Lexington City Council members are working toward making decisions about spending just over $2 million in unassigned revenue. Chief of Staff Tyler Scott outlined the administration's recommendations to the budget committee Tuesday.
Scott said the city has had to make some tough choices to free up that $2 million. He said budget reductions were implemented right after the mayor came into office in January.
“We had to hold up on a lot of personnel vacancies and a lot of other things that hit employees pretty hard. That’s what we had to do just to get much closer to that zero mark. We’re fortunate to hit two point two million. But like I said, if we hadn’t done any of those we easily would have been in the hole on this and have a very different conversation” said Scott.
Scott noted the mayor is suggesting an additional $750,000 be earmarked as a pay supplement for city employees. Non-sworn government workers got a $500 dollar or a 1% additional pay supplement, depending upon their salary level earlier this year. Another recommendation involves spending $30,000 for a consultant to study pressing issues at the Fayette County jail. Public Safety Commissioner Ken Armstrong said there are many matters deserving attention. “Organizational structure, policy, operating procedures, training, direct supervision. Leadership process, retention, recruitment, attrition rates, discipline process, suggestions on population reduction, hospitalization of inmates and the process associated with guard duty,” he said.
The council will consider funding decisions at a Nov. 12 meeting.
Support quality local journalism, please consider making a contribution.
