PEKIN (25News Now) – Pekin Public Schools District 108 is rethinking how it will pay for millions of dollars in building improvements after Tazewell County voters rejected a proposed 1% school facilities sales tax in Tuesday’s election.
Superintendent Leonard Ealey said he was disappointed by the results but respects the decision made by voters.
“I was a little disappointed, but you know, it’s part of a democracy, and you put it out there, and the voters decide, and we respect that,” Ealey said.
The proposed tax would have generated additional revenue for school facilities across Tazewell County.
Now, Ealey says District 108 must find ways to address approximately $40 million in needed facility improvements without that additional funding.
$40 million in improvements could take longer
Ealey said the district will have to reconsider its timeline for completing building projects and prioritize the most critical needs.
“We’re just going to have to change that timeline a little bit, stretch that out and prioritize that list,” Ealey said.
Among the district’s top priorities are student safety, maintaining operational compliance, and addressing critical building repairs, including roofing issues.
Ealey said the district is not currently planning to cancel projects but may need to spread improvements over a longer period.
He also said the district will look for other funding opportunities, including state maintenance grants, while reviewing its existing budget.
Could property taxes increase instead?
With the sales tax proposal defeated, questions remain about whether the district could eventually turn to property taxes to help cover facility expenses.
Ealey told 25News that increasing the district’s property tax levy is not currently part of its plan.
However, when asked whether he could guarantee homeowners would not face a property tax increase to make up for the lost funding opportunity, Ealey said he could not make that promise.
“I cannot guarantee that. It will be up to the board to make that decision, but at this time, we have no plans for that,” Ealey said.
Any future property tax increase would be subject to applicable state laws and the district’s taxing authority. Rejecting the sales tax does not automatically authorize a property tax increase.
Ealey said the district intends to examine its existing resources before considering other options.
Declining enrollment adds to financial challenges
The district is also evaluating declining student enrollment as it considers its financial future.
Ealey said District 108 has already developed an expenditure reduction plan and is conducting a facilities usage review.
Those efforts will help determine how the district can operate more efficiently while continuing to meet students’ needs.
“We’re looking at enrollment. We have some declining enrollment numbers going on right now,” Ealey said. “We’ve done an expenditure reduction plan. We’re doing a facilities usage plan as well.”
The superintendent said those reviews will be considered before district leaders determine whether additional financial measures are necessary.
Respecting voters’ decision
Ealey acknowledged that many families are already struggling with the rising cost of everyday expenses.
He said the district understands why some residents may be reluctant to support another tax.
“It’s a difficult time for families. The cost of inflation, food and gas and all those things, completely understand that and respect that,” Ealey said.
For now, Ealey said the district will focus on making the most of its existing funding, seeking outside financial assistance and determining which improvements are most urgent.
He said the goal is to continue addressing school facility needs while remaining mindful of taxpayers’ financial concerns.
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