On the April 1 election ballot, McLean County school districts are asking voters to adopt a 1% countywide sales tax. The revenue could be used for school facility improvements, school safety and security, mental health support, and other specific uses.
This ballot referendum reads as follows: Shall a retailers' occupation tax and a service occupation tax (commonly referred to as a sales tax) be imposed in the County of McLean, Illinois, at a rate of 1% to be used exclusively for school facility purposes, school resource officers, and mental health professionals? (Yes or No)
As part of our effort to educate voters, we offer this information on why we believe a "yes" vote on the referendum is justified.
Statement of Support For 1% County Schools Facility Tax
After study and discussion, the League of Women Voters of McLean County concluded that a "yes" vote on the April 1 referendum is in the best interest of our county's students and McLean County taxpayers.
This referendum asks for a 1% sales tax on items excluding groceries, medications, and vehicle/farm equipment to fund school facilities' maintenance, security personnel, and mental health professionals. We believe these are integral to a quality public education.
The League of Women Voters' position is that a quality public education is essential for a strong, viable, and sustainable democratic society and is a civil right.
Our study confirmed that the need for additional revenue is real, especially in Unit 5, but all county school districts will benefit. Of the several options available to meet this local need, the proposed 1% sales tax is the least painful.
We reached this conclusion because:
- This is a local source of funding, not reliant on the state or federal government.
- Exclusions of groceries, medications, and autos/agricultural equipment minimize the regressive nature of a sales tax.
- This expands the tax base since visitors to the community would be included.
- This method is being utilized by a majority of Illinois counties, indicating it is serving a proven purpose.
- The likelihood of schools requesting a property tax rate increase for the needed funds is minimized.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy. The League encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy.