Illinois Bond Elections

Illinois offers cities and other local governments a few methods to borrow funds without voter approval (e.g. debt certificates).  Certain types of bonds, such as Alternate Revenue Source Bonds, that are secured by a property tax levy are subject to "backdoor referendum."  Bonds that are subject to backdoor referendum do not require voter approval unless a petition is signed by a specified number of registered voters during a specified 30 day period.

Bond issues requiring voter approval must obtain a simple majority vote for passage. 

There are only four days during any two year period in which a referendum may be held. The resolution or ordinance calling for the election must be adopted not less than 79 days prior to the election date.  Dates for elections in the years 2013 and 2014 are as follows: