Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsNewsPolitics

Mayor Gorton Proposes $539.2 Million Budget for Lexington

Lexington cityscape showcasing public safety and community services

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News Summary

Lexington’s Mayor Linda Gorton has unveiled a proposed budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year amounting to $539.2 million. The budget prioritizes public safety, infrastructure, and community services without increasing taxes. Significant funding is allocated for capital projects, winter safety equipment, and establishing a new Fire Training Academy. The budget does not depend on federal aid and anticipates revenue growth despite rising expenses. A new park tax will provide additional funds for community improvements. Council review is anticipated, with a final version due by June 30.

Lexington – Mayor Linda Gorton has revealed her proposed budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, totaling $539.2 million. Key allocations in the budget include substantial investments in public safety, infrastructure, and community services. The proposal aims to enhance the quality of life in the city without imposing any tax increases on residents.

The budget designates $47 million for capital projects across Lexington and a record $3.4 million earmarked for winter safety equipment. Additional funding of $3 million is planned for the establishment of a new Fire Training Academy, which will replace the current outdated facility on Old Frankfort Pike.

Significantly, the budget does not rely on federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, which have supported the city since the pandemic began in 2020. Future federal grant uncertainties remain as a concern; however, Gorton noted that the city is prepared to adjust funding to meet any changes. Despite potential challenges, the city’s revenue is projected to grow by 5.6% in the upcoming fiscal year, though expenses are anticipated to rise by 9%.

The budget benefits from a new park tax approved by voters in November, which will generate an estimated $8 million for various improvements, such as facility upgrades at Castlewood, a new aquatic center at Tates Creek, and the installation of playgrounds in multiple parks. The proposal also includes $19.2 million for street safety enhancements focused on pedestrian and cyclist safety, and $28.2 million for necessary sewer improvements as required by a consent decree from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

In terms of public safety, the budget outlines considerable investments including $4.8 million to replace a heavy rescue vehicle, two fire engines, and an emergency medical vehicle. Alongside this, the police department will replace approximately 44 cruisers at a cost of about $3.2 million. Furthermore, a sizable $3.4 million will be allocated for snow management, enabling the purchase of additional vehicles and contracts for snow removal services.

The city hopes to enhance community services by expanding programming at six community centers and adding seven new positions to assist with services for seniors. Also included in the budget are new technology plans aimed at implementing a medical monitoring system for jails to ensure the welfare of inmates.

The proposed budget has been described as balanced, with a modest borrowing of $18 million, the smallest amount since the onset of the COVID pandemic. The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council will review the budget and make any required adjustments. A final version must be passed by June 30, with the new budget set to take effect on July 1.

To motivate city employees, a 3% pay increase for non-union workers has also been included in the proposal. Council members have indicated their support for the comprehensive budget plan, which emphasizes responsible fiscal management in navigating the ongoing economic challenges stemming from the pandemic.

With these strategic investments and fiscal strategies, the Mayor aims to continue enhancing the city’s infrastructure, public safety, and community wellness, ensuring Lexington remains a vibrant and safe place for all residents.