Madison Doyle, story and photo:
Edmonson County fiscal court met today, March 27, 2023. Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey called the meeting order and led the court in the pledge of allegiance. Multiple county department heads gave updated reports since the last fiscal court meeting two weeks ago.

Moving into new business, Jon Sanders from the Edmonson County Industrial Authority said he was invited by Judge Lindsey to propose an occupational tax district for both county industrial parks, each located on 31W. He explained that right now, the county has two industrial parks. Industrial park one has approximately 20 acres of land, and industrial park two (which is currently just farm land) has about 50 acres, so the occupational tax district would be only on those 70 total acres.

"We are planning on doing some work to park one right now, hopefully someone will build a building in that location. Industrial park two would require probably a couple year's worth of work with it being farm land right now, but an occupational tax district would allow the fiscal court to adopt a percentage tax- and I would propose the Industrial Authority also get a portion of that tax- to continue economic growth into the future, whatever that is," Sanders said. "It could be buying land, it could be building an industrial park up by Nolin Lake, it could be a lot of things."

He explained that there would be special ordinances that specify what the county would have to do with the funds brought in from the tax, the county would not just get to keep it in their pocket. He also said that all of the counties around Edmonson County, with the exception of Barren County, have a county wide occupational tax district, which are mostly between a 1 and 1.5 percent rate.

Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey asked Sanders if the factories that are already in the industrial authority would have to pay this occupational tax as well. Sanders said no, because the tax would be adapted after these factories have been established, so they are "grandfathered in".

"When I was talking to people prior to the meeting, we were talking about sustainable revenue streams, and we don't have a lot of that right now," said Judge Lindsey. "This would take us in a great direction with the industrial authority to be able to do that."

This was only discussed as a possibility in the near future; there was no vote called.

However, the court did vote to increase the pay rate for all county employees (minus elected officials) by 6%. Judge Lindsey asked each individual magistrate what percentage increase that they would recommend, and all six magistrates said 6%.

District 5 Magistrate Gary Bagshaw said "With everything getting higher and higher everyday I think a 6% pay increase would be the right thing to do."

The court also voted to:

• Acknowledge BGWC February Shelter Directors Report.
• Acknowledge Big Reedy Watershed Conservancy District FY24 Budget.
• Approve PTSD Training for First Responders & Spouse Class (Fire, EMS, Sheriff, Dispatch & Coroner).
• Approve Resolution EC23-10, County Clerk Election Equipment Grant.
• Approve March Cash Transfers.
• Approve Jailer’s Policy Procedure Manual.
• Approve Lincoln Volunteer Fire Department Bid for $792,344 to Scott, Murphy, & Daniel, LLC. (Fire Dept. was awarded $750K grant, will budget an extra $100K of their own money for project)
  

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 10th, at 9am.

The Edmonson County Judge/Executive's Office has announced that Willie Webb Road is closed until further notice.

"In the interest of safety, the county is closing Willie Webb Rd for repairs until further notice," said Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey. "Access will be available from the intersection with Mohawk Rd. The closing is in effect for the intersection of Willie Webb Rd and Washington Street near Emo Meredith Park under the bridge in Brownsville. We will update the community with details as we progress with the repairs."

Darren Doyle, story:
A Mammoth Cave man faces multiple felony charges after being served a warrant for failure to appear in court, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Kenton Webb (39), of Mammoth Cave was served a bench warrant for failure to appear in court, according to Sheriff James Vincent, on March 16, 2023. Vincent said that Webb was in possession of 30 fentanyl pills when his bench warrant was issued.

Webb was arrested and charged with Trafficking in controlled substance-first offense (fentanyl), Possession of controlled substance-first degree-first offense, and Persistent felony offender 1.

He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Darren Doyle, story:
Two individuals were arrested after a traffic stop on Saturday night in Brownsville and face felony charges, according to the Brownsville Police Department.

A BPD officer reportedly initiated a traffic stop on a black Chevy Impala with only one headlight around 11PM on March 10, 2023, that was headed north on South Main Street.

Police said the driver was identified as Dana York (40), of Wingfield, and the strong odor of marijuana was detected from the vehicle. A bag of meth was found on York's person, along with three bags of marijuana, according to police.

A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Zackery Johnson (22), of Glasgow, was found to have two outstanding warrants from Barren County.

York was charged with:

• Possession of controlled substance, first degree, second offense (meth)
• Possession of marijuana
• Tampering with physical evidence
• One headlight
• Failure to notify dept. of transportation of address change

Johnson's outstanding warrants were for probation violation (felony offense) and failure to appear.

