Rivers Casino Tax Revenue, TIF Districts, Sewer Water Improvements, More Discussed at Des Plaines Budget Meeting

Aldermen and city staff continued annual budget discussions at the second of three annual hearings at city hall on Thursday. Hot topics included some of the tax increment financing districts, also known as TIF’S, how to spend gaming tax revenue, software purchases more.

A copy of the City of Des Plaines 2013 proposed budget is on the city’s website. Here are a few of the items, with page numbers, that impelled discussion at the meeting.

Parking Fee Collection Machine Replacement, $68,200, Page 241

The new machines would be able to accept credit and debit cards, smartphone payments, city debit cards and cash for a transaction fee of 37 cents, according to the proposed budget.

Ellinwood Streetscaping Improvements, $200,000, Page 242

This funding request calls for streetscaping improvements along Ellinwood Street. Sixth Ward Alderman Mark Walsten said he would prefer waiting until a developer was committed to the area, and able to coordinate a plan, before completing the project.

Security Cameras Installed in the Metropolitan Square and Library Parking Garages, $210,000, Page 243

First Ward Alderman Patricia Haugeberg said residents that live in Metropolitan Square would appreciate the camera installation. Budgeting for cameras was approved for both locations at $210,000.

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