Casey Council Meeting.2

Casey Council Approves $33.27 Million Appropriation Plan for FY 2026

The Casey City Council on Monday gave its final approval to a $33.27 million appropriation ordinance for the 2026 fiscal year. The spending plan, which sets the legal limit for city expenditures, is heavily weighted with funds for major infrastructure projects, grant-dependent initiatives, and pass-through federal dollars.

The council formally adopted the ordinance during its regular meeting following a public hearing held just prior, where finance committee members detailed the extensive plan. Officials were quick to point out that the large total appropriation figure does not represent the city’s actual operating budget.

“Our budget is basically 80% of what this is,” a finance committee member explained. He noted that the appropriation includes funding for numerous grants the city has applied for but may not receive. “Just because it has to be appropriated before it can be done, it doesn’t have to be done just because it’s appropriated. If we don’t have the funds, you don’t have to spend it.”

A significant portion of the appropriations is for one-time capital projects. This includes $1.8 million to extend city utilities across Interstate 70, a critical step for future development. Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs confirmed that the water and sewer line extensions are moving forward first. The plan also contains a $1.6 million pass-through appropriation for work at the Casey Municipal Airport, which is primarily funded by a federal grant that the city administers.

Another major item is a potential $1.6 million sewer relining project. This work is contingent on the city securing a CPF grant; if awarded, the city’s required local match would be $320,000, which has been appropriated.

The plan also addresses city infrastructure and blight. The council appropriated $293,750 for the abatement of dangerous properties, an issue of growing importance. During the hearing, Alderman Marcy Mumford questioned if the amount would be sufficient, given the high cost of demolishing large buildings. Council members acknowledged it would not cover every needed demolition but would allow them to address the highest-priority properties.

Funds are also set aside for renovations at City Hall, including security upgrades for the collector’s office. These costs, totaling over $65,000, were split between the water and electric utility funds. A $300,000 contingency fund is also included in the General Fund for unforeseen emergencies, though officials noted it is rarely used.

Following the public hearing, which had no public comment, the council reconvened for its regular session and passed Ordinance #587, formally adopting the appropriations for the fiscal year that begins May 1, 2025.

Latest News Stories

City Council Part 1

City Council Meeting Video Part 1

https://youtu.be/bWEJPtq8Qh0?si=YzFeP3sk_tT3x111
City Council Part 2

City Council Meeting Video Part 2

https://youtu.be/6X23vHI3_D4?si=dXRZcsNn0oGW6wWN
Casey Westfield Warriors.3

Casey-Westfield Dominates Dakota 10-0 Behind Goble’s Complete Game Shutout

Casey-Westfield bounced back from a heartbreaking semifinal loss with a dominant 10-0 third-place victory over Dakota June 7th, ending their exceptional season on a high note behind Ava Goble's complete...

About Casey Local

Community-Focused & Engaging About Casey Local: Keeping Casey Informed, Connected & Collaborative! Hello, Casey! Casey Local is your dedicated local news and information source, built to bring our community closer together...

About Us!

About Casey's Big Things: Your Pocket Guide to Casey! Welcome to Casey, Illinois, the small town with BIG surprises! We created Casey's Big Things to be your ultimate companion as you explore...
Casey Council Meeting.2

Casey Approves Major Park Recreation Project, Hires Firm to Find New Utilities Chief

The Casey City Council unanimously approved a comprehensive park recreation project costing up to $339,041.78 at Monday's meeting, moving forward with improvements that will enhance the city's recreational facilities. City...
Casey Council Meeting.1

Casey in Action Secures $40,000 Grant for Park Walking Path

Casey in Action received a $40,000 grant from the Lumpkin Foundation to support the second phase of a walking path project in the city park, representatives told the City Council...
City Council Meeting Briefs.Blue

Casey Council Briefs

Economic Development Initiatives: The Economic Development Committee met May 8 to discuss several initiatives including a Tourism Director position, Freedom Fest planning, a Business District Grant program, and participation in...
Casey Westfield Warriors.2

Warriors Advance to Face Red Devils on 14-Game Win Streak

The Casey-Westfield Warriors will face the Sesser-Valier/Waltonville Red Devils at 4:30 p.m. Monday, riding a 14-game winning streak into the playoff matchup. Casey-Westfield advanced with a 1-0 shutout victory over...
Casey Council Meeting.2

Casey City Council Awards Sidewalk Contract, Approves Utility Rate Increases

The Casey City Council unanimously approved awarding a $62,502 sidewalk construction contract to Wallace Concrete at Monday's meeting, accepting the low bid from among several proposals reviewed by city staff....
Casey Council Meeting.1

Utilities Chief Announces December Retirement; Police Department Adds Officer

Casey Utility Superintendent Shelby Biggs announced at Monday's city council meeting that he will retire on December 31, 2025, ending his tenure overseeing the city's water, sewer, and electric operations....
City Council Meeting Briefs.Purple

Casey Council Meeting Briefs

July 4th Planning Begins: City Clerk Jeremy Mumford reminded the council that planning for the 4th of July celebration needs to begin soon. Mayor Mike Nichols asked the Downtown Improvement/Festivals...
Casey Westfield School Board.1

Casey-Westfield Board Approves Major Technology Upgrades, Facility Improvements

The Casey-Westfield School Board approved significant technology and facility upgrades totaling more than $76,000 during Monday's meeting, while also addressing multiple personnel changes as the district prepares for summer construction...
Casey Westfield School Board.2

Casey-Westfield Students Excel in Academics and Community Service

Casey-Westfield students demonstrated exceptional achievement across multiple areas while participating in unique educational experiences and community service initiatives, according to administrator reports from Monday's board meeting. High school students received...
Casey Westfield School Board.3

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING BRIEFS

Summer Construction Planned: Major facility improvements begin after Memorial Day, with cafeterias closed June 2-17 for asbestos abatement and Agriculture/Industrial Arts Building without power for electrical upgrades. State Track Qualifiers:...