LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 20, 2014) — After reviewing Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer’s proposed budget and holding budget hearings for the departments to explain their programs; on Thursday night, the Louisville Metro Council passed a balanced budget totaling $688,606,800.00.
The Operating Budget covers the day to day expenses for Metro Government in areas such as: Louisville Metro Police, Louisville Fire and Rescue, EMS, MetroSafe, IPL and Code Enforcement activities, Metro Public Works, Metro Parks and more passed on a vote of 19 to 6.
The Capital Budget which covers construction and infrastructure improvements passed by a vote of 23 to 2.
Overall this budget addresses deferred maintenance issues of Metro facilities:
- Over $1million for community centers
- $1.7million to replace the roof and do façade work on historic Metro Hall,
- $1million for repairs at the Belvedere
- 14 community parks will be repaired and renovated
“Many repairs are made possible through the federal dollars that Metro Louisville receives through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program;” said Councilwoman Marianne Butler (D-15) who serves at the budget committee chair. “This is the first year in many years that we have been able to spread the CDBG dollars into community parks. Many residents will benefit from the repairs at their local park.”
“I am pleased that we have taken the safety and quality of our city into account,” said President Jim King (D-10). “By addressing public safety, youth programs and capital infrastructure, this budget strengthens all of our community.”
“This budget provides many needed projects for every part of our community. This should be a source of pride for all members of the Metro Council and its residents,” said Budget Committee Vice Chairman Kelly Downard (R-16).
“As a member of the Budget Committee, we have once again been able to balance the city Budget in a very lean year. As we struggle to return from the Recession, we must continue to maintain and improve our infrastructure as well as public safety,” said Councilwoman Vicki Aubrey Welch (D-13).
“While I had many reservations about the initial budget proposal, our work throughout the hearing process and with colleagues on the Metro Council have helped to make sure that the needs of all parts of the Metro are addressed,” said Councilman Kevin Kramer (R-11). “While I continue to oppose the new LG&E franchise fee, the fact that we are finally adding more police on the streets addresses a need that I have supported for many years.”
Monies for enhanced programing at the community centers are also in the budget. These centers also serve as “Kids Café” serving hot meals to youth and some serve as a “Senior Nutritional Center” offering hot meals to seniors as well.
“This effort is long overdue. I believe our community centers can be the engines of positive social change if we fund them appropriately,” said Councilwoman Barbara Shanklin (D-2). “Positive mentoring activities have life altering benefits for our youth and community.”
There is also money for enhanced public safety. The budget includes funding for 96 new police officers and the creation of a Real Time Crime Center. The Center will allow analysts to view what is happening in real time with surveillance cameras throughout Metro Louisville and will give residents and visitors an added sense of security.
Following the Council’s vote, both budgets were sent to the mayor for his signature.
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