The Mayor and City Council are proud to announce the unanimous approval of the City's Fiscal Year 2024 budget, marking a significant milestone as the largest budget ever passed by the City in its 202-year history. Following months of careful deliberation, incorporating input from the Financial Review Citizen’s Committee, two budget work sessions, and two public hearings, the $200M budget reflects the City's commitment to its residents and future development.
The FY 2024 budget primarily emphasizes three key areas: Community Engagement, Critical Infrastructure Improvements, and Staff Retention and Recruitment. Lawrenceville aims to foster a thriving community by allocating funds to these crucial sectors while addressing pressing needs and ensuring the city’s continued growth.
Mayor David Still expressed gratitude for the Council's unanimous approval of the historic FY 2024 budget, stating, "This budget demonstrates our commitment to the well-being and future development of Lawrenceville. By focusing on community engagement, critical infrastructure, and staff retention, we are positioning ourselves for continued success and a vibrant future. We appreciate the input from our citizens and stakeholders throughout the budgeting process and remain dedicated to serving the needs of our community."
Under the Community Engagement initiative, the approved budget provides funding for transitional housing, offering essential assistance to individuals facing homelessness. Additionally, the City will continue supporting community engagement through outdoor events and concerts, enhancing the social fabric and fostering a sense of togetherness. Partnering with organizations such as Gwinnett County Government and Northside Hospital, the City seeks to expand incentives to encourage employees to reside within the City of Lawrenceville, promoting a vibrant local workforce. Furthermore, the budget explores the feasibility of improvements to Honest Alley, envisioning enhanced gathering spaces in the downtown area.
The budget includes significant regional improvements in the New Hope Road/Sandalwood development to fortify the City's Critical Infrastructure. This comprehensive undertaking encompasses upgrades to gas, electric, water, and stormwater systems, further improving and enhancing the area. Moreover, the budget addresses the growing demand for electric services by incorporating electrical grid enhancements. To ensure public safety, the City will replace aging steel and plastic natural gas pipes within the natural gas system. Additionally, City Hall building security will be upgraded to meet modern standards.
Recognizing the value of its dedicated workforce, Lawrenceville commits to Staff Retention and Recruitment through market-rate salary increases for all City employees. The budget also maintains the $5000 housing incentive to encourage City employees to reside within the city limits of Lawrenceville, fostering a close-knit community. Furthermore, the budget introduces 14 new City positions to support the city's evolving needs. Among these additions, the City will establish in-house recycling services to promote sustainability and will create a new Police Bike Unit responsible for patrolling the downtown area and forthcoming trail system.
It is worth noting that Lawrenceville continues to uphold one of the lowest millage rates in the metro Atlanta region. The approved FY 2024 budget maintains the 2023 millage rate and provides essential services and enhancements without burdening taxpayers. However, it is anticipated that a millage rate increase will be necessary in 2024 to sustain the City's continued growth and meet the evolving needs of its residents.
"I am incredibly proud of the collaborative efforts that went into shaping the FY 2024 budget,” said Chuck Warbington, City Manager. “This budget reflects our unwavering commitment to our residents and lays the foundation for a prosperous future. Investing in the community builds a resilient city that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of our citizens. The approved budget demonstrates our responsible fiscal management while addressing key priorities to enhance the quality of life for everyone in Lawrenceville."
For additional details and to view the full budget presentation, visit the agendas and minutes section of the city website. Visit Open Checkbook, the City’s financial transparency site, for details on city expenses.