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Hainesville trustees review 2026–27 draft budget, flag SSA shortfall and fourth-well costs
Summary
Trustees reviewed the third draft of the May 2026–April 2027 budget, questioned a $28,000 SSA tree-removal line and recurring SSA shortfalls, and discussed timing of loan draws and invoices for the village's fourth well ahead of a public appropriation hearing.
Trustees at the Village of Hainesville’s March 24 meeting reviewed the third draft of the 2026–27 budget and requested additional information on several contingency items.
Finance staff presented the budget cover sheet and fund snapshots, explaining that one-time projects can make single fiscal years appear ‘‘over budget’’ even though funds are available. Trustees pressed on a $28,000 line described as SSA tree removal; staff said the SSA fund could not cover the full cost this year and the village planned to use general-fund reserves to cover the difference, while also planting 20 replacement trees in the SSA area.
Board members discussed recurring shortfalls in the SSA (special service area) and whether the tax levy for SSA should be increased. Finance staff said the SSA’s estimated year-end balance is $21,937 and that the planned SSA levy request is $25,200; in past years the board has left the levy unchanged and used general-fund balances to smooth costs.
Trustees also asked for updates on the fourth well project. Staff said the village received an initial ComEd bill (about $22,000) for electric work, has been approved for a loan and has taken a first draw; further contractor invoice timing depends on completion of the well pad and associated work and could arrive over the next one to three months. The budget currently allocates funds in both the current and next fiscal year to accommodate uncertain draws.
The manager said the next formal step is an appropriation-ordinance public hearing at the next board meeting; staff will post the appropriation ordinance and budget documents for public review before that hearing.
The board did not adopt the appropriation ordinance at the March 24 meeting but proceeded with related personnel and contract votes during the session.