They were both transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Madison Doyle, story and photo:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met today, March 13, 2023. Judge Executive Scott Lindsey called the meeting by leading the court in the pledge of allegiance. Per usual, county department heads gave updated reports since the last fiscal court meeting. Emergency Management Director Terry Massey reported that there have been several field fires since the last meeting, February 27, 2023, which he stated should not be happening due to a statewide burn ban.

'There has been a statewide burn ban since February 15," Massey said. "On the day of our last fiscal court meeting two weeks ago, there were five field fires in just that one day. There's been several more since then. I want to remind everyone of this ban, because the last thing we want is for a fire to be spread to the woods, or even someone's house. It's my job to keep the people of Edmonson County safe, so please everyone follow this burn ban."

Judge Lindsey stated the burn ban is in effect from 6 am to 6 pm until April 30, 2023. The ban applies to any outdoor burning within 150ft of woodland or brush land.

After the court moved through most of the agenda, the magistrates voted to go into a closed session. Judge Lindsey asked all those in attendance who were not a part of the fiscal court to please step outside for a few moments. Upon leaving, the door was shut and locked. After approximately 20 minutes, District 4 Magistrate Mickey Johnson stepped outside and requested for Joe Joe Montgomery to step back into the courtroom. Around 10 minutes after this, the magistrates voted to end the closed session and re-open to the public.

When the meeting was re-opened, Judge Executive Scott Lindsey stated that the court offered Montgomery a job to be the full time Road Supervisor for the rest of the 2023 year term. Montgomery was appointed the Interim Road Supervisor on January 9, 2023. The magistrates voted to set the pay of this role on a salary based off of $25 per hour.

The court also voted to:

• Acknowledge Edmonson County Conservation District FY24 Budget.
• Acknowledge Edmonson County Conservation District FY24 Plan of Operations.
• Approve Leitchfield Exterminating Termite Service Agreement for Extension Office
• Building.
• Approve Leitchfield Exterminating Termite Service Agreement for Courthouse.
• Approve Finance Officer Bond #2123881.
• Acknowledge County Clerk’s February Clerk Storage Fees Report.
• Approve County Clerk’s 2023 Revenue Supplement Fund Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February MVAV Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February Deed Transfer Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February Excess Fees Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s February Delinquent Tax Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Treasurer’s February Monthly Settlement Report.
• Acknowledge Dog Control’s February CAD Incident Report.
• Approve Sheriff’s February Excess Fees Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s February County Property Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s February Fire Protection Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s February Franchise Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Resolution EC23-07, HB1 County Clerk Election Equipment Grant.
• Approve Resolution EC23-08, Vehicle Purchase Agreement-2022 Dodge Durango.
• Approve Allergen Participation Form-Additional Opioid Settlement Funds.
• Approve TEVA Participation Form-Additional Opioid Settlement Funds.
• Approve Walgreens Participation Form-Additional Opioid Settlement Funds.
• Approve Walmart Participation Form-Additional Opioid Settlement Funds.
• Approve Paver Repairs-Additional $21,000.
• Approve EC23-09, Tri-County Search and Rescue Affiliation Agreement.

The next fiscal court meeting will be March 27, 2023 at 9 am.

Crews Worked Day and Night For Entire Week

Darren Doyle, story:
WRECC has reported that all power outages have been restored as of this afternoon after storms damaged the entire region last Friday, breaking nearly 400 utility poles with hundreds of trees and branches damaging power lines everywhere.

The Nolin Lake area in Edmonson County was without power the longest, with many having to wait until today for restoration.

More than 50 additional crews came to help with the huge undertaking of restoring more than 45,000 addresses with power over the past 7 days. Work has been going day and night since the storm.

"Warren RECC is pleased to report that as of 4:00 p.m., our crews have completed restoration efforts," said WRECC Director of Communications Kim Phelps in a press release. "All known outages that can be restored related to this past weekend’s storm have been restored. If you are still without power at this time, please report it to one of our outage lines: In Warren County call 270-843-9710. Outside Warren County, call 1-888-604-4321."
 
She also said that with storm outages restored, the focus is now on clean-up efforts. According to WRECC, if you have debris from the restoration (such as poles or wires) left on your property, they will be back to clear that area.
 
"We would like to remind all our members that spring is right-of-way clearing time. As we have just seen, trees and power lines are not a good mix. Please be patient in the coming months as right of way crews work in your area."
 
For the most up to date information on Warren RECC including outages, community notifications, and general information, follow WRECC on social media or visit at www.wrecc.com. 

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Brownsville man received a hefty payout after his Pick 4 numbers were drawn during Sunday’s midday drawing, netting him $115,600.  
 
James Payton Jr. said he plays the Kentucky Lottery’s Pick 4 game daily, usually playing the month and day he was born (0-9-1-2) as his numbers.
 
Just minutes after purchasing the ticket from BP Fastrac on Nashville Road in Bowling Green, he found out there’s was a big win coming his way.

Payton Jr. was with his girlfriend when he pulled the Pick 4 numbers up on his phone. 
 
“I saw my numbers and told her, ‘I think I just won $140,000,’” he said. “I had just been saying to her, you have to play to win.”
 
While he may have miscalculated his winnings at first, he still won $115,600. Payton Jr. went on to mention his girlfriend doesn’t play the lottery but decided to purchase a Scratch-off ticket and won $60.  
 
“She was excited about winning and wasn’t too happy with me stealing her thunder,” Payton Jr. said jokingly. 
 
The Edmonson County man drove to lottery headquarters Monday where he received $82,654 after taxes.  He told lottery officials the money will go towards purchasing a van for his general contracting business. 
 
BP Fastrac will receive $1,156 for selling the winning ticket.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Judge/Executive's Office has announced that disaster relief may be available to residents of Edmonson County.

Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey said there is a possibility that FEMA could help county residents with expenses related to damage as a result of last Friday's storms.

"The county has already met our damage threshold cost for FEMA assistance, so we are trying to assist our community members with any help that we can help them get," he said.

The following information must be submitted to Edmonson County Emergency Management Director Terry "Moose" Massey:

For those with other questions, they can call the Judge/Executive's office at 270-597-2819.

Darren Doyle, story:
Most of the remaining customers without power in the WRECC service area are in Edmonson County, near the Nolin Lake area. Crews restored power to approximately 1,000 customers around the lake yesterday and are working continuously to complete the restoration.

WRECC released the following update at 9:30 this morning:

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Schools will operate on a one-hour delay Tuesday, March 7th, according to Supt. of Schools Brian Alexander.

He said that while there are still some power outages throughout the county, the delay gives those who catch the bus in very early hours a chance for full daylight to be out, allowing better sight for safety.

The school system has a list of roads where buses cannot travel, but Alexander said schools will make every provision possible to accommodate them.

"We know this is inconvenient for some families and we want to try our best to better those inconveniences if at all possible," he said. "If you can't make it to school tomorrow, we're going to be very lenient on our excuse policy tomorrow. We also encourage you to call your school if you have specific needs with which we can help you; we want to utilize our Family Resource and Youth Services Centers to help with anything they can."

Alexander said the current list of roads where buses cannot travel includes:

• Nolin Church Road
• Laurel Ridge Road
• Buzzard Roost Road
• F.D. Meredith Road
• Matt Minton Road

"We feel like going back to school is the best for the majority of students tomorrow, even with a one-hour delay," he said. "Again, we understand there will be some that need assistance or simply can't make it and we will do our best to help you."

As of this afternoon, WRECC reported that there approximately 8,000 customers still without power. According to the outage map, there are still about 2,000 customers in Edmonson County without.

WRECC released the following update at 9:43AM on Monday, March 6th:

Warren RECC staff and crews continue to work alongside visiting crews to fully restore power to our members. As of 9:30 a.m., we have approximately 8,700 members still without power.
 
At this time, our goal is to complete the vast majority of the restoration by the end of the week. In the most severely damaged areas, some restoration efforts may last through the weekend. We have restored transmission outages and the largest distribution outages. We now move to restoring single lines, roads, neighborhoods, and individual houses. This restoration work will be slower, and we ask for your patience. Be assured we are working around the clock to get power restored as soon as possible. We have continued to receive additional crews throughout the weekend. We currently have over 50 additional crews aiding us in our effort.
 
Once again, we would like to remind everyone to avoid work areas and downed power lines. We want to keep everyone as safe as possible during our restoration efforts. 
 
We will continue to provide updates as information becomes available. Please remember to stay away from downed power lines. If you see a downed power line, please report it to one of our outage lines: In Warren County call 270-843-9710. Outside Warren County, call 1-888-604-4321.
 
To see current outages, visit www.wrecc.com and click the “Current Outages” icon.

Darren Doyle, story:
The man killed when a tree fell on his residence on Friday has been identified, according to a family member.

Dakota Davis, age 23, was killed Friday when a tree fell on his apartment behind the home of his grandmother on Rocky Hill Road, Penny Mills Huddleston.

Ms. Huddelston gave a statement to the Edmonson Voice with information concerning the incident.

"(Friday), the winds had somewhat calmed down, then out of nowhere a loud roar and a huge boom happened, my mobile home shook my pictures fell off the wall," she said. "I made it to my laundry room and seen the tree was down, I couldn’t open my door because the tree was on my deck and on Dakota's building. We jumped out the front and ran around but the tree was so large we couldn’t do anything."

Officials said the tree crushed the small apartment and Davis was killed inside. The coroner's report on Friday night stated that Davis was 24 years old, however, Ms. Huddleston corrected that and stated he was 23.

She said that while she is his biological grandmother, she had raised him since he was 3 weeks old.

"He would give anyone the shirt off his back," she stated. "Always wanting a hug, and man could he talk, he never met a stranger. He was autistic and an  avid gamer, I was by blood his grandmother but I have had Dakota since he was 3 weeks old. I am going to miss him so much."

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Schools will be closed Monday, March 6, 2023 as a result of power outages and storm damage throughout the county.

"In addition to the many trees down and other damage the county has seen, our latest reports show that more than 3,000 Edmonson County residents are still without power," said Brian Alexander, Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools. "Not only that, there are several low-hanging power lines along our bus routes that we don't feel comfortable for the safety of our students for transportation. There are also several hazards remaining at many bus stop locations."

WRECC has been joined by crews from as far as Florida to help restore power to the region and have been working nonstop since Friday’s storms. Kim Phelps, Senior Communications Director for WRECC, released an update early today.

The statement read as follows:

"Warren RECC staff and crews continue to work alongside visiting crews to fully restore power to our members. As of 3:30 p.m., we have approximately 14,700 members still without power.  

With the assistance of additional crews on the ground today, we have been able to make good progress on our restoration plan. At this point, we have 541 outages. We continue to ask for patience as we restore the remaining areas. We are working around the clock to get power restored as soon as possible.
 
Once again, we would like to remind everyone to avoid work areas. We want to keep everyone as safe as possible during our restoration efforts. 
 
We will continue to provide updates as information becomes available. Please remember to stay away from downed power lines. If you see a downed power line, please report it to one of our outage lines: In Warren County call 270-843-9710. Outside Warren County, call 1-888-604-4321."

The day off from school will NOT be an NTI day. Supt. Alexander said without power and internet service, student's ability to do school work tomorrow would be severely hindered.

"Safety is always our main concern and the school board and I believe the safe thing is to close on Monday," said Alexander.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Coroner Brentley Esters has confirmed that an Edmonson County man has died as a result of a fallen tree during severe storms today.

The man's name has not been released pending family notification but Esters said the man was 24* years old. He also said a large tree fell on the man's residence this afternoon and he died from injuries sustained in the incident.

Rocky Hill Road remains closed as a large tree has fallen over the roadway and is entwined in a fallen power line. Rescue crews cannot remove the tree until WRECC is able to deal with the power lines. WRECC is working at full capacity with over 30,000 of their customers currently without power. According to the KY Electric Cooperatives, about 278,000 Kentuckians are without power tonight. Around 2,000 Edmonson County residents are still without power, with the Windyville/Segal and Wingfield Communities having the most outages reported.

"Crews are working to assess damage and will continue to work until all outages are restored," said WRECC Communications Director Kim Phelps. "We have requested additional assistance from contract crews and other electric utilities. Based on our early assessment, we expect this to be a multi-day restoration event."

*CORRECTION: The man killed in the incident was reported as 24 years-old by the Edmonson County Coroner; however, the man's grandmother released his name and correct age to the Edmonson Voice, She stated he was 23 years old.

Roads remain closed all over the county as all county fire departments work to clear trees and debris from roadways.

We have received messages and reports of trees down and other damages in virtually every portion of the county today.

Fire Departments, local law enforcement, EMS, state and county road crews, and volunteers are still working to clear debris all over the county. Officials are asking everyone to stay home if possible as several power and communication lines are down on or near roadways. Local dispatch is also working at full capacity, trying to sort through the tons of emergency calls coming in. 

High winds are expected to continue until about 9PM tonight, according to the latest forecast.

Mammoth Cave National Park and Green River Ferry closed today due to wind damage. The park also announced they will be closed tomorrow. 

The Cabin Fever Bass Tournament on Nolin Lake that was scheduled for tomorrow has also been canceled. The Princess Tea Party event at Edmonson County High School is still scheduled to take place.

Edmonson County Schools will be closed today, March 3, 2023 due to potential severe weather.

“With the predicted winds that are predicted today we do not feel safe putting buses on the road,” said Supt. Alexander.

It be an NTI day.

An Edmonson County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments.

Tina Jo Firestein-Decker: Theft by unlawful taking of property valued at $1,000 but less than $10,000.

Dustin Joshua Hunt: Fraudulent use of credit/debit card valued at $1,000 or more but less than $10,000.

Christopher James Jarvis JR.: Bail jumping - first degree.

John Christopher Mounce: Failure to comply with sex offender registration- first offense.

Verlon Dale Harder: Strangulation - first degree, Fleeing or evading police - first degree, Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicants second offense within 10 years (aggravated), Assault - fourth degree, Reckless driving, Speeding.

Leslie Nicole Keuvelarr: Possession of a controlled substance - first degree, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana.

Keaton Allen Webb: Trafficking of a controlled substance - first degree (fentynal), Possession of a controlled substance - first degree, Persistent felony offender - 1st degree.

Jeremy Thomas Anthony: Possession of a controlled substance - first degree, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Operating on a suspended or revoked operator's license, Failure of owner to maintain required insurance first offense, No or expired registration plate.

Rebecca Diana Meredith: Possession of a controlled substance - first degree, Possession of drug paraphernalia.

Michael David Johnson: Criminal mischief - first degree, Operating on a suspended or revoked operator's license, Failure to produce insurance card, No or expired registration plate, No or expired registration receipt, Improper equipment, Failure to wear seatbelt.

Cody William Johnson: Criminal mischief - first degree.

Kristen Lynise Matthews: Criminal mischief - first degree, Resisting arrest.

Note: An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ​

Madison Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met this morning, February 27, 2023. Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey called the meeting to order. Multiple county department heads gave simple, updated reports since the last fiscal court meeting, and the court quickly moved into new business.

The first item of new business was to approve the Bowling Green Warren County (BGWC) Humane Society Animal Shelter Agreement. Judge Lindsey said "They [Humane Society] are doing us a huge favor by letting us do this another year with the amount of dogs we have going up there. Every time I talk to them, they do suggest to me that we move forward with building an animal shelter or finding another place to go, because it truly is a huge burden for them."

Judge Lindsey stated that he plans to travel to a couple different counties in similar size to Edmonson County who have their own animal shelters, and see what it costs to maintain them.

"I'm going to their fiscal courts and Judge/Executives exactly what they voted on; how did they plan for this? These are the questions we need to be asking because, I don't want to spend more money than necessary, but when it comes to building an animal shelter, it needs to be done right," said Lindsey.

The court also voted not to renew the affiliation agreement with the Brownsville Edmonson County Rescue Squad. County Attorney Adam Turner stated that the Rescue Squad cannot operate without approval from the court.

"We were talking at the Emergency Services Meeting, and we decided it would be best to have the court say on record we do not want to approve this renewal," Turner said. "I will have to do some more research on this later on, but I believe in Chapter 39-F, there is an enabling statue that states that they cannot operate without the affiliation agreement."

Turner went on to explain that the current affiliation agreement with the Brownsville Rescue Squad expired at the end of year in 2022, so technically speaking, they should not be in operation right now.

Emergency Management Director Terry Massey shared his thoughts on why he felt this was the right decision for Edmonson County.

"I'm not malice against any of those guys, or just eager to get rid of them, but this is a liability issue for the county," Massey started. "When we call them out to help, it's just a free-for-all. We just can't have that."

Massey also said this won't leave the county without a search and rescue team. He says they are looking to sign a new affiliation agreement with a tri-county search and rescue team very soon. The vote to not renew the current affiliation agreement was unanimous, excluding District 4 Magistrate Mickey Johnson who was not present at today's meeting.

The court also voted to formally acknowledged the Edmonson County Wildcat and Lady Cat Basketball Teams on their District Championship wins last week.

"This is the first time in Edmonson County School history that both our girls' and boys' teams have won this title in the same year, and I want them to know how proud we are of them and their hard work, and most importantly the way they represent Edmonson County," Judge Lindsey said.

