The Duneland School Board at a special meeting Monday approved its 2026 budget, which will be shaped in part by the outcome of the Nov. 4 referendum renewal vote.
The overall budget is $95.3 million, which includes debt service for building projects.
Duneland School Corporation has an estimated $1 million less in tax revenue available for 2026 as a result of property tax changes enacted by Senate Enrolled Act 1.
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Property tax reforms will have a greater impact on the budget in future years, with the district projecting less revenue.
It’s why Duneland is seeking an 8-year renewal of the referendum, which is 39 cents per $100 of valuation. The referendum would raise $16.1 million, which is up from the current $8.9 million.
While the referendum would raise more money, Superintendent Chip Pettit said it’s needed to maintain the status quo.
Lynn Kwilasz, Duneland’s assistant superintendent and chief financial officer, is proposing that if the referendum is approved, the district set aside $5 million to mitigate the effects of less revenue anticipated in coming years.
The board also decided it would purchase fewer buses this year, with only three at a $600,000 cost. The district normally purchases around six buses annually.
Duneland will also spend $4.65 million on capital projects this year.
Jim Woods is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.