Moraine Township residents have voted in favor of a tax increase to fund a Community Mental Health Board, which will enhance access to mental health services across the region. The proposal, which includes parts of Highland Park, Highwood, and portions of Deerfield and Lake Forest, saw strong support, with 71.2% of voters backing the measure, according to unofficial Lake County election results.
Out of all precincts reporting, 12,158 residents supported the tax hike, while 4,691 voted against it. The increased funds will be directed toward supporting individuals in Moraine Township who are facing mental health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders.
Dan Jenks, co-chair of Yes for Mental Health—a political action committee that campaigned for the measure—expressed his enthusiasm over the community’s response.
“This was a well-timed referendum, and our community showed strong belief in the importance of these services,” Jenks said. “I’m immensely proud to live in a place where people genuinely care. I’m confident the new mental health board will drive meaningful progress for those in need.”
To fund the board, Moraine Township’s property tax rate will increase by 0.03%, translating to roughly $10 more per year for the owner of a $100,000 home. The increase is expected to raise between $800,000 and $900,000 annually, which will be allocated by the mental health board to develop services and resources for township residents.
The Community Mental Health Board will focus on establishing a budget and distributing funds to ensure access to vital resources, aiming to make a lasting positive impact on the health and well-being of the Moraine Township community.
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