The Geneseo School Board reviewed a proposed $25.3 million property tax levy, rising health insurance costs, staffing reductions and school improvement plans during its November 12 meeting at Millikin Elementary School.
The board also discussed the district's financial outlook, high school course changes, and student programs.
Property Tax Levy Would Increase 4.51%
The district's proposed 2026 property tax levy totals approximately $25.3 million, including $21.29 million excluding bond payments.
The proposed increase, excluding bonds, is $918,580, or 4.51%.
The district expects taxable property values to increase 4.5%, bringing its total equalized assessed valuation to approximately $574 million.
Because the proposed levy increase is below 5%, a Truth in Taxation hearing is not required. The district will, however, hold a hearing at the December meeting.
The district's projected tax rate would actually decrease slightly, from 4.4441 to 4.4097.
However, homeowners could still pay more if their assessed property values increase. For example, the district estimates that a home increasing in market value from $285,516 to $298,364 would see its annual school taxes rise approximately $189, or $15.74 per month.
Board member Robertson voted against the tentative levy, while board member Storm abstained.
During public comment, resident Jamie Coty expressed concerns about rising property taxes, particularly for older residents. She questioned how the community could retain residents if property taxes continued increasing.
District Faces Financial Challenges
District officials reported that the current budget remains on track but warned that additional funding may be needed.
The district expects to pursue working cash bonds within the next 18 months to help meet financial needs.
Officials also reported that revenue from the countywide 1% school facilities sales tax remains strong.
The board discussed using approximately $740,000 in sales tax revenue toward existing bond payments instead of collecting that amount through property taxes.
Further discussion is expected in December.
Health Insurance Costs Jump 38%
Employee health insurance costs are expected to increase approximately $500,000, or 38%.
The board discussed how those costs would be divided between the district and employees. Officials also raised concerns about the current insurance arrangement and discussed possibly hiring an outside consultant to review options.
Staffing Changes Could Save $1 Million
The district reported that it has already eliminated the need to fill four full-time positions through staffing adjustments, saving approximately $400,000.
Officials are considering additional reductions as employees retire and enrollment changes.
The long-term plan includes potentially absorbing 11 more positions, with estimated savings of approximately $1 million.
The district is also considering an early retirement incentive that could save another $250,000 to $300,000.
High School Improvements and Course Changes
The board reviewed a proposal to modernize the Geneseo High School cafeteria and commons areas.
The project could be funded through the 1% school facilities sales tax.
Board members also reviewed proposed course changes, including additional dual-credit opportunities that would allow high school students to earn college credit.
Officials indicated some changes could be made using existing teachers without additional staffing costs.
Both proposals were presented for initial review.
School Report Card and Student Programs
Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado presented information from the Illinois School Report Card, including school performance designations and student proficiency rates.
The board also received an update on behavioral interventions, including concerns involving special education students and bullying.
Millikin Elementary Principal Philip Moe and students highlighted the school's LEAFS program, which encourages positive behavior and recognizes student achievements.
Personnel Updates
The district's personnel summary included several staffing changes:
Angela Correll — GHS special education paraprofessional
Aaron Freeman — GHS freshman girls' basketball head coach
Lawrence Lord — Part-time GHS teacher beginning second semester
Kiley Bailey, Abigail Buckley, and Jaiden Mahler — Spring student teachers
The district also listed the retirement of GHS administrative assistant Tamara DeBisschop, effective June 30, 2027.
Board Approves One-Year Ban
Following a closed session and hearing, the board unanimously approved a ban, barring Garrett Newman from district property and events.
The decision prohibits Newman from entering district property or attending district-sponsored events, including athletic and extracurricular activities, through October 23, 2027. The district cited Section 24-24 of the Illinois School Code and Board Policy 8:30.
Looking Ahead
The board also discussed whether homeschooled students should be allowed to participate in district extracurricular activities. No policy change was reported.
Upcoming meetings are expected to include further discussion of the tax levy, bond payments, financial planning and school improvements.
With rising insurance expenses, possible borrowing needs and continued pressure on property taxpayers, the district faces several financial decisions in the months ahead.
Sources: Geneseo CUSD #228 November 12 Board of Education agenda, meeting notes, tentative 2026 tax levy worksheet, personnel summary and district press release.