Citizens For A New Central Middle School To Hold Info Session On Proposed Referendum

EVERGREEN PARK, IL—Evergreen Park residents are invited to an informational meeting regarding the upcoming referendum for a new Central Middle School on Wednesday, Sept. 30. The meeting will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Evergreen Park Public Library, 9400 S. Troy Ave.

The info session is being held by Citizens For A New Central Middle School, a group of concerned neighbors, many of parents of former and current students at the middle school.

The Evergreen Park ESD 124 Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution in August to place a $68 million bond referendum on the Nov. 3 ballot. Voters will go to the polls to answer yes or no to funding a new CMS:

“Shall the Board of Education of Evergreen Park School District Number 124, Cook County, Illinois, build and equip a school building to replace the Central Middle School Building, including construction of secured entryways, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance measures, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning spaces, a gymnasium, and a storm shelter, and installation of safety and security systems, and technology infrastructure and equipment; improve the site thereof, including reconfiguration of parking lots and drop-off/pick-up zones; and issue its bonds in the amount of $68,000,000 for the purpose of paying the costs thereof?”

Evergreen Park ESD 124 officials claim time and use have taken their toll on the 99-year-old Central Middle School, including aging systems, safety and security issues, accessibility challenges, poor air quality, energy inefficiencies, and outdated infrastructure that hinders teaching and learning.

Should voters approve the proposed $68 million bond referendum, the money will be used to construct a new Central Middle School facility focused on enhancing safety and security, and providing modern and effective learning environment that will serve current and future generations of Evergreen Park students.

A new Central Middle School would be built on the current site. Students will continue to attend classes in the existing building as the new building is being constructed.

Dist. 124 officials said homeowners can expect to see an estimated LY2026 Tax Bill Change of $604, or approximately $50 per month for a $300,000 home.

Residents will have the opportunity to ask district officlas questions about the proposed referendum. There will also be a Google Meet link where residents can join virtually that will be provided closer to meeting date. Bring neighbors and friends on Sept. 30 or watch from home. Can’t make the meeting? Please reach out to citizensforcms@gmail.com, or visit Evergreen Park Dist. 124 Referendum.