Illinois School Finance
Whitt Law LLC is well-versed in virtually every aspect of public taxation and school finance. Each year we are called upon to advise our school clients in the budget process, as well as all proceedings related to tax levies. For most districts, there is a direct relationship between assessed value of taxable property and general State aid. Our attorneys are thoroughly familiar with that relationship and able to respond quickly to any issue that arises.
With the tremendous residential development occurring in the southwest suburbs, local school districts have recognized that traditional land/cash contributions are deficient in providing the resources necessary to accommodate the increasing number of students.
Whitt Law LLC has successfully advocated for the imposition of capital facilities development impact fees before municipalities and counties. Capital facilities development impact fees are designed to contribute some, but certainly not all, of the cost of new classrooms required by increasing populations. The development community has accepted these fees, recognizing that the success of a new subdivision is only as strong as the local schools.
Tax Increment Financing Districts (TIFs) are often used to spur business or industrial development. However, TIF districts can be extremely detrimental to schools. We are often asked on behalf of our school clients to review TIF proposals for compliance with the Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act. At Whitt Law LLC, our team of attorneys has the knowledge and experience to advocate and protect the interests of local schools, including litigation challenging TIF districts when appropriate.
School construction is often accomplished through the issuance of bonds. At Whitt Law LLC, we have the experience to advise school leaders on how bonds may be efficiently used within the context of other funding sources. We have also represented school districts in securing grants under the School Construction Law, issuing life/safety bonds, working cash fund bonds and tax anticipation warrants, as well as more than $400 million in refunding bonds.
On occasion, school sites or facilities are no longer suitable for public school purposes. In those instances, we have assisted our clientele in the proper disposition of such sites.
At Whitt Law LLC, our attorneys have the experience to advise school districts in the many aspects of school finance required to keep public education solvent in these challenging times. Please contact us to discuss your challenges.
Representing School Districts throughout Illinois, with Experienced Legal Advice, Counsel and Litigation Services in Education Law
