Peoria City Council proposes $62M budget with new tax auditor and prosecutors

The Peoria City Council held a budget study session on March 26, 2025, focusing on key financial allocations and departmental needs for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting highlighted a proposed budget of approximately $62 million for various administration departments, primarily funded through the general fund and service charges.

City officials discussed several notable additions to the budget. A significant proposal includes hiring a tax auditor to ensure that all residents are contributing their fair share of taxes, which is expected to provide a return on investment. Additionally, the budget reflects the conversion of a trial municipal security guard position into a full-time role, enhancing public safety services.

The council also addressed the need for two additional assistant city prosecutors in response to the growing demands on the city’s legal system. This increase is aimed at improving public safety and managing the rising volume of cases in the courts.

Furthermore, the city is in the second year of implementing a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, which is essential for modernizing operations. The transition to a Microsoft 365 enterprise agreement was also discussed, emphasizing the city's commitment to upgrading its software infrastructure.

Overall, the budget study session underscored Peoria's focus on enhancing public services and ensuring efficient management of city resources as it continues to grow. The council will review these proposals further as they prepare for the final budget approval.