A public hearing in Champaign County was abruptly cut short Tuesday night after a man collapsed while speaking at the podium.
The hearing was held as the Graham Local School Board requested permission from the county budget commission to change how property taxes are collected within the district.
The hearing lasted a little over an hour before the medical emergency happened.
School officials explained that the district is facing mounting financial pressures related to staffing, transportation, and building maintenance.
They said the needs of students and schools have become increasingly complex and difficult to fund under the current system.
In the past, district voters rejected a proposed one-percent income tax levy.
The school board then approved a permanent improvement levy without returning to the ballot — a move that has frustrated some residents, who see it as an attempt to bypass voter input.
The budget commission must approve the request before it can take effect.
School officials told the commission that more money is needed to maintain classroom support, hire paraprofessionals, and cover essential services like transportation and facility upkeep.
Some residents at the hearing voiced opposition, saying the board’s financial approach has eroded public trust and unfairly burdened taxpayers.
As the discussion continued, a man at the podium suddenly collapsed.
Officials stated that the man regained consciousness and remained alert as he received treatment.
No decision was made, as the meeting was postponed out of respect for the man and those in attendance.
The budget commission is expected to reschedule the hearing at a later date.
