Bill Johnson

Key discussions during the meeting included reports from the Police Chief regarding recent collisions and academy progress, updates from the Economic Development Committee and Zoning Committee. Under unfinished business, the second reading and subsequent passage of Proposed Ordinance 2026-XX, establishing non-elected city offices, occurred. New business involved declaring Police Department surplus vehicles for auction and presenting Executive Orders regarding water department schedules and electrical inspector contracts. A first reading of Proposed Ordinance 2026-XX concerning Solid Waste Management and civil penalties was also completed. Council Member Edwards provided updates on the Social Media Policy and topics from a recent 'Cookies with Council' session, including the status of Hugh Hunter and updates on Bucee's and storm shelters.

The committee meeting included discussions regarding Police and Fire Department training, noting that the new 2026 training schedule would be released in November and registration would open in December. Chief Johnson reported on ongoing Monday training sessions and the availability of Critical Incident Stress Management training. Discussions about equipment purchases involved the need for new fire trucks, obtaining quotes for boats for emergency events, and required maintenance for the ladder truck. Updates on construction projects covered forthcoming work in front of the Fire Department and Major Lynch's intention to coordinate with the Department of Transportation regarding road closures and traffic. The committee also discussed prohibiting semi-truck traffic on Walter Garrett Lane. Both departments indicated they have ideas for potential capital outlay projects for the following year. Staffing updates confirmed two new officers attending the academy in November and current personnel numbers for both the police and fire departments.

Key discussions during the meeting included an update from the Christian County Chambers of Commerce regarding outreach efforts to local businesses. The Police Chief recognized an Animal Control Officer and discussed preparations for inclement weather, while a council member noted a potential congressional bill targeting ALPR systems. New business featured the first reading of an ordinance repealing a previous agreement concerning the Kentucky Statewide Emergency Management Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement. Under legislative body member comments, the Council addressed the proposed widening of Walter Garrett Road in response to anticipated traffic increases, the potential for mandatory training within an ethics ordinance for council members, and clarification on job titles within the non-elected offices ordinance, specifically regarding the Community Center Director position. Other topics included the status of surplusing police cruisers, the reclassification of positions as they become vacant, an announcement of current board and committee vacancies for resident application, and planning for city snow routes and road pre-treating in anticipation of snow and ice events.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and pledge of allegiance. Reports from officers covered the Mayor's commendation of city employees for their extensive work during recent inclement weather, including plowing 33 miles of roads and managing a water main break. The Parks and Recreation Director reported on class schedules and National Tootsie Roll Day activities. The Police Chief detailed calls handled, including Code 5 incidents and welfare checks. The Fire Department responded to 91 incidents, with medical assists being the most frequent. The Finance Director reported on the ongoing Tyler Tech software implementation and receipt of KIA grant reimbursement funds. The Public Works Director discussed improving road conditions, salt shipment delays, and noted the city was not awarded the Delta Regional Grant. Council approved soliciting bids for the Buc-ee's Water System Extension Project. Under Unfinished Business, an Ordinance repealing Ordinance 2002-22 regarding the Kentucky Statewide Emergency Management Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement was approved on second reading. New Business included the reading and passing of a proclamation recognizing February 2026 as Black History Month, and the first reading and passing of an ordinance establishing non-elected city offices. Council members discussed upcoming events, the status of the Solid Waste Ordinance RFP, trash pickup continuation post-ice storm, scheduling a "Cookies with Council" event, and the search for a new Human Rights Commission representative.

The Special Session included the election of Richard Baker as Chairperson and Edward Cook as Vice Chairperson. Key agenda items involved discussions regarding Zoning Ordinance 2021-11 concerning Recreational Vehicles/RV Parks. Initially, the committee moved to allow CDS to draft an ordinance for RV Parks, following a presentation by Mr. Riddle and advisory input regarding short-term allowances and conditional use permitting. Subsequently, after reviewing ordinances from other jurisdictions, the committee agreed to keep the existing zoning ordinance unchanged regarding recreational vehicles and junk/wrecked vehicles. Additionally, the committee reviewed a proposed ordinance to establish building regulations and fee schedules, requesting the Public Works Director to calculate a CPI adjustment for permit fees and to confirm increased certified mail fees to reflect actual costs.