News Update:
A fiber communication line has been cut somewhere in the region, which has caused some phone issues for the county, according to Edmonson County 911 Communication Director Pat Prunty.

Prunty said the calls affected at the moment are cell phone calls made to land lines or land line calls made to cell numbers. Cell-to-cell calling is not affected with local carriers, nor is land line-to land line calling at this time, he said.

The 911 system and current dispatch telecommunications are also currently not affected.

"We are trying to locate and repair the line right now," he said. "It will likely be several hours before it is repaired." 

If you are located in a declared disaster area, you may be eligible for financial assistance from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

What Types of Disaster Loans are Available?
• Business Physical Disaster Loans – Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
• Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles.

What are the Credit Requirements?
• Credit History – Applicants must have a credit history acceptable to SBA.
• Repayment – Applicants must show the ability to repay all loans.
• Collateral – Collateral is required for physical loss loans over $25,000 and all EIDL loans over $25,000. SBA takes real estate as collateral when it is available. SBA will not decline a loan for lack of collateral, but requires you to pledge what is available.

What are the Interest Rates?
By law, the interest rates depend on whether each applicant has Credit Available Elsewhere. An applicant does not have Credit Available Elsewhere when SBA determines the applicant does not have sufficient funds or other resources, or the ability to borrow from non-government sources, to provide for its own disaster recovery. An applicant, which SBA determines to have the ability to provide for his or her own recovery is deemed to have Credit Available Elsewhere. Interest rates are fixed for the term of the loan. The interest rates applicable for this disaster are:

What are Loan Terms?
The law authorizes loan terms up to a maximum of 30 years. However, the law restricts businesses with credit available elsewhere to a maximum 7-year term. SBA sets the installment payment amount and corresponding maturity based upon each borrower’s ability to repay.

What are the Loan Amount Limits?
• Business Loans – The law limits business loans to $2,000,000 for the repair or replacement of real estate, inventories, machinery, equipment and all other physical losses. Subject to this maximum, loan amounts cannot exceed the verified uninsured disaster loss.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – The law limits EIDLs to $2,000,000 for alleviating economic injury caused by the disaster. The actual amount of each loan is limited to the economic injury determined by SBA, less business interruption insurance and other recoveries up to the administrative lending limit. EIDL assistance is available only to entities and their owners who cannot provide for their own recovery from non-government sources, as determined by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
• Business Loan Ceiling – The $2,000,000 statutory limit for business loans applies to the combination of physical, economic injury, mitigation and refinancing, and applies to all disaster loans to a business and its affiliates for each disaster. If a business is a major source of employment, SBA has the authority to waive the $2,000,000 statutory limit.
• Home Loans – SBA regulations limit home loans to $200,000 for the repair or replacement of real estate and $40,000 to repair or replace personal property. Subject to these maximums, loan amounts cannot exceed the verified uninsured disaster loss.

What Restrictions are there on Loan Eligibility?
• Uninsured Losses – Only uninsured or otherwise uncompensated disaster losses are eligible. Any insurance proceeds which are required to be applied against outstanding mortgages are not available to fund disaster repairs and do not reduce loan eligibility. However, any insurance proceeds voluntarily applied to any outstanding mortgages do reduce loan eligibility. • Ineligible Property – Secondary homes, personal pleasure boats, airplanes, recreational vehicles and similar property are not eligible, unless used for business purposes. Property such as antiques and collections are eligible only to the extent of their functional value. Amounts for landscaping, swimming pools, etc., are limited.
• Noncompliance – Applicants who have not complied with the terms of previous SBA loans may not be eligible. This includes borrowers who did not maintain flood and/or hazard insurance on previous SBA loans.

Note: Loan applicants should check with agencies / organizations administering any grant or other assistance program under this declaration to determine how an approval of SBA disaster loan might affect their eligibility.

Is There Help with Funding Mitigation Improvements?
If your loan application is approved, you may be eligible for additional funds to cover the cost of improvements that will protect your property against future damage. Examples of improvements include retaining walls, seawalls, sump pumps, etc. Mitigation loan money would be in addition to the amount of the approved loan, but may not exceed 20 percent of total amount of physical damage to real property, including leasehold improvements, and personal property as verified by SBA to a maximum of $200,000 for home loans. It is not necessary for the description of improvements and cost estimates to be submitted with the application. SBA approval of the mitigating measures will be required before any loan increase.

Is There Help Available for Refinancing?
• SBA can refinance all or part of prior mortgages that are evidenced by a recorded lien, when the applicant (1) does not have credit available elsewhere, (2) has suffered substantial uncompensated disaster damage (40 percent or more of the value of the property or 50% or more of the value of the structure), and (3) intends to repair the damage.
• Businesses – Business owners may be eligible for the refinancing of existing mortgages or liens on real estate, machinery and equipment, up to the amount of the loan for the repair or replacement of real estate, machinery, and equipment.
• Homes – Homeowners may be eligible for the refinancing of existing liens or mortgages on homes, up to the amount of the loan for real estate repair or replacement.

What if I Decide to Relocate?
You may use your SBA disaster loan to relocate. The amount of the relocation loan depends on whether you relocate voluntarily or involuntarily. If you are interested in relocation, an SBA representative can provide you with more details on your specific situation.

Are There Insurance Requirements for Loans?
To protect each borrower and the Agency, SBA may require you to obtain and maintain appropriate insurance. By law, borrowers whose damaged or collateral property is located in a special flood hazard area must purchase and maintain flood insurance. SBA requires that flood insurance coverage be the lesser of 1) the total of the disaster loan, 2) the insurable value of the property, or 3) the maximum insurance available.

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

Darren Doyle, story:
The final list of candidates for the Edmonson County Primary Election, which will be held on May 17, 2022 has been filed.

The deadline for party affiliation changes was December 31, 2021. The new voter registration deadline has been set for April 18, 2022.

Below are all candidates that have filed for the listed offices, along with additional information pertaining to specific offices.

Final Edmonson County filings:
*denotes incumbent
(listed in alphabetical order under each office)
 
Judge-Executive:
Gregory Hudson (D)
Jordan M. Jones (R)
Ronald Scott Lindsey (R)

Judge Executive Wil Cannon (R) will not be seeking re-election after serving two terms. Candidate Greg Hudson recently changed his registration from republican to democrat before filing.
 
Sheriff:
*Shane A. Doyle (R)
Stoney Phillips (R)
James Edward Vincent (R)

Sheriff Shane Doyle is seeking re-election for a third term.
 
County Attorney:
Adam Turner (R)
*Gregory R. Vincent (R)

County Attorney Greg Vincent is seeking re-election after serving as Edmonson County Attorney at different times. He first served four consecutive terms from 1999-2014. He was defeated in the 2014 election by J.B. Hines, and then appointed back to the office after Hines was appointed District Judge in 2017. Vincent was re-elected in the 2018 election.

Jailer:
Joe Carl Daugherty (R)
Todd Vincent (R)

Jailer Hank Vincent (R) is not seeking re-election after three terms.
 
County Clerk:
*Kevin M. Alexander (R)
 
Property Valuation Administrator:
*Kyle M. White (D)
 
Coroner:
*Brentley Esters (R)
 
Magistrate, District One:
*Mark Meeks (D)
 
Magistrate, District Two:
Joe Durbin (D)
John Kiernan (R)
T.J. Massey (R)

Magistrate Corey VanMeter (R) is not seeking re-election after one term.
 
Magistrate, District Three:
Anthony Hennion (R)
Faron Lindsey (R)
*Charlie Tarter (D)

Magistrate Charlie Tarter is seeking re-election after being appointed by the Governor in July 2020 after the death of Magistrate Clark Wood, who passed during office. Tarter was re-elected by special election in November of 2020.
 
Magistrate, District Four:
James “Mickey” Johnson (R)
Pat Prunty (R)

Magistrate Edd Rich (R) is not seeking re-election after serving four full terms and a part of another after being appointed by former Governor Ernie Fletcher in 2005 after the magistrate at that time, Barry Rich, resigned mid-term after accepting a job at the state level.
 
Magistrate, District Five:
Gary Bagshaw (R)
Rickey Sanders (R)
Steve M. Sanders (D)
Jason E. Vincent (R)

Magistrate Johnny Brooks (R) is not seeking re-election after serving 5 consecutive terms.

Magistrate, District Six:
*James C. Vincent (R)

 
Constable, District One:
*Anthony Lora Cobb (R)
 
Constable, District Two:
Walter Lindsey (R)
Tim Skees (R)

Constable, District Three:
J.C. Daugherty (R)

Incumbent Joe Carl Daugherty is running for jailer instead of constable. J.C. Daugherty is the son of Joe Carl (for clarification).
 
Constable, District Four:
*Ricky A. Page (R)
 
Constable, District Five:
*Charles Peck (R)
 
Constable, District Six:
James Matthew Moulder (R)
 
School Board, Distict 5 (Non-Partisan)
*Sean Sanders

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Dr. Rand Paul, U.S. Senator, made a brief stop in Brownsville this afternoon to discuss a variety of issues and answer questions in the Edmonson County Community Center.

The first topic he addressed was the COVID pandemic.

"I think what's clear now, is that particularly the statistics that've come out, they've looked at a million people, the CDC did, and wanted to know what was the protection from vaccination and the protection from being infected," he said at the event. "They found that those who are vaccinated vs. unvaccinated were 20 times less likely to be in the hospital--if you'd been vaccinated. They also found that if you'd had the disease previously, whether you were vaccinated or not, you were 55 times less likely to be in the hospital than someone unvaccinated."

Dr. Paul said it was important to know that there is value for someone with natural immunity, which he said was not discussed in the mainstream near enough. He said he was opposed to vaccination mandates, especially for kids.

"If you want to, fine. It's a free country and people should make their own decisions," he said. "The reason we shouldn't force them is this: the death rate for children from COVID is about one in a million. The death rate for being struck by lightning is greater than being killed from COVID for kids. We don't mandate you wear a helmet with a lightning rod on it when you go outside, so we really shouldn't mandate that you should vaccinate your kids."

He also said that boys from the ages of 16 to 24 have a greater risk of heart inflammation with the more vaccines they take.

"I think it's complete idiocy and malpractice for colleges to be saying your kid has to have a booster," he said.

He then said the former argument was that vaccinating children was also for the benefit of older relatives but he said that's now no longer true.

"The vaccine doesn't stop you from catching it or transmitting it," he said. "If you've been vaccinated and I'm not, and each of us get COVID, there's a 25% we infect someone in our household whether you've vaccinated or not. Once again, not an argument for not being vaccinated, vaccinated probably keeps you out of the hospital, but it is an argument against mandating this, and I just don't see forbidding kids to go to school, not letting them play sports, not letting them be in choir if they haven't been vaccinated. I think it should be the parents' choice. I'm the same way on the masks. The cloth masks don't work. Even the CDC admits it now, even doctors on CNN, who are usually inclined for more government, the doctors on CNN are saying they are facial decorations, the cloth masks. So why would we mandate that your kid be in a mask all day long that doesn't even really work?"

He encouraged those with COVID to seek treatment early and that kids were never really the problem with spreading the virus. He also said that lockdowns were not the answer to keep the virus from spreading. He referred to the CDC again.

"If you look at the CDC website, over the age of 65, 97% of the people over 65 got vaccinated. So, overwhelmingly, the people who were at risk got vaccinated. And really, it's not so bad for those above age 50--it's like 80% of the people did. So it isn't that nobody was getting vaccinated, the truth is, virtually everybody got vaccinated. And so, I don't think we need to mandate something that most people chose voluntarily. To me, it's inconsistent with who we are as a country to tell you what kind of medicine you have to take and what kind of injections you have to take."

Dr. Paul said that while he would recommend it, he reiterated that he was opposed to the mandates.

He said he supported the state legislation that limited the powers of the governor and felt like the country was on its way out of the pandemic.

"Overall, I think the country is strong and we can get through this. It's pitted us a little bit against each other and I don't like that, but the difference between the philosophies of those who believe in mandates and those who don't is, I have an opinion on masks, but I'm not going to make you accept my opinion. You can wear 'em, you can put your kids in 'em, that's your decision, but the people on the other side, who believe that they're so fervently right, want to tell you what to do and they're going to mandate your behavior, and there's something wrong with that."

He said that's why no one person should be in charge of medicine.

"We've given Dr. Fauci too much power over the rest of us, and it really should be, you go to your doctor and if you don't like your doctor's opinion, you get another doctor's opinion, and that's the way it should work in a free country."

Dr. Paul said the battle against inflation is tough because all the stimulus money paid out by the U.S. Government was borrowed and that simply put, more money was printed to make it happen. As a result, the costs of goods and services are going up and it's a classic lesson that reflects nothing in life is free.

"We're still borrowing a great deal this year, and I think inflation gets worse next year."

He later asked for any questions from the crowd and the Edmonson Voice asked him his stance on the voting rights bill, specifically about voter suppression in the United States.

