Maine District 207 voters approve tax hike for $240 million in building improvements

Voters have approved a tax hike Tuesday to help Maine Township High School District 207 pay for $240 million in improvements at its three high schools.

With 93 of 102 precincts reporting, about 61 percent of voters backed a proposal to borrow $195 million to fund the plan to update Maine West, Maine South and Maine East high schools, according to unofficial election results. The remaining $45 million of the work will be funded through district reserves.

The district intends to use the money for infrastructure improvements, enhanced safety and security at the buildings and updated classrooms, as well as a new field house at Maine West.

In Des Plaines, the owner of a $245,000 house will pay $223 more annually during the 20 years that the bonds are repaid. The average Niles resident with a $271,300 home will pay about $234 more. The average Park Ridge resident with a $384,000 home will pay an extra $350, according to the district.

It is the first tax hike approved by District 207 voters in about 45 years.