Lexington Mayor Jim Gray is proposing millions of dollars in new capital investments as part of his budget. The mayor's spending plan represents a three and a half percent increase over the current budget.
Gray says his budget plan is based on solid figures and is not overly optimistic. It calls for borrowing close to $60 million with money going to restore the old courthouse, to develop a downtown linear park, road paving, and broadband improvements. Vice Mayor Steve Kay says a changing economy is certainly a key part of the plan. "The economy has improved sufficiently that the projection is for increased revenue,” said Kay. “That, coupled with the historically low interest rates, mean that there's an opportunity for the city to invest in its future."
The budget includes $22 million to go toward refurbishing the old courthouse.
Lexington Attorney Foster Ockerman says there are a lot of people who love the building and not just the lawyers who practiced in it. "And it's my understanding that the plan will reopen the atrium and establish 110 foot central core from the dome down to the ground floor, and restore the courtroom to its two story level,” said Ockerman. “Have a large public gallery room."
The $324 million spending plan includes a three perecent pay hike for city employees. Council member Angela Evans calls the move a positive sign. "That goes to the issue that we've had about minimum wage and being an example for the rest of the city,” said Evans.
Other highlights of Gray's budget proposal include funding for ten new police officers plus almost $6 million for new police and fire vehicles. It recommends $750,000 be spent to study the relocation of city hall.
The reaction from several council members was positive regarding the mayor's plan. A final vote on the budget will not occur until June.?
