Chicago Construction News staff writer
City of Evanston staff will present the 2025 proposed budget at a public hearing Oct. 28 with a hybrid virtual and in-person format.
The proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget includes spending of $342,151,643. This amount represents a $13.4 million decrease from the 2024 Adopted Budget, primarily due to large-scale capital projects like the water intake replacement project moving closer to completion and a reduction in federal ARPA spending.
A substantial Capital Improvement Program (CIP) will also be discussed and prioritized throughout the budget approval process with the City Council.
“Our 2025 Proposed Budget reflects our commitment to a healthy and thriving Evanston while delivering high-quality services to our residents,” said city manager Luke Stowe. “We look forward to discussing this proposal with the community and city council.”
In Fall 2023, the City Council approved a new Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) between the City of Evanston and Northwestern University. Among the many components of the CBA is a $3 million annual contribution to the Good Neighbor Fund for fifteen years beginning in 2024. Of that $3 million, $1 million will be directed to Affordable Housing, and $500,000 will be directed towards sustainability efforts. The budget proposes to transfer the remaining $1.5 million to the General Fund to cover operating expenses
Capital Improvement Plan
The city’s 2025 Proposed Budget includes a $86.8 million Capital Improvement Plan. The proposed capital spending amounts for Council consideration are as follows:
