Northfield Township Road District Cuts Tax Levy For First Time In 30 Years

NORTHBROOK, IL — The Northfield Township Road District Board of Trustees has approved a 4.6 percent reduction in the district’s tax levy, marking its first levy reduction in more than 30 years, officials announced.

The board voted unanimously in December 2025 to lower the levy compared to the prior year while maintaining current service levels, according to the road district.

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Highway Commissioner Mike Korman, who took office one year ago, said the reduction followed a review of contracts, staffing and recurring expenses.

"This levy reduction is a direct result of careful financial stewardship and a willingness to question every line item," Korman said in a statement. "Our residents work hard for their money. When we can deliver the same quality of service while asking for less from them, that's exactly what we should do. I'm proud the Board of Trustees stood together on this."

The district said the tax reduction effort was supported by a 10-year property tax revenue analysis showing the actual tax extension grew each year from $3 million to $4.1 million. In past years, the district said it consistently captured close to its Property Tax Extension Limitation Law ceiling, contributing to the increased tax burden.

During that same period, expenses rose from $1.58 million to $2.02 million, an increase of about 28 percent over 10 years, or roughly 2.5 percent annually, according to the district.

The district said the board’s unanimous vote reflected agreement that it can continue meeting core obligations under the leaner budget.

"A unanimous vote on a tax cut doesn't happen by accident," Korman said. "It happens when the numbers are sound, the plan is credible and the leadership is serious. That's what we have here."

The lowered levy takes effect for the 2027 property tax year and will be reflected in the first installment tax bill that year.

The Northfield Township Road District maintains roads, bridges and rights-of-way serving unincorporated areas of Northfield Township, including portions of Northbrook, Glenview and Northfield.