City Council holds public hearing to discuss proposed budget

Lincoln residents gathered in front of the City Council on Monday to express their thoughts on the city budget.

Lincoln, Neb. (KLKN) – Monday night, Lincoln residents voiced their concerns over the Mayor’s proposed city budget. Demonstrators gathered outside of the City Council building playing drums, and calling to defund the police. Others, took their frustrations inside the building, and some supported the budget.

A majority of the public showed their disapproval over the approved police grant, which funds for five new police officers. The additional funding will be put toward crisis response, social services and mental health resources.

“It is important to note that police are a response to crime,” Lincoln resident Kadeja Sangoyele said. “They are not the answer.”

The federal government approved $625,00 in funds which will be supplemented by $150,000 in city funding. There are some residents who believe the money could be spent elsewhere.

“Please fund the F Street Rec Center, the Malone Center,” said one speaker.”Please fund libraries, please fund your public.”

While some people opposed the police grant, others supported it. Fanchon Blythe has family members and friends that work for law enforcement. Today, she was showing support.

“Do not defund it in any city across the United States,” she said. “I stand for our Lincoln Police Department.”

The City Council did not make any final decisions, and wanted the public to share their thoughts. The budget could be adopted by August 24 if approved.