After multiple meetings, Geneva City Council adopted a 2026 budget at its meeting this week.
Council approved by a 6-3 vote a nearly $22.95 million general fund budget, while also approving water and sewer and workers’ compensation budgets, resulting in an overall budget of about $33.16 million. Democrats Chris Lavin, John Brennan, and Ahmad Whitfield voted against the spending plan.
As part of the final adoption, Council made a few targeted additions that increase funding for City operations, including support for additional equipment and 1.5 FTE in police officer positions. The tax levy stands at about $9.2 million for 2026, compared to 2025’s $8.8 million, a 4.54% increase. The tax rate for 2026 is $12.71 per assessed $1,000, from $12.16 in 2025. That’s a 4.3% hike.
City Manager Amie Hendrix released this statement upon approval of the spending plan:
“As I stated during the initial budget launch, this is not a budget focused on growth and development; it is a budget focused on maintaining the current infrastructure, services, and programming of the city. There are still important needs ahead, and that’s part of the ongoing story of managing limited resources while pursuing big goals. I have continued to be impressed by how our staff and community partners find ways to make things work, to innovate, and to serve with heart despite the challenges of being a small and aging city. We may not be able to do it all, but we will do all we can with the resources that are available.
“With the budget now adopted, our focus as a staff will shift from planning to doing for 2026 while continuing to plan for 2027 and beyond. Our team members will continue to turn their work programs (which can be found in the budget book) into reality, as they continue to deliver the services and programs that make Geneva safe, welcoming, and vibrant. If you have questions about these plans, the spending ahead for 2026, or any other City item, please feel free to reach out.
“I am proud to work alongside a team of remarkable staff and passionate community members as we move from plans on paper to continued progress for the City of Geneva.”
You can view the budget by clicking here
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