EDMONSON COUNTY FISCAL COURT
NOTICE OF REGULAR AUDIO/VIDEO TELECONFERENCE MEETING In accordance with KRS 61.823, KRS 61.826, Executive Order 2020-243, OAG 20-05, 2020 Senate Bill 150 and the March 31 Attorney General Advisory, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court will meet in session at 9:00 a.m. on April 26, 2021 to consider the following Agenda. The meeting will take place via audio teleconference due to the current public health situation with the fiscal court not meeting in person. The public may attend via audio by dialing: 1-312-626-6799, meeting ID 86941231622, password 178709 or by going to the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86941231622?pwd=YzFEcHNFWGY0akNyWGVaYnlaY2RYUT09 AGENDA 4/26/2021
Wil Cannon EDMONSON COUNTY JUDGE EXECUTIVE
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Edmonson Voice Report:
A relief effort is now underway for the family of Phillip Pierce, who lost everything in a house fire early Wednesday morning. The Chalybeate Fire Department is now accepting clothing and toiletry donations at the firehouse. A list of sizes and items are below: Mother Tops: Medium/Large Bottoms: Medium/Large Undergarments: 32D, 6 Socks: ankle Shoes: 8 1/2 Jacket: Large 16 year old daughter Tops: Small/Medium Bottoms: Size 5 or Small Undergarments: 32A, 5 or small Socks: 5 Shoes: 5 Jacket: Small/Medium Dress: Small (Favorite colors: Pink and White) 13 year old daughter Tops: Xsmall/Small Bottoms: 12 youth size Undergarments: 32AA, 12 kids Socks: 3 Shoes: 2 1/2 - 3 Jacket: Xsmall/Small 8 year old daughter Tops: 7-8 Bottoms: 7-8 Underwear: 8 Socks: Shoes: 13 or 1 Jacket: 7-8 Father Tops: Large Bottoms: 32x32 Underwear: Medium Socks: calf Shoes: 9 Jacket: Large Toiletries are also very much appreciated. Please contact Daniel Johnson, Fire Chief, at 270-597-7350 to arrange drop off times. Darren Doyle, story, photos, and video: A Chalybeate home was lost in a fire early this morning in a subdivision off of Sulphur Road. Local fire departments were paged at 5:45AM to the report of a structure fire on Joseph Court, a cul-de-sac subdivision off of Sulphur Road in Chalybeate. Those on scene said the residents of the home, who rented from owner Johnny Davis, were not there at the time. Neighbors said that school-aged children also lived at the residence but no other information was given. The cause of the fire was undetermined and no injuries were reported. Responding to the scene were the Chalybeate, Wingfield, and Brownsville Fire Departments, as well as Edmonson EMS. The house was a total loss.
School System To Allow Applications For Students To Repeat School Year In Accordance With SB 1284/20/2021 Local School Board Will Vote To Accept Or Reject All Applications Darren Doyle, story and photo: Edmonson County students in grades K-12 will now have the option of using the 2021-22 school year as a supplemental year, allowing them to repeat the grade level for this school year as a result Senate Bill 128, which was recently approved by the General Assembly. "Before considering this option, please review the information in this letter so that you can make an informed decision," Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander said in a letter to school personnel and students." If you do not want your child to utilize the supplemental school year, no action is needed. If you would like to request this option, you can visit https://forms.gle/ewRX49PC5FFkhaQT6 to access the application. The application must be completed no later than May 1, 2021." According to Supt. Alexander's letter, the law requires local Boards of Education to either approve or reject the supplemental year. On May 10, 2021, the Edmonson County Board of Education will make a decision on whether to approve the requests for the supplemental year. This decision will not be made at the individual level as the law requires that the Board to either approve all applications or deny all applications. If adopted by the Edmonson County Board of Education, families have until May 28, 2021, to choose to opt out of the Supplemental Year Program should they change their mind. After May 28, students and parents are obligated to follow through with their intent to commit to a FULL SUPPLEMENTAL YEAR OF INSTRUCTION at their respective school. Edmonson County Schools has compiled a list of benefits and concerns associated with the law, published below. "Please look closely at all benefits and concerns listed below in order to make an informed decision regarding your child’s educational future," said Supt. Alexander. "We have worked very hard to put together information that will allow students and families to make an informed decision in terms of whether they want to investigate the possibility of a supplemental year," Alexander told the Edmonson Voice. "Anyone with questions concerning this is free to contact me at the board, or any of our schools."
