Waukegan School District 60 Approves Urgent Tax Levy Hike

UPDATE: Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 has approved a $55 million property tax levy increase of 4.9998%, the first hike in six years, as officials scramble to address rising costs and declining revenues. The decision was made during a board meeting on Tuesday at the Education Service Center in Waukegan.

This urgent tax increase comes as inflation continues to outpace revenue growth, significantly impacting local homeowners. Board members voted 5-1, with one member absent, indicating a strong consensus that more funding is essential for maintaining educational quality in uncertain economic times.

Gwen Polk, the district’s associate superintendent for business and financial services, highlighted the looming uncertainty over federal revenue, estimating that around $30 million comes from Washington. She emphasized the dire situation, stating, “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.”

The tax increase means that homeowners with an assessed property value of $103,205 will pay approximately $155 more annually, while senior citizens will see an increase of $170. The board’s decision is projected to impact revenue distribution, with the tax hike possibly representing 19.54% of total income.

Christine Lensing, a board member who supported the levy, expressed the need for action, saying, “We have a responsibility to these kids to give them the best possible future we can.” Meanwhile, board member Anita Hanna opposed the increase, advocating instead for spending cuts, saying, “I just wish that there had been a plan that we could look at what we could reduce in spending.”

The board’s vote comes after a lengthy period of holding taxes steady to alleviate the financial burden on families during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, board members acknowledged that the time has come to adjust the levy to secure funding for vital educational services.

Looking ahead, the final amount of taxes levied will not be confirmed until Polk receives the assessment extension in late March or early April. Despite the delays, many board members have indicated that they are likely to approve a tax hike in the spring.

The urgency of this decision reflects broader national concerns about educational funding and the economic pressures facing schools. As board president Michael Rodriguez stated, “We swore an oath and we don’t have a choice in that matter. 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.”

Residents of Waukegan can expect further discussions as the district navigates these challenging financial waters. The community is urged to stay informed as key decisions are made that will shape the educational landscape for years to come.