ST. CHARLES, IL — Voters in St. Charles Community Unit School District 303 weighed in Tuesday on a $282.5 million bond referendum that would fund a sweeping package of school construction, repairs and improvements across the district.
The proposal asked voters to authorize the district to issue up to $282.5 million in bonds as part of a $312.5 million facility improvement package. District officials previously identified $30 million in existing district resources to cover the remaining costs.
Here is a look at the unofficial results as of 8 p.m. Tuesday, according to election authorities in Kane and DuPage counties:
According to District 303's referendum information, the proposed improvements include roof replacements, mechanical and electrical system upgrades, safety and security improvements, accessibility work required under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and expanded classroom and Career and Technical Education spaces.
One of the largest proposed projects is a new field house at St. Charles North High School, estimated to cost approximately $61 million, according to the Daily Herald.
The plan also includes three additional classrooms each at Norton Creek, Ferson Creek and Corron elementary schools, along with the replacement of existing two-story wings at Davis and Wild Rose elementary schools with single-story additions, according to the Daily Herald.
The district estimated that approval of the referendum would increase property taxes by approximately $645.77 annually for a home valued at $500,000. The actual impact would vary depending on individual property values, applicable exemptions and other factors. The district provided an online tax calculator to help residents estimate the financial impact.
District officials said the referendum was intended to address maintenance, accessibility, classroom and program-space needs across district buildings.
The School Board voted 6-1 on Aug. 10 to place the question on the November ballot following months of facility planning and discussions about the district's long-term infrastructure needs.
If approved, the measure would authorize the district to issue bonds for the proposed projects. If rejected, district officials have said they would need to reconsider how to address outstanding facility needs, potentially using existing operating funds or more limited financing options.
District 303 serves students and families in portions of Kane and DuPage counties, including St. Charles and surrounding communities.
Election results are unofficial until canvassed and certified by election authorities. This article will be updated as additional vote totals become available.
For full coverage of the 2026 election in Illinois, go here.
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