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Willow Springs board reviews tentative 2025 budget, including $5.8M starting capital fund
Summary
Village Administrator Grace presented a tentative 2025 operating and capital budget that establishes a capital fund starting balance of about $5.8 million, proposes a $1.5 million transfer for capital improvements, seeks to add a third corporal to the police force, and schedules a final budget hearing for Dec. 12.
Administrator Grace presented the village’s tentative 2025 operating budget at the Oct. 24 Willow Springs Village Board meeting, distributing a cover memo and a budget schedule that leads to a Dec. 12 public hearing and final vote.
“Attached is the tentative 2025 operating budget for the village of Willow Springs,” Grace said, noting that the packet includes the first formal capital budget the village will adopt. She said the capital fund’s opening balance is “just over $5,800,000,” comprised of fund balance and transfers from the operating fund.
Grace outlined several key proposals in the draft: a proposed $1,500,000 transfer from the operating budget to the new capital fund for improvements; elimination of funding for a part‑time front‑office position vacated in January 2024; and staffing and equipment changes in public safety and public works. On public safety she said the operating budget includes promoting a corporal (creating a third corporal position), which would raise total sworn officers from 13 to 14 and require filling the vacated officer rank. The draft also anticipates a small vehicle purchase program and continued sewer system investments focused on I&I (inflow and infiltration) compliance and lift‑station upgrades.
Grace emphasized the budget remains draft and may be adjusted prior to the Dec. 12 public hearing: “We have the ability to make changes all the way up until the final hearing.” President Nettemeyer added his support for the presentation and said the plan anticipates no tax increase while preserving or enhancing services.
What happens next: the board and staff may revise the draft in the coming weeks, and the village will hold a public budget hearing at 7 p.m. on Dec. 12, when the board will consider final approval.
