BEREA, Ky. — Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley’s annual State of the City message put the spotlight on finances, with the City of Berea emphasizing budget savings and reserves as evidence the city is on steady footing.
In the city’s recap, officials reported Berea finished the 2023–2024 fiscal year having spent $1.75 million less than budgeted. The same recap states the city set aside $3.7 million in a rainy day fund and $3.4 million in the Capital Sinking Fund for major purchases such as equipment and vehicles.
City Recap Source
A separate recap and additional context from the event was also reported by The Edge.
The Edge Report
🗳️ The 2026 Mayor Race Is Already Taking Shape
While the election is still months away, the field is already forming. The Madison County Clerk’s current candidate list shows three people have filed for Mayor, City of Berea in the 2026 election cycle:
- Bruce Fraley (Filed 11/7/2025)
- Troy Lane (Filed 1/8/2026)
- Ricky Clontz (Filed 1/9/2026)
📅 Upcoming Events in Berea
A few dates to put on your calendar:
Spotlight Playhouse
- The Tomb, Murder Mystery Dinner Show (Feb. 13 to 15)
- Disney’s The Lion King KIDS (Feb. 20 to Mar. 1)
- The Taming of the Shrew (Mar. 6 to 15)
Berea College Music
- Folk Roots Ensemble, Ballad Night (Fri., Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m.)
- Louisville Orchestra in Berea (two free performances, Wed., Feb. 25) — BereaOnline preview and details