Stephanie P. Anderson

The ordinance modifies the City of Laurel Employees Retirement Plan to document a cost of living adjustment (COLA) for retirees from January 1, 1994, to December 31, 2014. The COLA will provide a percentage increase to retirees who commenced benefits during this period, with the increase varying based on the calendar year the Plan began making payments. Funding for the COLA will be amortized over five years, with specific amounts allocated in the FY2026 through FY2030 budgets. The ordinance formalizes the terms of the COLA to comply with Internal Revenue Code requirements for definitely determinable benefits.

The ordinance amends the FY2025 General Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) due to expenditure savings, unanticipated revenues, and adjustments for City facilities and CIP funding. It reauthorizes additional CIP funding for FY2026, adjusts for Laurel 4th of July Committee financial activities, establishes an Arbitrage Reserve, and reflects actual ARPA revenues and expenditures for FY2025.

The project plan for the City of Laurel focuses on redeveloping and revitalizing urban areas, promoting economic growth and tourism, and advancing sustainability and green infrastructure. Key objectives include enhancing infrastructure, preserving historical and cultural landmarks, attracting businesses through incentives, enhancing workforce development programs, promoting renewable energy, and expanding green spaces and community gardens. The plan also involves community engagement, existing conditions analysis, visioning and goal setting, and strategic planning, with implementation and phasing to be determined.

The City of Laurel's Master Plan focuses on community identity, traffic management, affordable housing, and Main Street redevelopment. It aims to attract companies, enhance the city's branding through arts and culture, and address challenges such as federal job cuts and high property taxes. The plan also emphasizes community engagement and outlines a long-term vision for the city.