Spring Election: Racine and Kenosha Face Decisions on City Councils, Schools, and Taxes

RACINE, Wis. (WRJN) – Voters in Racine and Kenosha have some local options for the April 1 spring election.

In Racine, city council seats in districts 1, 5, 9, 11, and 15 are contested. In District 1, incumbent Jeff Coe is facing a challenge from Malik Frazier. District 5 incumbent Melissa Kaprelian is being opposed by Jens Jorgensen. The 9th District, vacated by outgoing Council President Terry McCarthy, sees Grace Allen and Patrick Schwanke competing for the seat. Incumbent Mary Land in District 11 is challenged by Michael Hansen, while incumbent Cory Sebastian in District 15 faces Nathan Pabon.

The Racine ballot also includes a public safety referendum proposing a $1.5 million annual property tax levy increase to retain nine Paramedic/EMT positions currently funded by a federal grant set to expire in 2026. Supporters argue the measure is critical to maintaining emergency response times amid rising call volumes.

The Racine Unified School District is asking voters to approve a $190 million non-recurring referendum to fund operational expenses over the next five years. If passed, the measure would raise property taxes by $35 annually for every $100,000 of property value, supporting teacher salaries, educational programs, school security upgrades, and smaller class sizes.

In Kenosha, contests include races for County Board Supervisor District 5 and seats on the Kenosha Unified School Board. Several Kenosha County school districts, including Salem and Silver Lake J1, are presenting referendums seeking increased funding for educational initiatives.

Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

Voters can find their polling locations and sample ballots at MyVote Wisconsin.