Mahomet-Seymour superintendent explains tax-levy mechanics as board displays estimated levy

Doctor Kehler presented the district's estimated tax levy and walked the board through how property taxes contribute to district revenue and how the levy process works.

Doctor Kehler said property taxes account for roughly 42% of the district's total revenue and that the recommended levy maintains last year’s tax rate of 4.6305. Administration told the board it 'ballooned' the levy by 12% to capture projected equalized assessed value growth of 9.1 percent; that practice preserves flexibility if county EAV updates change between now and final certification.

He explained that the levy display approved by the board begins the statutory notice period: the district will publish the levy certificate and provide a truth-in-taxation hearing if required by the percentage increase. The presentation included examples of how the homestead exemption (owner-occupied $6,000 in most Illinois counties) affects a hypothetical $450,000 home's district tax bill.

Board members asked clarifying questions about capped funds, fund balances and how levy adjustments are allocated (IMRF, Social Security, tort and debt service). Doctor Kehler said the district will proceed to a final levy vote in December after county EAV adjustments and required public notices.