$175 million Mundelein High School tax hike rejected by voters

Mundelein High School officials will proceed with contingency plans to upgrade the 62-year-old building after voters rejected a requested $175 million tax hike to fund a $225 million renovation and expansion plan.

With all but provisional and late arriving vote by mail ballots counted, unofficial results showed 2,834 voters opposed and 2,338 in favor.

Approval would have raised annual property taxes for a home valued at $300,000 by $320 the first year, $550 the second year and $690 in the third and subsequent years.

"Without the funding, our long-term facilities plans will be set aside and reevaluated," Superintendent Kevin Myers said. The district has some funds for upgrades but has to consider options before addressing the most critical needs, he added.

Mundelein High School was built in 1961. Significant additions were made in 1988, 1991 and 1997 and a $23.7 million STEM addition opened in 2016. While classrooms were added, officials said the school does not have the right space for its needs.

Priorities had the tax hike passed included renovating performing arts venues, expanding athletic and recreational facilities, increasing the cafeteria space and renovating the kitchen common area.

School officials say significant infrastructure deficiencies and space limitations will continue to impact operations and scheduling, building function and performance.