Committee of the Whole Workshop: Police Budget Presentation – January 12, 2026

The Plainfield Village Board Committee of the Whole held a workshop on January 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Boardroom. The primary agenda item was the presentation and discussion of the 2026-2027 Draft Fiscal Year Budget for the Police Department. The meeting began with roll call, approval of prior minutes, presidential and trustee comments, and public comments (none). The budget presentation, led by Administrator Josh Blakemore, Finance Director Tracy Pleckham, and Police Chief Miller, highlighted a proposed $1.73 million (9.8%) increase in police operations, 91% of which is personnel-related.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes – The minutes of the Committee of the Whole Workshop held on December 8, 2025, were approved by a motion and unanimous vote.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No members of the public were present or offered comments.

Discussion Items

• Presidential Comments – Mayor Argadella briefly commented on the Chicago Bears game and noted that Village Administrator allowed Bears gear on Friday.
• Trustee Comments – Trustee congratulated Iver Jones Middle School on their drama production of "Mary Poppins Jr."
• 2026-2027 Draft Fiscal Year Budget – Police Department
  • Administrator Blakemore introduced the budget process, noting a $1.73 million increase from FY26 to proposed FY27, with 91% (approx. $1.575 million) tied to personnel: two new sworn officers, health insurance (estimated 20% increase), pension contributions, liability insurance, and market wage adjustments.
  • Finance Director Pleckham explained the health insurance increase is the highest in 20 years (estimated 20%, typically 10-12% initially settling around 8%). She noted the Village is part of the IPBC pool and has options to change employee contributions or plan design in future if increases persist.
  • Chief Miller presented a detailed overview, including: mission and values, organizational chart, population growth (special census likely over 50,000), residential new construction permits (138 in 2015 vs. 740 in 2025), special events (28 in 2025 with 18 road closures), training hours, years of service distribution (23 officers with 20+ years pensionable service, 37 with 0-14 years), calls for service (2025 breakdown), crime statistics (property crimes down 114 from 2024 to 2025, attributed to reduction in retail thefts and burglary to motor vehicles; crimes against society up 59 due to increased drug arrests), mental health calls (decreased due to social worker and community policing), vehicle crashes (1,320 in both 2024 and 2025, injury crashes down), DUI arrests (107 in 2025 up from 69 in 2024), canine statistics (935 training hours, 252 deployments), ongoing projects (IT online bill pay, radio fleet upgrades, recruitment, body worn camera upgrades, peer support program, outdoor warning sirens – $500,000 grant from Senator Keppel, building updates).
  • The budget includes two new sworn officers (May 1 start) and one part-time records tech, increasing sworn strength from 66 authorized (currently 64) to 68. Total department employees currently 88.
  • Pleckham reviewed year-to-date performance (70% of year, on target), and line-item changes: salaries ($200,000 for new hires), benefits ($865,000 increase, including $350,000 in pensions), supplies and contractual minimal changes. Utilities increased slightly but accounted for correct coding of cell phones and iPads. Westcom charges are per contract with a one-time reduction taken this year. A new line for public relations (employee recognition) was added. Seizure and forfeiture budget ($80,000) washes with revenue. Special activities budget increased based on current year. Support services add one part-time position. Capital includes two PIMA light towers ($60,000). Contingency remains $11,500. PIMA budget and Police Commission budget (up $7,000 for training) also discussed.
  • Discussion included questions from trustees about drone program (Chief Miller noted it’s a few years away, initial cost ~$500,000, wants to see Naperville’s experience), automation of parking/lesser violations (ongoing IT project), and the importance of the budget packet provided early.

Key Outcomes

• The Board received the presentation and will continue budget discussions in future workshops. No formal votes were taken on the budget; revisions may occur as more information on health insurance rates and union negotiations becomes available.
• The intent to proceed with budgeting for two new sworn officers with a May 1 start date, as proposed by the department, was acknowledged with no objections from the Board.
• Reminders: Coffee with the Mayor on January 14 at 9:00 AM at Ten Drops Coffee; Village Offices closed January 19 (Martin Luther King Day); next Committee of the Whole Workshop on January 26; next Village Board Meeting on February 2 at 7:00 PM.