LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government released minutes Friday from an April 26 council meeting that approved multiple projects, including significant funding for an ongoing senior center construction and infrastructure improvements.

At the April 26 meeting, the Urban County Council approved a $547,828 change order for the New Senior and Therapeutic Recreation Center, increasing the total construction contract from $16.56 million to $17.1 million. The 26,000-square-foot facility at Shillito Park is scheduled to open in 2026 and will house programming for seniors 55 and older as well as the city's Therapeutic Recreation program, which serves individuals with disabilities and special needs.

The council also approved a $127,375 contract with Davis H. Elliot Construction Co., Inc., for concrete tee pads and signage for a disc golf course operated by the Parks and Recreation Division.

Council members unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a $253,714 grant application to the Kentucky 911 Service Board to purchase Solacom Guardian System equipment, which requires a local match of $28,190. The grant would support emergency communications infrastructure.

The council also approved a $300,000 federal grant application under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program, which would fund law enforcement training in interview and interrogation techniques. No local matching funds are required for this grant.

Mayor Linda Gorton proclaimed April 16 as CASA Day in Lexington, recognizing the 40th anniversary of the Court Appointed Special Advocates program in Kentucky. The organization, which trains volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children in family court, honored dozens of volunteers and judges who have contributed to the program.

The council also approved a $20,000 contract with Fister Distribution, Inc., for warehouse storage and handling of equipment and supplies for the new Senior and Therapeutic Recreation Center.