District 87 to seek tax increase in fall

By Kathryn Grondin Daily Herald Staff Writer
Posted Friday, August 13, 2004


Voters in Glenbard High School District 87 will be asked in November to pay an additional 30 cents per $100 equalized assessed value in property taxes to their schools.

The school board voted Thursday night to pursue a ballot request after debating whether to ask for a recommended 45 cents per $100. They opted to shave off some in the interest of residents' wallets.

A 45-cent rate hike would have generated $20.5 million a year for the district, which serves four high schools. About $7 million was pegged for facility needs, while $5 million was earmarked for instructional needs including teacher salaries. Another $4.5 million was to restore fund balances to previous levels, and $4 million was to eliminate the annual deficit over the next several years.

"I would vote for 45 cents. I believe in the dream," board member Rose Malcolm said. "I just want to be sure."

The 45-cent rate increase would have translated into $435 added to the property tax bill of a $300,000 home. The 30-cent increase would cost $290 for the same owner.

The money would enable the district to hire more teachers and restore previously cut programs, as well as undertake building maintenance and enhancements that include repairs for life safety.

Financial advisers predicted that without the referendum, the district would face a $26 million deficit by 2009.

The information brought mixed responses from residents.

"I'm sold," Dave DiCarlo said. "I believe a referendum is the way to go."

Others said they thought the district should re-examine its teacher salaries and questioned the purchase of some computer programs.