Edmonson Voice Report:
A Bowling Green man has died as a result of being struck on I-65 while outside of his vehicle, according to Kentucky State Police.

KSP stated that they received a call of of a collision on I-65 at Exit 38 in Smiths Grove around 9PM on Tuesday, July 30th.

According to police, a red Kia Forte operated by Anthony Hodge, 36, of Bowling Green was traveling northbound on Interstate 65, when due to rainy weather conditions, Hodge's vehicle began to hydroplane, which caused the vehicle to exit the roadway left and collide with the median wall.

Hodge exited the vehicle in the center lane, where his vehicle came to a stop, and he was then struck by a red 2025 Freightliner operated by Alexander Kipnis, 64, of Techumseh, OK who was traveling north, police said.

Hodge was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Warren County Coroner's Office. 

The investigation will be led by Trooper Grant Robertson. He was assisted at the scene by Medical Center EMS, Warren County Coroner's Office, and other KSP personnel.

Darren Doyle, story:
A teenager was the victim of a drowning at Nolin Lake on Wednesday, according to Edmonson County Emergency Management.

According to Terry "Moose" Massey, Director of Edmonson County Emergency Management, emergency personnel responded to the area of a private dock on Nolin Lake at 310 Twin Oaks Drive, off Dickey's Mill Road on Wednesday, July 24th around 2PM to the report of a missing person.

Director Massey said a group of high school students from the Louisville area had gathered at the area for a birthday party for one of the students. One student with the group could not be located after it was discovered no one had seen him for about two hours.

Massey said Hart County Dive and Rescue were called in with sonar equipment to help locate the missing teen but multiple boats were unable to pick up any signal.

Additionally, drones and other boats were used to help locate the missing student along with multiple divers, agencies, and volunteers, searching both in the water and land.

A body was discovered under the dock, which was identified as the missing teen. The student was identified as Isaac Mwungura, (18) of Kenya, who was a student in Louisville. He was pronounced dead by the Edmonson County Coroner's Office.

Massey also reported that the victim's belongings were located on the dock and that it was likely he fell in. It is unclear what exactly happened but witnesses at the scene said the victim was not a strong swimmer, Massey said.

No foul play is suspected and an autopsy will be performed.

Also responding to the scene was the Lincoln VFD, along with KY Fish and Wildlife, Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Hart County Dog Rescue, Edmonson County District 5 Constable, Hart County Emergency Management, Barren County Dive and Rescue, Edmonson County EMS, and other volunteers.

Darren Doyle, story:
A South Carolina woman was killed in a crash last night in Edmonson County, according to Kentucky State Police.

In a press release from Kentucky State Police, KSP said Post 3 in Bowling Green received a call from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office on Thursday night regarding a single vehicle fatal collision on Louisville Road.

At approximately 9:00PM on July 25th, troopers responded to the scene in Smiths Grove on Louisville Road. The accident occurred near Icy Sink Church, according to Edmonson County Assistant Coroner Richie Jones.

KSP stated that a white 2017 Lexus operated by Melissa Sargent, 38, of Charleston, SC, was traveling south on Louisville Road when the vehicle crossed the northbound lane and left the roadway, causing the vehicle to overturn. Sargent was ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Edmonson County Coroner's Office.
 
The investigation is being led by Trooper Landon Key. He was assisted on scene by Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, The Edmonson County Coroner's Office, multiple Edmonson fire and rescue units, and other KSP personnel.

Madison Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met Monday, July 22, 2024 and the meeting was rather short, consisting of little to no discussion and a very light crowd.

The court voted to schedule the annual tax hearing for August 12th at 3:45 PM, 15 minutes before the next scheduled fiscal court meeting. Magistrates agreed to suggest a tax rate drop, from 13.2 cents per $100 of property in 2023 to 12.6 cents per $100 for 2024.

County tax rates have either dropped or remained the same in Edmonson County for the past several years. The rate was 13.9 from 2016 - 2020, then dropped to 13.8 in 2021, dropped again in 2022 to 13.7, then again to 13.2 last year.

The court also voted to approve Resolution EC24-26, "Medical Cannabis Business Operations." Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey explained "all this resolution is, is a professional way of saying that we as a court will not vote to move forward with any medical marijuana business until it is voted on in November by the people of Edmonson County.

