Dist. 89 improvements get passing grade

Several school improvement projects are expected to begin this summer now that Glen Ellyn Elementary District 89 voters supported Tuesday's $24.8 million tax increase.

With all 24 precincts reporting, nearly 66 percent of voters supported the request while 34 percent did not, unofficial vote totals showed.

Some smaller scale projects, like roof work, are expected to begin this summer. But the bulk of the work wouldn't begin until 2009 because architect work, bidding and staging will take more time, Superintendent John Perdue said.

"Certainly all these projects are going to improve the infrastructure of the school district, which are community assets," Perdue said. "(The projects) will certainly strengthen the security for all our students and staff, and learning will definitely be enhanced."

District 89 has five schools that serve residents from the southern portions of Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wheaton and unincorporated DuPage County.

The new funds will be used to update the technology infrastructure, improve security, replace windows, add air-conditioning, repair roofs and upgrade mechanical, electrical and plumbing.

Approval means the owner of a $300,000 house would pay an extra $68 in 2009. Additional tax increases will be based on assessment increases.

If the proposal had failed, the district's property tax rate would have dropped and saved the owner of a $300,000 house $59 in 2009 and more in later years.

"Ultimately it comes down to what the community expects of its public schools here in Glen Ellyn and District 89," Perdue said. "I believe the community expects high standards and takes a great deal of pride in local schools, and that's being demonstrated here tonight."