The Peoria Public Schools Board of Education is considering a referendum to double the County School Facility Occupation Tax from 0.5% to 1.0%, aiming to put the measure on the November 3 ballot.
Proposal Breakdown
- The Goal: Increase the sales tax to a full penny (1%) to fund school facility maintenance, upgrades, and construction, as well as pay for school resource officers and mental health professionals.
- The Rationale: District officials state the tax shift aims to ease the burden on local property owners by spreading costs across everyone who shops in Peoria County.
- The Deadline: The board faces an August 17 deadline to formally place the question on the November ballot.
Projected Revenue
- Current Revenue: The existing half-cent sales tax (approved by voters in 2016) generates approximately $5.3 million annually.
- Projected Revenue: If passed, the tax is expected to raise between $5.3 million and $10.6 million annually, benefiting all school districts throughout Peoria County.
You can track upcoming meeting agendas and official board decisions on the Peoria Public Schools portal or follow localized coverage on 25