Another resolution, EC24-27, Attorney General Department of Criminal Investigations Grant was also approved tonight. Judge Lindsey said this grant will be used to gather funding for body cameras for the Sheriff's department.

There were no other major discussions at tonight's meeting. The court voted to:

• Acknowledge County Clerk’s June Document Storage Fee Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s June MVAV Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s June Excess Fees Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s June Deed Transfer Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s June Occupational Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s June Delinquent Tax Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge BGWC June Shelter Directors Report.
• Approve R&R Service Estimate for Community Center HVAC Replacement.
• Approve Resolution EC24-25, Help America Vote Act-Election Security.
• Acknowledge Edmonson County Conservation District Annual Report.
• Acknowledge Edmonson County Conservation District FY24 Financial Report.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for August 12, 2024 at 4 PM.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Kentucky Senator Rand Paul (R) made a stop today at Mammoth Cave National Park to discuss several topics with members of the media.

Mammoth Cave was Dr. Paul's third stop of the day while also visiting Falls of Rough and Brandenburg.

He first took questions alongside MCNP Superintendent Barclay Trimble about recent improvements to the park. He joked that Supt. Trimble tried to get him to do the "8-hour crawl through the fat man's squeeze and all that," but they chose to walk around the grounds near the visitor center and new and improved lodge.

Tremble spoke of the new lodge remodel, improvements to trails through the park, and told how he enjoyed showing the Senator around the park.

Dr. Paul discussed how important Mammoth Cave NP is important to tourism in Kentucky, but the conversation quickly turned to the current events surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden dropping out of the Presidential race, and the current situation with the U.S. Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle.

Dr. Paul was asked his thoughts if Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic Presidential nominee.

He responded by saying there were questions looming whether or not President Biden was getting to old to both serve as President and continue with the race.

"The average taxpayer is about $2,000 less rich after the Biden administration because their money's not going as far," he said. "Inflation if stealing from people's paychecks; she has the same responsibility that he will have from that responsibility. The same sort of questions will be asked about that, so I think in some ways, it removes an obstacle for them (democrats), but she's also brand-new and in some opinion polls, (she) isn't necessarily polling much better. But in the end, it will probably move back to a more even race now. I think Trump is definitely trending ahead of Biden and this may even it out some."

Dr. Paul was then asked about Biden dropping out of the race after the debate and the possibilities of KY Governor Andy Beshear's name being thrown into the mix of possible VP picks.

"You know, I don't think it was planned in any way. I think his performance was so bad that they had to consider it," he replied. "This didn't just spring up at the debate. I think there has been some appearance of him being somewhat befuddled and lost on stage when he leaves, things like that. But I think as far as the process of it, let's just see how it unfolds, but I think it's pretty much becoming decided...she'll be the nominee."

"Some have pointed toward some hypocrisy and say well, you know, they're talking about the other side--the Republicans are going to destroy democracy, and yet, there's not going to be a vote for their side and they excluded all the other candidates..." 

He said it didn't look like a great demonstration of democracy and that many people feel like they didn't get a choice.

His thoughts on Beshear's name being discussed:

"We'd be happy to see him doing something other than being governor. You know, try again and see who is replacement would be."

Dr. Paul spoke highly of J.D. Vance, Trump's Vice Presidential pick, and said he'd worked with him positively in different ways.

We asked him his thoughts on the current situation of the U.S. Secret Service with Director Kim Cheatle comments about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump.

"I think there are certain jobs where if you make a mistake, you get a second chance. I think when you're protecting someone's life and you make a mistake, an egregious mistake, you gotta go. For example, the building that's only 130 yards away, where the shooter was, apparently they identified him on the roof at 5:50(PM). The former President began speaking at 6(PM). Why was the President allowed to come out? He speaks for 10 more minutes, so for 20 minutes the snipers are looking at a guy with a gun and nothing happens. Now, we don't yet know why. Maybe they thought he could've been local police and they didn't want to shoot a local policeman. If that's true, we got a serious amount of confusion--we don't know who's the police and who's the shooter. That question is going to have to be answered. But if you are the agent in charge of setting this up and you left the roof unattended, it doesn't mean you're a bad person, if you're a human you make mistakes, but you don't get a second chance. It may even be you're allowed to retire, you go to a desk job, but that person, man or woman, can't be in charge again."

He said it was a big problem and he would say the same whether it's Democrat or Republican.

