Geneva City Council approved more changes to its 2025 proposed budget this week implementing a 5% tax levy increase over the previous year and setting the new tax rate at $12.15 per $1,000 of assessed value. The $20.9 million General Fund budget includes a tax levy totaling $8.85 million, reflecting a balance of operational needs and financial constraints.
In response to rising costs and shifting revenues, Council made several cuts to the proposed budget. Notable reductions include the elimination of funding for lakefront shade structure repairs, the removal of a safety coordinator position, and a reduction in the tree removal budget by 50%. Funding for code enforcement software, tree inventory initiatives, and additional police and fire equipment were also cut. Additionally, staff training and grant-writing resources saw scaled-back funding, while workforce attrition strategies were implemented to keep two vacancies open throughout 2025.
A projected increase of $200,000 in sales tax revenue provided some flexibility to offset the cuts. However, City Manager Amie M. Hendrix emphasized the need for ongoing fiscal discipline, noting that the budget will continue to serve as a guiding document that reflects Geneva’s long-term goals.
“I am extremely grateful to the department heads and staff who developed fiscally responsible plans that ensure continuity in Geneva’s services,” Hendrix said. She acknowledged the challenges posed by fluctuating revenues and expressed appreciation for the Council’s support of measures to explore shared services and alternative strategies.
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