LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Thursday night marks the final chance for the public to weigh in on the proposed nearly billion dollar Louisville Metro budget.

We can likely expect plenty of community groups and organizations fighting for a piece of the pie. Most of the people who signed up to speak at the last public comment session were representing specific organizations or causes.

Aside from advocating for external agency funding, some of the conversation focused around public safety funding. That comes as no surprise as this year's proposed budget includes a 325% increase in funding for public safety.

That is not just for LMPD – it includes funding for crime prevention organizations. Mayor Greg Fischer, D-Louisville, calls it "re-imagining public safety."

At the last public comment section a few weeks ago, Antonio Taylor spoke on this topic before council members. Taylor is a member of the newly-formed Civilian Review Board. He argues non-conventional crime prevention measures are key to helping the city move forward.

“Our city needs change. You can see it in the numbers making headlines," Taylor said.  "Community engagement initiatives are crucial in strengthening the community’s relationship with LMPD."

This public hearing comes on the heels of continued budget talks. The Louisville Metro Council has been hearing about proposed spending for each department. 

A hearing this week focused on funding for libraries and parks. Council members will also hear more about the Louisville Fire budget Thursday afternoon, shortly before the public comment session.

The opportunity to sign up to speak at the public comment hearing Thursday night is now closed. You can watch the meeting at 5 p.m. on Metro TV or on the Louisville Metro Council Facebook page.