"We have to be able to guard against something like this. Nothing's perfect. There are ways people can come up in a crowd and things, but we're talking about a planned event with a stage that a roof can be direct to the stage and nobody was on the roof. And the head of the Secret Service's first comment was, 'well, the roof was slanted and we thought it would be dangerous. REALLY? Dangerous for the Secret Service?? Then they showed them on a barn and the barn is sloped like this, and this roof is like this, and the whole explanation didn't make sense. But we're going to get to the bottom of it. The Homeland Security Committee I'm on is going to have an investigation on this as well. I go back to Washington tomorrow, we hope to meet with them this week and we hope to have public hearings the following week."

Darren Doyle, story:
President Joe Biden announced today that he is dropping out of the 2024 Presidential race. In a later statement, he endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the democratic nominee.

Here is his full statement:

“My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.”

Darren Doyle, story:
A Brandenburg, KY woman was arrested and faces a felony drug charge after a traffic stop in Brownsville yesterday, according to Brownsville Police.

Police said that on Thursday, July 18th around 3PM, Brownsville PD saw a red Ford Taurus heading north on HWY 259 crossing the center and outward lines multiple times in a short distance.

A traffic stop was made and the officer identified the operator as Jennifer McCombs, (49) of Brandenburg, who stated she was trying to enter an address into her phone which caused her to swerve, police said. While speaking with McCombs, the officer detected the odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle, according to police.

Police said that McCombs exited the vehicle and stated to police that she had a methamphetamine pipe and methamphetamine in her purse. A search of her purse resulted a glass methamphetamine pipe containing suspected methamphetamine, a plastic bag of a white crystal substance believed to be methamphetamine, and a plastic bag of suspected marijuana, according to police

McCombs was placed under arrest and transported to the Hart County Jail.

She was charged with:

• Careless driving
• Drug paraphernalia - buy/possess
• Possession of marijuana
• Possession of controlled substance, first degree, first offense, meth

Mrs. Brandy spoke about her background and what this opportunity means to her.

'I grew up in a single parent household where my mother worked so hard at a factory. I am the first person in my extended family to graduate from college. I started my career in education about 22 years ago, and never dreamed I would be a principal. I taught at South Edmonson for 15 years, and my daughter and I moved to Kyrock school district seven years ago when I became the counselor," she paused and became emotional. "I knew very quickly this was where I belonged. I just felt at home here. I love Edmonson County, I love this school. This is the honor of a lifetime and I am so thankful. I am thankful for each and every one of you, and most importantly I want to thank God for making this possible."

Mr. Alexander also thanked the Kyrock PTO for putting together and paying for the lunch today, and he also gave a special thank you to Kyrock SBDM for sitting through all of the interviews, and helping him "make the best choice".

Darren Doyle, story:
Superintendent Brian Alexander announced today that Kyrock Elementary School has named Mrs. Brandy (Kinser) Meredith their newest principal.

The new hiring comes after the departure of Shaun Stice, who was recently hired as the new principal at Oakland Elementary.

"With the departure of Mr. Stice, there are obviously some big shoes to fill, as Mr. Stice was very popular and we wish him the best," said Mr. Alexander.

"Mrs. Brandy has been a fixture at Kyrock for many years as a counselor and has always been known for her outstanding work. I believe that she will be a natural fit for her new role at Kyrock.  I fully expect Kyrock to go forward and excel under her leadership.  Kyrock Elementary is in excellent hands."

Mrs. Brandy has been with the school system for more than two decades. She taught kindergarten, second, and fourth grades at South Edmonson Elementary for 15 years. She has served as counselor at Kyrock Elementary for the past 7 years.

Mrs. Brandy told the Edmonson Voice that she was the first one in her extended family to graduate from college, which gave her the opportunity to work in the school system.

"I've always known I wanted to work with kids," she said. "It is truly my passion. I love watching the growth they make throughout the school year. Through education, I've built lifelong friendships and I am thrilled that I have been able to spend my career in Edmonson County, it is truly a special place."

Mr. Alexander said the vacant counseling position now at Kyrock will be posted and that a replacement to fill the job will begin immediately after the posting period has ended.

