West Cook News

City of Northlake Budget Committee met Nov. 20

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Mayor Sherwin called the Budget Meeting to order at 6:00 pm.

PRESENT: ALDERMEN STRAUBE, FELDMANN, CONTRERAS, SOSA, JOHNSON, GROCHOWSKI AND PATTI

ABSENT: ALDERMAN URBINA

OTHERS PRESENT: JEFFREY T. SHERWIN, MAYOR 

NANCY PAULETTO, CITY CLERK 

CAROL LAMPARD, FINANCE DIRECTOR 

KEN BERES, CHIEF OF POLICE 

TONY FACIANO, SUPERINTENDENT PUBLIC WORKS

The council reviewed the proposed 2025 budget. Mayor Sherwin noted we are in good financial shape. The bond used for the police station in 2009 will be paid off four years early. 2028 instead of 2032, saving over $500,000. The infrastructure expenses are robust, but the budget shows one year when in fact the amount would include 2-3 years. This will be accomplished with the help of several grants the city has received. Also, there are funds in reserve. We have been able to increase the overweight trucking fee income as we now have more truck enforcement officers; and we had previously underestimated the dispensary income which goes directly into the Police Department pension fund, along with income from slot gaming in town.

For the 7th year in row there is no increase in the aggregate property tax levy.

Chief Beres stated the police budget had slight increases in some areas due mostly to new computer aided dispatch program, a records management system upgrade, and improved body cams. The department could also use a part-time dispatcher.

Tony Faciano noted that the department’s finances are mostly in line with the budget. The collective bargaining agreement is ongoing. They are looking at perhaps replacing a 1996 dump truck next year. Some labor costs have been cut by privatizing services such as street sweeping, leaf pickup, and branch pickup.

Alderman Straube made a motion to adjourn; seconded by Alderman Patti. Mayor Sherwin called for a voice vote. All were in favor. The motion carried.

BUDGET MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:18 pm

https://www.northlakecity.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BUDGET-WORKSHOP-NOVEMBER-20-2024.pdf