During a recent government meeting, officials discussed key budgetary adjustments for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting changes across various funds and the implications for local taxpayers.

The recycling fund is set to see a fee increase from $15 to $17 per quarter to address a 6% rise in operational expenses at the recycling center. This adjustment aims to maintain the fund's financial stability. Similarly, the library fund will receive an additional $7,000, or a 1.1% increase in property tax allocation, ensuring continued service provision while adhering to a policy of maintaining a 2% fund balance by the end of 2025.

Significant changes were noted in the health fund, which is facing staffing adjustments due to the expiration of various grants, including those from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Further discussions on these adjustments are anticipated in upcoming workshops.

The meeting also addressed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocations, which include $18,000 for a handrail project, $11,200 for pedestrian crossing improvements, and $10,000 for the adult program coordinator position. Additionally, the school police fund will see a reduction of approximately $60,000 in property tax allocation, thanks to a new contribution from Martin Luther High School for school resource officers.

The tourism and event fund is projected to decrease by about $21,000 due to staffing adjustments and reduced overtime costs related to road closures. However, an increase in welcome center revenues is expected, with a budgeted amount of $75,100 for 2025, reflecting a successful strategy to enhance merchandise offerings.

Overall, the total change in property taxes across all funds is estimated at 1.72%. This increase is primarily attributed to debt service levies, as operational tax increases remain limited under state regulations. The village's tax rate is set to decrease from $6.57 to $6.31 per $1,000 of assessed value, although residential properties may experience varying impacts on their tax bills depending on individual assessment changes.

As the budget process continues, two committee workshops are scheduled for November 6 and November 12, where further discussions and refinements to the budget will take place.