Invest In Our Future: Referendum 2024

November 5, 2024 Results

Dear District 34 Community,

I am writing to inform you that the operating rate referendum question for District 34 did not pass in the recent election. While the outcome is not what we had hoped for, we respect the community’s decision and are grateful to everyone who took the time to engage in the process and voice their opinion.

This outcome will require us to make some difficult choices in the months ahead to address the budgetary shortfall. We are committed to being responsible in managing these changes, and we will keep the community informed as we develop plans moving forward.

Our focus remains on the success of every student, and we will continue to work diligently to provide the best educational experience possible under these new circumstances. We know that the future of our children and our schools is a shared responsibility, and we will need your continued support as we navigate these challenges together.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to our schools and for your involvement in this important decision. We will continue to seek solutions that reflect the values of our community and ensure that our students are well-prepared for their futures.

With appreciation,
Dane A. Delli, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Invest In Our Future Referendum Results 55% no, 45% yes

Referendum Information

The Glenview School District 34 Board of Education has approved an Operating Rate Referendum to be placed on the November 2024 election ballot. District 34 administration and the Citizen’s Finance Advisory Committee (CFAC) projected deficit spending starting in 2026. Thanks to budgetary efficiencies and reductions, the deficit spending was pushed to 2027. To get ahead of the projected deficit, the District is asking voters to consider an operating rate ballot question to raise operating revenue.

Background Information

In the mid-1990’s, the Tax Cap law (PTELL) went into effect. This law put a limit on the increase school districts could receive in property taxes. Since that time, school districts have been challenged to keep total expenses in line with revenues. In District 34, we have a lower property value per pupil and lower tax rate compared to neighboring districts, therefore, District 34 has a lower operating rate per student.

In November of 2000, District 34 passed a capital referendum to build Attea Middle School. On that same ballot, the District did not pass an operating rate referendum. In April of 2001, the District again did not receive community support for an operating rate referendum. While the District received reimbursement from the Village over the span of The Glen TIF, the tax base did not grow over the last two decades. While District 34 has managed thus far through budgeting efficiencies and making cuts, the District is now asking the community to consider an operating rate referendum in November of 2024 to avoid the budget reaching a projected structural deficit in 2027.

What Do Operating Rate Referendums Fund?

Operating Rate Referendum Funds People, ED programs, ED materials, Transportation, Building Maintenance, and other expenses

Timeline

  • June 17, 2024 - The Board discussed placing a resolution on the November 2024 ballot
  • August 19, 2024 - the Board unanimously approved to place the resolution on the November 2024 ballot
  • August 28, 2024 - The District has to file the resolution with the county
  • October 9, 2024 - Early voting begins
  • November 5, 2024 - Election Day

Presentations / Links

Estimated Tax Impact

Use the tax calculator to enter the amount of property taxes you paid in 2023/2024 to determine your estimated tax impact due to the proposed tax rate increase.

Tax Calculator

Amount of Property Taxes Paid in 2023/2024
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Estimated Tax Increase Due to Tax Rate Increase
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Projected Deficit

In the 2027-2028 school year, District 34 expenses are projected to exceed the revenues, indicating deficit spending. The goal of the Invest In Our Future referendum is to slow down expenses and increase revenues to compete and continue to provide and sustain great programs.

Projected Deficit

Result of the District’s Low Tax Rate

The chart below shows the operating expense per student in District 34 (far right) compared to other districts who are members of the TrueNorth special education cooperative.

The average operating expense per student is $25,171.

District 34 spends $20,388, 23% less than the average.

District 34's property tax rate is 14% below the Township average.

Operating Expense Per Student in District 34

Frequently Asked Questions