The Mayor's Message

May 5, 2012

WALTON CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

2012/2013 CITY OF WALTON PROPOSED BUDGET AND REPORT TO THE COUNCIL AND CITIZENS ON THE CONDITION AND NEEDS OF THE CITY.

Enclosed you will find a copy of the proposed budget for fiscal year 2012/2013 for your consideration and adoption for the City of Walton.  This budget reflects the resources, strategies and goals for the City of Walton in the delivery and service to our citizens.   There may be some items that you will have questions about, but I hope the technical information provided will answer those questions.  I have provided for full accountability of all City accounts and funds.

General Government, our preliminary review of the uncertified PVA assessment rolls indicate that due to new growth the overall assessments are strong , however this does not indicate any re-assessments of properties in the city limits.   I feel you should leave the Bank Deposit, Tangible Tax and Insurance Premium Tax rates the same.  At this time the City does not have an Occupational License Fee or Payroll Tax and I do not see reason to consider starting either.

Our Towne Center and Downtown District should be maintained, we continue to work toward the growth of both areas.  Our Economic Development department continues to work with both current and future businesses toward this goal.

Public Works Department/ Street Repairs, continued funding needs to be transferred to the Municipal Road Aid Fund, with the Cable Fee, LGEA, Vehicle Tax and a transfer of $100,000 from the General Fund.  These additional funds are necessary to offset growing demands for street repairs, storm water drainage work, and sidewalk repairs.   We will continue to increase our number of sidewalks to insure the safety of our citizens. The amount of $60,000 has been added for a generator that could help to run our city and the sewer lift stations in case of an emergency.  Water and Sewer,  the amount of $200,000 has been placed in the budget for the Edwards Avenue waterline.  A proposed grant amount from the NKADD is also included.  Application for the grant was made earlier this year.   Due to current growth expansion of the Old Nicholson Road Lift Station will be needed, estimated cost is not available at this time but the amount of $150,000 has been put in to the budget for the start of this project.    The Walton Parks has improved in many ways this past year.  With the installation of the new playground equipment and dog park, we have increase the usage of the park for all ages.  We will continue to work with the Boone County Parks department in the creek bed clean up and the future development in recreational opportunities.  The Gaines Tavern History Center is a great asset to our community.  This year with the help of the  Friends of the Gaines Tavern  we are able to start regular visiting hours.   This will also allow us to start school tours and other community events.  The amount of $150,000 will be transferred from the General Government for improvement such as bathroom and general up keep.  Community Programs / Communication.   The City should continue the established programs, with the possibility of trying to enhance them and making additions.  Our current programs are: The Easter Egg Hunt, Great American Cleanup, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Old Fashion Day, Fall Cleanup, and Christmas On Main.  Our newest additions are:  Pioneer Day at the Gaines House and Movies in the Park.  The additions of the City Wide Yard Sale and the 5K Run will invite other communities to visit the City of Walton.   We continue to strengthen our communication with the citizen by using our upgraded website and monthly newsletter.  Collaboration with the Walton Verona Schools and local businesses will continue to strengthen our programs and projects.

In closing the City will continue to make collaborative efforts with but not limited to Walton Verona Independent Schools, St. Joseph Academy, Walton Fire Department, Boone County Library, National Guard, Tri-ED, NKADD, Senior Services, Chamber of Commerce, Sheriff s Departments, Planning Commissions, Boone County Public Works, DES, Boone County Fiscal Court, Kenton County Fiscal Court and of course the Commonwealth of Kentucky agencies in Frankfort.

Please feel free to contact myself or Peggy at City Hall for any questions.   

Sincerely,   

Mayor Paula M. Jolley