Shorewood board reviews $150,000 organizational study, staffing and capital priorities ahead of 2027 budget

The Village of Shorewood board discussed major budget planning items and capital priorities during an Oct. meeting, focusing on a proposed $150,000 organizational study that officials said is intended to inform decisions for the 2027 budget cycle.

Trustees and staff said the study — described in the packet as an organizational or government-operations review — is expected to be completed in 2026 so its findings can be used in 2027 budget deliberations. Trustee comments repeatedly raised the point that purchases that could be affected by the study’s recommendations (for example, changes to service levels or organizational structure) should be considered for delay until the review is complete.

The board discussed filling an assistant village manager position included in the draft budget. Trustees heard the position is budgeted at about $133,000 including salary and benefits; the presenter said the village hopes to select a candidate this month with a likely November start, so part of the salary would appear in the 2025 budget. Some trustees said they opposed a blanket hiring freeze; others said targeted hiring pauses could be discussed as part of overall cost management.

Finance items and transparency initiatives drew attention. A…