Madison Doyle, story and photos:
The Edmonson County Fair pageants took place yesterday, July 13, 2024 at the ECHS auditorium. There were many categories this year. The event was sponsored by the Edmonson County Lions Club, and was directed by Alison Patton Holland and Amanda Lich. Katie Dukes was named Miss Edmonson County. Katie is the  20-year-old daughter of Josh and Michelle Dukes of Greenville. The other winners are:

Tiny Mister:
Winner Colson Reynolds, 4-year-old son Caleb Reynolds and Rachael Duncan of Bee Spring.

Tiny Miss Edmonson County:
Winner Brooks Corinne Brandon, 5-year-old daughter of Josh and Nolly Brandon of Scottsville.
1st Runner Up Ryatt Dennis, 4-year-old daughter of Krystal Dennis and Jordan Alvey of Leitchfield.
2nd Runner Up Remi Kaye Carroll, 4-year-old daughter of Chad and Taylor Carroll of Glasgow.

Little Mister (individual):
Winner Brantley Porter McCoy, 7-year-old son of Shannon and Ben McCoy.

Little Miss Edmonson County (individual):
Winner: Ellie Jade Hampton, 6-year-old daughter of Kristen and Willie Hampton of Big Clifty.
1st Runner Up Abigail Basham: 6-year-old daughter of Jody and Renee Basham of Richardsville.
2nd Runner Up Violet Oneal Wood, 7-year-old daughter of Jonathan and Carla Wood of Bowling Green.

Little Miss and Mister Edmonson County (couple):
Winners: Cora Elizabeth Decker, 6-year-old daughter of Adam and Kelly Ann Decker of Caneyville, and Case Coy, 6-year-old son of Justin and Nora Coy of Brownsville.
1st Runner Up: Lawsyn Lamar, 7-year-old daughter of Ethan and Kayla Lamar of Cloverport, and Paxton Taylor, 7-year-old son of Ethan and Kayla Lamar of Cloverport.
2nd Runner Up Olivia Ferguson: 7-year-old daughter of Ethan Ferguson of Bee Spring, and Rafe Sanders, 7-year-old son of Sylvia and Sean Sanders of Mammoth Cave.

Miss Preteen:
Winner Avery Elisabeth Koesters, 10-year-old daughter of Ryan and Stephanie Koesters of Bowling Green.
1st Runner Up Harper Grace Gaffney, 10-year-old daughter of Bobby and Bethany Gaffney of Glasgow
2nd Runner Up Jakelyn Hernandez, 9-year-old daughter of Juan and Ana Hernandez of Morgantown.

Miss Teen:
Winner Audrey Elisabeth Belcher, 15-year-old daughter of Am and Dustin Belcher of Morgantown.
1st Runner Up Kyra Lynn Webster, 14-year-old daughter of Jeff and Krista Webster of Morgantown.
2nd Runner Up Aubree Marie Davis, 15-year-old daughter of Natalie and Eli Ellis, and Brad and Hannah Davis of Calhoun.

Miss Edmonson County:
Winner: Katie Dukes, 20-year-old daughter of Josh and Michelle Dukes of Greenville
1st Runner Up Ava McCormick, 18-year-old daughter of Haley Powell and Brett Powell of Calhoun.
2nd Runner Up Shaylee Leonard, 15-year-old daughter of Brad and Laura Leonard of Owensboro.

Ms./Mrs. Edmonson County Fair
Winner: Lauren-Paige Probus, wife of Ben Probus of Smiths Grove.
1st Runner Up: Jennifer Briggs, wife of George Briggs of Cave City.
2nd Runner Up: Kyla Tucker, wife of Andrew Tucker of Horse Cave.

Modern Miss Edmonson County:
Winner: Selina Evelyn Linder of Caneyville.
1st Runner Up Sierra Ashley of Bee Spring.
2nd Runner Up Amy Clubb of Sweeden.

Mother and Daughter of Edmonson County:
Winner: Selina Evelyn Linder and Kinleigh Grace Hampton of Caneyville.
1st Runner Up: Amy Clubb and Abigail Basham of Sweeden.

Mother and Daughter winners from L-R: 1st Runner Up: Amy Clubb and Abigail Basham, and Winners Selina Evelyn Linder and Kinleigh Grace Hampton.

