Closed Meetings Block Budget Cuts in Elmhurst

Elmhurst’s finance committee, charged with trimming the city budget, has spent most of its time in private sessions.
Since late January:

• ≈ 66% of the committee’s hours were closed to the public.
• 3½ hours held privately vs. only 2 hours open to residents.

State law limits closed sessions to specific personnel matters, yet the committee cites employee issues and salary discussions as reasons for secrecy. However, any discussion about reducing spending must be held openly so citizens can see how decisions are made.

Key Players

• Chairwoman: Declined to share details of the closed meetings.
• Members voting for secrecy: James Nudera, Jacob Hill, and Dan Virgil.

The committee plans another closed session at 6 p.m. on Monday in City Hall, leaving the public waiting for any budget changes.

Public Concerns

• Residents expect clear communication about addressing the city’s financial shortfall.
• Lack of a public record on spending cuts raises questions about how the committee will meet its mandate.