City Matters: Galesburg tax rate drops; 2 blighted properties face demo

City Manager Eric Hanson joined Galesburg's Morning News to preview the Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, Galesburg City Council meeting — here’s what’s on the table: Property Taxes (1st Reading): The city wants $10.87 million in 2025 taxes — that’s 4% more total dollars than last year, but thanks to rising property values, the city’s tax rate drops to ~$2.35 per $100 (lowest since 2008). Most goes to police/fire pensions and 18.6% is locked for the library. Rate & Fee Changes (Final Vote): Small increases coming Jan 1 for recreation programs, business licenses, and trash pickup — all to help balance the 2026 budget. Downtown Special Tax (1st Reading): Extends the extra $1.50 per $100 tax on downtown properties to keep funding sidewalks, events, and maintenance for another 10 years. Two Blighted Properties Up for Purchase: → 566 Hawthorne Court – Buying for $813 from Knox County. Vacant since 2008, falling apart, rodents. Demolition already ordered. → 1217 S. Pearl St. – $10,000 deal for a residence on the southeast corner of Pearl and Fifth streets, across from H.T. Custer Park. Owner gone since 2024. Trespassing, illegal tree cutting, weeds. Plan: demolish house, expand park green space. In the City Manager’s Report: 📋 2026 Budget soon available for public review at City Hall or online 🔧 Capital Improvement Plan Update – latest priorities for streets, water mains, and city buildings Tonight at 6 p.m. 📍 Council Chambers | 55 W. Tompkins St. 📺 Live: ci.galesburg.il.us | Comcast Channel 7 [widget id="custom_html-249"]