$87.8M 'Redefine 109' School Referendum Passes In Deerfield: Lake County Clerk

DEERFIELD, IL — On Tuesday night, voters said yes to an $87.8 million referendum question intended to address facility needs in Deerfield School District 109. According to unofficial results from the Lake County Clerk's Office, 3,597 voters (63.19 percent) favored the ballot measure, while 2,095 voters (36.81 percent) gave it a thumbs down.

The project, called "Redefine 109," approved by the board of education late last year, will include the building of two new elementary schools to replace the current structures at Wilmot and Walden, as well as major renovations at two others (Kipling and South Park), along with targeted upgrades at both middle schools (Caruso and Shepard).

"Thank you, District 109 voters," District 109 said in a statement on social media. "We are incredibly grateful for your support and for the trust you have placed in our schools. This investment in our students and staff will have a lasting impact across our district, and we look forward to the work ahead."

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All updates will "create modern, equitable environments" across all schools — whether new or renovated, according to the district.

Throughout last fall, the Board and administration shared information regarding the referendum with the community, while also gaining feedback. The latter resulted in a revised referendum, which the school board unanimously approved on Dec. 18, 2025.

According to officials, the revised proposal increased the District's financial contribution and reduces the scope of the project, resulting in a revised $87,780,000 referendum amount, and 33 percent reduction in tax impact compared to the earlier proposal. More than 60 percent of total project costs would be funded through District resources, including fund balance and alternate bonds.