In a recent decision, the mixed governance structure of Chicago’s school board, consisting of both elected and appointed officials, has decided to increase property taxes. This move, although seemingly minor, has sparked concern among some board members who argue that any increase is excessive, particularly as many residents are already experiencing significant hikes in their property tax assessments.
During a period where students are away for the winter break and the doors of Chicago Public Schools remain closed, the Chicago Board of Education has been actively addressing fiscal matters. On Monday, board members gathered for a special session to deliberate and ultimately vote in favor of the proposed increase in the property tax levy.
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Norma Rios Sierra, a member of the Chicago School Board, expressed the urgency of securing additional funds, stating, “We are not in a position to say no to money. We have charter schools closing left and right. We have federal funding that’s being taken away. We have to do what’s right for our students.” Her comments underscore the financial challenges facing the district, which relies heavily on local property taxes for funding, a common scenario for most school districts in Illinois.
Chicago Public Schools, as the largest taxing entity on local bills, plays a critical role in the community’s education system. This tax adjustment reflects ongoing efforts to navigate financial constraints while striving to meet the educational needs of students across the city.
“We are not in a position to say no to money. We have charter schools closing left and right. We have federal funding that’s being taken away. We have to do what’s right for our students,” Chicago School Board member Norma Rios Sierra said.
CPS and most Illinois school districts are primarily funded by local property taxes. On a Chicago bill, it is the largest taxing body.
CPS is allowed to raise the rate, but it is capped at the lower of either 5%, or the rate of inflation. When the district closed a $729 million budget deficit in August, it raised the levy slightly below the legal limit.
Monday’s vote was to raise it to the legal limit. All of Mayor Brandon Johnson’s Board allies voted for the increase.
“This tax levy is a very minimal amount. Someone with a half-million dollar home is going to be paying what they would pay for going out for fast food once,” Chicago School Board member Debby Pope said.
According to CPS officials, the tax hike will mean an extra $8 on a $250,000 home or $16 for a $500,000 home. Despite the seemingly small amount, a handful of Board members voted no.
Angel Gutierrez says his district on the Southwest Side has been hit with huge assessment increases.
“You cannot keep funding in the system on the backs of same families already drowning,” Board member Gutierrez said.
Others say CPS must tighten its own belt before turning to taxpayers.
“We must learn to live within our means and right-size. This district putting more financial pressure on our families to foot this bill is simply irresponsible,” Chicago School Board member Ellen Rosenfeld said.
Other Board members say this school year’s budget includes enough cuts, and the $25 million generated from the property tax hike may protect CPS from any further cuts.
“The next place to go are cuts that directly affect kids. And, you know, an extra $25, $29 million just to cushion that blow will be really helpful for those services,” Board member Jenni Custer said.
While its fiscal situation is figured out for this school year, school Board members know 2027 will be even more challenging. The same year, elections will be held for all school Board members.
