Frankfort · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Frankfort public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
General Obligation Bonds Series 2026B for downtown and parks
Derby-season sprucing is underway: new city flags, contracted mowing, barrel plantings, and Broadway Bridge stone used to fix a muddy Riverview Park access. Commissioner Smith-Willis pushed for a dedicated litter plan around big events and the city's gateway entrances.
FY 2026-27 City Budget Revenue Appropriation
Revenues are up 9.7% and spending down 1%, and the city has roughly $14–17 million in reserves above its minimum fund balance — pushing back on talk that the city is broke.
Gas franchise ordinance and fee
Frankfort wants its first gas utility franchise — Columbia Gas would pay 3% of gross revenues annually for a 10-year franchise, with possible increases to 5%.
FY2027 employee health insurance renewal
City and employee health premiums rise about 9% next year, but a new pharmacy vendor should cut generic copays from $15 to $10 and keep international sourcing for expensive drugs.
$12.05 Million Bond Issue for Downtown and Parks Projects
A proposed $12.035 million bond would fund downtown and parks master plan projects, including reimbursing the general fund for the Lazy River at the Aquatic Center, paid entirely by the insurance premium tax.
Transit fare suspension and ridership
Free fares nearly doubled July ridership (13,015 vs. 7,068), but some riders are just riding to ride, crowding out commuters. The board held off on extending the suspension and will study the data before a September committee meeting.
FY 2025-26 Budget Amendment
A mid-year fix to the current budget adds about $2.39 million in revenue and $1.08 million in spending to the General Fund.