Local governments approve new municipal budgets

Local governments in the United States are moving forward with new fiscal plans. In Woodstock, voters approved a $786,720 budget for the Public Library District. The 2027 spending plan includes a 5.69% tax levy increase, which officials noted is necessary to cover higher operating costs at the new Dixon Avenue building, increased utility expenses, and competitive wages for staff.

In Wildwood, commissioners have held an initial vote on a $228 million annual budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year. While the budget slashes overall expenditures by 18.5% compared to the previous year—partly due to progress on wastewater treatment plant costs—public safety spending is projected to rise by 27% to fund additional police officers. The budget's implementation faces potential uncertainty due to an upcoming statewide property tax referendum regarding homestead credits.