Hinsdale board adopts switch from appropriations ordinance to budget-officer system to streamline budgeting

The Village of Hinsdale approved replacing the existing appropriations-ordinance framework with the Illinois budget officer system, a statutory option trustees said is more consistent with suburban municipalities and will reduce duplicative year‑end procedures. Village staff explained the appropriations ordinance model requires an extra formal ordinance to set legal spending limits after the annual budget process. Under the budget officer system, the board must still adopt a budget before the fiscal year begins and hold a public hearing, but the village manager will be designated the budget officer with delegated authority to adjust line items during the year. The ordinance adopted by trustees adds an internal check: transfers between departments will require the village president’s approval, and fund-level changes still require board approval. Proponents said the change aligns Hinsdale with neighboring municipalities, preserves public transparency requirements and should cut administrative duplication. Trustees also noted the village’s existing checks — department approvals and an electronic workflow in the financial system — will remain in place. The board approved the item as part of the consent agenda. The ordinance also updated administrative references such as current check-signing practice, confirming warrants are signed by the village manager and the president. Staff said the change is intended to make the village’s budget process more flexible while meeting statutory requirements for public hearings and publication. Trustees moved the measure on the consent agenda; the consent block was approved by roll call vote.