Des Plaines approves $156 million budget, no levy hike

Des Plaines aldermen have formally approved a $156 million budget for 2015 that includes additional spending on road and sewer improvements and flood control upgrades.

Officials plan to spend $13 million more than last year due in large part to the design, engineering and construction of a pipe connecting to an alternative water source, reconstruction of River Road and replacement of a water main underneath the street, as well as other street and drainage improvements. Much of that work is being funded by gaming tax proceeds from Rivers Casino.

Des Plaines is expected to receive slightly more revenue next year due to additional sales and hotel tax proceeds.

The budget reflects no increase in the tax levy for the fourth consecutive year. Coupled with the library's levy, the overall city levy will decrease 0.32 percent, according to Finance Director Dorothy Wisniewski.