November 3, 2026 Referendum Information
Supporting Students • Strengthening Schools • Building Community
Our schools are the front porch of our communities. That is why school districts in Tazewell County, including ours, has united to bring a question to voters this November 3, 2026.
Voters in Tazewell County will consider a 1% Illinois County Schools Facility Tax (also known as the "One-Cent Tax"). The tax would generate funding to support critical facility upgrades and safety improvements in our schools, while easing reliance on local property taxes.
What is on the ballot?
If approved, the revenue from the One-Cent Tax can, per Illinois Law, only be used for:
Facility Maintenance and Upgrades: Critical repairs and upgrades to school buildings could include parking lots, playgrounds, auditoriums and gym spaces, restrooms, HVAC systems, and general maintenance that would ensure schools remain safe, up to code, and well-equipped for today’s students.
Safety and Security: including surveillance systems, secure entry point upgrades, and School Resource Officers. It would also expand access to mental health professionals to support students academically, socially, and emotionally.
Property Tax Protection: This tax provides an alternative funding source for schools, reducing reliance on property taxes. Unlike property taxes, which mainly impact homeowners, this One-Cent Tax applies to purchases across the county, including those made by visitors and renters. A portion of the funds can also help reduce current facility debt, rather than having to be paid solely through dedicated property tax levies.
Do other communities have this?
Yes, a majority of counties in Illinois have this type of tax in place, including every county that borders Tazewell (McLean, Peoria, Mason, Woodford, Fulton, and Logan). When Tazewell County residents shop and dine in those communities, you are supporting those local schools through this tax.
Would people outside of Tazewell County contribute?
Yes, in fact, a majority of the funding would come from visitors and commuters, not Tazewell County taxpayers. Nearly 60% of this new revenue is estimated to come from visitors that make qualifying purchases in our communities, according to research of data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This would bring in an estimated total of over $12.5 million annually from visitors alone.
Why is this request important, and why now?
With an understanding of the financial stresses that many people in our communities experience, this request aligns with our responsibility to address aging areas of our school buildings that require significant updates to meet modern standards for safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency. As business and production costs continue to rise, delaying or deferring these projects would likely mean higher costs in the future.
The majority of school boards in the county have approved a measure to place this question before voters. This One-Cent Tax would provide a dedicated funding source for these needs without raising property taxes.
How can I learn more?
TazewellForStudents.com is a dedicated website that features all frequently asked questions regarding this proposed One-Cent Tax.
We will continue to share information through e-mail, via phone, through our website, on social media, and at school and community events leading up to Election Day. We will also be welcoming families and community members to information events during the fall, and will share those invitations through the channels listed above.
You are also always welcome to contact the superintendent’s office directly by e-mail or phone with any questions.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our students, staff, and communities.