2027 Budget Passed Unanimously
October 27, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 27, 2026
MAYOR WHITFIELD LAUDS COUNCIL UNANIMOUS PASSAGE OF 2027 BUDGET
Employee Raises & Well-funded Public Safety
Lawrence, IN – The Lawrence Common Council unanimously adopted Mayor Deb Whitfield’s proposed 2027 Civil City Budget last evening. “I applaud our Common Council for what has been a productive round of budget discussions,” Whitfield said.
Key highlights of Lawrence’s 2027 Budget:
• Balanced budget with projected surplus of $1.3 million for the year.
• 3% salary increases for all civilian positions.
• Maintains a 23% reserve in operating funds throughout 2027.
•50% increase in funding for street repair and maintenance.
“Our number one priority is sound fiscal management,” Whitfield said. “Despite the challenges created by SEA 1 and the property tax constraints facing municipalities across Indiana, our overall reserves for operating funds remain strong. We accomplished this through the hiring freeze we implemented last year and the elimination of long-vacant positions. Our adopted budget reflects the approach we have taken since the beginning of our administration: investing where it matters, managing taxpayer funding responsibly, and planning for the future. We know the fiscal environment will present challenges, but Lawrence is in a stronger financial position because we have made difficult decisions, maintained discipline, and stayed focused on priorities. With this budget, we will continue to do so.”
Media Contact:
Jim Perron
317-590-1383
jperron@cityoflawrence.org
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About the City of Lawrence, Indiana:
Located northeast of Indianapolis, the City of Lawrence is Indiana’s 20th largest city and home to approximately 50,000 residents. While its military base was decommissioned in 1996, Lawrence has grown into a vibrant community that blends rich history with modern amenities. Under Mayor Deb Whitfield's leadership, the city continues to thrive as a welcoming place to live, work, and play. Learn more at cityoflawrence.org.
