The Galesburg City Council will meet in a work session tonight to continue talks about the city’s upcoming budget for 2016.
Currently, the council faces a near $1 Million operational deficit—a number Mayor John Pritchard has said is likely to change as decisions are made in upcoming meetings.
Police and Firefighter pensions could play into those decisions. Under recommendation by City Manager Todd Thompson, the city would contribute roughly $1.3 Million more than what it has been paying into the system previously.
Various council members discussed a different option at a work session this past June. Ideas were discussed to alter that proposal, by paying five percent, or $168,000 above the current mark. Council has not voted on the issue.
Meanwhile, aldermen will also discuss moving forward with a community interest initiative through the Vermont-based Orton Family Foundation. The programming, which is being presented in correlation with the Galesburg Community Foundation, would impose its “Heart and Soul” initiative.
Fundamentals include community planning and development practices that are designed to increase participation in local decision-making and reconnect citizens with their community.
Council meets tonight in the Erickson Conference Room in City Hall at 5:30.
