Lexington’s city council has put its finishing touches on the upcoming fiscal year budget. Mayor Linda Gorton offered her proposed $460 million budget in April. The final version comes to $473 million. Vice Mayor Steve Kay said the final product is very close to what the mayor suggested.
“It has a lot of one-time money in it. We know that. There will be challenges going forward. But, it’s a sound budget. It’s a balanced budget and I think it reflects broadly the needs of the community,” said Kay.
Kay noted more than 30 projects have already been approved through federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars.
Council Budget Committee Chair Amanda Mays Bledsoe said there’s quite a bit of money put toward public safety and safety improvements.
“As a citizen legislature, I think you see us try to dedicate resources and provide support for those who are in our community, on the front lines, engaging in root causes, and trying to drive down violence in our community. And this budget reflects that effort,” said Mays Bledsoe.
Chief Administrative Officer Sally Hamilton said the mayor’s administration is delighted with the final product. She added it does a good job addressing public safety, recreation, social services, streets, and sewer issues. The budget also includes a 5% pay raise for non-sworn city employees. A final vote is scheduled for later this month.
