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District 211 board approves $290.7 million 2025 tax levy after debate over reserves
Summary
After discussion about reserves and taxpayer impact, the Township High School District 211 Board of Education approved a recommended 2025 tax levy of $290,701,000; one trustee voted no citing high fund balance and alternatives.
Township High School District 211 trustees voted Dec. 11 to approve the district's recommended 2025 tax levy in the amount of $290,701,000. The levy amount was corrected for the record during the meeting. Trustees discussed the district's reserve levels, cash balances and the effects of recent property-tax-related developments such as local TIFs.
Board members described the annual levy as necessary to maintain operations and avoid drawing down reserves in the face of rising costs. President Rosenblum and Superintendent Dr. Judith Campbell emphasized that property taxes supply more than 80% of the district's operational revenue and said the board must balance fiscal stability with taxpayer impacts.
Board member Peter Dombrowski opposed the levy, citing a fund balance he described as "over 45%" and arguing the district could under-levy or draw on reserves to reduce immediate tax pressure. Supporters responded that the district faces cash-flow timing issues (including delayed county collections) and future obligations that make the recommended levy prudent. Trustees also discussed the district's history of abating levies after approval to reduce taxpayer bills if finances allow.
A roll-call vote adopted the levy; the meeting record shows a majority of trustees voted yes with Mr. Dombrowski voting no. The levy amount will be submitted to the county clerk as required by state law.
