Sunset Ridge D29 voters approve renovation and partial rebuild of Middlefork School in Northfield

Unofficial results show 66.9% of District 29 voters approved a $23.5 million bond to help fund a planned renovation and partial rebuild of Middlefork School, and construction could begin as early as April 2027 after certification.

Voters in Sunset Ridge School District 29 approved a bond referendum to renovate and partially rebuild Middlefork School, according to unofficial results. The March 17 tally showed 66.9% in favor with 1,384 ballots cast and about 37.5% turnout among registered voters. The district asked to borrow $23.5 million to help fund a projected $40 million renovation and partial rebuild of the K-3 school. Votes remain unofficial until Cook County certifies them and the Illinois State Board of Elections finalizes the results. Key facts: - Unofficial vote totals: 926 in favor and 458 against, with 100% of precincts reporting; votes are subject to certification. - The referendum would allow District 29 to borrow $23.5 million toward a roughly $40 million project to renovate and partially rebuild Middlefork School, serving grades K-3. - The district estimated a $444 annual tax increase for a $500,000 home and $920 for a $1 million home, and it provides a tax impact calculator on its website. - Planned facility work includes safety and security upgrades, fire suppression and storm shelter improvements, ADA-compliant restrooms and pathways, energy-efficient HVAC and other systems, and a new two-story layout with 23 classrooms. - Officials said construction could begin as early as April 2027 after certification; the district plans a phased renovation approach expected to take about 2.5 to 3 years. Summary: The referendum gives the district authority to issue $23.5 million in bonds to fund part of the Middlefork renovation and partial rebuild and is expected to change property tax bills as outlined by the district. Officials noted additional renovation costs not covered by the bond would be financed through anticipated interest on bond proceeds, fundraising efforts and a planned debt certificate issuance in 2028. Following official certification by Cook County and finalization by the Illinois State Board of Elections, construction could begin as early as April 2027 with a phased approach over about 2.5 to 3 years.