Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Village of Freeport shared in late January that for the 13th consecutive year, residents can expect Mayor Robert Kennedy to stand firm on preventing tax increases. The mayor submitted a budget to the Village Board of Trustees that has a zero percent tax rate increase. Kennedy has built a reputation of fiscal responsibility since he first began serving as mayor in 2013.
Throughout his tenure, Kennedy and his administration have utilized grant reimbursements and prioritized responsible expenditures and Village safety and security to continue provide needed community services in cost-effective ways. This includes the expansion of the Freeport Police Department from 77 to 105 officers while increasing economic development for additional property tax revenues. Cooperation from all Village department heads were also needed to ensure that Village funds are used efficiently and effectively.
“Our goal has always been to provide our residents with the services they needed in the most cost-effective way possible,” explained Kennedy. “That has included a grants consultant who searches for every reimbursable cent we’re entitled to.”
On Jan. 13, 2026, the budget was made available for public comment as a part of the legal process. The hearing progressed without major incident, and now the submitted budget will be reviewed by Kennedy and the Board of Trustees members.
Freeport Chamber of Commerce President Ben Jackson expressed pride and pleasure with the mayor’s proposed budget and the business atmosphere it fosters.
“This budget is fantastic for homeowners and business owners,” Jackson said. “We are getting more services without paying more of a tax burden. The mayor and his administration have been able to absorb contract increases, increase our police force, and other necessary things without burdening residents.”
Kennedy and the Board of Trustees must finalize and approve the budget by Feb 1, 2026, for the budget to be official. In the event that the new budget is not approved, the 2025 budget will used for another year, which also featured no tax rate increases.