The court also voted to:

• Approve Edmonson County Road Department Groundwater Protection Plan.
• Approve 2023 Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Application, County Contribution $50,000 and Recreation Tax Committee Contribution $50,000.
• Approve FY24 Jail Budget.
• Acknowledge BGWC January Shelter Directors Report.
• Approve Sheriff’s January Fee Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s January Franchise Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s January County Property Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Sheriff’s January Fire Protection Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge Tourism FY24 Budget.
• Approve to appoint Kim Polson to Tourism Board effective 2/27/23 for a 2 year term, expiring 12/31/2024.
• Approve Sheriff's 4th Quarter Report, pending final audit.

The next fiscal court meeting will be Monday, March 13, 2023 at 9 am.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie (R), who represents Kentucky's 2nd Congressional District, visited Edmonson County High School today to speak with students and answer their questions.

Rep. Guthrie joked with students today about the spotlights shining on his head as he was welcomed to the stage in the high school auditorium and told them he didn't want to bore them with an extra history lesson; however, he did give a brief summary how his path led him to Washington.

He spoke briefly about his attendance and graduation from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and then joining the U.S. Army. He said the Soviet conflicts of the 80s inspired him to join the military, which later led him to pursue roles in government.

He told about his service as a Kentucky State Senator, where he served with local native Richie Sanders, which eventually led to him seeking office at the national level and being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

He also gave a brief overview of the House and how it works, then took several questions from students in the crowd in a down-to-earth fashion.

Rep. Guthrie also noted that he enjoys visiting Edmonson County, which he normally does several times per year.

To contact Rep. Guthrie, visit https://guthrie.house.gov/

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear visited Edmonson County High School today to discuss nearly $11M in state funding that's coming to the county. ECHS will receive funding for Local Area Vocational Education Centers (LAVEC) revitalization and renovation projects, along with 10 other schools that did not receive funding from the grant program the previous year. The school will receive $10M for a remodel of their vocational program facilities, which haven't received any major renovations since the school was built in 1981.

"Today is going to be a really good day for Edmonson County," said Beshear. "In fact, we're here with roughly with $10.7 million dollars of investment in this school system and in this county."

Beshear discussed the tough past three years that included the pandemic, the tornadoes of last year, ice storms, and current inflation that is causing problems for families everywhere across the Commonwealth.

"But I'm here to tell you that Kentucky is turning the page and I hope you feel it, too. It's like that song that says 'weeping may linger in the evening but joy comes in the morning.' I feel like we're truly moving from that dark, difficult time that these past few years have been, into one of more brightness, optimism, and possibility and potential for every single Kentuckian, and every single region."

Superintendent of Edmonson Schools Brian Alexander spoke at today's ceremony.

"Before the renovation of our vocational center even became a thought, our board had the foresight to expand our career pathways here," Alexander said. "The reality of being able to expand and renovate our vocational centers puts an exclamation point on their commitment and their vision."

Alexander recognized the board members, faculty, school administration, and district & board administration for their efforts in moving forward with vocational programs and the LAVEC project.

"I want to thank you, Governor Beshear," Alexander added. "Without your help and support, and without the fight that you put up in putting this funding in your executive budget, we wouldn't be where we are today."

Governor Beshear spoke to the Edmonson Voice about the criteria for schools to receive the funding.

"In the first round, it was all competitive grants, so schools put in their plans, what it would mean for their students, and their communities--talked about their various tracks and disciplines that they had," he said. "What we found was a huge desire and a huge need for investment in this area. The difference for those who qualified in the first round and didn't was a half a point to a point and-a-half. So we specifically came back and wrote in those who had been close, to the next budget, knowing that they'd already applied, and what a great application it was. So it was truly the school system, their grant writers coming together and putting a compelling case that we see in action."

Beshear also told the Voice that working with the state legislature was "actually seamless," to secure the funding.

"We see a whole lot about when we disagree, (but) we were all on board with this," he said. "With the best two years of economic development in our history, with advanced manufacturing like electric vehicle batteries growing day-by-day, the electric battery capital of the world, we know this investment is needed right now, to have the type of highly trained workforce we need, there was never any hesitation. I think you'll see more funding in the next budget."

In addition to the funding for the LAVEC project, the Governor also presented ceremonial checks to two other county entities. The Edmonson County Tourism Commission will receive $36,387 in state funding to help support local tourism, and the Edmonson County Water District will receive $736,590 to bolster the county's water infrastructure.

State Representative Michael Meredith also thanked the Governor for visiting ECHS, the school from which Meredith graduated.

"If you look across our region and our area, you will find that Edmonson County has the finest tradespeople in the world," said Meredith. "Whether it's electrical, whether it's plumbers, whether they're auto mechanics, welders, we have the best and the finest you'll find anywhere. And for too long, at the state level, we've put our focus just solely on college and pushing kids to that field, but with investments like this today, show that we're not just investing in college, we're investing in the careers of these young people, and we're going to be able to replace these folks who have served our community so well as they start to retire."