Circuit Clerk's Office Announces Jury Trials Will Resume In May, Office Still Appointment-Only4/16/2021 Darren Doyle, story:
After being suspended for COVID, jury trials are resuming in May, according to Edmonson Circuit Court Clerk Tanya Hodges. Hodges said that letters for potential jurors will be going out in a week or so. She has issued the following statement in regards to these letter: As you may know, when court cases require a jury here in the Edmonson County Courthouse, our office has to request a jury panel from Frankfort. I, nor anyone in our office has any control as to who is mailed a jury summons. We simply request a certain amount of names, and then the names are randomly selected from a database stored in Frankfort. It has come to our attention that in the past, several families have received a summons in the name of a deceased loved one. We know this is frustrating, and sometimes painful. We deeply apologize for these incidents and we are working hard to keep this from happening in the future. A new jury panel is currently being selected and the summons' will be mailed out soon. Again, we do not select these names locally, but we ask that if you or a family member receive a summons for someone who has passed, to please contact our office immediately so that we can notify Frankfort in order to remove that name from the database. We are here to serve you with respect and dignity, and we deeply care about our responsibilities, our credibility, but most importantly, you, the people of Edmonson County. Please contact our office with any needs for our services, it is our pleasure to serve you. Thank you so much." The office is still closed to the public under KY Supreme Court Order, despite the fact that the courthouse is open; however there are still options available for those who need to see someone at the office in person, according to Clerk Hodges. "People can come in by appointment-only for emergency filings," she said. "Also, CDL drivers and out-of-state drivers transferring in can make appointments to come in for renewal. People who need to to take written tests can also make appointments, which can be done by calling the office at 270-597-2584. All other transactions including regular driver renewal can be done by mail or drop box." Driver’s license renewal forms can also be found at drive.KY.gov. Edmonson Voice Report:
The Barren River District Health Department has paused the administration of Johnson & Johnson vaccination under the direction of the Kentucky Department of Public Health, the CDC, and the FDA, according to a released statement from BRDHD today. "Due to the temporary pause in Johnson & Johnson vaccinations, we are providing (2-dose) Moderna vaccines during all scheduled vaccination clinics," the statement said. "Existing appointments will be honored with Moderna vaccine in place of Johnson & Johnson vaccine. If you currently have an appointment scheduled and wish to wait for the re-release of Johnson & Johnson vaccine, please contact us and cancel your appointment. We will notify the public when the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has been re-released, and appointments can be rescheduled at that time." The BRDHD is currently administering COVID-19 vaccines for individuals 18 years of age and older in all 8 county clinics. "Due to vaccine supply, vaccine clinics will occur on specific days for each county. Once the appointments are full for April, we will schedule appointments again in mid-April for the month of May," BRDHD said. To schedule an appointment online: Visit https://www.yellowschedule.com/booking/brdhd__vaccine__site as well as www.barrenriverhealth.org. Darren Doyle, story: The Edmonson County Fiscal Court is seeking more than $6 million dollars from FEMA to repair damaged county roads due to the floods experienced in March of this year. County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll submitted a written report for today's fiscal court meeting that outlined the damages in each district which included the following:
Carroll and County Treasurer Tammi Willhite submitted the damage report to FEMA; they conducted a recent meeting with a FEMA representative, to which Carroll reported went positively. Willhite said that FEMA will assess the reports and estimate the repairs themselves, compare to the county's assessment, then hopefully come to agreement for federal aid. Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle said his office had experienced a very busy period since the last meeting that included multiple felony arrests over Easter weekend, as well several other DUI and drug arrests. He also noted that last week's fatal accidents were an anomaly in Edmonson County, stating that Edmonson County is consistently one of the lowest-numbered states for fatal accidents. There were two within 6 days recently. He also added that he thanked Kentucky State Police for sending an accident reconstructionist to both fatal scenes. County Clerk Report: Clerk Kevin Alexander said that March is the busiest month of the year for his office. He said $167K in tax revenue was turned over to the county in March alone. Parks and Rec: It was announced that the annual baseball/softball jamboree is scheduled for April 24th. The event and seasons for youth baseball and softball were cancelled last year due to COVID. Farmland bids: Sealed bids to farm county property on HWY 259-Veterans Memorial HWY at the site of the new proposed animal shelter were open during today's meeting. Two bids were submitted; one by Chris Bowen for $715 and another by Greg Whittle for $650. After a brief discussion, Magistrate Charlie Tarter motioned to accept the highest bidder, contingent on the bidder providing proper insurance documentation, as required in this particular bidding process. The motion was seconded by Magistrate Johnny Brooks and passed unanimously. County Agreement With Local Rescue Squad Discontinued: Magistrates chose to take no action on an expired agreement with the Brownsville/Edmonson County Rescue Squad, which means there is no longer an agreement in place. Each year, the county enters into an agreement of affiliation with the RS that allows local dispatch to dispatch the RS to local emergencies. County Emergency Management Director Terry Massey recommended the agreement be discontinued because the county has its own resources to handle these emergencies and that the RS failed to provide some financial documentation requested by the county. We reached out to a member of the Rescue Squad for their side of the issue and will have a follow-up later this week with more details. The court also agreed to:
The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled to be held virtually on Monday, April 26th at 9AM. Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office made a meth arrest on Saturday as a result of a reckless driver call, according to a press release from their office. The release stated that on Saturday, April 10, 2021, at approximately 8:20 pm, Edmonson County Dispatch received a reckless driver complaint involving a red GMC pickup truck. A deputy with the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Department reportedly observed a vehicle matching that description traveling north on Veterans Memorial Highway that was allegedly weaving in the lane of travel. According to the Sheriff's Office, the deputy initiated a traffic stop and identified the operator as Glenn F. Fournier (46) of Bowling Green. The Sheriff's Office said that Fournier gave the deputy consent to search his vehicle which produced the discovery of suspected methamphetamine. The deputy then placed Fournier under arrest and charged him with:
