Shepherdsville City Council approves $16M for park expansion and public works projects

The June 9, 2025, Regular Council Meeting of the City Council of Shepherdsville, Kentucky, focused on the approval of the city’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, alongside discussions on various departmental appropriations and projects.

The meeting commenced with a detailed presentation of the budget, highlighting total contractor fees and services amounting to $60,000, with total capital expenses reaching $7,404,000. Public works capital expenses were noted to include significant projects such as an all-inclusive playground, filtration and restroom building, amphitheater, town square development, sidewalks, road repairs, and drainage projects, culminating in a total public works budget of $9,392,000.

The fire department's budget was also reviewed, with total payroll expenses reported at $5,665,001 and total employee expenses at $1,298,296.46. The department's operating expenses were outlined as $414,874, while facilities and equipment expenses totaled $489,328.54. Capital expenses for the fire department, which include updates to dorms, restrooms, and essential equipment, brought the total appropriations for the fire department to $8,734,305.

The police department's budget was similarly detailed, with total payroll expenses of $5,902,376 and total employee expenses of $983,798. Operating expenses were noted at $582,554, and facilities and equipment expenses at $787,127. The police capital expenses, primarily for IT equipment and systems, resulted in total appropriations of $8,346,855.

The council's budget was also addressed, with total payroll expenses of $90,400 and total employee expenses of $64,085. The council's total operating expenses were $27,470, with a significant capital expense allocation of $1,000,000 for city and park expansion projects, including an aquatic center and skate park, leading to a total city and park capital expansion budget of $16,000,000.

Overhead expenses were reported at $958,000, with a total of $3,145 estimated to be carried forward to the next fiscal year. The council discussed the need for estimates on sidewalk projects, emphasizing the importance of understanding costs before proceeding.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the budget, which passed with a majority vote. The ordinance adopting the sewer operation and maintenance budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 was also introduced, sponsored by Council Member Jennifer Mendez, marking a significant step in the city’s financial planning.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to advancing city projects and maintaining essential services while ensuring fiscal responsibility.