BOULET ADMINISTRATION PRESENTS BALANCED FY2025-2026 BUDGET PROPOSAL

BOULET ADMINISTRATION PRESENTS BALANCED FY2025-2026 BUDGET PROPOSAL

Lafayette, LA - The Boulet Administration has released a balanced Proposed Operating and Capital Budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, totaling $803.7 million. The proposal reflects the administration's continued commitment to responsible fiscal management and strategic investment in the priorities that matter most to Lafayette residents: public safety, drainage improvements, road infrastructure, and quality of life.

This year's budget places a strong focus on addressing critical service gaps and building long-term resilience. It includes funding to support rural fire protection efforts as part of its broader public safety strategy. To reduce flood risks across the parish, the proposal establishes $500,000 in seed funding to launch a local home elevation and buyout program and expands investment in a newly established Drainage Betterment Program. It also prioritizes improvements to aging infrastructure and public spaces, including Johnston Street, City Hall, the Parish Courthouse, Bertrand Drive, and the Heymann Performing Arts Center.

To make the budget accessible to all residents, Lafayette Consolidated Government (LCG) has updated and re-released A Citizen's Guide to the Budget-a helpful overview that breaks down how public funds are planned, allocated, and invested in the community.

The full proposed budget and supporting documents are now available at https://www.lafayettela.gov/budget. Printed copies will also be available at Lafayette Public Library branches soon.

Public review and feedback opportunities will begin in August. A joint council budget presentation and overview session will be held on Thursday, August 7, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Ted A. Ardoin City-Parish Council Auditorium (705 W. University Avenue), with additional review meetings and a public hearing to follow. A full schedule will be posted at the link above.

For more information, contact the LCG Finance & Management Department at (337) 291-8201 or financemgmt@lafayettela.gov.

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