Paducah officials discuss proposed $51.7 million city budget
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI) — Paducah city officials continue developing the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget ahead of its expected introduction at the next City Commission meeting and approval in June.
Finance Director Audra Kyle provided commissioners with an update Tuesday, outlining proposed appropriations and funding priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.
According to the presentation, the city’s Investment Fund is expected to include $7.9 million for economic development, community development and capital projects. Planned investments include Southside revitalization efforts, support tied to the Meharry Medical College project and $2.1 million for street rehabilitation projects. Funding also is proposed for maintenance and improvements to city-owned facilities, including design work for a new police headquarters.
Officials said Community Development Block Grant funding will support several projects, including new playground equipment at Kolb Park, sidewalk improvements and design work for a parking lot at the Noble Park pickleball courts.
Kyle said general fund revenues remain stable with modest growth, though operational expenses continue to rise faster than revenues. Proposed appropriations for the General Fund total $51.7 million, about $500,000 higher than the current budget.
To reduce pressure on the General Fund, the city froze nine vacant positions, which officials estimate will save about $800,000.
Commissioners also approved a municipal order allowing the Engineering Department to seek bids for a sidewalk replacement project funded through Community Development Block Grant money.
In other business, commissioners introduced zoning text amendments aimed at supporting redevelopment in historic neighborhoods by allowing smaller lot sizes, narrower lot widths and neighborhood corner stores in medium-density residential areas.
The commission also recognized winners of the 2026 Dogwood Trail awards and approved several municipal orders related to software services, annexation incentives, the Paducah Sports Park project and equipment purchases for the fire department.
