Naperville CUSD 203 board approves 2025 tax levy after split vote as members warn of $12M deficit

The Naperville CUSD 203 Board of Education voted on Dec. 15 to adopt the 2025 tax levy estimate that must be filed with the county clerk by the end of December.

Administration recommended adopting the full levy to address a projected five‑year budget outlook that includes an estimated $12 million shortfall if additional revenues are not secured. The CFO and superintendent urged approval, outlining prior board actions to provide taxpayer relief in earlier years (debt service abatements, early bond payments and a 2021 tax reimbursement), and warned that declining state and federal support make local revenue essential.

Board debate was robust. Board member Melissa (Kelly Black) repeatedly pressed for greater fiscal transparency and questioned whether the district had thoroughly pursued internal spending reductions before asking taxpayers for new revenue. She said she would not vote to approve the levy, citing concerns about the district’s accounting visibility and the burden on fixed‑income residents. “I will not be voting for the tax levy,” she said during the discussion.

Other members argued that rejecting the levy now would compound the deficit and force larger cuts later. Board member Joe said the district faces a $12 million shortfall and that delaying approval would increase the magnitude of necessary reductions. Several members noted the board retains the option to consider abatements later if circumstances permit.

The roll call on the levy recorded five ayes and two nays: Kush (Aye), McMillan (Nay), Kosminski (Aye), Kelly Black (Nay), Blastic (Aye), Wilinski (Aye), Gerke (Aye). The motion passed.

What happens next: The CFO will proceed with filing the levy as adopted and begin drafting the 2026–27 budget. Administration and the board signaled they will continue working on cost‑containment and program‑prioritization strategies to reduce long‑term deficits and consider abatements if feasible.