JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. — Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore announced over $1.1 million in cuts, including closing the Aquatic Center for the summer, to help deal with the coronavirus impact on the city's budget.
While Gov. Holcomb said places like the Aquatic Center could reopen July 4, Moore said it will remain closed for the summer to save about $349,000. Additionally, summer camp at the Spring Hill EnVision Center has been canceled, as has bingo at the Ken Ellis Senior Center.
The mayor also said concerts at the RiverStage have been canceled through June, saving the city $22,000.
"The downturn of the economy will likely impact the city's revenue over the next several months," Moore said. "We just can't keep dipping into the rainy day fund and cash reserves to maintain the city's strong fiscal footing."
Plans to improve parts of New Chapel Road have also been placed on hold. This project was expected to cost approximately $700,000.
"We can't ignore the fact that COVID-19 will impact the city's property tax and income tax revenue," Moore said. "We've already seen a drop in our share of gas tax from the state because of the stay-at-home order."
The mayor has also directed all city departments to refrain from any non-essential capital purchases and suspended all city-related travel as a way to control spending.
Moore is not the only local mayor talking about budget cuts. Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said the city could see major cuts without federal relief. In less than three months, Louisville's budget went from anticipating a $19 million surplus to a roughly $27 million deficit.
Union leaders who represent sanitation workers, first responders and more said they need help. Without it, Fischer said the city will be forced to make "horrific" cuts to all departments and services, including public safety.
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