Lisle trustees debate FY 2025–26 budget priorities, from police staffing and fleet to possible tax abatement; staff to update forecast before hearing

Trustees at the Village of Lisle Committee of the Whole on March 3 discussed a range of proposed changes to the FY 2025–26 budget, including new police positions, fleet replacements, building repairs and a possible property‑tax abatement. Village staff will update the budget and long‑term financial forecast and return to the board at the public hearing scheduled March 17 with cost estimates and an abatement ordinance for the board to consider.

Mayor Piesack said the village’s fiscal position supports returning some revenue to taxpayers and proposed a $1 million property‑tax abatement, arguing Lisle’s recent sales‑tax surpluses and high fund balances made the move feasible. "We can afford to give our taxpayers a break. It's the right thing to do," the mayor said. Trustees disagreed on scale and timing; several favored paying down the police pension or keeping reserves for critical infrastructure instead.

Major budget items discussed

- Police staffing: Staff proposed in the draft budget three additional sworn officer positions and one civilian position. Trustees and the manager agreed to include those positions in the packet…