Budget & Finance June 10, 2026

The Lawrence City Council Budget & Finance Committee meeting on June 10, 2026, focused on several key procurement and budgetary matters. The committee reviewed and discussed the approval of the Lawrence Patrolman's Association contract, which includes a cost-of-living increase, a 5% salary increase for officers with 29 or more years of service, and an increase in clothing allowance to include cell phones. The committee also considered year-end transfers, including a $15,000 transfer within the mayor's office budget to cover accrued vacation payouts. A significant item was the approval of a $1,325,743 transfer from the FY26 capital reserve fund for various city capital projects, including roof replacements and lighting repairs. Additionally, the committee reviewed a net metering electricity off-take agreement with NewLeaf Energy, expected to save the city approximately $12 million over 20 years by providing a 15% discount on municipal electricity costs. Finally, the committee discussed and recommended a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment for non-union city employees, with a total budget impact of $165,000. Motions to send these items to the full council with favorable recommendations were passed by roll call votes.