During a recent government meeting, officials presented the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting a balanced budget for the tenth consecutive year. Total revenues for the general fund are projected at $24,002,795, reflecting an increase of approximately $740,000 from the previous year. This growth is attributed to rises in property tax, sales tax, income tax, and the newly introduced home rule sales tax, alongside the elimination of vehicle stickers.

Expenditures for the general fund are estimated at $24,200,795, marking an increase of about $922,000, primarily due to salary increases, the addition of civilian paramedics, and an EMS coordinator in the fire department. The budget anticipates a reserve of 46% by the end of 2025, equating to just over five and a half months of operating expenses.

In the water and sewer operating fund, revenues and expenses are both projected at approximately $9,200,000. A rate increase for water and sewer services is expected, with adjustments of 50 cents per 1,000 gallons for water and varying rates for sewer services. The fund balance is anticipated to exceed $2.5 million, surpassing the 25% threshold of expenses.

The capital improvement plan includes significant investments, with revenue sources such as a $1.5 million home rule sales tax and $11.5 million in IEPA loan proceeds earmarked for various infrastructure projects, including water main replacements and lead service line replacements.

Additionally, the parking lot operating fund is expected to generate a surplus of $130,000, with plans to purchase the metro 19 parking garage and receive lease payments from an adjacent apartment complex. Despite ongoing challenges with ridership and permit sales, daily parking fees have surpassed pre-pandemic levels.

Officials emphasized the importance of reorganizing departments to enhance customer service, particularly through the creation of a development and engineering services department aimed at streamlining permit processes. The meeting concluded with a commitment to invest $25 million in infrastructure, including a doubled budget for street improvements, signaling a strong focus on community development moving forward.