At their regular monthly Board meeting on Thursday, October 26, the McHenry County College Board of Trustees unanimously approved a flat tax levy for 2023, a move that will save taxpayers money and once again contribute favorably to the economic impact on the college district.
By maintaining a flat tax levy for 10 of the last 11 years, MCC has saved individual property owners, on average, a total of approximately $153.46, or $13.95 annually from 2013 through 2023.
“We’re extremely proud that we’ve been able to repeatedly control our spending and return value to the community without compromising quality,” said MCC President Dr. Clint Gabbard. “We have made efficient and effective use of resources that are directed toward the support of student success, which is at the heart of MCC’s strategic mission, and we are focused on identifying cost savings wherever possible.”
During the 2023-24 school year, the College also had one of the lowest tuition/fee rates per credit hour at $133.25, ranking 37th among the list of 39 Illinois community colleges, with only two other colleges having a lower cost per credit hour. The state average tuition per credit hour is $156.09.
While the College is allowed, by law, to collect revenue tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) each year, MCC board members have voted for the 10th time in the past 11 years to not collect CPI revenue and maintain a flat tax levy.
“By focusing on priorities and aligning our budget with our strategic plan, we’ve been able to control and reevaluate our expenses, even as our programs, offerings, and facilities continue to grow,” Gabbard added.
“The Board of Trustees commends the MCC Administration’s continued focus on effective budgeting and finance management,” said Tom Allen, MCC Board Chair. “Our decision to maintain a flat tax levy again in 2023 shows the visible commitment by the College to alleviate the financial burden on taxpayers while maintaining innovative and quality programs and services.”
Learn more about the MCC Board of Trustees.