GENESEO — Budget overruns on several public works projects prompted discussion at Tuesday night’s Geneseo City Council meeting, where aldermen reviewed rising engineering costs and future planning needs.

Alderman Craig Arnold raised concerns about multiple projects exceeding estimates, including the Chicago Street project, now $42,394 over budget and the pedestrian bridge over Geneseo Creek, which has also surpassed its original cost. To prevent similar issues, the council agreed to incorporate a 20% contingency into future engineering proposals.

Council members also revisited the passenger rail project, which is now fully funded and includes Geneseo as a proposed stop. The city plans to meet with IDOT this summer and conduct a community survey before determining whether to move forward. A final decision is expected by late 2026 or early 2027.

In other business, the council discussed ongoing efforts to recruit additional police officers, with a working group preparing recommendations to boost applicant numbers.

Additional updates included:

–The Ford Road lift station must be operational by year’s end.
The recent art walk drew strong participation, and 405 tickets were sold for the wine walk, which featured 28 businesses.

–Michael Chavez was sworn in as the new Ward 2 alderman, filling the seat vacated by James Roodhouse.

–The Richmond Hill well requires only routine maintenance.
A $50,000 revolving loan was approved for DeSplinter Electric to build a parking area, with Bank Orion providing an additional $50,000 toward the project.