LaSalle County officials have proposed a budget of $425,513 for the upcoming fiscal year, reflecting a 4.25% increase primarily driven by the costs associated with two elections scheduled for 2025. The budget discussions, held on September 15, 2025, highlighted several key areas of expenditure that will directly impact the county's election processes and administrative functions.

One of the most significant changes in the budget is the increase in professional services, which will rise by $54,000 to support site operations during the elections. This includes costs for ballots and election judge expenses, with the base pay for election judges set to increase to $300. The county is also preparing for additional costs related to maintenance and software for new voter registration systems, which will begin in 2026.

The budget also outlines a $10,000 increase in overtime expenses, reflecting the additional staffing needs for the two elections. Other notable increases include $11,000 for rental costs of polling places and $400 for rental equipment, as well as a $300 rise in PO box fees. These adjustments underscore the county's commitment to ensuring a smooth electoral process.

In addition to the election-related expenses, the budget includes provisions for the county clerk's records fund, which has seen a decrease in overall expenses by 18%. This reduction is attributed to lower travel costs and adjustments in office supplies and equipment. The total request for this fund stands at $37,003.50.

The automation fund remains stable, with a total budget of $9,500, while projected revenues from processing fees are expected to contribute to the county's financial health. The county anticipates receiving $98,000 for the new voter registration system, which will help offset some of the costs associated with the elections.

As LaSalle County prepares for a busy election year, these budgetary decisions reflect a proactive approach to managing resources effectively while ensuring that the electoral process remains accessible and efficient for all residents. The next steps will involve finalizing these budget proposals and confirming the necessary funding to support the county's election infrastructure.