these kids to give them the best possible future we can,” said board member Christine Lensing, emphasizing the urgent need for increased funding.

The district previously maintained a steady tax rate during the challenging financial landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, failing to utilize available funding methods has cost the district approximately $35 million over the past years, according to Polk. “We’ve lost that base, and even in future years, we will continue to lose because we lost that base,” she stated.

The board approved a budget of $323 million in September, anticipating revenue of just over $283.6 million from all sources. If the tax hike is implemented, it would constitute 19.54% of the district’s total income. Homeowners with an assessed property value of $103,205 would see an annual increase of $155, while senior citizens would face an additional $170 charge, though they typically pay less overall.

Concerns are mounting due to uncertainty at the federal level, with nearly $30 million of revenue dependent on Washington. Board member Anita Hanna opposed the levy, advocating for spending cuts instead. “I just wish that there had been a plan to reduce spending,” she remarked, highlighting a growing concern among constituents about rising costs.

The urgency of this decision is underscored by a consensus among board members that adequate funding is crucial to maintaining educational standards amid economic instability. “We need to start putting down the sandbags to lessen the degree to which the storm is going to be in our district,” Lensing added, pointing to the federal government’s hold on funds meant for special needs children.

The board president, Michael Rodriguez, echoed the sentiment that the decision to raise taxes is essential for the welfare of students. “We swore an oath, and we don’t have a choice in that matter,” Rodriguez stated after the vote. “We have to ensure funds are available for our children, especially given the uncertainty that exists today.”

As Waukegan prepares for potential changes in tax rates, residents and stakeholders are urged to stay informed about the developments. The board’s decision reflects a broader trend across many districts facing similar financial pressures, making it a pivotal moment for education funding in the region.

Next Steps: The district will finalize tax amounts in the coming months, with a crucial vote anticipated in spring 2024. Stakeholders are encouraged to engage in discussions about the implications of this tax increase and the future of education funding in Waukegan.