Take a look back at the mayor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026. | Amy Wallot/LFUCG
After two months of careful deliberation over Mayor Linda Gorton’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026, Lexington Fayette Urban County Council gave final approval Thursday, June 12.
“Through this budget, we have affirmed our commitment to community safety, roadway improvements and maintenance, uplifting our neighbors in need, and supporting the pillars of our local economy,” said Council Member James Brown, Chair of the Budget, Finance & Economic Development Committee.
Highlights of the budget include:
$14 million for street improvement
$4.9 million allocated to the Affordable Housing Fund
$1.25 million to connect + enhance sidewalks
$500,000 to enhance public transportation services
$500,000 to improve recycling and yard waste programs
$400,000 for local workforce development
$150,000 to expand Lexington’s tree canopy
Increased funding for community centers
Learn how Engage Lexington can keep you informed with the latest budget info and other council projects.
Events
Events
Wednesday, June 18
Collected Memory: Items and Artifacts from 250 Years of Lexington History | Wednesday, June 18-Sunday, July 13 | Times vary | Central Library Gallery and Kentucky Room | Free | Walk through history with this collection of artifacts gathered from Keeneland, UK, the Lexington History Museum, and residents like you. Craft + Candle Cocktail Bar | 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. | Wick + Mortar Studio | $15+ | Unleash your creative side to make your own candle, reed diffuser, fabric spritz, and more — cocktails, wine + beer available for purchase.
Thursday, June 19
Juneteenth Celebration | 5:30-8:30 p.m. | Riney B Park, Nicholasville | Free entry | Enjoy electrifying musical performances, local food trucks, face painting, and more — don’t forget to bring a towel for the foam party.
Friday, June 20
Wise Bird Cider’s 6 Year Anniversary Party! | Friday, June 20-Sunday, June 22 | Times vary | Wise Bird Cider Co. | Free entry | Celebrate six years of cider with live music, food specials, family-friendly activities, flash tattoos and more.*
Saturday, June 21
Soulteenth Fest | 2-9 p.m. | Moondance Amphitheater | Free entry | A celebration featuring vendors + immersive experiences that highlight the cultural heritage and relevance of Central Kentucky’s Black community.
The Haley Pike Waste Management Facility, Lexington Recycle Center, Electronics Recycle Center will be closed on Thursday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday. Regular pickup and waste facility hours will resume Friday, June 20.
Giveaway
The Kentucky Blood Center wants to give you a year’s worth of gas, groceries, or Texas Roadhouse. Book your donation appointment today for free entry into this month’s drawing. (WKYT)
Number
$1.7 billion. That’s the total economic impact of tourism on Fayette County in 2024. This record breaking amount includes over $130 million in state and local tax revenue. (The Lane Report)
Opening
The minds behind Bella Notte, Smashing Tomato, and Crust are bringing another eatery to Lexington. The third Bella Cafe & Grille, featuring crispy chicken salad and the cafe burger, is slated to open in the Hamburg shopping center by the end of September. (Lexington Herald-Leader)
Eat
Speaking of new restaurants… We had three restaurants open this spring alone. See our roundup of all new and coming soon restaurants — and be sure to bookmark it to stay in the know.
Cause
The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels are set to disperse $2.5 million in grants to 300+ charitable orgs throughout the Commonwealth. Discover how you can become a colonel and make a positive impact in and around Lexington. (FOX56)
Tucked within Lexington’s Warehouse Block, Epping’s on Eastside offers an enchanting venue for private events. The restored historic building boasts two distinct spaces: The National Room and The Walton Room. Both spaces offer unique charm — from elegant private access to rustic exposed brick. Take “finding a venue” off your to-do list.*
Community
Join Gratz Park Private Wealth on Thursday, July 17 for an uplifting + empowering gathering. The Women’s Worth Alliance welcomes all who want to grow, connect, and be inspired. Expect thought-provoking discussions, incredible speakers + opportunities to build lasting connections. RSVP to kaylee@gratzparkpw.com to register for the free event.*
Plan Ahead
Does your business have an upcoming event? Promote it in LEXtoday. Head to our self-service ad portal to find an option that works for your budget — from eye-catching banner ads to engaging social posts.
Home
Still climbing ladders to clean your gutters? HomeBuddy installs premium gutter guards in just a few hours — and it’s 100% no-clog guaranteed. See your local offer.*
Community
A special place with a history of beauty and dignity, The Lexington Cemetery has served Central Kentuckians for over 175 years. It has ample space for burials for the next 100 years and numerous other memorialization options — mausoleums, columbaria, niches, and scattering gardens among them. Learn more.*
Category
Post of the Day
Next time you have an ax to grind with your crew, venture to Battle Axes for a night of smashing frivolity. Your mini-Vikings can train play while you strengthen your ax-throwing arm or blow off steam in the smash room.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
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