Fort Thomas finance committee reviews proposed 2025–26 budget, capital priorities and trail plan

FORT THOMAS, Ky. — Fort Thomas finance staff on May 13 presented a proposed fiscal 2025–26 budget that would hold the city's current property tax rate while budgeting roughly $16.5 million for operations and $8.1 million for capital projects, with an estimated year-end fund balance of about 7.67 percent.

The presentation, led by Matt, a city staff member, laid out operating and capital totals, four "on the horizon" projects (Midway parking, Midway Streetscape, Highland Park skate park and armory upgrades) and several departmental line-item changes. "This budget is based on holding the tax rate," Matt said, adding he would circulate a one- to two-page summary to council by the end of the week and expects the city could take the ordinance for first reading at the next council meeting.

Council members pressed for detail on the move from the current amended budget to the proposed 25'26 figures and on several large capital items. Matt said the increase in planned capital spending reflects carryover projects and one-time expenditures, such as Tower Park work completed in 2024'25 and the Midway Streetscape, which is budgeted at about $3.08 million in the…