Madison Doyle, story and photos:
The annual Edmonson County Fair Baby Show was yesterday, July 13, 2024 at the ECHS Auditorium. The event was sponsored by the Edmonson County Lions Cub, and was directed by Alison Patton Holland Amanda Lich. The overall girls winner was Elaine Hardin Williams, 2-year-old daughter of Colton and Bailey Williams of Leitchfield. The overall boys winner was Ty Zachary Ellis, 11-month-old son of Jordan and Erica Ellis of Smiths Grove. The rest of the winners are as follows:

0-6 Month Boys:
Dayton Lay, son of Joey and Madison Lay of Cub Run.

0-6 Month Girls:
Winner: Aurora Yvonne Rivas, 4-month-old daughter of Christy andAlex Rivas of Scottsville.
1st Runner Up: Magnolia James Arnold, 3-month-old daughter of Kaitlin and Timothy Arnold of Smiths Grove.
2nd Runner Up: Wrenley Teegan Skipworth, 5-month-old daughter of Tyler and Destiny Skipworth of Brownsville.

7-12 Month Boys:
Winner: Ty Zachary Ellis, 11-month-old son of Jordan and Erica Ellis of Smiths Grove.
1st: Runner Up Layne Reynolds, 11-month-old son of Caleb Reynolds and Rachael Duncan of Bee Spring.

7-12 Month Girls:
Winner: Bristol Grace Kerr, 9-month-old daughter of Jacob and Kristen Kerr of Westview
1st Runner Up Lena Ivy Mendez, 9-month-old daughter of Henry and Kelsie Mendez of Chalybeate.

13-18 Month Boys:
Winner: Kelan Renfro, 14-month-old son of Blake and Kailey Renfro of Smiths Grove.

13-18 Month Girls:
Winner: Ellis Rayne Powell, 15-month-old daughter of Devin and Bailey Powell of Leitchfield.
1st Runner Up: London Layne Williams, 16-month-old daughter of Braxton and Kacie Williams of Clarkson.
2nd Runner Up: Riley Marie Wilson, 18-month-old daughter of Brandon and Keisha Wilson of Cave City.
People’s Choice: Dixie Lay
Prettiest Eyes: Reagan Fisher
Prettiest Hair: Dixie Lay
Prettiest Smile: Ellis Rayne Powell
Best Dressed: Cali Rae Brown

19-23 Month Girls:
Winner: Harper James Renick, 23-month-old daughter of David andJordan Renick of Bowling Green.

1st Runner Up: Rae Lynn LaMastus, 22-month-old daughter of Jacob and Heather LaMastus of Brownsville.

2 Year Boys:
Winner Asher Brent Lay, 2-year-old son of Joey and Madison Lay of Cub Run.

2 Year Girls:
Winner: Elaine Hardin Williams, 2-year-old daughter of Colton and Bailey Williams of Leitchfield.
1st Runner Up: Emma Sue Meredith, 2-year-old daughter of Drew and Brianna Meredith of Wingfield.
2nd Runner Up: Willow Rose Wood, 2-year-old daughter of Jonathan and Carla Wood of Bowling Green.

3 Year Boys:
Winner: Owen Michael Young, 3-year-old son of Clayton and Tabitha Young of Cub Run.

3 Year Girls:
Winner: Paislee Ellie-Jo Probus, 3-year-old daughter of Ben and Paige Probus of Smiths Grove
1st Runner Up: Addison Simone Higdon, 3-year-old daughter of Cody and Ciara Higdon of Leitchfield
2nd Runner Up: Remi Lynn Ellis, 3-year-old daughter of Jordan and Erica Ellis of Smiths Grove.
People’s Choice: Scarlett Coy
Prettiest Eyes: Avie-Lynn Williams
Prettiest Hair: Remi Lynn Ellis
Prettiest Smile: Scarlett Coy
Best Dressed: Addison Simone Higdon

Darren Doyle, story:
Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt yesterday while speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Trump was shot in the ear from a gunman who had climbed on the rooftop of a building approximately 150 yards away. The gunman, who was killed within seconds of shots fired, was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, age 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

According to reports, Crook was a registered Republican who had made donations to the Democrat party. No motive is known at this time.

Trump released a statement saying "Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening."

Both Republicans and Democrats released statements denouncing political violence and the attempt on Trump's life, including President Joe Biden.

The Biden campaign said they are currently pausing ads against Trump in the wake of the shooting.

The U.S. Secret Service has been scrutinized for not having the rooftop area away from the venue secured prior to the event. Multiple reports of individuals alerting law enforcement that a man with a rifle was spotted near the event were apparently ignored.