An Edmonson County Grand Jury has returned the following indictiments: Christopher Y. Reeves, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Possession of marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess, Tampering with physical evidence. April Flora, Careless driving, License to be in possession, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Possession of marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Tampering with physical evidence. Shawn Filback, Bail jumping first degree, Persistent felony offender first degree. George W. Payne, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Possession of marijuana. David R. Kurtz, Trafficking controlled substance first degree<2gms meth, Public intoxication, Drug paraphernalia, buy/possess, Persistent felony offender second degree. Toni D. Brown, Trafficking controlled substance first degree<2gms meth, Trafficking in marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Resisting arrest, Assault third degree-police officer, Tampering with physical evidence. Jason Stanka, Trafficking controlled substance first degree<2gms meth, Trafficking in marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Resisting arrest. James W. Reynolds, Speeding 26mph or more over speed limit, Reckless driving, Attempted murder-police officer, Burglary second degree, Theft by unlawful taking over $500, Fleeing or evading police first degree (motor vehicle), Fleeing or evading police first degree (on foot), three counts of Wanton endangerment-first degree, Wanton endangerment first degree-police officer, Persistent felony offender first degree. Dekota Jaggers, Rape third degree, Sexual abuse first degree. Rhonda J. Clemmons, 52 counts of criminal possession of a forged instrument second degree, Theft by unlawful taking or disposition all others over $10,000 or more, but under $1,000,000. Jenny Durbin, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth-firearm enhanced. Possession of marijuana-firearm enhanced, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess-firearm enhanced. Douglas Sanders, Rear license not illuminated, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth-firearm enhanced, Possession of marijuana-firearm enhanced, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess-firearm enhanced, Possession of handgun by convicted felon. Dustin Dean Willis, Flagrant non-support, Persistent felony offender first degree. Tracy Larimore, Flagrant non-support. Wendy L. Browning, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Willie Ray Lindsey, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Shawna McStoots, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Ronnie Corn, Retaliating against participant in legal process, Persistent felony offender second degree. Garnett Richard Clifford, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Craig T. Sheffield, Possession of controlled substance first degree-meth, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. 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. EDMONSON COUNTY FISCAL COURT
NOTICE OF REGULAR AUDIO/VIDEO TELECONFERENCE MEETING In accordance with KRS 61.823, KRS 61.826, Executive Order 2020-243, OAG 20-05, 2020 Senate Bill 150 and the March 31 Attorney General Advisory, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court will meet in session at 9:00 a.m. on April 12, 2021 to consider the following Agenda. The meeting will take place via audio teleconference due to the current public health situation with the fiscal court not meeting in person. The public may attend via audio by dialing: 1-312-626-6799, meeting ID 824 1397 2771, password 063715 or by going to the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82413972771?pwd=RWJVWU54ZzJjODBGM1BxWkJmSXAwUT09 AGENDA 4/12/2021
Wil Cannon EDMONSON COUNTY JUDGE EXECUTIVE Edmonson Voice Report: The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office had very high activity through the Easter weekend as they reported nine different felony arrests in six different incidents, as well as multiple felony warrants. In a press release, the Sheriff's Office said that on Thursday, April 1, 2021, law enforcement arrived at the 4800-block of Chalybeate School Road to serve an Indictment Warrant for charges of Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (methamphetamine) and Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess for Wendy L. Browning (40). Officers reportedly found drug paraphernalia with suspected methamphetamine residue in plain view. Browning was taken into custody for the Indictment Warrant and charged with new offenses that included:
No photo available for Wendy Browning Deputies arrested five more individuals the following day as they executed both bench and indictment warrants, which included:
photos not available for James K. Webb, Matthew Avery, and Cody Vincent. More arrests occurred the next day on April 3rd, as three individuals were arrested throughout the day by Edmonson County Sheriff's Deputies. Law enforcement reported that around 1:30PM, an officer observed a Ford Ranger traveling eastbound on New Grove Road cross the yellow center line four time in a short distance. The driver allegedly failed to stop when the deputy initiated his emergency lights. The deputy reportedly activated his siren but the vehicle accelerated slightly and fled approximately three miles, while disregarding a stop sign before pulling into a driveway at the 900-block of Pig Road. The driver reportedly exited the vehicle and the deputy took him into custody without further incident. The driver was identified as Lester D. Adams (44) of Smiths Grove, who was operating on a DUI suspended license, the Sheriff's Office reported. Deputies also reported an open beer can in the driver’s side floorboard, as well as drug paraphernalia with suspected methamphetamine residue laying in plain view in the center console. Upon further investigation, the deputy discovered a handgun in the center console and a small bag of suspected marijuana under the center console. Adams was arrested and charged with: • Careless Driving • Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree (motor vehicle) • Driving DUI Suspended—1st Offense (aggravated circumstance) • Disregarding Stop Sign • Possession Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (methamphetamine—firearm enhanced) • Possession of Marijuana (firearm enhanced) • Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess (firearm enhanced) • Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle Prohibited Later in the day, deputies arrested Regina Freeman (45) of Paducah, Kentucky, for a Bench Warrant out of Marshall County for failing to appear on charges of Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (> or = 2 GMS methamphetamine) and Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess. Finally, later on Saturday night, April 3rd, the Sheriff's Office added one more drug arrest to the list, which resulted in a large quantity of meth being confiscated.
The Sheriff's Office said that around 9:20PM, a deputy initiated a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Blazer traveling westbound on Nolin Dam Road for no license plate light. The driver was identified as Justin Goodman, (22) of Sweeden. Goodman allegedly did not have his driver’s license in his possession and did not have an insurance card. The deputy reported that Goodman was acting nervously so the deputy asked if there was anything illegal in the vehicle; Goodman allegedly stated the center console contained drugs, the Sheriff's Office said. A significant amount of suspected methamphetamine was discovered in the center console, along with drug paraphernalia, and more suspected methamphetamine in the vehicle. Goodman was placed under arrest and charged with: • Rear License Not Illuminated • License to be in Possession • Failure to Produce Insurance Card • Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1st Degree/1st Offense (> or = 2 GMS methamphetamine) no photo available for Justin Goodman All suspects were transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Darren Doyle, story and photo:
A Smiths Grove woman has died and another man is in serious condition after a single vehicle crash earlier today, according to Kentucky State Police. The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office requested assistance from KSP today around 12PM to investigate the collision that took place at the intersection of Denham Road and Noah Bledsoe Road. Troopers said that 91 year-old Wilmon N. Linger, of Smiths Grove, was operating a 2005 Pontiac van on Noah Bledsoe Road when he veered onto Denham Road where his vehicle exited the right side of the roadway, striking a tree and causing the vehicle to overturn. A passenger in the vehicle, 88 year-old Mary C. Linger, of Smiths Grove, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Edmonson County Coroner's Office. Wilmon Linger was transported by Air Methods to the University of Louisville Hospital where he is listed in serious but stable condition. It is the second fatal accident in Edmonson County this week. Julia Broderick, 46, of Louisville died on Monday in an accident on KY HWY 259 N. The investigation is being led by Trooper Bo Hubbard. He was assisted on the scene by KSP personnel, Edmonson County Coroner's Office, Edmonson County EMS, Chalybeate Fire Department, Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, and Air Methods. MAMMOTH CAVE, KY. – National Park Service fire managers will conduct two prescribed burns at Mammoth Cave National Park sometime between Saturday, April 3 and Friday, April 9. The 260-acre Parkway Barrens Prescribed Fire and the almost 100-acre Chaumont-Wondering Woods Prescribed Fire will reduce the spread of exotic plants, promote the regrowth of native species and reduce hazardous forest fuels that have accumulated in the area.
The Parkway Barrens burn will take place on the westside of the Mammoth Cave Parkway (KY-255) from the Park City entrance to near the intersection with Mammoth Cave Road (KY-70). The Chaumont-Wondering Woods burn will take place in an area north of Mammoth Cave Road (KY-70) from Cave City. No roads, trails, or park facilities will be closed during either burn, but traffic control measures may be in place to manage travel along the Mammoth Cave Parkway during the fire activities. Nearby communities and areas directly outside of the park should expect to see some short-term smoke impacts during the burns. In 2019, Mammoth Cave National Park updated its Fire Management Plan which provides the framework and guidance on how and when to use fire as a tool to manage ecological processes within the park. Prescribed fires, such as the Parkway Barrens and Chaumont-Wondering Woods burns, reduce the spread of exotic plants like privet hedge and Bradford pear, and encourage native species such as Post oaks, native grasses, and various wildflowers to grow in the eastern tall grass prairie vegetation that are found within this section of the park. These burns also reduce hazardous forest fuels such as branches twigs and logs which help to protect human life and property from more intense wildfires that could feed off excess fuels. The plans for the Parkway Barrens and Chaumont-Wondering Woods prescribed fires contain a set of parameters which define the acceptable weather and fuel conditions under which the fire can be initiated. Prior to implementing the burn, fire managers will evaluate current conditions and will only ignite the fire if all the prescribed conditions are within those parameters that provide for the greatest safety and best smoke management. Trained wildland firefighters from the National Park Service’s Mississippi River Fire Management Zone, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, The Nature Conservancy, and Mammoth Cave National Park will manage the prescribed fire. For more information about Mammoth Cave National Park’s Wildland Fire program, please visit Wildland Fire website. Darren Doyle, story and photos: A predawn fire had local firefighters busy as an abandoned mobile home stuffed with old uniforms went up in flames. Multiple firefighters were paged around 4:30AM on Saturday, April 3rd to the report of a structure fire in the 3700 block of Chaumont Road, just off 31W. Firefighters arrived to a fully engulfed mobile home that was barely standing. According to Rocky Hill Fire Chief Tim Compton, the mobile home had been abandoned for some time. He said the former occupant, who had previously passed away, sold uniforms in the area. The mobile home was packed top-to-bottom with these uniforms, which had the entire area smoldering from the burnt clothing.
It was one of several unoccupied mobile homes in the same vicinity. No injuries were reported. Responding to the scene were the Rocky Hill, Chalybeate, and Brownsville Fire Departments. Darren Doyle, story and photo: Rhonda Clemmons, a former Edmonson County employee and former director of Edmonson County Tourism, has been indicted on more than 50 counts of forgery and/or theft. According to court documents which were available this week following an Edmonson County Grand Jury, Clemmons faces 52 counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument and one count of Theft by Unlawful Taking over $10,000. The indictment document stated, "Rhonda J. Clemmons, committed the offense of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument in the Second Degree when, with knowledge that it was forged and intent to defraud, deceive or injure another, she uttered or possessed a forged check on the account of the Edmonson County Tourist & Convention Commission." The indictment further stated, "Rhonda J. Clemmons, committed the offense of Theft by Unlawful Taking over $10,000.00, when she stole approximately $30,407.77 from the Edmonson County Tourist & Convention Commission." Each charge states that the acts were committed on or between January 14, 2019 through May 21, 2020. While the Edmonson County Tourism Commission funded Clemmons' employment, she was made a county employee in order to receive full-time benefits. During Clemmons' employment, the Tourism Commission was not able to provide full-time employee benefits as a result of how their organization was set up. Tourism had an agreement with the county where Tourism would pay $8,000 per quarter to the county as reimbursement for Clemmons' pay. Clemmons administered local room and rec taxes, which are collected by the Judge Executive's office with all room taxes being turned over to the Tourism Commission. All in-county businesses that provide lodging are required to pay a quarterly room tax. Clemmons, served as tourism director under the authority of the tourism commission board. The Edmonson County Planning Commission also contributed to Clemmons' salary and benefits package for her role as secretary there. In April through May of 2020, the Judge Executive's Office discovered that the Tourism Commission was behind on $22,000 of quarterly payments. In a fiscal court meeting from May 26, 2020, Judge Wil Cannon said that when the commission was asked about the past due payments, Clemmons allegedly said there was no money as a result of the coronavirus pandemic; however, Cannon said that over that time period, the county had turned over more than $50,000 in room taxes over to Tourism, much of which was prior to the pandemic. The fiscal court voted to terminate her employment at that meeting. As a result, the Judge Executive's Office began to work with the Edmonson County Tourism Commission to figure out where the money went. The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office was then contacted for an investigation, which was turned over to the Kentucky State Police. Judge Cannon spoke to us about the discovery of the missing funds. "When the county discovered that tourism was behind on their payments we just thought it was an innocent mistake," he said. "But the more questions we began to ask Rhonda, the more she began to avoid them. Before too long we could see that something was wrong." Judge Cannon said Clemmons was asked to provide receipts or other documentation regarding where the money went but nothing was ever produced. Cannon said he then began working alongside Tourism to try to figure out what went wrong. He said 18 months of checks from the Tourism account were requested from the bank and that's where it was discovered the checks had been forged with Tourism board members' names. Judge Cannon also said that Clemmons was asked to return the Tourism computer, which she regularly used. He said she finally returned it but the hard drive had been removed. "I'm glad it's been investigated thoroughly and the indictment has finally happened," he said. "With this amount of money missing, someone has to have some answers." The Edmonson Voice contacted Ms. Clemmons for comment at the time of her termination last year as well as now for comment on the indictment; neither of which did we received a response. Shaska Hines, Chairperson of the Tourism Board gave a statement to the Voice on Thursday. "This matter has been turned over to the authorities, who have investigated and brought the charges," she said. "The board of commissioners, including myself, remain committed to our community and moving forward in a positive direction." Sheriff Shane Doyle also discussed his role in the investigation. "I want to thank the Kentucky State Police for their excellent work on this case," Doyle said. "When it was brought to my attention, I realized the potential magnitude and the resources that would be required to properly investigate such a large scale crime. KSP's special investigations unit is the best of the best when it comes to these kind of issues, and they have done a wonderful job in helping our county and our government offices. I hope that justice is properly carried out through our court system, and I have full faith that it will be." Clemmons was also the former Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce Director; however, she was not accused of any wrongdoing while employed by the Chamber, which has since hired a new director. She is also no longer the secretary of the Edmonson County Planning Commission. If convicted, she faces 1-5 years in prison for each count of Possession of a Forged Instrument (a class D Felony) and 5-10 years in prison for the count of Theft by Unlawful Taking over $10,000 (a class C Felony). An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 29, 2021) - Representative Michael Meredith, R-Oakland, announced today that federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is available for the completion of the Bowling Green Veterans Nursing Home.
