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.
August Rudisell/Lawrence Times
Lawrence city commissioners on Tuesday will vote on the city’s maximum property tax rate for 2026. They could decrease the rate before they approve the final budget, but the proposed rate would mean increased property taxes.
Nathan Kramer / Lawrence Times
Annual memberships to use Lawrence’s recreation centers — currently admission-free — will cost $250 per adult, or $150 per senior or youth, if the Parks and Recreation department’s proposal is approved.
August Rudisell/Lawrence Times
Lawrence city commissioners on Tuesday discussed the proposed 2026 budget. It included a flat property tax rate, but commissioners might want to increase spending on things such as the Lawrence Loop and street maintenance.