In addition to the shooter, one male was killed with two others being critically wounded. Trump was seen arriving last night at his golf club in New Jersey, walking down the stairs of his plane with no assistance after receiving medical treatment.

The shooting is the first assassination attempt of a United States President or major political candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.

Trump is expected to accept the Republican nomination for President at the Republican National Convention next week in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The following social media post was just released by former President Donald Trump:

**Update: the Associated Press has reported “Shooter dead, rally attendee killed and Trump whisked off stage after gunshots ring out at rally”**

Darren Doyle, story:
An apparent assassination attempt has interrupted a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. It was reported that shots were fired during former President Trump’s speech. It appears as though he was hit in the ear or head with something and immediately went to the ground. Secret Service immediately surrounded him and after a moment, they all rose together and ushered him into a vehicle. He was seen bleeding from his face with his fist raised mouthing the words “Fight.”

Audio from the event shows Secret Service saying “shooter down, shooter down.”

It is now being investigated as an assassination attempt.

A statement from the Trump campaign said:

​“President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.”

President Biden released the following statement: “I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania.

“I’m grateful to hear that he’s safe and doing well. I’m praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

“Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There’s no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.”

Trump’s family has reported that the former President is doing well and is in good spirits.

This story continues to be updated as details emerge.

​

Edmonson Voice Report:
South Central Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (SCRTC) has announced that all current phases of construction and deploying fiber optic throughout sections of the county are now complete and ready for installation.

The process started in June of 2022 when SCRTC was awarded assistance for broadband funding through state and federal grants. Due to over seventy miles of newly buried and aerial fiber optic cable, SCRTC now can provide broadband communication services to this rural community.

"SCRTC has been keeping the community informed on the progress of this project throughout the past year. Using a topographical overlay on an interactive map linked on their website at scrtc.com/edmonson, residents living in the purple areas shown on the map can contact SCRTC to schedule their installation for service at (270) 678-2111," SCRTC said in a released statement. "Alternatively, by filling out the inquiry form on SCRTC’s Edmonson page, a Customer Service Representative will follow up with more information."

While areas south of Brownsville have been available for several months, the most recent completion includes the northern Hwy 259 sections of Lindseyville, Sweeden, Kyrock and Nolin Dam Road. As well as areas including the following road arteries:

• Brier Creek Rd
• Brooks Rd
• Dickeys Mill Rd / Nolin Church Rd
• Union Light Rd / Long Fall Rd

Internet options include 300 Mbps, 500 Mbps or 1 Gbps symmetrical speeds. Pricing starts at $60 per month. Other broadband services like My Stream TV and land-line phone options are also available.

“We are thrilled to be able to provide our services in this area.” said Jeff Eaton, General Manager at SCRTC. “Our goal has been to get to as many people as possible in Edmonson County. I think folks will really enjoy the internet speeds we can provide. We have employees that live in this area, and we pride ourselves on the level of customer service we provide. That is very important to us.” He added.

Developments for more fiber optic from SCRTC in eastern sections of Edmonson County are already in the works, with construction tentatively starting early 2025.

"To view those areas of potential future buildouts, search the red sections of our map," their press release stated. "SCRTC will release more information on time frames at later dates. No service inquiries are necessary for people living in those areas at this time."

Madison Doyle, story:
Yesterday, July 8, 2024 at the Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting, Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey brought up a discussion about medical marijuana. Judge Lindsey said beginning in January of 2025, the state government will have four dispensaries for medical marijuana usage in our region.

"At first, everybody was looking at it as a possibility to bring in tax money. But the state is going to own each dispensary and it's going to run through them, so it will not be taxable. So, there will be zero financial benefit to having a dispensary in the county," said Lindsey.

Judge Lindsey also explained that due to Edmonson County's smaller size in comparison to other larger counties in the region such as Warren, it is possible that the state would be more likely to give a dispensary to one of those other counties rather than Edmonson, even if the county wants one.

"Adam [Turner] and I have discussed it, and we can handle it a few different ways," said Lindsey. "I can write an ordinance that says we as a fiscal court do not want to open it up for a medical marijuana business. So that would shut it down for the entire county." Lindsey said the city of Brownsville could still vote to have one, because "they are their own government."

