Springfield SD 186 previews 2025 tax-levy ask, cites cash on hand and projected 4.56% levy request

Miller, the district’s chief business officer, told the Springfield School District 186 Board of Education that the district is projecting a levy ‘ask’ that would amount to a 4.56% increase compared with last year’s extension. He said the calculation starts with the 2024 extension of about $123.7 million, applies the December 2024 Consumer Price Index of 2.9%, and adds estimates for new property and a limited ‘balloon’ on specific levy lines, producing a proposed ask near $129.3 million.

The presentation, which covered the district’s October business report as well, showed operating revenues and balances the board should consider. For October 2025 Miller reported Ed Fund revenues of $9,500,000 and expenditures of $18,100,000 (expenditures exceeded revenues by $8.6 million). The district’s combined cash and investments across all funds were shown as $88.7 million, with $57.0 million in operating funds. Year-to-date…