Summary:

On April 1, 2025, Kane County voters rejected a proposal to enact a 0.75% countywide sales tax. County officials said the measure was necessary to close a persistent budget shortfall and maintain funding for public safety services. With the referendum defeated, the county faces difficult decisions to balance its budget, including potential layoffs and service reductions.

The vote result waas:

No: 54,001 votes (74.75%)

Yes: 18,237 votes (25.25%)

Total Ballots Cast: 73,418

The turnout represented roughly 23.5% of Kane County’s registered voters.

What Was the Proposed Tax?

The proposed special sales tax was expected to generate approximately $51 million annually, earmarked specifically for public safety. 

The proposed tax would have applied to most purchases made in the county but exempted groceries, medications, medical devices and motor vehicles. 

Board Chair Corinne Pierog and other supporters described the tax as a “public safety sales tax,” arguing that it would help the county preserve services and avoid layoffs.

Why Was the Tax Proposed?

State Mandates and a Structural Deficit: New requirements under the state’s SAFE‑T Act including year-round court operations have increased costs. Staffing, transportation, and technology upgrades all increased the burden on local governments.

The county also has been running a structural deficit for several years. Inflation and aging infrastructure have been the major contributors to this.

Property Tax Constraints: From 2014 to 2023, the county did not raise its property tax levy. A 2024 increase generated only $2 million in new revenue. Officials estimate that if the levy had increased each year to match inflation, the county would have roughly $22 million more today.

What Happens Now?

With the failure of the sales tax measure, Kane County officials say they must reduce spending to match revenue. The County Board is now tasked with identifying tens of millions of dollars in spending to close the projected deficit. 

Board members have already suggested several possible actions:

Service Reductions and Layoffs: All departments may face budget cuts, with staffing reductions likely.

Limited Property Tax Adjustments: While still constrained by state law, small annual increases may be considered.

Pursuing Grants: County staff are exploring state and federal grant opportunities to support core services.

Revisiting the Tax Proposal: Officials may consider a revised, scaled-down version of the sales tax in a future election, possibly with and a narrower focus.