Lindsey said, "The only thing with that is, if I do an ordinance. They could bring it back up, they could come over here and try to get us to change our minds." It was then asked by District 5 Magistrate Gary Bagshaw who Judge Lindsey was referring to as "they," to which he replied "anybody who signs a petition." Lindsey then presented the court with another option.

"But, if we put it to vote on the November ballot, then the people of Edmonson County will make the decision on whether they want us to open the borders for this business."

Lindsey said his issue is not with the actual usage of medical marijuana itself. "I know people myself that it has helped medically," he said. He stated some of the things he does not like about the idea is if someone has a medical marijuana card and they also have a caregiver, that caregiver must also have a medical marijuana card to pick it up on their patient's behalf. He expressed concerns about the possibility of the "caregiver" keeping that marijuana for themselves. "I would hope that would never happen, but there is no guarantee," said Lindsey.

Lindsey said if someone is eligible to have medical marijuana, they are only allowed to have a certain amount every month and cannot legally exceed that amount. It also can not be in the form of what is often referred to as a "joint" or a "blunt", Judge Lindsey said, it must be in the form of an edible, a pill, or a vape.

Lindsey said that he and County Attorney Adam Turner have been talking about it and wanted to bring it before the court for discussion, but that both Judge Lindsey and Turner recommend it is best to put it on the ballot and let the people of Edmonson County decide.

Bagshaw interjected with, "if we make an ordinance, then that's just what it would be unless somebody challenges it. So if somebody challenges it from that point, that's when it would be on the ballot?" Judge Lindsey replied "Correct." Bagshaw then said "Well, then I think it would be better to do an ordinance, because if nobody challenges it, then it's done and that means nobody is wanting to put up a fight for it anyways."

Lindsey said "Yeah, but the thing is if we put it on the ballot and the vote fails, it's at least three more years until it can be revisited." 

After a few moments of awkward silence, District 2 Magistrate TJ Massey said his vote would be to put it on the ballot, since it would be three more years before it could be talked about again if the vote fails. District 1 Magistrate Mark Meeks then said he agreed with Massey. 

County Clerk Kevin Alexander said a decision had to be made before August 13, 2024. This means in the event the court voted to write an ordinance stating that Edmonson County does not want to be open for medical marijuana, the first reading of said ordinance would have to take place at the next fiscal court meeting, scheduled for July 22nd, and then the second reading of the ordinance would take place at the following fiscal court meeting after that, which is scheduled for August 12th, one day prior to the ballot deadline. Bagshaw then said, "Well, then I don't even think anybody would have time to challenge it."

Adam Turner then said he still recommends putting it on the ballot, because he "doesn't think the court should dictate what the entire county wants," and Judge Lindsey agreed. Mark Meeks then made a motion for the use of medical marijuana in Edmonson County to be put on the ballot in November, and the motion was immediately seconded by TJ Massey. Judge Lindsey then called for a vote. All magistrates, excluding Bagshaw, and District 3 Magistrate Anthony Hennion who was not present, voted in favor of the motion. Bagshaw was the only magistrate who voted against the motion of putting it on the ballot.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for July 22, 2024 at 4 PM.

Madison Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court was held yesterday, July 8, 2024. Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey started the meeting by asking Edmonson County Water District General Manager Kevin Shaw to speak to the court. Shaw gave the court an update on the Lock and Dam No. 5 removal, which you can read more about here.

"I believe the worry was that the water would be too low for our intake level. We have a big diesel pump on standby in the event that happens," Shaw said. "That pump, though, is for the absolute worst case scenario. Best case scenario, we don't have to use it. Our crew has had many sleepless nights thinking about this project and planning for it, they do an awesome job and they are prepared for everything. Everybody we are working with is just as engaged in this project as you are, Judge."

Shaw went on to say "They're not going to take the entire thing out at once, their intention is to go down there and take 6 inches out, see how the river levels out, and then take 6 more, so on and so forth."

Shaw said everything looks "great and ready to go."

Judge Lindsey said he has heard nothing but positive feedback about the project.

The court voted to:

• Approve Ordinance EC24-22, Carnes Road and Lauren Way Speed Limit. Second Reading & Adoption.
• Approve Treasurer’s June Monthly Settlement.
• Approve Judge’s Quarterly Financial Statement.
• Approve Sheriff’s June Monthly Fee Account Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Jailer Quarterly Report.
• Approve County Clerk’s 2023 Fee Closeout Report.
• Acknowledge Dog Control June CAD Report.
• Approve June Cash Transfers.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for July 22, 2024 at 4:00 PM.

Shaun Stice has stepped down as principal at Kyrock Elementary and has accepted the principal position at Oakland Elementary.

In a video message posted on the Kyrock Elementary Facebook page, Mr. Stice discussed the decision for the change.

"It's something that was very tough on me to decide," he said. "I dearly love all the staff at Kyrock, I dearly love especially all the kids I've been in contact with over the last seven years at Kyrock. It was a very tough decision for me, but I'm very excited about the opportunity this provides for me and my family."

Stice said there would always be a place in his heart for the kids at Kyrock.

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander said that the search for a new principal at Kyrock began as soon as Mr. Stice's resignation was announced.

"That posting will be up on July 11th and I have already met with the Site Based Decision Making Council at Kyrock," Alexander said. "Our next meeting will be on July 12th to screen candidates and prepare for interviews the following week."

Stice became principal at Kyrock in June of 2017.

Alexander said a new hire is expected to be announced on July 19th.

"We have several quality applicants and we look forward to the future at Kyrock," he said.

Edmonson Voice Report:
The Independence Day holiday this Thursday will result in a change of trash pick up schedules this week.

The City of Brownsville has announced that the holiday will bring early pick up this week for Thursday city customers, who will need to have their cans out tonight (Tuesday, July 2nd) for pick up on Wednesday.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Louisville District announced yesterday, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and support from The Nature Conservancy, will resume work to complete removal of Green River Lock and Dam No. 5 in Roundhill this month. Demolition efforts are scheduled to resume as early as the second week of July depending on appropriate river levels and weather conditions, according to the announcement.
 
"Dam removal was temporarily suspended in July 2022 due to concerns from the Edmonson County Water District (ECWD) regarding water levels," the USACE said in a written statement. "Since that time, there has been a collective effort from our partners, federal officials, and ECWD to advance this project while ensuring ECWD has interim alternatives in place to address potential water supply challenges as well as long term plans for new water supply infrastructure. For example, a submersible pump was provided by The Nature Conservancy and tested by ECWD to ensure continuous water supply even in low-water conditions. The partners, with assistance from the U.S. Geological Survey, also relocated river gauges to ensure accurate and constant monitoring of river levels."
 

Louisville District Commander Col. L. Reyn Mann said the effort has been collective to create interim and long term solutions for the project.

“We are ecstatic to have reached this pivotal point, which allows us to collectively move forward with renewed momentum and purpose—for the common goal of a safer, healthier and more accessible river. We applaud the Edmonson County Water District for not only their daily efforts to supply quality water to the local community but also for their commitment and vision to find a solution that will serve the people of Edmonson County for years to come," Mann said.

Kevin Shaw, General Manager for the Edmonson County Water District, told the Edmonson Voice today that he feels comfortable with the removal project at this point.

"We are in communication with the Corps at least once a week, including the Louisville office and the folks in D.C.," Shaw said. "They've moved the gauge along the river to better monitor the water levels and they're in tune with it."
 
The dam removal will be conducted by personnel contracted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is expected to take approximately 4-6 weeks, dependent on optimal weather conditions and water levels, the Corps stated.
 
"Lock and Dam 5 is nearly 100 years old and has exceeded its service life, posing a great safety risk for people," according to the USACE. "Removing the dam fully will protect public safety, increase recreation opportunities, and enhance aquatic habitat as it restores free-flowing conditions to 73 miles of the river."
 

“We are grateful for Edmonson County Water District working with us and other stakeholders to move this work forward,” David Phemister, state director for The Nature Conservancy in Kentucky, said he was grateful for the ECWD working with them and others to move forward.

“A partially removed dam serves no one’s interests," Phemister said. "Removing this dam fully is the right thing to do for a safer, healthier, and more accessible river, and allows ECWD to commence planning and eventual construction of improved water supply infrastructure.”

Shaw said the Corps plans to remove a little at a time and carefully monitor the full situation to avoid something abrupt.

"They told me they'll try to start bringing in equipment around July 8th or 9th with work starting after that. In the event water levels get too low for our intake system, our diesel pump is set up and ready to go. We have the capabilities to move the hose on the pump around for a good place, which will then pump the water into our treatment plant."