Newberry Unveils Lexington Budget

Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry says this has been one of the most difficult economic times for the city since the Great Depression.Newberry made the comments as he introduced his 279 million dollar budget proposal Tuesday.Newberry says 83 percent of Lexington's revenue sources, such as payroll taxes, are in some way tied to local economic conditions.    Despite drops in revenue, Newberry says his budget does not raise taxes."It will not require any withdrawal from our city's rainy day fund it will not require the imposition of any new general fund taxes," he says.Newberry says last year's increase in the sanitary sewer fee and a new storm water fee this year are enough for taxpayers to bear right now. His budget plan eliminates 96 vacant positions but doesn't call for any layoffs.  It includes a one percent pay raise for non sworn personnel and a delay in several capital projects.(Thanks to Stu Johnson of Kentucky Public Radio/WEKU, Richmond)