Nathan Kramer / Lawrence Times
Lawrence city commissioners on Tuesday will likely decide how much city property taxes will increase and how much to charge residents to use the rec centers.
Lawrence residents are on track to pay the city an average of almost $200 per month for utilities within the next three years, according to calculations by a local advocate. City commissioners will vote on water and wastewater rate increases on Tuesday.
Lawrence city commissioners on Tuesday heard from dozens about the 2026 budget, which will raise property taxes. They asked to add items during a conversation reminiscent of others in recent months, but now final budget approval is coming in two weeks.
Nathan Kramer / Lawrence Times
Lawrence city commissioners will listen to public feedback about the proposed 2026 budget, which will increase property taxes, during Tuesday’s meeting.
Since 2020, Lawrence has gone from staffing three animal control officers to one, and pressure has mounted for the Lawrence Humane Society and the public to fill in the coverage gaps.
Lawrence’s Parks and Rec Advisory Board voted 4-3 to make a stronger statement to the city commission against a proposal to implement fees for residents to use Lawrence’s recreation centers.
Molly Adams / Lawrence Times
The City of Lawrence is considering increasing the cost of parking throughout downtown, expanding enforcement hours and more. People who live and work downtown naturally bear the brunt of these costs.
August Rudisell/Lawrence Times
Lawrence city commissioners voted to set their maximum property tax rate for 2026 above city staff members’ recommendation. However, they said they aim to reduce it as they continue budget discussions in the coming weeks and months.
August Rudisell/Lawrence Times
A majority of Lawrence city commissioners on Tuesday said they’d support charging residents fees to use recreation centers.
August Rudisell/Lawrence Times
Members of the Lawrence Parks and Recreation Advisory Board on Monday said they would not be representing the community if they did not oppose a proposal to charge fees to use the city’s recreation centers.
