Overview
- The levy now reflects a 4.78% increase over last year and is expected to generate about $20–25 million more than earlier projections.
- CPS said months-long delays in Cook County property tax data forced an initial underestimate, and the adjustment captures remaining allowable revenue under state caps.
- Officials outlined uses for the added revenue — operating needs, teacher pensions and special education transportation — with a CPS briefing allocating roughly $25 million, $10 million and $5.7 million respectively.
- The district continues to face acute liquidity pressure, having borrowed about $1.6 billion short term and incurred roughly $33 million in interest at about $220,000 per day after ending FY2025 with -$339 million in net cash.
- Five elected board members voted no, citing homeowner burdens despite CPS estimating an extra $8 on a $250,000 home or $16 on a $500,000 home, and some reporting noted the vote followed a canceled earlier meeting and allegations of behind-the-scenes pressure.