"There's no voter suppression in our country. None," he replied. "In fact, the Supreme Court looked at this a while back, and there was a time in the south when there was voter suppression and the federal government got involved and through (the) Voting Rights of 1965, the federal government policed state elections. They looked at this in 2012 and they pulled back. And the reason they did is, they looked at Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina where it had been a problem in the sixties and they measured the vote, and they found out that African-Americans vote at the same rate as white Americans or higher. In 2020, more people voted than have ever voted...so really, it's dishonest. The people who are trying to push this voting rights bill, what they're trying to push is a votes-by-mail bill, where you don't have to show any identification, and groups can go in and gather--I mean, how many people would think it would be a fair election for your next  judge-executive if one person can bring in 5,000 votes in a box, give them to you and then we count them. Wouldn't people suspect that some of them might not be real? But the thing is, voting in person works. A republican and a democrat sit at a desk, and there's a book. It's not rocket science here. The democrat watches the republican to make sure he or she doesn't cheat and vice versa, and there can't be more votes than the people in the book. But all of the sudden, when votes are flooding in and more people vote than are actually in the book, that's a problem."

After he finished speaking to the audience he took a few minutes for some photos and spoke to the Voice individually. We asked him what was the status of his ongoing feud with Dr. Anthony Fauci.

"I think it's most important, not necessarily him or I, but it's important that if this pandemic came from a lab in China, that we get to the bottom of that and try to make sure it doesn't happen again," he answered. "He's been in favor of research where you take a known virus that has lethality or deadliness and you combine it with an unknown, and you experiment to create new viruses that are not found in nature. That's called Gain-of-Function research. I think that's very dangerous and we shouldn't be doing it in China or in the U.S. And so, if we take over, if the republicans win the senate, we'll investigate the origins of the virus, but also investigate whether or not we should be sending taxpayer dollars to do research that I think could've caused this pandemic."

The Senator also took a short tour of the senior food pantry, also located in the Community Center and said he would try to find ways to provide aid in that area.

Dr. Paul also reportedly made stops in Munfordville, E-town, and Brandenburg today.

You can connect with Senator Paul by emailing him at this link.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Representative Brett Guthrie stopped by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office today, along with staff members Mark Lord and new field representative Kylie Foushee (Foo-Shay) to catch up with Sheriff Shane Doyle.

Rep. Guthrie and his staff discussed possible ways local law enforcement could be helped from the federal level and shared their thoughts on current affairs. Sheriff Doyle specifically asked for help when it came to grant funding, and he felt like Guthie's office could offer assistance through communicating with areas of economic development.

After the congressman finished his conversation with the sheriff, he graciously sat down with the Edmonson Voice to provide his thoughts on a number of subjects that included the U.S. border, the fight on COVID, and the current situation with voter laws.

First, Rep. Guthrie discussed the U.S. border and described President Joe Biden's policy on the matter "out of control."

"I was able to go to the border and see it myself," he said. "I talked to border agents and asked them what could we do to fix it, they told me we need to finish the wall."

Guthrie said it was obvious where the Trump wall project ended and the rest of the border began where migrants are easily slipping over and through. He said there are so many entering into the country illegally that agents are finding it more and more difficult to stop smugglers, who are bringing in fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is said to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.

"Cocaine is smuggled mostly in bricks but fentanyl can be put in a water bottle and stuffed in somebody's pocket," he said. "These cartels are abusing migrants by paying them to bring this stuff over. Just a tiny little bit of it can kill you but agents are only catching 20-25% of the smugglers. So where are the other 80% or so? The first thing we're going to do (republicans) when we take control is make sure the border is under control. It's a top priority."

We asked him about the current fight in the COVID pandemic.

"Biden has completely failed," he said. "These top-down mandates are just wrong. We need to shut down forced masks in open areas, you see people forced to wear masks outside in some places and this is simply not slowing down Omicron. This is more like the seasonal flu but no one ever mandated a flu vaccine and we shouldn't be mandating any vaccine. We can't have any more shutdowns. If you want to prevent every case, well, it means control, and we don't need that. We need to let people know the risks so they can do what is best for them."

We also asked him to comment on the current controversy between democrats and republicans regarding voter laws and voter suppression. We asked him his thoughts on people's right to vote being suppressed.

"That's just false," he said. "We want election integrity. What I've always asked is 'is there someone who can't vote that legally has the right? Where are those people?' And I also ask 'why not have someone identify themselves when they vote?' These are questions that are not answered. I want anyone to vote that legally can, but they want to change the rules so that the democrats can get their way."

He said while the current voting bill would not allow someone to vote that legally cannot, it is a pathway for that.

"We're seeing it in cities and other local governments," he said. "No, it doesn't legally allow someone to vote that's not legally supposed to, but this can open up to fraud."

Guthrie added that he is looking forward to the primary election and that he remains close by to serve the people of Edmonson County and the rest of the 2nd congressional district that also includes Fort Knox, Owensboro, Bowling Green, and Danville.

"I feel local when I come here after all the time I spent with Richie Sanders and the people around here," he said. "I want to continue representing your values. I'm for securing the border, no mandates, and energy independence."

You can contact Rep. Guthrie by visiting his official website here.

Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office has announced James "Derek" Conley as a new special deputy in the office. Conley, 34, of Bee Spring is a graduate of Edmonson County High and is employed by R&R Controls as an engineer. Derek will fill the open spot left by Andy Cast, who is moving into a full-time position.

He was sworn in by District Judge JB Hines.

“We are very excited to add Derek to our team," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "As a native Edmonson Countian, he understands our community and the people. He will be a valuable asset to the county.”

Edmonson Voice Report:
The Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) Aging and Disability Resource Center is now providing help to individuals 60 years of age and over that need rides to their Covid-19 vaccination appointments.

“We now have funding to provide both formal and informal transportation providers who take eligible participants to their scheduled COVID19 vaccination appointments a voucher for that expense," said BRADD Deputy Director Michelle Hines.

According to BRADD, the voucher program is intended to provide a means of transportation for individuals who do not have current transportation assistance. This program is not intended to replace current transportation supports used by the participant.

Transportation providers must have a current and valid driver’s license, updated vehicle registration, and insurance.

Each voucher will be reimbursed at $12.00 per one-way trip or round trips at $24.00.

The program is being offered in all the BRADD ten county areas. The BRADD serves Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmonson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, and Warren Counties.

For more information or assistance, please contact the BRADD office at 270-782-9223 or 1-800-395-7654. This project is funded in part through a contract with the US Department of Health & Human Services and the KY Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department of Aging & Independent Living.

Kentucky has fifteen Area Development Districts (ADDs) that provide a system of complete coverage to all 120 counties and a link between local leadership, the Governor’s office, state and federal agencies, and private organizations. The mission of Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) is to preserve and advance the quality of life and economic well-being for the citizens of the BRADD through regional collaboration. For more information about our organization go to www.bradd.org.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met virtually today and other than a discussion on a proposed ordinance that would commit Edmonson County to the pre-stages of a regional jail, there were few items on today's agenda.

Among a few of the county reports given today, County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll addressed the court on why county crews did not plow snow after the snow last week. Edmonson County saw about an inch throughout the county on Sunday night and about the same amount again on Wednesday night.

In his regular report, he said plows were not out on Monday because there wasn't enough snow to justify the county trucks being out.

"Some people were complaining that we were off because of Martin Luther King Day, but that wasn't it," he said. "We didn't get enough snow to plow."

He also said that the county does not have unlimited salt supplies like the state does and that the chains placed on the tires of the county trucks are expensive to operate. He also said the crew had been low on manpower lately due to some illness, and that the road department was down to just four members recently.

Judge Executive Wil Cannon also talked to magistrates about the short salt supply for the county.

"We ordered 500 tons and we got 300 tons in December," he said. "Only 300 tons of it came and so we're still waiting on 200 tons. There's no guarantee with the crisis, of supplying this stuff, or if we're even going to get it. So I told Greg to be very careful about spreading the salt on something that might melt off that day or the next day because we may need to save it in case a bad storm comes. And so, he's being very careful with that salt in case we do get a big storm. We've got no guarantees that we're going to get that other 200 tons. Until we get it, we just gotta be careful with how we use it. So don't be too upset with him, tell people that call you that we're just trying to be careful with it for that reason."

Jailer Report: Judge Cannon reported 40 county inmates currently housed at the Hart County Jail.

County Attorney Report: County Attorney Greg Vincent updated the court on how he was looking into possible incentives from the county that could encourage larger industry to come to Edmonson County. He has been conferring with other counties and their bonding that could offer incentives to large businesses, such as the Park Mammoth revitalization project, which would bring jobs to the community.

County Clerk Report: County Clerk Kevin Alexander announced that the deadline for filing to run for office for 2022 was Tuesday, January 25th. He also noted that the ballot position drawing will be held Thursday, January 27th a 2pm at the Community Center.

Parks and Rec: Director A.B. Webb said youth league basketball was still ongoing. He also discussed a problem with people cutting across Bee Spring Park, which was causing ruts that would need to be repaired. He also added that he was looking at setting up RV campsites at Chalybeate Park. Several have inquired about the sites at past disc golf and horseshoe tournaments.

Tourism: County Tourism Director Vanessa Ulm said that the city of Brownsville had recently been the named most romantic weekend getaway in Kentucky from Thrillist Travel, an entertainment publication, which noted the Mammoth Cave and Nolin Lake area. She also said that Edmonson County Tourism was able to take advantage of a free advertising opportunity that allowed them to place a small ad with Country Living, Good Housekeeping, and Women’s Day magazines. County Treasurer Tammi Willhite also added that the Tourism Board has already taken in $72K of revenue which has topped the estimated $70K annual budget only halfway through the fiscal year.
 
Judge Wil Cannon said the county had only one infraction on their recent state audit, which was failing to bid out road tiles. Those had always been purchased locally. The local retailer, Sun Valley Feed Mill agreed to join the state bidding process and the county has already corrected the error, Cannon said. The full audit will be released from the state auditor soon.

Magistrates also voted to:

• Approve Resolution EC 22-01, BGWC Animal Shelter Agreement
• Approve Resolution EC 22-03, Community Action Lease
• Approve Jailer Quarterly Report
• Approve Voting Machine Bid Advertisement
• Approve Skid Steer Purchase ($66,223 for county road department)

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Brownsville man was arrested on Friday after a domestic incident resulted in multiple felonies, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

The Sheriff's Office stated that deputies were dispatched to the Kyrock community for a domestic disturbance on January 20, 2022, at approximately 4:08PM. Law enforcement said that contact was made with the victim of the domestic incident, who stated that Jeffrey C. Gillingham (31) of Brownsville, the man identified as the alleged abuser, had left the residence.

The Sheriff's Office stated that an active Emergency Protective Order between the victim and Gillingham was confirmed. The next day around 5PM, a traffic stop was conducted in connection with the prior domestic disturbance incident. Gillingham was identified as the driver and when he exited the vehicle, law enforcement detected the strong odor of marijuana emitting from his person and the vehicle, according to the Sheriff's Office. Deputies reportedly located suspected marijuana and suspected methamphetamine inside the vehicle.

Gillingham was arrested on sight and charged with:

• Strangulation, 1st Degree
• Assault, 4th Degree (Domestic Violence—minor injury)
• Intimidating a Participant in the Legal Process
• Violation of a Kentucky EPO/DVO
• Possession Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (methamphetamine)
• Drug Paraphernalia—buy/possess

Gillingham was lodged in Hart County Jail. The Sheriff's Office said the investigation is ongoing and further charges are pending.

Darren Doyle, story:
At today's Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting, which was held virtually, Edmonson County Attorney Greg Vincent laid out the ordinance that he helped create in conjunction with the Ohio and Butler County attorneys that would allow Edmonson County to either move forward or decline participation in the first stage of a new regional jail among the counties.

Vincent said the ordinance would first allow the appointment of a board which would have three representatives from Ohio County, and two each from Butler and Edmonson. This board would manage the pre-construction process, that would include investigating the best location for a jail, retain services for an architectural firm, conduct environmental studies for the area, and other state and federal requirements for receiving grant funding.

After the available funding from grants is known, then the board would return to each fiscal court and the counties would then determine whether or not they would be committed to the construction of the jail. Once a county becomes committed to participating in the regional partnership, they would have to remain committed unless the board agreed to release them from their commitment; however, prior to the construction commitment, any county can withdraw at any time.

However, Vincent also said that even if Edmonson County agreed to move forward with participation of appointing a board, which would have nothing to do with whether or not the county later agreed to be a regional partner in the actual construction, a large sum of money would have to be spent by the county for just this stage alone.

"It's at the point when the board comes back to the fiscal courts and says 'we've found a spot, we've done all the studies, we've gone to the state, we've gone to the feds, here's the money that they're putting up for us, here's the money that the counties will need,' that's your last point," Vincent said. "Because that's when the counties have to decide whether they're going to float bonds to pay for the construction of this thing. No county can bind another county until this point. Once a county starts borrowing money to do building, you're committed."

Vincent said in the event a regional jail is built, each county's financial commitment for the construction and first year of operation would be 50% from Ohio County and 25% each from Butler and Edmonson. After the first year, the percentage of a county's inmates would then determine what each county's financial commitment would be. 

"At the end of the first year, there would be a review of how many inmates each county had out of the total, and it would be broken down on a percentage basis," Vincent said. "If we only had 10% of the total inmates for the year, for the next three years, we'd only pay for 10% of the total jail fees. If we had more, we'd pay more."

Vincent also wanted to point out what would not be in this ordinance for the first stage.

"Before you vote on this, you need to consider there will be a significant outlaying of money that this county will have to make even in the startup procedure," he said.

He noted that architects are not cheap and other legal representation would likely be needed in order to avoid conflicts of interest. There would also be environmental and soil studies and he said he anticipated somewhere around a total of $200K in expenses for just the first stages alone. At that number, Edmonson County's commitment would be $50,000. He also added that the number was only his estimation and that it obviously could be higher or lower, but nevertheless, a financial commitment would have to be made by the county if magistrates voted to move into the first stage.

As Vincent continued describing the proposed ordinance presented to magistrates, he asked them to study it extensively before a vote on the first reading at the next fiscal court meeting.

Vincent also said the proposed ordinance is a product of weeks worth of work among him, other county's officials, and Judge Executive Wil Cannon in addition to a host of research, emails, calls, and other in-person meetings.

"Is it the most perfect agreement possible?" Vincent rhetorically asked. "No, but I think it's one that we can live with until we decide that we can't."

Judge Cannon agreed that the proposed ordinance was a good agreement and also asked magistrates to study it in full so that a vote could be taken at the next meeting.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Smiths Grove man was arrested Thursday evening after a domestic incident where law enforcement said he tried to hide, but a fall from an attic ladder ended his escape attempt.

According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, a deputy was dispatched to the 10,000 block of Brownsville Road for a domestic disturbance around 6PM on January 20, 2022. The female party stated to law enforcement that the male suspect, identified as Jonathan S. Sparks (46) of Smiths Grove, had physically assaulted her before she left the scene to escape further abuse, the Sheriff's Office stated.

When law enforcement arrived, Sparks reportedly answered the door, but then allegedly fled further into the residence. The Sheriff's Office said that a deputy was able to detain Sparks without further incident after he fell from an attic ladder while attempting to hide from police.

Sparks was charged with:

• Fleeing or Evading Police, 2nd Degree (on foot)
• Assault, 4th Degree/Dating Violence (no visible injury)
• Harassment—Physical Contact (no injury)

Three active Edmonson County Bench Warrants and two active Warren County Bench Warrants were also served on Sparks. All were for Failure to Appear on charges that ranged from Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place to Fleeing or Evading Police with felony drug charges.

Sparks was lodged in Hart County Jail. The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Kentucky State Police.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Butler County woman has been arrested and charged with murder after a stabbing incident resulted in the death of a Morgantown man.

KSP Troopers responded to Gilstrap Road in Morgantown on Thursday, January 21st around 3PM to investigate a stabbing, KSP reported.

According to troopers, the preliminary investigation indicated that Trenton M. Howard (32) of Morgantown, was stabbed in the residence located at 2142 Gilstrap Road and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Butler County Coroner.  As a result of the investigation including interviews conducted and statements of individuals present during the incident, Tiffany Swift (25) of Cromwell, was arrested and charged with one count of murder, KSP said.

The investigation continues and is being led by KSP Detectives. Kentucky State Police was assisted by Butler County Sheriff's Office, Butler County EMS, and Butler County Coroner.

Darren Doyle, story: photos submitted:
The Edmonson County Middle School Academic Team won their 22nd consecutive (yes, that's 22 years in a row) quick recall district championship on Saturday, January 15th at St. Joseph's School in Bowling Green. 

The Wildcats defeated Henry F. Moss Middle School 27-16 in round one and won over Drakes Creek Middle in round two, 35-20.

After a bye in round three, they played Drakes Creek again in the finals, which was double elimination. After losing a tight match 25-23, the Cats bounced back to claim another consecutive district title in a span that now stretches more than two decades.

In addition to the team accolade, four individuals from the team advanced in written assessment areas, which included:

• Brayden Johnson, 1st place in both language arts and arts & humanities
• Thomas James, 2nd place in science
• Evelyn Ulm, 2nd place in mathematics
• Ethan Pinet, 4th place in social studies

Head Coach Nick Skaggs credited the team not only for their hard work all season long, but also for keeping focus after a loss in the finals.

"It would have been easy to let down in the final game, after losing the round four game," he said, "but the team wanted the championship and came out ready to play in that final game. They were determined to win and they played very well." 

ECMS Principal Brandon Prunty described the accomplishments of the team as "amazing."

"Even through these crazy last two years, Mr. Skaggs has found ways to continue to work with his team and motivate them to keep working hard," said Prunty. "It hasn’t always been easy, but they’ve pushed through the challenges and found a way to continue the tradition of success for ECMS.  I am so proud of them all."

The 22-year streak goes all the way back to Coach Skaggs' 8th grade year, when he was a member of the team in the 2000-2001 season.

"The program has has a couple of close calls over the years, including this season, but we’ve pulled it out every year," Coach Skaggs said.

EDMONSON COUNTY FISCAL COURT
NOTICE OF REGULAR AUDIO/VIDEO TELECONFERENCE MEETING

In accordance with KRS 61.823, KRS 61.826, Executive Order 2020-243, OAG 20-05, 2020 Senate Bill 150 and the March 31 Attorney General Advisory, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court will meet in session at 9:00 a.m. on January 24, 2022 to consider the following Agenda.  The meeting will take place via audio teleconference due to the current public health situation with the fiscal court not meeting in person. The public may attend via audio by dialing:  1-312-626-6799, meeting ID 820 0161 8071, password 424865 or by going to the following link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82001618071?pwd=QUEzTDgxV0JPKyt2N0VZNEkyejFFUT09
 
AGENDA
1/24/2022

1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of today’s Agenda
4. Approval of January 10, 2022 Fiscal Court Minutes

a.Read b. Dispense

1. Approval of Bills
2. Appropriation Budget Transfers
   
3. Office Reports
4. Committee Reports

1. Tourism
2. Recreation Tax Committee

1. Old Business

1. Regional Jail

1. New Business
   1. Approve Resolution EC 22-01, BGWC Animal Shelter Agreement.
   2. Approve Resolution EC 22-03, Community Action Lease.
   3. Approve Jailer Quarterly Report.
   4. Approve Voting Machine Bid Advertisement.
   5. Approve Skid Steer Purchase
2. Updates:
3. Judge Executive:
4. Adjourn:
5. Next Fiscal Court Meeting will be February 14, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. / virtual meeting.

 
Wil Cannon
EDMONSON COUNTY JUDGE EXECUTIVE

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander has released the following statement regarding school closures for this Thursday and Friday:

“Due to COVID and other health-related issues involving the staff of all our schools, and our transportation department, Edmonson County Schools will be closed on 1/20/22 and 1/21/22. Based on current weather forecasts, we could quite possibly experience winter weather as well. With these factors in mind, we feel the best option for our school community is to announce closure at this time. These will be NTI Days 4 and 5 for the students of Edmonson County Schools.”

Darren Doyle, story:
A Smiths Grove man was arrested after a short pursuit Saturday night near Park City and faces multiple felony drug charges, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

The Sheriff's Office stated that around 9:35 pm on January 15, 2022, a deputy observed a Nissan Frontier traveling eastbound on Louisville Road without a license plate light. The deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop at the intersection of Ray Houchin Road and Louisville Road, but the vehicle failed to yield to lights and sirens, according to the Sheriff's Office.

The vehicle reportedly continued to flee, passing two safe pull-off spots and continued a short distance into Barren County. The vehicle then came to a stop and deputies said they instructed the driver to exit the vehicle, who was immediately detained. The subject was identified as Raymond Edwards (48) of Smiths Grove.

A search of the vehicle was conducted after Edwards allegedly admitted to having “meth” inside the truck. Deputies reportedly located suspected methamphetamine, suspected Xanax and suspected Percocet, along with drug paraphernalia and cash. Edwards was arrested and charged with:

• Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (> or = 2 GMS Methamphetamine)
• Possession Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (drug unspecified)
• Prescription Controlled Substance not in Proper Container (1st Offense)
• Fleeing or Evading Police, 2nd Degree (motor vehicle)
• Rear License Not Illuminated

Darren Doyle, story:
A Brownsville man was arrested in the early morning hours of Tuesday, January 18th after multiple encounters with homes on Indian Creek Road; one of which resulted in a homeowner holding him at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived.

In an interview with an Edmonson County deputy sheriff, the deputy said that they received a call around 1AM that someone had pulled into a driveway on Indian Creek Road, hit a vehicle there and left. Additionally, the deputy stated that same man drove through multiple yards, through a fence, and cut donuts in the lawns.

Steve Skaggs, a resident of Indian Creek Road, said the man drove into his truck, which was parked outside of his home.

"My wife heard a truck pull into our driveway and was revving the motor up," Skaggs said. "I went to the window and saw this truck out there and just had a feeling that this guy was up to no good. I watched the truck start to back out of my driveway, then all the sudden he took off wide open and hit the driver's side door of my truck. He took off down the road as I was headed out of the house."

Skaggs said he was able to get the door of his truck pried open and he went after the man, who was later identified as Kevin Sanders, (34) of Brownsville. Skaggs said Sanders had pulled into the driveway of the next house and Skaggs pulled in behind him.

"I didn't know who this guy was or what he was going to do and I saw he had a bottle of whiskey in his hand and it was about empty," Skaggs said. "He had all kinds of guns in his truck so I pointed my gun at him and told him not to move because the cops were on the way. He was drunk or on something for sure."

Moments later, the deputy arrived and placed Sanders under arrest. When asked why he hit Skaggs' vehicle, Sanders allegedly told the deputy that he had purchased a gun from Skaggs years before and it had a broken sight.

"This guy said 'you sold me a gun that had bad sights when I was a kid,' and I had no idea what he was talking about," Skaggs said.

The deputy sheriff stated that Sanders was at four different addresses on Indian Creek Road and damages were caused at three of them. Law enforcement also confirmed that there were multiple firearms in Sanders' vehicle.

Sanders was charged with:

• Alcohol intoxication in a public place--first and second offenses
  
• Leaving the scene of an accident--failure to render aid
  
• Criminal mischief, first degree
  

Law enforcement said further charges are pending. No injuries were reported.

Edmonson County Superintendent Brian Alexander has announced that school will not be in session in the county on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 due to hazardous road conditions on several secondary roads.

It will be NTI Day #3 for all in-person students.

A Bowling Green man has died as a result of a crash on I65 in Hart County yesterday, according to the Kentucky State Police.

KSP Post 3 Troopers responded to a two vehicle collision in Hart County on January 16th, 2022, at approximately 1:00 P.M., in reference to a two-vehicle, fatal collision in the northbound lanes of I-65 near the 67 mile marker, just north of Munfordville.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Abdinasir Adan (48) of Barron, WI, was operating a 1998 International Semi-Truck and trailer northbound on I-65 near the 67 mile marker.  Adan's vehicle was struck in the rear of the trailer by a 2021 Hyundai Elantra being operated by Martin Mutabazi (28) of Bowling Green, KSP said.  Mutabazi was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Hart County Coroner.

The investigation continues and is being led by Trooper Michael Wathen.  He was assisted at the scene by Hart County Coroner, Hart County EMS, Hart County Sheriff's Office, Bonnieville Fire Department, and Hart County Emergency Management. 

Edmonson Voice Report:
Scott Waste Services will be providing dumpsters on January 21st & January 22, 2022 to Edmonson County residents for storm debris removal, according to a statement from Judge Executive Wil Cannon's Office.

"If you were impacted by the recent storms with debris, please bring it to 3020 Veterans Memorial Highway for proper disposal," the Judge's Office stated. "We are unable to accept regular household trash disposal, this will be only storm debris disposal. Our crews will be set up for storm debris removal on January 21, 2022 from 8 am to 4 pm, and January 22nd, 8 am to 12:00 pm."

"We will accept metal, insulation, OSB, any type of storm debris that was caused from the recent storms."

Please contact the Judge Executive's Office with any questions, 270-597-2819 or 270-597-1079.

Darren Doyle, story:
Several new candidates have filed to run in the 2022 Edmonson County Election. The deadline to file was recently changed by Governor Andy Beshear's Office from January 7, 2022 to January 25th at 4PM, as a result of the recent tornadoes that affected many in Kentucky.

The deadline for party affiliation changes was December 31, 2021. The new voter registration deadline has been set for April 18, 2022.

The drawing for candidate positions on the ballot is scheduled for January 27, 2022 at the Edmonson County Community Center at 2PM.

Edmonson County will hold its Primary Election on May 17, 2022.

Below are all candidates that have filed for the listed offices through Thursday, January 13th, along with additional information pertaining to specific offices.

Filings through Thursday, January 13, 2022
*denotes incumbent
(listed in alphabetical order under each office)
 
Judge-Executive:
Gregory Hudson (D)
Jordan M. Jones (R)
Ronald Scott Lindsey (R)

Judge Executive Wil Cannon (R) will not be seeking re-election after serving two terms. Candidate Greg Hudson recently changed his registration from republican to democrat before filing.
 
Sheriff:
*Shane A. Doyle (R)
Stoney Phillips (R)
James Edward Vincent (R)

Sheriff Shane Doyle is seeking re-election for a third term.
 
County Attorney:
Adam Turner (R)
*Gregory R. Vincent (R)

County Attorney Greg Vincent is seeking re-election after serving as Edmonson County Attorney at different times. He first served four consecutive terms from 1999-2014. He was defeated in the 2014 election by J.B. Hines, and then appointed back to the office after Hines was appointed District Judge in 2017. Vincent was re-elected in the 2018 election.
 

Jailer:
Joe Carl Daugherty (R)
Todd Vincent (R)

Jailer Hank Vincent (R) is not seeking re-election after three terms.
 
County Clerk:
*Kevin M. Alexander (R)
 
Property Valuation Administrator:
*Kyle M. White (D)
 
Coroner:
*Brentley Esters (R)
 
Magistrate, District One:
*Mark Meeks (D)
 
Magistrate, District Two:
Joe Durbin (D)
John Kiernan (R)
T.J. Massey (R)

Magistrate Corey VanMeter (R) is not seeking re-election after one term.
 
Magistrate, District Three:
Faron Lindsey (R)
*Charlie Tarter (D)

Magistrate Charlie Tarter is seeking re-election after being appointed by the Governor in July 2020 after the death of Magistrate Clark Wood, who passed during office. Tarter was re-elected by special election in November of 2020.
 
Magistrate, District Four:
James “Mickey” Johnson (R)
Pat Prunty (R)

Magistrate Edd Rich (R) is not seeking re-election after serving four full terms and a part of another after being appointed by former Governor Ernie Fletcher in 2005 after the magistrate at that time, Barry Rich, resigned mid-term after accepting a job at the state level.
 
Magistrate, District Five:
Gary Bagshaw (R)
Rickey Sanders (R)
Steve M. Sanders (D)
Jason E. Vincent (R)

Magistrate Johnny Brooks (R) is not seeking re-election after serving 5 consecutive terms.
 

Magistrate, District Six:
*James C. Vincent (R)
 
Constable, District One:
*Anthony Lora Cobb (R)
 
Constable, District Two:
Tim Skees (R)
 
Constable, District Three:
J.C. Daugherty (R)

Incumbent Joe Carl Daugherty is running for jailer instead of constable. J.C. Daugherty the son of Joe Carl (for clarification).
 
Constable, District Four:
*Ricky A. Page (R)
 
Constable, District Five:
*Charles Peck (R)
 
Constable, District Six:
James Matthew Moulder (R)
 
School Board, Distict 5 (Non-Partisan)
*Sean Sanders

Darren Doyle, story:
Five individuals have been arrested in two separate incidents in the Wingfield and Roundhill communities and face felony drug and other charges, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

On Saturday, January 8, 2022, the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the 2900-block of William Simmons Road to assist Warren County Sheriff’s Office with a stolen vehicle complaint. The Sheriff's Office stated that during a consented search for the homeowner, a deputy observed two occupants, Alyse Cox (37) and John English (39) inside the home. Cox admitted to having marijuana inside the residence, which also resulted in the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, the Sheriff's Office said. Cox allegedly took ownership of the marijuana, but neither party admitted ownership of the suspected methamphetamine,  according to the Sheriff's Office.

Both Cox and English were arrested and charged with:

• Possession Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (methamphetamine)
• Drug Paraphernalia—buy/possess

Cox was also charged with Possession of Marijuana.

Also on Saturday, January 8, 2022, Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office arrive at the 1100-block of Hunts Church Road to attempt warrant service on two individuals. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers were met in the driveway by Donnie Cockrell (53) and Elizabeth Cockrell (40); both had active arrest warrants, the Sheriff's Office stated. Consent to enter the residence to check for other individuals on the premises was given and upon entry, deputies reportedly detected the strong odor of marijuana, according to the Sheriff's Office. Consent to search the residence was given, which led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine, suspected marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm, the Sheriff's Office reported.

Both subjects were charged with:

• Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (> or = 2 GMS methamphetamine—firearm enhanced)
• Trafficking in Marijuana, 1st Offense (less than 8 ounces—firearm enhanced)
• Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess (firearm enhanced)
• Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon

Donnie Cockrell was also served an active Butler County Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear on charges of Operating on Suspended or Revoked Operators License, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, No Registration Plates, and No Registration Receipt.

Additionally, Elizabeth Cockrell was served two active Butler County Bench Warrants; one for Failure to Appear on charges of No Registration Plates and Failure to Produce Insurance Card and the other for Failure to Appear on charges of Failure to Wear Seat Belt, No Registration Plates, No Registration Receipt, and Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance.

Cockrell was also served an active Grayson County Indictment Warrant for Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (methamphetamine), Drug Paraphernalia—buy/possess, and Possession of Marijuana.

While on scene, law enforcement reportedly observed a red 1999 F-150 sitting in the middle of Hunts Church Road. A return of the license plate information came back to a 1984 Ford pickup from Harned, Kentucky. The operator of the vehicle was identified as Ronnie Cockrell (53), who’s operator’s license was suspended. According to the Sheriff's Office, Cockrell stated he put the license plate on the 1999 F-150 because his plate was canceled; he was placed under arrest and charged with:

• Theft of Motor Vehicle Registration Plate
• Driving on DUI Suspended License—1st Offense

Darren Doyle, story:
As part of Governor Andy Beshear's $2 billion budget plan for pre-K through grade 12 education, Edmonson County has been named to receive part of the $97 million portion, should the plan be approved.

In a press release from the Governor's Office today, he said career and technical education centers are a critical component of high school curricula that help meet the needs of students in academic achievement, career exploration, career preparation and leadership development.

To support Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, Gov. Beshear said today that he is providing $97.4 million this year to support the renovation of 11 local CTE centers that were not funded last year through the Better Kentucky Plan. The CTE centers still in need are in the following school districts: Boyd, Carter, Edmonson, Fleming, Grayson, Lewis, Livingston, McCreary, Marshall, Nelson and Union counties.

Edmonson County currently offers welding, auto mechanics, marketing, business, and allied health classes, plus skilled trades that include electrical and engineering classes, along with two agri-science classes. The budget plan will still need final approval from the state legislation.

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander said the school district is very excited to be named by the Governor in his budget address as one of the school districts to be funded for Local Area Vocational Education Center improvements in his press conference today.  

"We understand that this $97 million in funding is early in the appropriation stage, but we appreciate being a part of this," he said. "This will be a game-changer for vocational education in Edmonson County."

Callie Beliles, Director of Facilities and Safety, had similar comments.

"We are very excited for these potential funds, and we owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to our elected officials and local legislators for putting a great emphasis on our school facilities and vocational education in Edmonson County," she said.

It has not yet been determined how much of the funding could come to Edmonson County under the Governor's budget plan.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Fiscal Court voted to increase County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll's annual salary to $54,000, retroactive to August, 2021, although two magistrates did not attend today's meeting.

The proposed $4K salary increase was first voted down by magistrates on September 25, 2021 with Edd Rich and Johnny Brooks being the only magistrates that voted in favor. Magistrates Mark Meeks, Corey VanMeter, James Vincent, and Charlie Tarter voted against the increase.

The same item was once again added to the fiscal court agenda two meeting later on October 25, 2021. Judge Cannon said the reasoning for returning the item to the agenda was because the county would stand to lose up to $5 million in FEMA disaster road aid projects if the county loses any more manpower at the road department and that Greg Carroll had been averaging approximately 20 more hours per week than normal. 

No motion was made to vote on the increase; however, District 3 Magistrate Charlie Tarter made a motion to table the discussion so that he could bring the item to the attention of his constituents. That motion was seconded by Dist. 1 Mag. Mark Meeks. A roll call vote was held to table the item; the results were as follows: Tarter YES, Meeks YES, VanMeter YES, Vincent YES, Rich NO, Brooks NO. The motion made on October 25th to table the item passed.

Today, the proposed salary increase returned to the fiscal court agenda for the third time. No additional discussion was had on the proposed increase, only a vote. Dist. 4 Mag. Rich made the motion, which was seconded by Dist. 5 Mag. Johnny Brooks. A role call voted resulted in Rich, Brooks, and Vincent voting YES with Tarter voting NO. Without Meeks and VanMeter present, no more votes were cast and the motion passed 3-1. 

Regional Jail:
Discussions for a possible regional jail between Edmonson, Butler, and Ohio Counties continued today as County Attorney Greg Vincent updated the court on the latest between the counties.
Vincent said he and Ohio County Attorney Justin Keown had been going back-and-forth on an agreement between the three counties that would meet state requirements thus far. In the proposed agreement, which would only be part of a long process of moving forward, and not necessarily to commit to building a regional jail, Vincent said the counties would appoint a regional commission or board that would continue preparations, understand guidelines and regulations, select (but not purchase at this time) property for the facility, choose plans, and conduct environmental studies in order to receive grants that would be needed to fund a jail.

Vincent said at this point, it has been agreed that Ohio County would be responsible for 50% of commission costs, with Edmonson and Butler covering 25% each, plus the same percentages for all costs for the first year after the jail would be built; however, he said the language was too vague regarding after year one, currently described as "a formula." Vincent said this "formula" is not clear and leaves too many questions unanswered.

Vincent advised the fiscal court to discuss policies that would be in the county's best interest regarding costs moving forward after year one because the proposed formula is just simply not yet laid out.

Judge Executive Wil Cannon said he would request another meeting to continue discussions concerning the proper language and whatever formulas would best benefit Edmonson County in the regional jail discussion until any sort of vote could be had.

County Road Report: Supervisor Greg Carroll said local road workers started salting county roads on Thursday and finished Saturday, compiling a total of 53 hours. He said total labor and resource cost for the county was a total of $105,800.  Carroll said he ordered the remaining 200 tons of salt from the original order of 500 tons. He also reported that as a result of the snow and additional rainfall, there were currently four county bridges under water that included Willie Webb Road, Oak Hill Road, Cedar Grove Church Road, and Grassland-Blackgold Road.

He also mentioned the $48,780 that was awarded by the state to the county for flood damages on Knob Road. In addition, he also noted several truck and equipment breakdowns as well as multiple problems with trucks during the snow storm from three trucks bought new in 2016.

Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle reported on the altercation that resulted in an arrest on New Year’s Eve: He said that during a child welfare call, two deputies were taken to the hospital after they were attacked by the owner's pitbulls. He also said that the recent snow resulted in several vehicle accidents but no serious injuries.

Jailer Report: Judge Executive Wil Cannon stated that there were currently 39 county inmates housed at the Hart County Jail.

County Clerk Report: County Clerk Kevin Alexander told the court that the candidate filing deadline has been extended to Thursday, January 25th.

The court also voted to:

1. Approve to waive $60 rental fee for Chamber of Commerce events at the Community Center on the following dates: 5/5/22, 5/19/22, 6/2 – 6/4/22 and 10/20/22.
2. Approve County Clerk’s 2022 Annual Order Setting Maximum Amount for Deputies and Assistants.
3. Approve Sheriff’s 2022 Annual Order Setting Maximum Amount for Deputies and Assistants.
   
4. Approve Eastern Federal Lands Access Program Grant for Shared use Trail.
5. Approve to Change time of January 24th Fiscal Court Virtual Meeting from 6:00p.m. to 9:00a.m.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 24th at 9AM and will be held virtually.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A WKU student and staff group is organizing a free vision clinic with RAM (Remote Area Medical) for those in the Bowling Green area, including individuals from the surrounding counties that is scheduled for January 15th-16th at WKU’s South Campus, 2355 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101, beginning at 6AM both days until capacity is reached.

RAM, a major nonprofit provider of popup clinics delivering free dental, vision, and medical care to those in need, is also still in need of volunteer vision care professionals (ophthalmologists, optometrist, techs) as well as general support volunteers and interpreters for the event.

The clinic will provide eye exams, glaucoma testing, eyeglass prescriptions (eyeglasses are made on-site), as well as general eye and vision health services. All of this is completely free and on a first come, first serve basis for the community.

The clinic doors open at 6am, both Saturday and Sunday, and close when capacity is reached. The clinic strongly advises arriving as early as possible as clinics can reach capacity early in the day. No ID is necessary for any service, and registration is not required. The parking lot at midnight, January 14th.

Additional Information:
• All RAM services are free, and no ID is required. Free vision services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. • Vision care clinic services include eye exams, glaucoma testing, eyeglass prescriptions(eyeglasses are made on-site), as well as general eye and vision health services.

RAM is a major nonprofit organization that operates pop-up clinics delivering free dental, vision and medical services to individuals in need who do not have access to or cannot afford a doctor. Since RAM was founded in 1985 by visionary, Stan Brock, nearly 173,000 volunteers – comprised of licensed dental, vision and medical professionals, as well as general support staff – have treated more than 863,000 individuals delivering $174 million worth of free healthcare services.