Mundelein District 75 considers borrowing for building improvements

Mundelein Elementary District 75 plans to borrow up to $3.75 million for required life-safety work, but the bond issue to fund the projects won't be subject to voter approval.

Because the work is all related to fire prevention and safety upgrades required by the state, the district can issue the bonds without going to referendum.

What that could mean for tax bills is not yet known. The school board is consulting with experts to determine how to minimize the impact on taxpayers and incur as little interest as possible, said Superintendent Andy Henrikson.

A public hearing on the bonds is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, at the district office, 470 N. Lake St., Mundelein.

School officials also hope the amount required can be lowered by doing work in house.

"The architect's estimate of $3.75 million is based on hiring outside contractors," school board President Kevin Holly said. "However, to significantly reduce that expense, we will complete as much of the work as possible using our own talented maintenance staff."

Architects and engineers recently completed a required 10-year life-safety audit at the district's four schools. The result is that the state is requiring District 75 to make $3.75 million in upgrades and modifications. Examples include upgrading fire alarm systems in each building to include strobe lights and carbon monoxide detectors; installing anti-scalding devices on hot water supply lines to sinks; adding automatic closers to all classroom doors; and removing an unused greenhouse that no longer meets safety code, Henrikson said.

Before issuing bonds, the district is waiting on how much funding it will receive from the state. Illinois was behind more than $1 million to District 75 during the last school year, Henrikson said. Uncertain funding or a property tax freeze likely would mean borrowing the funds for a longer term.

The public can review the full list of upgrades by calling Henrikson at (847) 949-2700.