Council Approves Creation of Green Initiative Fund, Sidewalk Improvement Project Fund

During tonight’s Charleston City Council meeting, two funds were created – the Green Initiative Fund and the Sidewalk Improvement Project Fund – using funds from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

City funds will be used to purchase recycling bins for those that want to recycle within the City. Automatic lifts arms will also be purchased for current recycling trucks. The Green Initiative Fund was also created to fund Environment & Recycling Committee and Green Team initiatives.

The Sidewalk Improvement Project Fund will focus on fixing sidewalks in residential and commercial areas across the City. The Planning, Streets and Traffic Committee will establish rules on how these monies can be used at an upcoming meeting.

“The Unassigned Fund Balance created opportunities to further invest in our City by prioritizing green initiatives and improving infrastructure,” said Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. “I’m thankful for Council’s leadership this evening in approving these measures.”

Other initiatives funded through the Unassigned Fund Balance include:

• $500,000 to the IT Infrastructure Fund to fully fund a new Revenue Tracking System and Cashier System
• $300,000 to the Tourism Fund to support bringing large events, conventions and revenue generating events
• $320,000 to the Business Development and Economic Incentive Fund to continue small business investment grants and support business improvement efforts
• $300,000 towards City-wide beautification projects
• $780,000 towards continued demolitions of dilapidated structures