Dalton Village Board Schedules Public Hearing for Budget Discussion on August 15

During the Village of Dolton's Regular Board Meeting held on August 4, 2025, key discussions centered around the upcoming budget, insurance coverage, and community relations. The meeting highlighted the village's commitment to transparency and community engagement, particularly regarding the budget process.

The board announced that a draft of the budget will be made available to the public on August 5, 2025, both at the clerk's office and on the village website. A public hearing is scheduled for mid-August, where residents will have the opportunity to review the budget line by line and provide feedback. This approach aims to ensure that community members can voice their concerns and suggestions before the budget is finalized and voted on in September. The board acknowledged that they are behind schedule, as the budget was originally due by July 31, but emphasized the importance of thorough review and community input.

In addition to budget discussions, the board addressed improvements in insurance coverage. The village has successfully increased its coverage limits from $3 million to $5 million, with an option for additional excess coverage. This enhancement is significant as it provides better protection for the village's assets and operations.

The meeting also touched on the importance of fostering unity within the community. The mayor spoke candidly about recent tensions and the need for forgiveness and understanding among residents. He encouraged a spirit of cooperation and emphasized the role of village leaders as peacemakers. The mayor's remarks highlighted the challenges of community dynamics and the necessity of maintaining a positive atmosphere, especially in light of ongoing issues such as cyberbullying.

As the meeting concluded, the board moved into executive session to discuss disciplinary and litigation matters, indicating ongoing efforts to address internal governance issues. The discussions from this meeting reflect the village's proactive stance on financial management and community relations, setting the stage for future developments in Dolton.