“About six years ago, I became involved in a journey to bring a nursing home to Bowling Green to serve the veterans of South Central Kentucky,” Meredith said. “Today, we got the letter we’ve been waiting for and we will now be able to move forward on this worthy project for our veterans. This project has been the most important work I’ve done during my tenure in the Kentucky House of Representatives.” This will be Kentucky's fifth veterans’ nursing home, and the first for the South Central Kentucky region. The existing state veterans home are located in Wilmore, Radcliff, Madisonville and Hazard. The completion of the Bowling Green Veterans Nursing Home has been a legislative priority for Meredith for several years “Local leaders and veterans saw the need for a veterans nursing home in South Central Kentucky and started planning for this project around 10 years ago. They put their faith in me and asked me to lead their legislative efforts,” Meredith added. “Since 2016, I have been a staunch advocate for state funding for this nursing home. In 2017, I was able to pass HB 13 and we’ve had $10.5 million ready to go since then. In 2020, I passed HB 24 to secure another $2.5 million for design and pre-construction work. Just a few weeks ago, the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs and the Transpark agreed on a site. For six years, we’ve waited for a federal funding letter for the other $19.5 million in federal money needed for this $30 million project, and today we finally got it. ” Meredith thanked local leaders for helping secure federal funding for the veterans nursing home. “So many people have been involved in this project. I am thankful for each and every one of them,” Meredith said. “This would not have been possible without our local, state, and federal leaders who have graciously offered their guidance, support, and leadership. I want to specifically thank the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs and the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) for their help with the application process. I also want to thank the veterans who started this process, with special recognition to Colonel Robert Spiller, who has passed away, and Dr. Ray Biggerstaff, a proud Vietnam Veteran who served as Executive Officer of the Medevac Company with the 101st Airborne. With this funding, the brave and courageous veterans of South Central Kentucky will finally get the care they need and deserve. Having an adequate facility to properly care for our aging veterans is the least we can do for those that were willing to give so much for our freedom.” Darren Doyle, story and photo:
A Louisville woman has died as a result of injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash in Bee Spring earlier today. Today around 2:00 PM, Kentucky State Police were requested by the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office to investigate a fatal collision. Troopers responded to the 10,000 block of KY-259 N in Edmonson County, according to a press release. KSP said that the preliminary investigation revealed 46 year-old Julia E. Broderick, of Louisville, was operating a 2007 Honda Accord southbound on KY 259 North in the Bee Spring community when Broderick's vehicle crossed the center line and struck a 2012 GMC truck, which was also towing a Nitro bass boat, being operated by 54 year-old Stanley K. Bragg of Smiths Grove, who was northbound. Julia Broderick was pronounced deceased on the scene by Edmonson County Deputy Coroner Richie Jones. Bragg and a passenger in his vehicle, 75 year-old Stanley V. Bragg, were transported to Bowling Green Medical Center by Edmonson County EMS and treated for non-life threatening injuries. The investigation is being led by Trooper Mike Wathen. He was assisted on the scene by Edmonson County Coroner's Office, Edmonson County EMS, Kyrock Fire Department, Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, and Kentucky Department of Transportation. Edmonson Voice Report:
A man and woman were arrested on Friday night and face multiple drug-related charges after a traffic stop in Edmonson County. According to a press release from the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy observed a vehicle traveling north on KY HWY 259 N without a rear license plate light. As a result, a traffic stop was initiated. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Douglas Sanders, (33) of Cub Run. According to the Sheriff's Office, the deputy smelled the odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle and saw drug paraphernalia laying in plain view. A search of the vehicle resulted in various forms of drug paraphernalia, suspected marijuana, and suspected methamphetamine, along with a firearm and ammunition, according to the press release. Sanders and the passenger of the vehicle, identified as Jenny Durbin (41) of Bee Spring, Kentucky were arrested and charged with:
Sanders was additionally charged with:
Both were lodged in Hart County Jail. Darren Doyle, story, photos, and video: The Edmonson County National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony was hosted at the Brownsville Community Center today by the Disabled American Veterans and Auxiliary Wand B. Doyle Chapter 32. President Donald Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, which recognizes March 29th at National Vietnam War Veterans Day. March 29 was chosen as National Vietnam War Veterans Day because on March 29, 1973, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded and the last U.S. combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam. The last unit was elements of MACV's Infantry Security Force (Special Guard), actually special couriers.