The Village of Westmont on Nov. 20 adopted a $120,050,278 fiscal year 2026 budget that emphasizes capital projects, including an estimated $24 million–$27 million new South-end fire station, and approved related property tax levies for the village and a Special Service Area.

Finance Director Altik told the board the proposed aggregate levy for the village is $11,299,022 and characterized the request as a 4.89% levy figure presented because the county has not finalized new construction credits; he said the typical resident will likely see about a 2.9% increase, roughly $30 in additional tax burden next year. "The proposed aggregate levy before you tonight, is for the village is $11,299,022," Altik said. He also said the levy, once county adjustments are known, will likely result in roughly a 3.21% change over last year.

Trustee Gina Perrelli was the lone trustee to oppose raising the levy. "I just have a hard time raising any type of tax levy in my opinion," Perrelli said, adding she was concerned about Illinois' combined state and local tax burden. The motion to determine the proposed aggregate levy carried by majority vote; the roll call recorded yes votes from most trustees and a recorded 'no' from Perrelli.

The board also approved the proposed aggregate levy for Westmont Special Service Area 2, which the finance director said would provide fire services to the Liberty Park neighborhood with a proposed levy increase of 4.99% for collection in 2026. Perrelli again registered a 'no' vote on principle, and the levy passed by majority vote.

Board members then approved the budget resolution to adopt the full fiscal 2026 plan. Altik described the budget as capital-focused and noted that property taxes fund only a portion of core services: "It funds just a little over 50% or 54% of the cost to provide those core services," he said, citing public safety, retirement benefits and insurance as examples. The adopted budget also includes a proposal to reduce the telecommunications tax rate from 6% to 5% for 2026.

The budget resolution passed by roll call vote. The board will move next into the bond-issuance timetable discussed at the meeting: the village plans an ordinance of intent on Jan. 22, a public hearing in February and a parameters ordinance on March 5 if it proceeds with borrowing to fund identified capital projects.