Central Illinois voters not only had candidates on the recent midterm election ballots, but also various referendum questions.
In Peoria and Knox counties, Elmwood CUSD #322 asked voters to increase the maximum allowable transportation levy rate from $0.20 to $0.40 per $100 of equalized assessed value. That meant an estimated cost to taxpayers of an additional $67 a year for a home valued at $100,000.
Voters, however, denied that measure by a resounding margin, with the final votes showing more than 68% of Peoria County voters saying no. Two of three voters in Knox County also voted no.
Had the measure passed, the increase would have provided an estimated $216,000 per year for the district, or about 2.2 million over a 10-year timeframe. Elmwood 322 Superintendent Joel Schmieg says while they are disappointed in the outcome, they will continue to work to find ways to be economically sufficient.
"Our five-year strategic plan calls on the district to hit five main measurables, including safety, student success, connecting with the community, fiscal responsibility and facilities," said Schmieg. "This might make it tougher, but we will look at all of our options."
According to information that was presented to voters, the successful passage would have allowed the Board of Education with reliable revenue to fund transportation operations this year and future years as well. Increases in vehicle maintenance and gas prices are contributing to increased costs for the school district.
"Schools have a finite amount of revenue to utilize, so if we move funds into transportation, we may have to make less available elsewhere. We are okay in the immediate future, but every school has to decide on plans to meet increased expenditures for transportation," said Schmieg.
Elmwood voters were not alone in casting no votes, as voters across Tazewell County also voted down a building sales tax question by a 54%-45% margin. It was the third time that measure has failed to gain approval.
