Lake County Voters Reject 1% School Tax With 16,164-Vote Margin
Unofficial results show 57.15% opposition to the measure intended to raise $122 million for school security and renovations.
By Carlos Rousseau ·
Lake County residents have voted to reject a proposed 1 percent sales tax designed to fund school improvements. Unofficial results from the Lake County Clerk's Office indicate the measure lost by a wide margin.
As of Tuesday night, 113,030 ballots had been counted. The tally stands at 64,597 votes against the tax and 48,433 votes in favor. This gives the opposition a lead of 16,164 votes, or 57.15 percent, compared to 42.85 percent support.
The referendum sought to generate approximately $122 million annually for Lake County schools. Proponents argued the new revenue stream would offset costs for construction, renovations, building bonds, and school resource officers. The funds were also designated for mental health professionals.
Supporters positioned the tax as an alternative to traditional property tax funding for school infrastructure. They believed the dedicated levy would secure necessary upgrades without increasing the property tax burden on homeowners.
Opponents countered that a new tax would strain household budgets. The Lake County Republican Central Committee and the Barrington Area Council of Governments led the effort against the measure. They argued residents already face rising costs for daily goods.
Tower Lakes Village President Andy Hay told the Daily Herald that many residents are struggling to make ends meet. He noted that goods cost more this year than last, making an additional financial burden difficult for families to absorb. The final vote count remains pending as more ballots are processed.
