Gurnee staff propose $20.1 million FY2026 capital plan; flags water‑main 'cliff' and long vehicle lead times

At the Jan. 6 Gurnee Village Board meeting, staff presented a proposed fiscal year 2026 capital plan totaling $20.1 million and a nearly $80 million five‑year capital program that prioritizes transportation resurfacing, water and sewer work and vehicle and equipment replacements.

The proposed FY2026 spending is split roughly as transportation $9.4 million (47%), water and sewer $5.0 million (25%), vehicles and equipment $3.2 million (16%) and buildings and technology about $2.0 million (10%). Staff said the five‑year capital plan is funded primarily on a “pay‑as‑you‑go” basis from the capital improvement fund, home‑rule sales tax (half of which is dedicated to capital), restricted funds such as motor fuel tax and police restricted revenues, general‑fund excess balances and water‑and‑sewer rates. The village also continues to seek grants and has used limited financing for specific projects.

Pat (staff member) and Brian (staff member) briefed trustees on project lists and funding assumptions, stressing the proposal is an initial staff draft and that trustees will consider adjustments through March budget hearings. Brian said the village has applied for roughly $10…