Villa Park is in a strong financial position today, but maintaining that stability while ensuring continued growth and improvement requires strategic planning and fiscal responsibility. As I’ve spent significant time reviewing the most recent financial audit, I see clear opportunities to position our village for long-term success.
With key challenges ahead—like the elimination of the grocery tax in 2026, rising pension liabilities, and the need for continued infrastructure investment—we need a proactive approach that strengthens our financial resilience while keeping Villa Park moving forward.
Key Areas of Focus & Action Plan
1. Replacing the Grocery Tax Revenue Without Increasing Burdens on Residents
- Economic growth needs to be the priority. By attracting new businesses, we can expand our commercial tax base and replace lost revenue.
- Leverage tax incentives and smart economic development strategies to keep Villa Park competitive and financially strong.
- Identify alternative funding sources and partnerships to reduce dependency on state and federal funds.
2. Investing in Infrastructure & Technology for a Modern Villa Park
- Continue strategic street planning and traffic flow improvements to support long-term growth.
- Expand digital services—we’ve made progress with the new village app and bill payment system, but we can do more to improve efficiency and transparency for residents.
- Explore public-private partnerships to fund major infrastructure upgrades without straining village finances.
3. Strengthening Public Safety & Managing Pension Liabilities Responsibly
- Sustainably manage growing pension obligations (now exceeding $45 million) while keeping our commitments to first responders.
- Advocate for pension reform at the state level to ensure a fairer system for municipalities.
- Maximize grant opportunities for police and fire services to keep public safety strong without putting pressure on the general budget.
4. Securing More Funding for Villa Park Beyond Our Borders
- Advocate in Springfield and Washington for additional investment in Villa Park’s infrastructure, safety, and development.
- Strengthen regional partnerships to ensure we receive our fair share of available funding and resources.
- Actively seek and apply for grants that fund key initiatives so we aren’t solely reliant on local revenue.
5. Long-Term Parks & Recreation Planning Based on Resident Input
- I’ve led multiple community meetings and surveys focused on parks and recreation improvements. Residents have been clear—they want continued investment.
- Create a long-term capital plan that ensures steady, strategic growth for our parks.
- Explore corporate sponsorships and outside funding to enhance public spaces without increasing tax burdens.
6. Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility & Smart Growth
- Diversify revenue sources so Villa Park remains financially strong even if outside funding becomes limited.
- Maintain full transparency in budgeting and spending to ensure residents know where tax dollars are going.
- Plan beyond the next budget cycle—we need a vision for 10, 20, and 30 years down the line, not just the next fiscal year.
Moving Villa Park Forward
Villa Park has room to grow, and with the right strategy, we can make it happen in a way that benefits everyone.
This isn’t just about maintaining—it’s about building something better, together. I will continue working to ensure Villa Park is financially strong, well-managed, and positioned for long-term success.
If you have thoughts, questions, or ideas, I want to hear them. Resident input has always shaped our biggest projects, and I plan to keep it that way. Let’s make sure Villa Park’s future is as strong as its past.
This is what transparency looks like with strategic leadership.
- Jorge
