It isn’t always easy to get citizens involved in a municipality’s budget process, but the city Elgin is trying hard to make it easier and even a little bit fun.

“Budget On-the-Go” is new series of informal meetings where those present can hear from city staff, share what’s important to them and ask staff questions about how Elgin invests its money each year.

With the 2020 budget discussions under way, community members are invited to attend any of these meetings around Elgin to share their priorities for the upcoming budget.

The meetings are scheduled as follows:

• 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12 — “Budget & Brews” at Paul’s Family Restaurant, 1300 Lawrence Ave. (Coffee provided!)
• 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21 — “Budget & Brews” at Lounge 51, Dream Hall, 51 S. Grove Ave. (Coffee provided!)
• 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3 — “Let’s Taco ‘Bout the Budget” at The Haight, 166 Symphony Way (Tacos provided!)

The purpose of these Budget On-the-Go meetings is to provide venues outside of City Hall, where members of the community can come talk and gain an understanding of how their tax dollars are spent to support things that help make Elgin a safe and vibrant community.

“We look forward to getting out into the community to talk about the budget, educate our residents and business owners on the city’s investments, gather input and answer questions,” said City Manager Rick Kozal. “You don’t need to be subject matter expert to share your ideas for Elgin.”

Elgin City Council will adopt the 2020 budget on Dec. 18, 2019. Residents are encouraged to provide their feedback prior to the budget’s adoption. The 2020 Proposed Budget document is available here.

For more information, please contact Communications Manager Molly Gillespie at 847-931-5613 or visit www.cityofelgin.org/budget.

2020 Proposed Budget

Read the 2020 Proposed Budget and Financial Plan to learn about how the City builds the budget, how the budget benefits tax payers, where your tax dollars go, and more.