Covington reports nearly $20 million in grants; business tax revenue to support public safety

Covington reported that its finance team managed 19 active grants totaling nearly $20 million in 2025 and launched a new business and occupation tax program that is generating revenue for police and public safety services, an agency official said.

The official said the city maintained balanced budgets and passed rigorous audits in 2025, linking that stewardship to expanded services and reduced burden on local taxpayers. "Strong financial management is the foundation of city services and transparency is what connects that work to the community," the agency official said.

The report noted the finance team oversaw 19 active grants totaling nearly $20 million, bringing "critical outside funding into Covington," the official said. That grant funding, the official added, supports city priorities while limiting reliance on local tax increases.

The speaker described a newly implemented business and occupation tax program, saying it supports local businesses through reporting and compliance. "This program is generating revenue that goes directly towards police and public safety services," the agency official said, tying the new revenue stream to public-safety budgets.

City officials also highlighted digital outreach and transparency efforts. The city website, the official said, "saw more than 680,000 visits in 2025," providing a 24/7 hub where residents can apply for permits, review agendas and meeting minutes, register for parks and recreation programs, and learn about road and construction projects.

On social media, the city reported more than 2 million impressions and engagement with more than 33,000 followers across platforms. "Social media allows us to meet people where they are. It provides real-time updates on public safety issues, road closures, emergency alerts, weather impacts, and important community announcements," the official said.

Officials said these digital and traditional communication channels'including quarterly e-newsletters, seasonal recreation guides, face-to-face engagement at community events, and signage'are intended to ensure information is accessible across multiple platforms. The presentation closed with the official reiterating that keeping the community informed is as important as managing resources responsibly.

No votes or formal actions were reported in the presentation.