City of Lexington Proposes Budget
In a specially called meeting by the City of Lexington, City Manager Terra Greene presented an overview of Proposed City of Lexington Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Greene presented a high-level overview of the proposed budget to council members that included a focus on “City of Choice” themes previously reviewed and rated by City Council.
Photo presented at April 28th Special Called City of Lexington Council Meeting
Greene’s presentation narrowed in on “two biggies” which included building infrastructure and Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Greene said the current budget will focus on sustaining city services and growing city services. Greene pointed to the Nation’s Report Card on infrastructure and a 25 million dollar Build Grant.
Greene asked the council to consider needs for the city 30 to 50 years. “What we do know is that we’ve got to grow and meet service needs of future generations.” Proposed budget highlights include:
Technology initiatives
Reinstated merit-based pay for city employees
No recommended a change in the property tax rate
No recommended change in the Natural Gas rate
A 3-year evaluation of law enforcement salaries
Greene called staff recommendations to increase in the water and sewer waste rate a “pinch point.” Noting aging pipes and a “distressed” water and sewer system as a concern.
The council spent more than an hour debating a Diversity & Inclusion presentation recommended by Greene with Atlanta-based consulting firm K.L. Scott & Associates LLC (KLS&A).
Proposed future actions include:
MAY 24, 2021 – CITY COUNCIL CALL FOR PUBLIC HEARING JUNE 14, 2021 – CITY COUNCIL HOLD PUBLIC HEARING MAY ADOPT BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 JUNE 28, 2021 – FINAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
The council will adopt the budget by July 1st.