* Local and guest speakers addressed the crowd today, which included State Representative Michael Meredith and Edmonson County Judge Executive Wil Cannon; each giving thanks and honor to Vietnam Veterans. The ceremony was hosted by DAV Chapter 32 Commander Jack Hasty and it featured Debra Jefferies Reece, DAVA Chapter 20 Commander in Glasgow. Reece also recognized local Chapter 32 DAVA Commander Maurita Miller for her continued work in honoring and helping veterans. Today's special guest speaker was Mike Stoyonovich, Army First SGT. Ret., and DAV #32 Adjutant, as well as Kentucky State DAV Jr. Vice Commander and Executive Committee member. Sgt. Stoyonovich shared several personal experiences of his own from the Vietnam war, including when he first arrived in Vietnam on January 11, 1968 on a commercial jet; however, as the plane started to land, it began taking fire and had to quickly acsend. "The landing wheels went down on the jet and we were close to landing and all of the sudden, we started taking fire from the jungle adjacent to the Bien Hoa Air Base," he said. Stoyonovich said that after about ten more minutes of flying, they saw four American gun ships out their window as they unloaded in the jungle area from where the gunfire came. "There was a big ball of smoke in the jungle, and needless to say at that point, we didn't receive anymore small arms fire. We were able to land safely on the tarmac." He also described other experiences; one specifically where he somehow escaped gunfire all around him, inexplicably. He said a fellow soldier told him that it must have been God watching over him and that Stoyonovich would surely have a purpose later in life. "So that night, I got down on my knees and gave my life to Jesus Christ, because there's no it could've been any other explanation except from an intervention from the Lord." He said that helping local veterans and their families now as member of the DAV is part of that purpose. Penny Saltsman, DAVA #32 Adjutant recognized all Vietnam Veterans that were present and each received honorary pins commemorating their service. Jack Hasty, Mike Stoyonovich, and Ronnie Stewart then called names of local Vietnam veterans that were killed in action as the bell was tolled for each name. The ceremony concluded with the presenting of the honorary wreath by veteran Johnny Russell as Boy Scout Troop 597 presented the colors for both the start and conclusion of the program. The ceremony ended with a 21-gun salute by VFW Post 6937 members and the playing of "Taps" by veteran Bennie Durbin. Judge Wil Cannon said he was honored to not only attend the ceremony but also sit as a guest speaker. "I think you have the most patriotic county in the whole United States right here," he said. "It's important we do this because when our veterans came home from Vietnam, they were looked down upon, they were spit on, cussed, mistreated in all sorts of ways. This is a way that we can let them know we appreciate them, and they're not forgotten." Mike Stoyonovich said he was proud of the turnout from today's ceremony and thanked all the local volunteers who made today possible. "I don't have the words to express how I feel as a Vietnam veteran and a veteran that sees all my brothers and sisters here today," he said. "Since President Trump designated March 29th for Vietnam Veterans Day, I think a lot of veterans organizations will make sure these ceremonies take place. I know the Disabled American Veterans is having them all across the state today." Special thanks for today's program include: Madison's Flowers for the wreath, Lebanon National Cemetery and Nathan and Shelly Carroll for providing handouts and Vietnam Veteran lapel pins, Chad Russell for refreshments, Ronnie Stewart, DAV #32 member for sound and video slideshow, and DAV and Auxiliary and VFW members for additional assistance. *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Vietnam_War_Veterans_Day
Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Barren River District Health Department is currently administering COVID-19 vaccines for individuals 18 years of age and older in all 8 of the county clinics. Effective March 25, 2021, the BRDHD will schedule appointments for April for 18 years of age and older. Due to vaccine supply, vaccine clinics will occur on specific days for each county. Once the appointments are full for April, scheduling will continue in mid-April for the month of May. The BRDHD listed the following instructions for scheduling an appointment online:
If you do not have internet access and do not have someone to assist you with the online process, please call the Barren River District Health Department between 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday-Friday at 270-781-8039 and press option 1. Illinois Fugitive Nabbed In Local Reckless Driving Incident: Others Arrested For Meth, More3/25/2021 Edmonson Voice Report:
A man and woman were both recently arrested and face multiple drug charges while another was arrested in the same incident as a fugitive out of Illinois after a traffic stop. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, an Edmonson County deputy jailer called in a reckless driver complaint on Brownsville Road on March 19th. The Sheriff's Office stated that the deputy jailer continued following the vehicle through Brownsville and onto Morgantown Road, where an Edmonson sheriff's deputy then observed the vehicle traveling westbound on Morgantown Road in the middle of the highway, where a traffic stop was then initiated. The driver of the vehicle was identified as April Flora (39) of Bowling Green. Upon making contact with Flora, the deputy observed drug paraphernalia in plain view and detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle, the Sheriff's Office said. A search of the vehicle was performed and produced drug paraphernalia, suspected marijuana, and suspected methamphetamine, according to the Sheriff's Office. Flora and a front-seat passenger, identified as Christopher Reeves (49) of Sturgis, Kentucky were both placed under arrest and charged with:
A third passenger, identified as Chontel M. Powell, was discovered to have an outstanding arrest warrant from Granite City, Illinois and was arrested and charged with Fugitive from Another State. Darren Doyle, story: A Brownsville woman was arrested for DUI after a head-on collision on the Brownsville bridge on Tuesday, according to law enforcement officials. According to Kentucky State Police, Bonnie A. Vincent (66) of Brownsville was northbound on the Brownsville bridge on the wrong side of the road in a 2006 Chevy Colorado pickup when she struck a 2014 Dodge Ram pickup head-on, driven by Forrest Warden, (44) of Sweeden, who was headed south across the bridge. Video of the incident obtained by the Edmonson Voice was captured by a witness who was traveling behind Vincent's truck. Video of the head-on collision on the Brownsville Bridge. At least two anonymous witnesses said they made complaint calls as a result of the yellow truck driving recklessly on the wrong side of the road beginning at Bertie's Ice Cream; however, the accident happened almost immediately, before law enforcement could investigate.