Beshear then went on a tour of the current vocational facilities, that included business, healthcare, engineering, ag, auto shop, and welding, all of which look much the same as they did over 40 years ago.

Construction for the new project will begin soon and it will be located on the north side of the school, between the gym and the current auto mechanics and welding shop.

A teenager was injured in a rollover crash in Edmonson County today, according to Edmonson County Sheriff James Vincent.

The unnamed minor, who Vincent said was 17 years of age, was headed southbound on KY HWY 259 N in front of the Kentucky Transportation Garage in a 2008 Chevy Cobalt at 9:55AM today. The teen apparently lost control of the car on wet roads, over-corrected, then the vehicle left the roadway and overturned twice, Vincent said.

He also added that the driver was ejected from the vehicle.

Sheriff Vincent also said that the teen was transported to the hospital in Bowling Green for unknown injuries and then to Skyline Medical Center in Nashville. He said the teen's condition was currently unknown.

Responding to the scene was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Brownsville Fire Department, Edmonson EMS, the KY Department of Transportation, and Kentucky State Police.

MAMMOTH CAVE, KY.– An aerial population study of white-tailed deer residing inside the boundaries of Mammoth Cave National Park will take place in the early morning hours of Sunday, February 19. The study is scheduled to begin after midnight and will provide a baseline population census of white-tailed deer inside the park. People living in proximity of the park’s boundary might notice comparatively low-flying aircraft during the study period.   
 
The research survey is being conducted with infrared technology and related hardware and software to obtain images of deer from altitudes over 1,000 feet. The study will utilize state-of-the-art multi-sensor imaging systems mounted on light, fixed-wing aircraft specifically designed for aerial survey operations.  The aircraft will fly in a grid pattern which enables researchers to obtain images of deer from virtually all land areas within the park. Survey flights will be conducted during the early morning when deer activity is expected to be at its peak. Flights will begin approximately one hour before sunrise and will terminate approximately two hours after sunrise.  
 
The research data from the survey will provide a “snapshot” of the total number of deer present in the park, their locations, and how they are distributed and grouped throughout the park.  This information is useful to park managers who monitor the health and status of the park’s white-tailed deer population.

Mammoth Cave National Park’s Division of Science and Resources Management will oversee the project being conducted by Owyhee Air Research, LLC, a private company headquartered in Nampa, Idaho, who specializes in aerial wildlife imagery. The flight is weather dependent and may be changed to an alternate day later during the week of February 19 if conditions warrant. 
 
Visit the park’s website for more information about Mammoth Cave National Park, Park Wildlife, and ongoing Science and Research projects.   

Madison Doyle, story and photo:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met today, February 13, 2023. The meeting was called to order by Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey by leading the court in the pledge of allegiance. Following this, many county department heads gave updated reports since the last fiscal court meeting three weeks ago.

After this, the court moved into business. On January 9, 2023, the court voted to open bids for a new sheriff's vehicle up to the amount of $40,000. Today, they accepted a bid in the amount of $37,000 for a 2022 Dodge Durango police pursuit vehicle.

Interim County Road Supervisor Joe Joe Montgomery informed the court that the county road paver is damaged, and either needs to be repaired or replaced. It was his recommendation that they pay to repair the paver rather than buy a new one. After some discussion, all of the magistrates were in agreement and voted to have the paver repaired.

Lisa Whobrey, with Edmonson County Schools Community Ed, spoke to the court about the purpose of the Family Resource-Youth Services Center. Earlier in the week, a declaration was signed proclaiming FRYSC Week in Edmonson County.

There were no further major discussions; however, magistrates then voted to:

