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Lowpoint-Washburn board approves 2025 levy after Truth in Taxation hearing
Summary
After a Truth in Taxation hearing, Lowpoint-Washburn CUSD 21 approved a proposed 2025 levy that projects total property-tax revenue of $4,332,773 (a 13.02% increase over 2024). The board voted to adopt the levy at its Dec. 17 meeting.
The Lowpoint-Washburn Community Unit School District No. 21 Board of Education approved its 2025 levy on Dec. 17 following a Truth in Taxation hearing presented by Superintendent Dr. David Johnson.
Dr. Johnson told the board the district proposes $4,064,628 in corporate and special purpose property taxes for 2025, up 14.06% from the $3,563,579.57 extended in 2024. Debt-service property taxes are projected at $268,145 (a 0.68% decrease). That yields a total proposed levy of $4,332,773, representing a 13.02% increase over 2024. The superintendent explained the district is requesting a higher levy (commonly called "ballooning") to preserve flexibility to capture final EAV-driven revenue when county figures are finalized; a filed levy cannot later be increased but can be reduced.
Dr. Johnson estimated an effective tax rate based on the levy request of about 5.196 with a potential high-end rate of 5.22; he noted that figure would still be lower than some neighboring districts' prior-year rates. Public input was solicited during the hearing but no members of the public spoke.
The formal motion to adopt the 2025 levy was made by board member Bill and seconded by President Monica Beltramea; the roll-call vote recorded approval by present trustees with one member absent. The board also formally adjourned the Truth in Taxation hearing the same evening.
The board will file the adopted levy as required by statute and will have the option to reduce the levy in spring if final EAV and growth figures allow.
