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Township HSD 211 board approves $275.822 million 2024 tax levy after public hearing and debate
Summary
After a public hearing in which taxpayers pressed the board over unassigned reserves, the Township HSD 211 Board of Education voted to approve a $275,822,000 2024 tax levy. Trustees debated fund balance transparency and the role of rebates and look‑back levies before the roll call.
The Township High School District 211 Board of Education voted to approve a $275,822,000 tax levy for 2024 following a public hearing and extended discussion among trustees and community members.
During the hearing, which the board opened under the Illinois School Code, community member Jessica Hinkle asked the district to explain an “unassigned” fund balance she identified as $58,000,000 and urged trustees to oppose any tax increase until administrators clarified how those funds would be used. Hinkle referenced district policy D.C.A., which targets an operating fund balance near 33 percent of next year’s expenditures, and said recent budgets presented as planned deficits instead produced surpluses.
Board discussion focused on the district’s financial planning and the distinction between temporary abatements/recapture levies and longer‑term look‑back adjustments. Trustee Dombrowski argued the proposed increase was excessive, calling for clearer prioritization of taxpayer relief; other trustees, including Miss Cavill and Mr. McGowan, emphasized multi‑year planning and the need to maintain reserves to avoid short‑term and long‑term borrowing.
Superintendent Dr. Small responded that some levy components relate to technical accounting and county processes (including information the Cook County Treasurer is still releasing) and that staff would bring follow‑up information for the board in February.
On the roll call the motion passed with the board recording a majority in favor and at least one recorded No vote. The board closed the public hearing and approved the levy by formal vote; administration will proceed with implementation and follow‑up community communications.
The board’s approval followed an earlier procedural hearing opening and closure where the board permitted a single speaker for the hearing under the posted rules.
