03/24/2003MINUTES
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
March 24, 2003
The village board met as a committee of the whole in the conference room of the village hall at 6:30
p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2003. In attendance were:
Village Board
Steven Harris, Mayor
Jerry Kayne, Trustee
Derek Ragona, Trustee
Harriet Rosenthal, Trustee
William Seiden, Trustee
Vernon Swanson, Trustee
Matthew Wylie, Trustee
2003-04 Proposed Budget
Staff
Robert D. Franz, Village Manager
John Sliozis, Chief of Police
Ellasion Phillips, Assistant Director of Finance
Barbara Little, Director of Public Works/Engineering
Diane Mikula, Assistant to the Village Manager
The manager opened the discussion noting that the rate increases proposed by staff would result in
modest revenue enhancements in the general, water and sewer funds. He reminded the board that
reserves have been used over the past several years with the full understanding that at some point a
new revenue source would be needed to fund future capital projects.
The board reviewed revised budgets for the water and sewer funds showing what projects might be
postponed and the impact of a hiring freeze. There was discussion on the wastewater treatment plant
and the need to study and evaluate potential connection to the North Shore Sanitary District. Initial
review suggests village rates are comparable to the regional sanitary districts in the area. A report will
be filed with the board.
The group reviewed equipment purchases and projects in the general fund which could be postponed in
order to avoid a property tax increase. The police department identified approximately $33,000 in
equipment deferrals.
Following much discussion, there was consensus to maintain the property tax at the same amount as
this year's levy, but increase both the sewer and water rates by 4%. Ordinances for these increases will
be ready for adoption as part of the overall budget. Two positions in the sewer division will not be
filed during the next fiscal year, representing savings of approximately $180,000. In the water fund,
the remote meter reading system will be dropped from the budget. The general fund will be reduced a
total of $104,000.
The board agreed to postpone any decisions regarding the chamber of commerce tourism committee
proposal, a new sculpture proposed by the Fine Arts Council and the pedestrian consultant
recommended by the Safety Council. These will be considered as more information becomes available
on them.
The meeting adjourned at 9:07 p.m.
Minutes prepared by: