Frankfort, Kentucky (March 28, 2024) – Representative Michael Lee Meredith announced Thursday evening, March 28, 2024, that Edmonson County will receive $6.5 million in funding for the Edmonson County Water District under legislation approved by the Kentucky House and Senate and sent to Governor Andy Beshear for his consideration.
 
“I’m incredibly pleased that we were able to include this money in House Bill 1,” Meredith said. “This situation has been incredibly difficult for both the folks in our community and the folks at the water district and this ought to provide some relief for the issue.”
 
The funding includes $1 million to connect Edmonson County Water District with Grayson County water to relieve stress on the Northern part of the system; $3.5 million to provide matching funds for a federal water grant that Congressman Brett Guthrie is working to secure to build a new intake tower on Green River; and $2 million to Edmonson County Fiscal Court to pass through to the water district for emergency infrastructure improvements.
 
“Our community has been through a great deal as we’ve watched friends and neighbors deal with water shortages because of the removal of Lock and Dam #6 in Brownsville and the process of removing Lock and Dam #5 at Roundhill, all directed by federal agencies,” Meredith added. “All of those decisions were out of our hands locally, but we’ve borne the burden of them. I’m hopeful this will make a big difference and folks will find plenty of clean water when they turn on their faucet.”
 
Meredith was able to secure the funding as part of HB 1, legislation that provides $2.7 billion over the next two years to fund projects within state government and in communities throughout the Commonwealth. The bill was approved by the House and Senate and now goes to the Governor for his consideration.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Kevin Shaw, newly hired general manager for the Edmonson County Water District says he is excited about the future for the local utility company, despite the ups and downs, (a lot of downs) that have come around the District.

Focusing on his experience, new ideas, and an eager team, Shaw is looking to help Edmonson County with some of their past water woes. With over four decades of experience in utilities, dating back to 1978 at a summer job for the water company in Caneyville, through waste water management, WRECC, and plenty more, he is hoping to use it for the betterment of Edmonson County and all District customers.

Coming out of retirement from managing the Grayson County Water District for a number of years, he also wants local folks to know that he isn't an outsider. He farmed for many years in Edmonson County in the Sunfish community were he made lifelong friends, not only there, but also throughout the county and region.

"I'm one of you all," he said.

With the Lock and Dam number Five project set to resume sometime this summer, the Water District is preparing for more challenges. Most of those challenges were not brought on by the District, but Shaw's approach to working with the Corps of Engineers is different than others.

"What you'll find, is that my perspective is different than most. It probably won't be as popular with most people. We can't treat the Corps of Engineers like enemies," he said. "They've been tasked for a job for a very long time in American history, to take care of our waterways and our reservoirs."

Shaw then described an infrastructure model he once saw in Memphis of how the waterways work in this part of the nation, with all the water sources that feed into the Mississippi, starting with streams, creeks, rivers, and so on.

"It shows how it all comes together. Their task is to make sure that all those waterways are taken care of properly. It's such a big-picture thing that sometimes we forget how and why it started."

He then explained how the plowing, disc-ing, and planting of fields creates silt runoff, that here, eventually makes its way to the Green River, then on to the Mississippi, then bottlenecks somewhere in New Orleans before heading to the ocean.

"Stuff from Sunfish, KY ends up in New Orleans and the Corps has to manage it all," he said. "We're filling rivers up with silt and they have to handle it down there to get barges in and out for the entire nation. You have to put that into perspective before you can understand what their true goals were."

Shaw didn't deny that several of the problems that the Edmonson County Water District currently face were brought on by the dam project, but he said his job is mitigate and find solutions for them, period. 

"The Corps built dams and lakes that would help control silt and flooding. As luck would have it, we got two nice lakes out of it, we get to enjoy them and play on them. Consequently, we also wound up with water systems on them. They weren't built for play or for utilities, but they've allowed us to use them and you gotta keep that in perspective. The way I've always approached the Corps...they are powerful, and the old analogy, 'it takes an act of Congress,' well it truly takes an act of Congress to change the Corps, because that's where they get their direction."

"I understand that the Corps probably made a bit of an error on their original estimate on the effect of our water system. It's unfortunate. Could we have managed it differently? Maybe so, but I look at it as we're at ground zero on this right now and we just have to move forward. We have to manage it."

With the river in already critically low levels, their has been enormous concern with the District intake system. They can't treat the water if they can't get the water from the river.

When asked should the consumer be concerned with our current water supply, he replied, "I appreciate their concern."

"We're going to do everything in our power, that if that intake is struggling to meet our needs, to figure out a resolution for it and I'm confident we can. I'm equally confident we can do it without an interruption of service."

Shaw didn't say much else about the Corps but discussed how he continues to reach out (as the previous leadership did) to Congressman Brett Guthrie, Senator Mitch McConnell, and state legislators Rep. Michael Meredith and Senators Steve Meredith and David Givens. He said those conversations have been productive and he remains positive about securing resources for solutions.

"The Nature Conservancy has been kind enough to purchase, and it's onsite, a pump, and it cost somewhere around $100,000. It will pump all the water we need to the treatment facility that's on Green River," he said. "It's our goal, that if the day comes that the intake is out of water, we position that diesel pump somewhere on the banks of the Green River and pump it into the intake structure, which will still function as it is, until we come up with a final resolution."

He also noted that the Nature Conservancy didn't necessarily lobby for the removal of the dams, it was just a bonus to them, as it lines up with their mission of preservation.

When asked about the Wax plant, Shaw said he knows that customers have been frustrated, and rightly so.

"The first thing I'd say about the whole Wax area, outside of the one incident of the boil water notice (not advisory) with the high turbidity, we sample throughout our system, in several locations," he said. "We've never had a sample to come back bad. We might've had a sample that we had to do a check on or something, but I wouldn't even say that for sure. To my knowledge, we've not ever had a sample that said it was contaminated."

He said had that been the case, there would have been a boil water notice, not an advisory. He also noted the difference in a boil water notice and advisory is the first requires you to boil your water before consumption, and the second is simply that, an advisory. They advise you to boil your water, not require it.

"We constantly monitor the system, we take chlorine samples from different locations to make sure we're keeping that where we need it and the proper amount of it. The water, by drinking water standards, is safe to drink. It's safe. Are we doing the best job we can at the Wax plant? What I will tell you is that we're doing better now than we have for a long time. The thing I would ask is that the whole Water District community, is that they be patient with us and give us a chance. We are going to do different, we're going to do better. I'm not going to beat anybody up or anything up for what was past, and I can only apologize for the inconvenience that was had. We know we need something different than what's at Wax. We don't quite know yet what that is or where it will be, but it will be different. We have to replace that treatment plant. Either with another source of water or another plant. That won't come quick, but it's absolutely at the top of the list of importance to employees, to me, and to the new water board."

The Board consist of Chairman Jimmy Mills, Vice Chairman Jarrod Beatty, Secretary Blake Aubrey, Treasurer Darren Dennison, and board member Josh Brooks.

Shaw noted all the recent leadership changes that include staff, four out of five new board members, and of course, the general manager.

"You got a lot of staff that's excited about making change," he added. "We can't change it overnight. We're already making differences. With patience, good change will come."

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Judge/Executive's Office has announced that the Green River Bridge in Brownsville will be down to one lane during normal working hours next week while the Kentucky Department of Transportation inspects the bridge for upcoming repairs.

"The inspection is scheduled to begin the morning of April 1st, and will last up to four days," said Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey. "The bridge will be down to one traffic lane during that time. Please be safe in that area and allow extra time for travel during these times and days."

Over $200K worth of refurbishment is scheduled this year on the bridge.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Warren County man was arrested on child pornography charges on Tuesday, March 26th according to the Kentucky State Police.

The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Electronic Crime Branch arrested Bryer Mccayne Williams Scott, 25, on charges related to child sexual abuse material.

According to KSP, Scott was arrested as the result of an undercover Internet Crimes Against Children investigation. The KSP Electronic Crime Branch began the investigation after discovering the suspect sharing images of child sexual exploitation online, KSP stated.

The investigation resulted in a search warrant at a residence in Bowling Green on March 26, 2024. Equipment used to facilitate the crime was seized and taken to KSP’s forensic laboratory for examination, officials said.

The investigation is ongoing.

Scott is currently charged with ten counts of distribution of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance. These charges are Class-D felonies punishable by one to five years in prison. Scott was lodged in the Warren County Detention Center on a $50,000 bond, according to the jail website.

Madison Doyle, story:
Many topics were discussed at tonight's fiscal court meeting. The meeting began with Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey leading the court in the pledge of allegiance, and multiple county department heads giving updated reports since the last meeting. County Clerk Kevin Alexander stated that the Clerk's office will be closed on Good Friday (this Friday) and this Saturday.

The first major item of business discussed was the jail budget for the 2025 fiscal year. The budget is increasing to $564,900. Edmonson County Jailer Todd Vincent said the budget was increasing due to the price increase of supplies and materials, such as radios and gas. Salaries for all employees will remain the same.

The second major item of business discussed on was the County Employee Fiscal Year 2025 pay increases, which was voted on a 3% raise across the board (minus elected officials). This is a 3% decrease from last year. District 2 Magistrate TJ Massey shared his reasoning for why he chose the 3% increase.

"I think it's really hard to pick and choose which employees deserve the raise and which ones don't, so I think this 3% is a pretty safe blanket."

All of the other magistrates said they agreed and were in favor of the 3% increase; there were no other suggestions.

It was also approved to get a new countywide alert program, Text My Gov- iWorq Systems. The current system is Code Red, which is used to send out alerts for boil water advisories, etc. The new system is easier to maneuver and free for users. It is a text alert system where you can choose which alerts you would like to receive. It will also cost the county $250 less per year than the current system.

The court also voted to approve an ordinance that will allow the county to essentially borrow money from KACo to finance the Sunfish Roundhill Road Project.

It was also voted approve an ordinance that will put around $41,000 back into ARPA funds. County Clerk Kevin Alexander said that a couple years ago, magistrates approved the purchase of new election equipment. At the time, former Judge/Executive Wil Cannon wanted to use ARPA funds for the purchase. Alexander explained that the Clerk's office purchased all equipment necessary, and this $41,000 can't be used for any of their needs. This ordinance will allow the money to be placed back into ARPA funds and potentially be used for something else.

The court also voted to:

• Approve Fiscal Year 2025 Edmonson County Conservation District Budget.
• Approve Fiscal Year 2025 Edmonson County Conservation District Plan of Operations.
• Acknowledge Fiscal Year 2025 Big Reedy Watershed Conservancy District Budget.
• Approve Resolution EC24-09, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security Grant. Law Enforcement Protection Program Funds.
• Approve Ordinance EC24-10, Financing FEMA Project Sunfish Roundhill Road.
• Approve Resolution EC24-11, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security Grant, Cyber Security.
• Approve Resolution EC24-12, AW Enterprises, LLC contract for Display of Fireworks.
• Acknowledge National Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for April 8, 2024 at 4 pm.

Story and photos courtesy of Mammoth Cave National Park:
MAMMOTH CAVE, KY. – Mammoth Cave National Park officials and invited guests gathered at The Lodge at Mammoth Cave on Friday, Mar. 22 to mark the completion of the Mammoth Cave Hotel Roof Replacement Project. The project was funded through the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund and fixed major structural issues with the park’s main hotel building.
 
“This facility improvement project was made possible by the funding we received through the Great American Outdoors Act,” said Superintendent Barclay Trimble. “The Act presents an opportunity for parks such as Mammoth Cave to address large-scale projects that cannot realistically be funded through other means. The hotel project is a perfect example of that need, and the final result is a building we can all be proud of.”
 
The original hotel structure was built in 1965 and had a virtually flat roof. The design did not allow water to drain off correctly. During periods of heavy rain, dozens of roof leaks would appear throughout the building and impact visitors using the restaurants, retail shops, and lodging rooms. The exterior windows of the building were also failing, and the configuration of the hotel lobby and hallways were arranged in a way that was often confusing to visitors trying to pass from one side of the building to the other.
 
In 2018 the park drafted an action plan to fix the roof issues, but it was clear that the repairs were beyond the financial resources of the park concessioner or the park’s traditional funding methods. While park officials researched various funding options, the GAOA was enacted in 2020 and the Mammoth Cave Hotel Roof Project was selected as one of the first projects to be funded.
 
Over the last two years the almost 60-year-old building received a new roof, a reconfiguration and expansion of the interior lobby, installation of new energy efficient windows and insulation, and a complete facade update. The remodeled and redesigned building is now ready to welcome park visitors.
 
The building has also seen several additional months of remodeling beyond the GAOA project by the park concessioner, ExplorUS. The concession provides food and beverage, retail, lodging, and cave tour transportation services for Mammoth Cave National Park and operates the newly remodeled hotel. They worked closely with park officials to complete a remodel of two hotel restaurants, four accessible lodging rooms, a conference room, and three bathrooms in conjunction with the Hotel Roof Project. ExplorUS also repurposed a retail storage room into a coffee shop for an enhanced visitor experience.

Darren Doyle, story:
Students were surprised this morning with a visit from Kentucky State Police search dogs at Edmonson County High School and Middle School.

The search was facilitated by school and district administration with KSP, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, and five canine units.

According to Superintendent Brian Alexander, students were placed under lockdown, and instructed to place personal belongings in the hall. After all students and staff were behind closed and locked doors, the dogs and their KSP handler searched the halls and parking lots.

Parents and students were notified by one call, social media, and staff by email after the students were placed under lockdown, but before the dogs entered the building.

"The safety of our students and staff is always our first priority," said Mr. Alexander. "And we thank KSP and local law enforcement for their assistance in keeping our schools drug and weapon-free."

Mr. Alexander said today's search led to two vehicle searches, where a vape containing a banned substance was discovered in one vehicle.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
A portion of Sunfish-Roundhill Road that has been closed since 2022 may finally see a rebuild after a plan is currently being put in place to secure funding for what is now a massive hole where one man died almost a year ago.

According to Edmonson County Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey, the portion of the county road that runs parallel to Cub Creek began to fail in 2022 when the banks of the creek expanded into the road base, causing what seemed to be an erosion slide. County crews first expected the project to be fairly simple, taking about a week to repair. However, crews soon found out the more they tried to repair, the more repairs were actually needed. It got to the point that the entire base of the road had failed and was dug completely down to the creek, at a depth of nearly 20 feet from the top of the road.

At this point, the funding required to repair the road was far more than the county could afford, according to Lindsey.

Judge Lindsey said that one of the first items of business after he was sworn into office in January of 2023 was to find any and all funding solutions to repair the massive hole.

What he found was both good and bad.

Lindsey said that Mr. Ryan Hembree, the coordinator for Kentucky Emergency Management Federal Program, visited the site on September 19, 2023 with a member of the regional FEMA team out of Atlanta, GA to evaluate the project, requested by Lindsey. Soon after, a letter of funding allocation was received by Lindsey's office, but it required the county to cover the costs up front, to the tune of nearly $900K.

"Trying to fund this ourselves without emptying the county's bank account is just nearly impossible," Judge Lindsey said. "We got the allocation letter from FEMA on November 2, 2023 and began the search for funding options at that time. The main obstacle that we had to overcome is that with FEMA work, the county is responsible for paying for the work up front. With a projected cost of almost $900,000, the county could not afford to pay the upfront cost out of our budget alone, and had to seek out other funding options."

Another obstacle is the time frame of getting an actual check from FEMA. It doesn't happen overnight.

"The repayment process from FEMA is a lengthy one, and our last major FEMA road project, Brooks Road, was paid out by FEMA eighteen months after the work was completed and submitted. Our road department budget could not sustain that kind of expense for that length of time without shutting down all other operations until the FEMA payment was received."

Luckily for the county, an option was discovered that would grant the county government a line of credit through the Kentucky Association of Counties, or KACo, and during the last Edmonson County Fiscal Court, magistrates voted to approve to apply for the credit line with KACo Leasing Trust.

Once the credit line is approved, the county will seek other firms to complete the work.

"It should take four to six weeks for the credit approval and then we'll bid the work out to road engineering firms," Judge Lindsey said. "We'll also be utilizing local and state crews but this is a major project that requires more resources than we have."

On April 28, 2023, Donald Hardison died when he drove off the end of Sunfish-Round Hill Road down a 20ft drop off into water below. At the time, the county said someone had moved the "road closed" barriers that Hardison either apparently did not see or simply drove around them. After the accident, the county dropped loads of large rock at the end of the road on both sides of the hole to help prevent another tragedy. County officials said vehicles could not go around the barriers where they were originally placed, however, they weren't aware that someone had moved the barriers.

When all is said and done, the cost of the project should be covered by FEMA, all except for the interest the county will be required to pay for the use of the credit line.

The road closure is located nearly right in the middle of Sunfish Roundhill Road and has caused detours along HWY 70 and HWY 187. With the addition of the Bear Creek Bridge replacement project that began in early February, commuters in the area have faced extremely inconvenient detours.

"My hope is that this project can be realistically completed this year," Lindsey said. "It's long overdue."

Madison Doyle, story and photos:
Last night at Tayvin Gardens, the Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni (HODA) Committee hosted the 2024 annual dinner and induction ceremony where four new members were honored, which included Jimmie Gipson (d.), Keith Madison, Noah Everett "N.E" Reed (d,), and Scottie Woodcock.

HODA inductees are selected by the HODA committee, but the nominations are submitted by the public. In order to be selected, the inductee must have attended an Edmonson County High School for at least two years, and they may be living or deceased. Committee Chair Amanda Lich shared that the purpose of the HODA is to honor those who attended a school in Edmonson County that have shown excellence in their lifetimes.

2023 Inductee Johnny Webb gave opening remarks to the crowd that generated several laughs. He said it was an honor to be included in a group of "such amazing, outstanding people", and how blessed and proud he was to be from Edmonson County.

ECHS junior Kenadi Swihart led the crowd in the pledge of allegiance, and ECHS junior Lucas Jones gave the invocation. ECHS Principal Jonathan Williams spoke at the event and said the purpose of the HODA is for "those kids over there," as he pointed to a group of ECHS students volunteering at the event. "We want these kids to know you can accomplish all of these things being from Edmonson County, and hopefully someday some of them will be inductees in the HODA as well."

The first inductee was the late Jimmie Gipson, a 1959 graduate of Brownsville High School. He was employed by Houchens Industries for 55 years, serving as the CEO for the last 26 years. Under Jimmie's leadership, Houchens expanded from a single grocery store to become the largest ESOP in the country. Jimmie received many honors over the years, including Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst and Yound, honoree in the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni and the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame, and recipient of the Lou Fox Award for Charity and and Community Service from Associated Wholesale Grocers. Jimmie's award was accepted by his son, Clark Gipson.

The second inductee was Keith Madison, introduced by 2023 inductee Johnny Pete Vincent. Keith is a 1969 graduate of Edmonson County High School and grew up in the Lindseyville community. At age 17, he signed his first professional baseball contract, starting his journey in a career in athletics. Keith played with various teams, including the Montreal Expos and the Cincinnati Reds. His collegiate coaching career began at Mississippi State University in 1977. In 1979, at the age of 26, Keith became the youngest head coach in NCAA Divison 1 baseball, when he was hired to coach the University of Kentucky Baseball team. He remains the winningest coach in UK baseball history. He currently serves with the Christian Mission organization SCORE International, and he also publishes Inside Pitch, the official magazine of the American Baseball Coaches Association. He is the Chairman of the American Baseball Coaches Association. He and his wife, Sharon, live in Wilmore, Kentucky.

The next inductee was the late Noah Everett 'N.E.' Reed, a 1965 graduate of ECHS, and grew up in the Mohawk community. He served as the Judge/Executive for Edmonson County for 21 years, first elected in 1993. He developed the first county Parks and Recreation Department and Industrial Authority of Edmonson County. He continued to serve Edmonson County after retiring from office as a District 4 Director of WRECC and a Board Member of Edmonson County Water District, as well as a member of the Edmonson County Lions Club. He was a devoted church member to Oak Grove United Baptist Church, where he was a deacon and song leader. His award was accepted by his loving wife, Beverly Reed.

The last inductee of the night was Mr. Scottie Woodcock, introduced by 2023 inductee Jeanne Alexander Patton. Scottie is a 1951 graduate of Brownsville High School. At an early age, he found success in being a small business owner or manager in several ventures, including the Gulf service station, Woodcock General Store, and Western Auto. Scottie also played a crucial role in bringing the first factory, Kelwood, to Brownsville, creating many jobs for the people of Edmonson County.

In 1989 Scottie made a career change and became a loan officer and board member at the Bank of Edmonson County. He served a myriad of volunteer and civic roles, including Brownsville City Council, Brownsville Water District, Edmonson County Lions Club, and the Washington Meredith Masonic Lodge. His professional success and service to the community led him to be named Mr. Brownsville in 1964. Scottie noted that in just a couple weeks, he and his wife, Ethel, will be celebrating 73 years of marriage.

Another award was given, which was the 2024 Edmonson County High School Honorary Alumnus award, which was given to Mr. Jeff Jacobs.

Information on how to submit a nomination for the 2025 class will be available from Edmonson County High School in the near future, which will be published on the Edmonson Voice.

March 15, 2024

Darren Doyle, story:
A Bowling Green was arrested after an attempted traffic stop led to a pursuit and the discovery of drugs, according to an arrest citation.

The citation stated that an Edmonson County Sheriff's Deputy clocked a vehicle headed south on Veterans Memorial (HWY 101) southbound on Wednesday, March 13th around 11PM, where the vehicle was traveling 75mph in a 55mph zone. Upon the deputy activating emergency lights, the other vehicle accelerated and a chase ensued for approximately 5 miles with speeds exceeding 100mph.

The vehicle eventually stopped where an open bottle of alcohol and a quantity of marijuana was found within 50 feet of the vehicle, according to the citation, and through investigation, law enforcement determined the items were thrown from the vehicle by the passenger.

The citation also stated that the driver and passenger admitted to switching seats at some point during the incident and that after law enforcement discovered the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, a search was conducted where marijuana, scales with marijuana residue, and several empty "airline style" alcohol bottles were discovered. An unopened bottle of alcohol and a packet of rolled marijuana were discovered behind the vehicle, the citation stated.

The driver was identified as Alexander Church (19), of Bowling Green, who was found to have over $1700 in cash in his pocket, the citation stated. Church also appeared to be under the influence of marijuana, as also stated in the citation.

Brownsville PD also assisted in the incident.

He was arrested and charged with:

• Changing drivers -car in motion (reckless driving)
• Tampering with physical evidence
• Public intoxication controlled substance (excludes alcohol)
• Possession of marijuana
• Trafficking in marijuana (less than 8oz) first offense
• Reckless driving
• Fleeing or evading police first degree, motor vehicle
• Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess
• Speeding 26mph or more over speed limit

He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

March 13, 2024

Darren Doyle, story:
One man was arrested on Monday and another is being sought after an arrest near the Chalybeate Sports Complex. According to an arrest citation, Edmonson County Sheriff's Deputies responded to the call on Monday, March 11th around 4:30PM of two suspicious males walking around the complex trying to sell a drill press.

The citation noted that one of the witnesses was a juvenile, who claimed one of the men asked if he "partied." As deputies arrived, one of the men was seen running across one of the baseball fields and was pursued by law enforcement. The man was later identified as Kristopher Mallard. The other subject was identified as Richard Russell, who surrendered without incident, the citation stated.

Russell allegedly refused to cooperate with identifying the other subject and was found to be in possession of suspected meth, two pipes, and a scale, the citation stated. A drill press was located, which Russell claimed he received from a friend, according to the citation.

According to Edmonson County Chief Deputy Tim Jackson, a consented search was conducted at Russell's home, which was near the complex, where methamphetamine and stolen tools were discovered.

Richard Russell was arrested and charged with:

• Trafficking in controlled substance within 1,000 feet of school
• Possession of controlled substance-first degree-second offense-meth
• Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess
• Hindering prosecution of apprehension-first degree

Law enforcement is currently seeking Kristopher "Duck" Mallard in connection with the incident.

Madison Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met Monday, March 11, 2024. The meeting was called to order by Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey by leading the court in the Pledge of Allegiance. Per usual, multiple county department heads gave updated reports from their respective offices.

The first item of new business was to approve the Edmonson County Health Department Syringe Exchange Program. A representative from the health department, Charity Crowe, gave a brief presentation over why this program would be beneficial. She stated that the program will allow the Health Department to provide access to clean, sterile needles, facilitate safe disposal of used needles and syringes, and offer safer injection education.

She also said that the program will also offer proper help and care to those who are drug users, and offer screenings for HIV and Hepatitis C, and that all of these services will be completely free of cost. A motion was made and approved to have this program.

Crowe said despite the myths that this encourages more drug use, it will actually help those who do use drugs to maybe go in a different direction, and protects those who don't use drugs.

"A program like this will help keep our county clean and safe," said Judge Lindsey. "I used to believe we didn't need a program like this, but upon further research, we absolutely do."


The court also voted to:

• Approve to advertise Parks Mowing Bid.
• Approve Treasurer’s February Monthly Settlement Report.
• Approve Sheriff’s February Monthly Fee Account Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s February Property Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s February Franchise Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Finance Officer Bond #2123881, effective 3/4/2024.
• Approve Leitchfield Exterminating Termite Control Service Agreement for Dispatch Center.
• Acknowledge Recreation Tax Fiscal Year 2025 Budget.
• Acknowledge Dog Control February CAD Report.
• Approve Notification of Intent to Finance and Application of Debt Approval with KACo Leasing Trust.
• Approve Bank Transfers.
• Approve County Clerk’s February MVAV Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February Excess Fee Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February Deed Transfer Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February Delinquent Tax Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge County Clerk’s February Document Storage Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge Tourism Commission Fiscal Year 2025 Budget.
• Approve to purchase a truck on State Contract Vendor List for the Road Department.
• Approve Resolution EC24-07, RDAAP Authorizing & Designation of SPGE Resolution.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for March 25, 2024 at 4 pm.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Kentucky County Clerks Association has released information concerning the implementation of the state’s new vehicle registration system known as KAVIS. County Clerks are processing an increasing number of transactions each day, however, the KCCA says there are still significant delays and problematic transactions.  

"KCCA leadership has expressed our concerns and frustrations with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) on behalf of our customers and our motor vehicle staff," in a statement provided by Tabitha Clemons, Grant County Clerk and President of the KCCA. "KYTC shared that the KAVIS team is working seven days a week to correct the programming errors that continue to plague the KAVIS system. In addition, too often, inconsistent information is being shared with County Clerks by KYTC’s Motor Vehicle Licensing Division (MVL) about transactions, potential workarounds, and even MVL’s level of assistance with problematic transactions. This only slows down service for our customers."

Clemons said that clerks across KY are asking state officials to resolve issues that are being experienced across the Commonwealth.

"While many KAVIS bugs have been corrected, County Clerks are still struggling with the remaining bugs, which too often results in customers being forced to make multiple trips to try to complete transactions or lengthy wait times," she stated. "The goal of County Clerks across the Commonwealth is to serve our customers. We appreciate our many customers who have shown us grace and patience when conducting business in their County Clerk’s Office, and we will continue to provide meaningful feedback to KYTC in hopes of improving our customers’ experiences. We all agree that once the software is fully operational, it will be a wonderful system, however, the status quo of long lines and too many customers forced to make multiple trips is not acceptable."

KCCA requests for customers to be as prepared as possible when they visit their County Clerk. The following steps will make visits more efficient:

• Bring your driver’s license or state issued identification card.
• Bring your renewal notice and previous year’s registration.
• Bring your Kentucky proof of insurance printed or refer to your County Clerk if there is an insurance email address or fax number available for your county.
• Be prepared to wait longer than normal. It takes time to work through each customer’s account and merge vehicles for each customer.
• Check your County Clerk’s Holiday Hours for March 29 and March 30.
• For any transaction by mail, online or drop-off please include a contact phone number so we can reach you.
• KYTC’s web portal drive.ky.gov is available for renewals with verified proof of insurance and the customer is current with all taxes owed.

Edmonson County Clerk Kevin Alexander said delays have not been prevalent as of yet but that may change as the month comes to a close.

"It has been a frustrating conversion, but I do agree with Tabatha," he said. "It will be a better product when the bugs are fixed. Rebuilts have been particularly difficult to try to navigate, and specialty plate reassignments have also been difficult.
It’s not a very forgiving system right now, from the standpoint of correcting a mistake. I will say this:  our citizens have been extremely patient and great to work with.  Very understanding.  Our whole team is trying hard to do our best for our patrons."

According to the KCCA, March is the busiest month of the year in the County Clerks’ motor vehicle departments. Currently, 963,462 renewal notices were mailed all with a March 2024 expiration date, compared to 310,019 in January and 296,490 in February. March renewals include all farm tags, campers, trailers, March birthdate renewals, fleets, heavyweight plates, and the start of boat renewal season.

Darren Doyle, story:
Two women have died as a result of a two-vehicle head on collision on interstate 165, according to Kentucky State Police. The crash happened around 10PM last night at the 2.2-mile marker northbound.

KSP stated that a silver Chevrolet Cruze operated by Angela Dockery, 44 of Morgantown, was traveling south on I-165 in the northbound lane. The Chevrolet Cruze struck a yellow Dodge Charger operated by Kinsley Demontigny, 23 of Hendersonville, TN head on, KSP stated. Dockery was pronounced deceased at the scene. Demontigny was transported to the Bowling Green Medical Center, where she later died.

It was unclear as to why the vehicle was traveling the wrong way on the interstate. Traffic was stopped for nearly three hours during the initial investigation. Multiple fender-benders occurred as a result of the stopped traffic.

The investigation is ongoing and is being led by Trooper Michael Wathen. He was assisted at the scene by the Warren County Sherriff's Office, Medical Center EMS, Bowling Green Fire Department, the Warren County Coroner and other KSP personnel.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
The bridge replacement project at Bear Creek on KY HWY 70 (Morgantown Road) is moving along and on time, according to KY Dept. of Transportation, District 3.

The road closure, which took place in February 5th, has resulted in commuters in the area having to detour through Bee Spring and around, which causes a 10-15 minute delay to most drivers; however, those that live near the bridge have an even further drive. Those that live east of the bridge heading west have to detour back out HWY 70, then through Bee Spring, adding another 8-10 minutes, on top of the additional 10-15 minutes through Bee Spring. Same with those living just west of the bridge near the junction of KY HWY 187 that are headed east toward Brownsville.

Wes Watt, public information officer for KY DOT District 3 confirmed that everything is moving according to plan.

"There are no issues with the construction I am aware of and the project is on schedule," he said in an email to the Edmonson Voice.

The project consists of a total bridge replacement. The closure was first announced to last for a period of 90 days. Today marks the 31st day of the closure.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Improvements are coming for the Green River Bridge in Brownsville in the tune of at least $230,000 in funding from the KY Department of Transportation, according to Edmonson County Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey.

"I walked the bridge last fall with Joe Plunk (Chief District Engineer for KY DOT District 3) as he looked things over," Lindsey said. "Some places look pretty rough with rebar showing, but he said the bridge is still structurally sound at this point. The main problems that are seen are cosmetic, but if those things aren't solved, they could turn into larger problems."

Judge Lindsey said the plan is to utilize a special bucket truck that would allow workers to be suspended over the side of the bridge and scan for any issues. The full scope of work would then be determined and the project would move forward with the necessary improvements.

Wes Watt, public information officer for KY DOT District 3 said total funding and the scope of the work has not yet been completely determined.

"We are still working on what repairs and overhauls will be done to the bridge," he said. "We are hoping to have everything finalized and work starting later this spring."

Edmonson Voice Report:
Edmonson County High School Allied Health career pathway received a $5,000 donation from T.J. Regional Health yesterday, the school announced.

CEO of T.J. Regional Health, Neil Thornbury, presented the check to school personnel, which will allow the program to purchase phlebotomy chairs as well as storage cabinets. The new equipment will be installed in the new Allied Health Lab, which is on schedule to be ready in the summer of 2024.

Mr. Thornbury spoke to the Acute Care Basic Skills class about career pathways and job opportunities. Matt Gumm, with Alliance Corporation, worked to coordinate between Edmonson County Schools and T.J. Regional Health to secure the donation for ECHS.

"We started the Allied Health Program in the 2021-2022 school year, and were able to get the program up and running," said Callie Beliles, Director of Facilities and Safety for Edmonson County Schools. "The new facility, which will open in the 2024-2025 school year, will allow even more opportunities under the leadership of Mrs. Massey, Mrs. Culbreth and Mr. Williams."

"Our superintendent, Board of Education, principals, and teachers could not be more grateful for businesses that invest in our students," she added.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 1, 2024) – Attorney General Russell Coleman joined a 25-state coalition supporting Texas’s efforts to secure the southern border. The coalition filed a brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit to defend Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s actions that filled the void created by President Biden’s open border agenda.

“President Biden’s failure to secure our border has allowed deadly drugs to flow into our communities. Kentucky is now a border state. We stand with Texas as what happens there directly impacts our ability to protect the families of our own Commonwealth.” said General Coleman.

Since President Biden took office, roughly 26 tons of deadly fentanyl, enough to kill nearly 12 billion people, have poured directly into the country.

“The federal government has lost operational control of the southern border,” the coalition wrote. “The result is as tragic as it was predictable: A flood of illegal immigration across the Southern border that has brought with it crime, human trafficking, and hundreds of thousands of fentanyl deaths to the people of this country.”

In January, General Coleman sent a letter to President Biden and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas opposing efforts to tear down Texas’ border protections.  

General Coleman joined the Kansas-led amicus brief alongside attorneys general from Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming.

Read the amicus brief here.

On February 28, 2024, U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced that he would be stepping down as the Senate Republican Conference Leader in January 2025, but would serve out the remainder of the current term of his Senate seat. McConnell delivered the following remarks Wednesday on the Senate floor:

“As some of you may know, this has been a particularly difficult time for my family. We tragically lost Elaine’s youngest sister, Angela a few weeks ago. When you lose a loved one, particularly at a young age, there is a certain introspection that accompanies the grieving process.

“Perhaps it is God’s way of reminding you of your own life’s journey to reprioritize the impact on the world that we will all inevitably leave behind.

“I turned 82 last week. The end of my contributions are closer than I’d prefer.

“My career in the United States Senate began amidst the Reagan Revolution. The truth is, when I got here, I was just happy if anybody remembered my name.

“President Reagan called me ‘Mitch O’Donnell’. Close enough, I thought.

“My wife Elaine and I got married on President Reagan’s birthday, February 6th. It’s probably not the most romantic thing to admit, but Reagan meant a great deal to both of us.

“For thirty-one years Elaine has been the love of my life and I am eternally grateful to have her by my side.

“I think back to my first days in the Senate with a deep appreciation for the time that helped shape my view of the world. I am unconflicted about the good within our country and the irreplaceable role we play as the leader of the free world.

“It is why I worked so hard to get the national security package passed earlier this month. Believe me, I know the politics within my party at this particular moment in time. I have many faults, misunderstanding politics is not one of them.

“That said, I believe more strongly than ever that America’s global leadership is essential to preserving the shining city on a hill that Ronald Reagan discussed.

“For as long as I am drawing breath on this earth I will defend American exceptionalism.

“So, as I have been thinking about when I would deliver some news to the Senate, I always imagined a moment when I had total clarity and peace about the sunset of my work. A moment when I am certain I have helped preserve the ideals I so strongly believe. It arrived today.

“My goals when I was narrowly elected to the Senate in 1984 were fairly modest – do a good job for the people of Kentucky and convince them by doing so to rehire me for a second term! That was it. That was the plan.

“If you would have told me forty years later that I would stand before you as the longest serving Senate leader in history - I would have thought you’d lost your mind.

“I have the honor of representing Kentucky in the Senate longer than anyone else in our history.

“I just never could have imagined that happening when I arrived here in 1984. I am filled with heartfelt gratitude and humility for the opportunity.

“But now it’s 2024. As I said, I am now 82.

“As Ecclesiastes tells us, ‘To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under Heaven.’

“To serve Kentucky in the Senate has been the honor of my life. To lead my Republican colleagues has been my highest privilege.

“But one of life’s most underappreciated talents is to know when it’s time to move on to life’s next chapter.

“So, I stand before you today, Mr. President and my colleagues, to say that this will be my last term as Republican leader of the Senate.

“I’m not going anywhere anytime soon, however. I will complete the job my colleagues have given me until we select a new Leader in November and they take the helm next January.

“I will finish the job the people of Kentucky hired me to do as well - albeit from a different seat in the chamber. I am looking forward to that.

“So it’s time for me to think about another season.

“I love the Senate. It has been my life. There may be more distinguished members of this body throughout our history, but I doubt there are any with more admiration for it.

“After all this time, I still get a thrill walking into the Capitol and especially on this venerable floor knowing that we – each of us – have the honor to represent our states and do the important work of our country.

“But Father Time remains undefeated.

“I am no longer the young man sitting in the back, hoping colleagues would remember my name. It is time for the next generation of leadership.

“As Henry Clay said in this very body in 1850, ‘The Constitution of the United States was not made merely for the generation that then existed but for posterity – unlimited, undefined, endless, perpetual posterity.’

“So time rolls on. There will be a new custodian of this great institution. Next year, I intend to turn this job over to a Republican Majority Leader. I have full confidence in my conference to choose my replacement and lead our country forward.

“There will be other times to reminisce. I’m immensely proud of the accomplishments I have played some role in obtaining for the American people.

“Today is not the day to discuss all of that because, as I said earlier, I’m not going anywhere anytime soon.

“There are many challenges we must meet to deliver for the American people and each will have my full effort and attention.

“I still have enough gas in the tank to thoroughly disappoint my critics and I intend to do so with all the enthusiasm which they have become accustomed.

“To my colleagues, thank you for entrusting me with our success. It has been an honor to work with each of you. There will be plenty of time to express my gratitude in greater detail as I sprint towards the finish line, which is now in sight.

“Mr. President, I yield the floor.”