According to the arrest citation, Vincent showed signs of impairment, was unable to answer standard questions from the investigating officer, and could not provide her address. The citation also said she told state police that while she had multiple prescriptions, she had not consumed any alcohol. KSP said no injuries were reported. Also responding to the scene was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, the Brownsville and Kyrock Fire Departments, JAWS, the KY Transportation Cabinet, and Edmonson EMS. Vincent was arrested and charged with:
She was transported to the Hart County Jail. Darren Doyle, story: More than two million dollars in federal funding are headed to Edmonson County within the next two months; however, guidelines for the use of the funds have not yet been made clear, according to Judge Executive Wil Cannon in today's Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting. The funding is part of the American Rescue Plan Act, which is the $1.9 trillion economic stimulus plan that was signed into law on March 11th. The plan earmarks $350 billion for state, local, and tribal governments for the purpose of lost revenue and other financial losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. District 2 Magistrate Corey VanMeter asked who gets to decide where the money goes and where the spending will go. Judge Cannon said he and county treasurer attended a virtual meeting with state officials on Friday to discuss the funding; however, he said those questions have yet to be answered. "It can only be spent certain ways," Cannon said. "We're not positive, really on how it can be spent. We think it will be similar to the CARES Act money which will be emergency personnel-kind-of things." Cannon also said that some of the uses discussed were water and broadband utilities but that broadband services are getting separate funds, and that money from this grant would not likely go there. If anything, broadband funding would only be complimented by the county's spending. Cannon also said it was unclear whether or not the spending would be decided by himself, which was the case in previous CARES funding, or if by fiscal court vote or other means. Cannon said even if left up to the Judge Executive's discretion, he would likely bring it before fiscal court for discussion. He also noted that he welcomed any magistrate to discuss the funding possibilities with him at any time. "It's so broad, the way they threw it out there, that nobody really knows the answers to these questions that you asked," he said in reply to Magistrate VanMeter. "Those same questions were asked Friday and not a single conclusive answer was given." County Treasurer Whillhite said the county is to receive 50% of the total funding within the next 60 days and then the remaining balance within the next 12-18 months. She said this was guaranteed money to the county without an application process and would not be reimbursement. The funding has to be spent by the end of 2024 or the remainder would have to be refunded to the federal government. County Reports: Road Report: County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll said that crews had completed repairs on bridges and other flooding damages throughout the county and that he was applying for aid from FEMA for those costs, which are estimated to be around $3.5 million from over 300 separate incidents. He also reported that county crews plan to begin paving projects for this year beginning on April 5th. Judge Cannon updated the court with a jail report that showed 19 county inmates currently housed in the Hart County Jail. Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle reported several drug arrests over the past week as well as capturing a fugitive out of Illinois. He also discussed the need for another vehicle to replace one that was beyond repair. Magistrates voted later in the meeting to allow the purchase of a patrol truck, similar to what the officers currently use. Funding will come from previously granted CARES Act money. County Clerk Kevin Alexander had no report but announced to the court that his office would be closed on Friday, April 2nd and Saturday, April 3rd for Good Friday and Easter, respectively. In an item tabled from the last fiscal court meeting, magistrates voted against the county sending funding to WKU's Small Business Development Center. Treasurer Willhite contacted surrounding area county governments and discovered that eight other counties decided against the funding. No one from the court had any evidence regarding how the SBDC assisted any Edmonson County business in any way. Magistrate Edd Rich made the motion to decline funding and stated that anytime the fiscal court approves to spend taxpayer dollars, those dollars should directly benefit Edmonson County. He said he didn't see any benefit here. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Blake Williams, with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, provided the fiscal court a report that outlined funding from the state for rural secondary road projects in Edmonson County for the next fiscal year. He provided the following information:
The fiscal court also voted to:
The next Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting is scheduled to be held virtually on April 12, 2021. Darren Doyle, story:
Active COVID cases in Edmonson County remained nearly the same for another week, according to the latest data released from the Barren River District Health Department. It is the sixth consecutive week that cases have either declined or remained steady in the county. The BRDHD reported a total of 918 cases from the start of the pandemic, 838 recoveries, and 18 deaths listed from COVID-19 in Edmonson County, which is an active case number of 62 this week; a slight change from 59 last week, out of 12,000 county residents. Edmonson County is still at the bottom of the eight-county list when it comes to reported deaths from the virus and has consistently had the lowest number of active and total cases, swapping occasionally with Metcalfe County. Edmonson Voice Staff: The historic Edmonson County Courthouse received a new top yesterday as a newly constructed cupola was installed on the roof of the building. The former structure was beyond repair and removed in September of last year. The structure was built and installed by Campbellsville Industries, who completed another job in Edmonson County back in late January. The same company installed the very first steeple on Cedar Springs United Baptist Church in the church's 200 year history.
The bell that was housed inside the cupola was removed when the old structure was taken down and is being restored. The county plans on putting 146-year old bell on display once the restoration is complete. The new octagon-shaped cupola is fashioned similarly to the previous one and features a copper roof and weathervane. It stands 22-feet tall from the bottom to the weathervane's tip and weighs 600 pounds. |
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