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Mayor Gorton Outlines CARES Act Budget Priorities

lexingtonky.gov

Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton has outlined how she hopes city leaders use incoming federal CARES Act dollars in the next fiscal year's budget. WUKY's Josh James has more.

While the federal money must be spent on COVID-related expenses, the city says it's unclear exactly what will fit that definition. So, in the meantime, the mayor is suggesting the city plan on directing the dollars and the savings they generate toward restoring controversial cuts to social service agencies and affordable housing, and shoring up the city's rainy day fund.

Gorton says she will continue to spearhead private fundraising efforts to keep money flowing to the agencies, which provide services ranging from shelter for domestic violence survivors to nutritional access in the city.

The mayor said Lexington must stretch every dollar because it's not yet known if any more federal aid will be on the way, and budget forecasters still predict a $40 million shortfall in FY21.

The Urban County Council will ultimately decide how the CARES Act money will be spent.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.
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