Peoria City Council

As the Peoria City Council prepares for another attempt to approve the 2022-23 biennial budget Tuesday night, Mayor Rita Ali says she is optimistic a deal is within reach.

Peoria City Council members have voted 9-2 to end the Public Safety Pension Fee, setting up lively discussions for alternative sources of funding. Some council members stated the city is taking a “band-aid” approach to paying nearly $400 million in fire and police pension liabilities.

The snow removal plan for this upcoming winter resembles the COVID-19 plan adapted from last year. The Public Works Department will continue to plow 17 routes, cut from 21, with 11 fewer personnel.

The Peoria City Council has approved a motion, on a 7-3 vote, to maintain the 2020 township tax levy — going against a township official's recommendation for an increase.

Peoria City Council members on Tuesday night received a 2022-23 biennial budget breakdown totaling $253,135,027 for 2022 and $238,455,102 for 2023. Within the large budget proposal, suggestions and concerns were raised on the use of federal recovery funds.

In a three-hour packed meeting, city council members addressed redistricting, short-term rentals, and the city’s budget.

The city council Tuesday night voted to defer short-term rentals (or STR’s) for further discussion. This comes as additional rentals seek council approval.

The Peoria City Council is divided over the prospects of short-term rentals in Peoria.

A sunny, windy day in Peoria marked the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. Mayor Rita Ali, city council members, fire and police chiefs, and other city officials stood in remembrance. For over an hour personal recounting and reflecting carried through a crowd nearly fifty in size who attended the city’s ceremony.