Finance panel tables $3.1 million energy fund request

Finance Committee · Meeting of August 27, 2026

Lawrence's Finance Committee tabled a $3.1 million request to spend Columbia Gas settlement funds on energy projects, demanding an itemized breakdown first. Council President Giovanni Rodriguez said the panel was under "a fiscal microscope" and wanted a written plan rather than a lump sum, with library windows estimated near $1.8 million among the stalled projects. The committee did approve $204,993 in Green Communities grant funds for high school LED lighting and weatherization, a $231,375 transfer funding the Lawrence Police Superior Officers Association's new contract, $114,192.20 for school-zone pavement markings, and a $150,000 replenishment of the Bellevue Cemetery's revolving fund, which had been drawn down to cover a $412,500 legal settlement.

Chief Financial Officer Ramona Ceballos detailed the cemetery fund's $214,851 balance. Councilors also questioned a police contract provision shifting officers to personal cellphones for department apps, with Chair Stephanie Infante calling it a liability concern.

In the full story:

• Who Was There
• Organizations And Documents Referenced
• The complete report — 2,483 words

Source: the Finance Committee meeting of August 27, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.