The Village Board will finalize its 2009 budget tonight and, possibly, tomorrow, if village trustees need the extra time. All options point to a budget that will increase no more than 3 percent, the goal set by the board earlier this year.

Village Administrator Evan Teich said the stringent limitation will come at a cost down the road, including putting off the village's long-term goals.

The Village Board voted Tuesday to reduce the width requirements on neighborhood streets in new subdivisions.

Village staff had recommended the board reduce the requirement from 37 feet to 33 feet, based on a survey of neighboring communities. They pointed out the village is responsible for road maintenance, even though the developer is responsible for installing the streets in the first place. They also said narrower roads slowed down traffic and reduced storm water runoff from impervious surfaces.

Sussex Fire Chief Colin "Corky" Curtis objected, claiming firetrucks needed wider roads to get to fires and other emergencies quickly.

The board split the difference, settling on a 35-foot width requirement.

Sussex — Gregory Goetz led the field in Tuesday's election for three trustees to the six-member Village Board, joining newcomer Pat Tetzlaff and veteran Village Trustee Jim Batzko. Joe VanderMeer, who was appointed to fill a mid-term vacancy last year, lost his seat.

Final results from the voting at the National Guard Armory on Maple Avenue as of 9:15 p.m. were:

Gregory Goetz, 756

Pat Tetzlaff, 748

Jim Batzko, 646

Joe VanderMeer, 592