• Approve County Clerk’s January MVAV Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s January Deed Transfer Tax Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s January Excess Fees Report, pending final audit.
• Approve County Clerk’s January Delinquent Tax Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge County Clerk’s January Clerk Storage Fee Report, pending final audit.
• Approve Resolution 23-02, Brooks Road Agreement.
• Approve 2022 EMA Program Funds (EMPG 2022 Cycle) Contract.
• Approve to appoint Thomas Bolton to Extension District Board for a 3 year term, effective January 2023.
• Approve to appoint Ian Stewart to Extension District Board for a 3 year term, effective January 2023.
• Approve Extension Service Agreement.
• Acknowledge Dog Control’s January CAD Incident Report.
• Approve Resolution EC23-03, Bald Knob Road Project.
• Approve Resolution EC23-01, Jailer Duties and Salary.
• Approve for Room Tax Fund to pay back General Fund $50.
• Approve February Cash Transfers.
• Approve pay rate increase for Chester Ester from $10.50 to $12.00, effective 2/13/23.
• Approve pay rate increase for Ken Smith from $10.50 to $12.00, effective 2/13/23.
• Approve Sheriff’s Office Lang Service Contract.
• Approve Square 9 Annual Support Agreement (Judge Executive’s Office).
• Acknowledge Family Resource and Youth Services Coordinators Appreciation Week Proclamation.
• Approve Treasurer’s January Monthly Settlement Report.
• Approve Resolution EC23-04, Memorandum of Agreement with BRADD.
• Acknowledge Board Appointments; Transportation: Mark Meeks & Mickey Johnson; Tourism: TJ Massey (non-voting) & Gary Bagshaw (non-voting); Safety Committee: Anthony Hennion, Terry Massey, Todd Vincent, James E. Vincent, Road Supervisor, Robin Rigdon & Tammi Willhite; Recreation: James C. Vincent; Building: All Magistrates; Finance: All Magistrates.

The court  went into closed session after normal business for a personnel matter.

Darren Doyle, story:
Members of the Family Resource and Youth Services Centers for Edmonson County Schools were recognized as Edmonson County Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey signed a proclamation in honor of "Family Resource and Youth Services Coordinators Appreciation Week.

When one thinks of making a difference in the life of a student, the teachers, coaches, and administrators are most often mentioned. While those individuals certainly shape and mold the lives of young people, there are several other folks that often work behind the scenes to make just as much, and sometimes more, of a difference.

Those are the folks in Edmonson County's Family Resource and Youth Services Centers, (FRYSC) who work year round to bridge gaps where students have needs that affect them outside of school so they are put in positions to succeed in and out school.

Jamie Carnes, a longtime district administrator for Edmonson County Schools, who currently serves as Supervisor of State and Federal Programs and oversees the staff of FRYSC at the local level, is always quick to give credit to the ladies that make up FRYSC.

"The FRYSC (Family Resource/Youth Services Centers) crew in Edmonson County consistently go above and beyond the call to make sure our kids are better able to concentrate on learning and being kids while in attendance at our schools," said Mr. Carnes.

The FRYSC is remembered most for their large events such as "Cram the Cruiser," "Affordable Christmas," and "Back to School Bash," but they are often unsung heroes by also working at the following:

• providing extra clothing and/or food for a child in need;
• helping to coordinate services for children and their families with agencies like LifeSkills and Community Education;
• collecting food items for food drives;
• helping organize and generate holiday assistance for families;
• providing supplemental school supplies for students;
• organizing after-hours events to provide support for children and families;
• coordinating with teachers and staff to assist students who might be struggling academically;
• designing programming like "Pony Play Day," "S.T.O.P." (Students Targeting Outside Pressures), "The 16th Birthday Bash," "Future Wildcats," "Adulting 101," etc.
• gathering and delivering basic needs for a family that has lost their home in a fire.

"Certainly, this list could go on for some time," Carnes added.

Team members Sherrell Thompson, Alicia Edwards, Morgan Esters, Natalie Stice, and Joanna Jaggers, make up the group, along with Lisa Whobrey. While Whobrey is not technically a member of what is known as the FRYSC roster, Carnes said that Whobrey, who serves as the Community Education Coordinator, works closely with the FRYSC in most everything they do.

"We all feel as if we are part of the same team," Carnes said. "I am proud of the work they do and happy to have a small role in helping them."

The proclamation recognized February 6th through the 10th as FRYSC Appreciation Week.

Edmonson Voice Report:
An Edmonson County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments:

Erik Harley Anderson: Assault third degree, Escape second degree, Resisting arrest, Fleeing or evading police second degree, Escape third degree, Menacing, Persistent felony offender first degree.

Steven D. Alford: Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Persistent felony offender second degree, Possession of a controlled substance first degree (firearm enhanced),  Possession of drug paraphernalia, Careless driving, Failure to produce insurance card, No or expired registration plate, Failure to or improper signal.

Seth T. Wingfield: Possession of a controlled substance first degree, Careless driving, Rear license plate not illuminated, Failure to produce insurance card.

Guy M. Rose: Fraudulent use of a debit/card valued at $1,000 or more but less than $10,000, Exploitation of an adult valued over $300.

Note: An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ​