Although the Piatt County wind farm referendum failed, Blue Ridge schools will still see wind farm tax money, albeit from McLean County.

Blue Ridge Superintendent Dr. Hilaary Stanifer indicated due to the district's location they will be able to receive money from a wind farm in McLean County. She notes the tax levy will be written in the fall of 2023 and is estimated to have a $30 million increase in EAV.

Dr. Stanifer says the overall tax rate for taxpayers will stay the same although the amount the district will receive will increase due to the wind farm. If someone in the school district has to pay more property taxes that are due to their EAVs.

The new school board will be tasked with earmarking where the funds from the wind farm should go. Dr. Stanifer says the district is looking at adding an all-weather track and issuing bonds to complete building safety work.

Dr. Stanifer is excited about the addition of the all-weather track as Blue Ridge will be able to host track meets as well as provide recreation opportunities for the Farmer City community at large.