Tuesday afternoon, Lexington Mayor Jim Gray laid out his budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year.
Gray met with the media beforehand to give a brief overview of his proposed spending plan. The mayor and Senate candidate told reporters he's gotten input from the community and from council members and that his budget plan is based on blocks that build Lexington's businesses and the city's brand.
"It says that Lexington still has a vigorous and strong economy. That's what the revenue picture this year shows," he reported.
Gray called the budget process productive, saying the amount of projects being funded sends a clear message about Lexington's financial status.
The top official also said bonding is down from $59 to nearly $48 million and the city is looking at a $6 million surplus. He said after talking with citizens across the county, he felt public safety and economic opportunities needed to be a top priority in this budget.
"Public safety represents 54 percent of the budget. Police... that includes 20 new officers that takes us to 600 sworn officers, which represents the highest number ever," he said. "We're including funding for body cameras. We are including a new fire station at Masterson Station."
Second District councilwoman Shevan Akers called the plans for a fire station long overdue.
"I know residents have been waiting 10-plus years for a fire station nearby. Masterson Station is the largest neighborhood in the entire state of Kentucky now, so it's high time that we put a fire station out there," she said.
In economic development, Mayor Gray has included $1.25 million for a jobs fund, two million for purchasing and developing rights also known as PDR and a workforce development manager. When asked about funding for the Downtown Convention Center Gray responded, "We are including our commitment in this budget."
Affordable housing and homelessness prevention, city parks, paving projects, salt storage and a youth sports complex will also receive funding if Mayor Gray's budget is approved.
