School Referendums For Northbrook 27, 28 On Ballot: 2025 Election

NORTHBROOK, IL — While the mayoral and village board races have received more attention, Northbrook voters will also have a chance to weigh in on several school referendums for the consolidated election. Both Northbrook School Districts 27 and 28 are asking voters Tuesday to approve school infrastructure improvements.

One year ago, building improvements at the four schools in Northbrook District 28 were proposed as part of a 10-year facilities master plan. Now, voters will decide whether the $94.9 million in bonds will fund the plan.

The district's board of education approved placing the referendum on the April 1 ballot during a special meeting in January. According to district officials, the plan includes:

• Construction of a new Meadowbrook School (built in 1954)
• Additions and renovations at Greenbriar School (built in 1948) and Northbrook Junior High (built in 1959) to facilitate the gradual replacement of these older buildings
• Infrastructure upgrades at Westmoor School (built in 1965), including building improvements, playground enhancements, and bus lane improvements

"This has been at least a two-year endeavor," Board President Jennifer Gallinson said. "We went through a thorough process to identify priorities. We've really had the best minds working together on this."

If approved by referendum, the bond issue would cost the owner of a home valued at $500,000 an estimated $630 per year, or $1.73 per day.

RELATED: School Referendum Added To April Ballot In Northbrook — District 28

Meanwhile, in District 27, over the past year, officials have collaborated on what they're calling "a community-driven plan for the future of our schools." This consensus plan is intended to establish a debt service extension base for the district at $2.655 million, which would result in an annual tax increase of $422 for the average homeowner. This would allow the district to:

• Sustainably address facility needs
• Make district schools even safer
• Improve learning environments for all students