EAST PEORIA, Ill. — East Peoria is working on approving the fiscal city budget for 2020-2021.
Mayor John Kahl said it is important for the council to hear what the public has to say.
“It’s tax payer money for the most part,” Kahl said. “I think it’s important for them to share their opinion on everything from what we spend on streets, which unfortunately we are restricted on some regards on what we can use funds for. But, all these things that matter to them.”
Kahl said sometimes as an elected official when you seek input and don’t receive any, you have to use your best judgement.
“But, at the end of the day it may not be one they totally agree with,” he said.
When it comes to the work that has been put in for the budget, Kahl said he is proud.
“Through the course of having those working sessions, we’ve formulated a budget which we will bring forward March 17. It’s a balanced budget. Once again, is it perfect? You wish you had additional capital funds to use to buy more equipment, spend more on street maintenance,” Kahl said. “But, I think we’ve really done our due diligence on this budget.”
The East Peoria City Council Tuesday night approved a public hearing to be held Tuesday, March 17 at 6:00 p.m., at City Hall to allow the public to make comments on the budget.
Citizens can also reach out to the council privately.
“I understand if you want to come sit silently or you want to reach out by phone or email, we’d love to hear from anybody who has input,” Kahl said.
