We have an important referendum election on Tuesday, November 3, focusing on facilities and safety, to maintain and enhance our schools, support our students, and reduce the reliance on property taxes for residents. It is crucial that you are well-informed and prepared to discuss the referendum with our staff, families and school community.
Please review the information below to ensure you can effectively communicate the necessary information.
Background
On Tuesday, November 3, 2026 voters in Tazewell County will vote on a 1% Illinois County Schools Facility Tax (also known as the "one-cent tax"). The tax will generate essential funds to support facility upgrades and safety improvements in our schools, while providing property tax protection against potential future increases to homeowners. Visit the county-wide school district site at www.tazewellforstudents.com.
What’s on the ballot?
If approved, the revenue from the one-cent tax will benefit the entire Tazewell County school community in several key ways:
Facility Maintenance and Upgrades: The revenue will fund crucial repairs and upgrades to school buildings, including HVAC systems and general maintenance, ensuring schools remain safe, up to code, and well-equipped for today’s students.
Safety and Security: The tax will support school safety and security measures, including surveillance systems, secure entry points, and School Resource Officers. It will also expand access to mental health professionals to support students’ academically, socially, and emotionally.
Property Tax Protection: This tax provides an alternative funding source for schools, reducing reliance on property taxes. Unlike property taxes, which mainly impact homeowners, this one-cent tax applies to purchases across the county, including those made by visitors and renters. A portion of the funds can also help reduce current facility debt or pay off existing bonds.
If approved, Tazewell County will join every bordering county that is already investing in their schools through this sales tax. Our goal is to support our property taxpayers and provide the quality and supportive schools our students need and our community expects.
Why is this request important, and why now?
As members of the communities we serve, we understand and personally experience the financial burden that our residents are under. This request remains essential because, county-wide, many of our school facilities are aging and require significant updates to meet modern standards for safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency. The one-cent tax would provide a dedicated funding source for these needs without raising property taxes. It would also help address critical mental health and security needs for students and staff.
What if the request does not pass?
If the referendum does not pass, school districts across the county, including ours, would remain fully reliant on property taxes. This could also result in delays in addressing facility needs, resulting in higher costs down the road.
Tax Impact
The proposed one-cent sales tax will apply only to purchases that are currently subject to Illinois sales tax. Items not currently taxed, such as groceries, medications, vehicles, and farm equipment will not be impacted. It’s estimated that nearly 60% of the revenue will come from non-residents, including visitors and commuters, reducing the financial burden on local property taxpayers.
When and How to Vote
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026 from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early voting begins on Thursday, September 24, 2026. For details on voting locations and methods, visit elections.il.gov.