Confident Elgin city manager presents 2010 budget

Elgin leaders dipped into their 2010 budget Wednesday with an overview of the city's $270 million spending plan as city staff members provided assurances that the city was on solid financial ground.

"The city is in excellent financial condition," said City Manager Sean Stegall. "It's reserves are strong, its debt obligations relatively low and the riverboat continues to provide the resources needed for the community."

The 2010 budget it reflects a 6 percent decrease compared to 2009's spending of $293.8 million.

The city has cut 80 positions in the last year via layoffs, attrition or early retirement, saving $8 million.

Some council members have suggested exploring using casino revenues for items other than capital improvements and one-time expenses.

The budget continues with major initiatives such as a downtown streetscape plan through 2014.

"As we work through the budget, it will be important to keep in mind the city must not sacrifice the future to ease the pain of the present," Stegall said. "A rejuvenated downtown, prospering business parks, and historic neighborhoods restored to their former glory did not happen by accident."

Stegall said the city must strive to break down barriers between departments so employees can be more efficient. He also said public-private partnerships are a must going forward and the city also must look into contracting with third parties to complete some tasks.

Wednesday's discussion was devoid of fireworks or controversy. Deeper deliberations are expected as the council resumes budget talks at 6 p.m. next Wednesday at city hall, 150 Dexter Court.

"The city has experienced challenges in the past and has prospered in spite of them and will continue to do as such. The city and the community must embrace the opportunities presented to it in order to emerge from this period of economic decline in a stronger position than when the downtown commenced," Stegall said. "This is the city's challenge."