District 205 voters support $168.5 million construction plan

Elmhurst Unit District 205 voters approved a property tax increase that will pay for $168.5 million in construction projects throughout the district, including two new schools. With 100 percent of the precincts reporting, 12,710 voters supported the tax-hike request Tuesday while 7,734 opposed it, unofficial vote totals show.

The district sought permission to borrow money so it could replace Lincoln and Field elementary schools and upgrade other buildings to improve security, provide science, technology, engineering and math spaces, and add classrooms for all-day kindergarten. The building projects also will allow the district to offer all-day kindergarten at each of its elementary schools.

As a result of the ballot measure being approved, the owner of a $500,000 house is expected to pay an estimated $149 more a year in property taxes to the school district. Officials said District 205 needs to borrow money so it will have enough funding to address safety and security needs and enhance a list of schools. The ballot question was the culmination of a community engagement effort that began three years ago with the district's "Focus 205" process.

"The outcome today reinforces the community's value on the importance of education. This is a banner day for Elmhurst that will help ensure a healthy, vibrant community for decades to come,"Superintendent David Moyer said.