Lake Geneva · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lake Geneva public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Cemetery Stewardship Fund creation
Cemetery fees are going up — plots here cost hundreds while Chicago-area cemeteries charge tens of thousands. A cemetery stewardship fund (a more flexible perpetual care fund) goes to the cemetery board October 26.
2027 Budgets and Capital Improvement Planning
The city's annual budget process has begun, which ultimately shapes property taxes and city services, including library funding.
Highway 50 Construction Revenue Risk
The state is rebuilding Highway 50, and the city pays a proportional share. The updated agreements raised the city's cost to $1.18 million after adding the Hillmoor path, an extra flashing beacon, and colored signal poles. Taxpayers will cover it through future borrowing.
2027 Hillmoor operating and capital budgets
The Commission has to decide which Hillmoor projects to recommend for the city's next three-year bond: the south loop trail, dog park relocation, ecological restoration of the oak forest, river access, and possibly a splash pad. Final choices come September 10.
Tourism promotional grant awards
Ald. Fesenmaier asked whether the city could plan a multi-year tourism-grant approach to astroturfing Vets Park fields that host weekend tournaments; the presenter noted repairs to municipal property typically fall to general funds.
Tourism Grant Guide parameters
An 8% tax paid by visitors funds tourism promotion (70% by state law) while 30% — about $741,000 in 2025 — goes to the city's general fund. Understanding the split matters as the council debates tourism grants and big projects like YMCA field turf.
Heavy plow and bucket truck replacement timing
Emissions-related engine changes could make next year's bucket truck and heavy plow 16–35% more expensive. Pre-ordering this year could save $35,000–$50,000 on one plow, and the full purchase request comes in June.
Leftover 2026 bond funds for capital projects
About $645,000 in leftover bond money must be spent by year-end. Staff proposes a second columbarium, a police K9, an ADA fire safety trailer, security cameras, and a parks utility vehicle, with decisions due at the next meeting.