Chuck Charles

The meeting convened as a work session with Strand Associates, Inc. to review the timeline for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion project, followed by a tour of the facility. Key discussions involved providing an overview of the City Sewer Assets, which are largely aged, and reviewing the requirements under the Consent Judgment and Administrative Orders related to the Clean Water Act. The commission reviewed the progress of completed Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Abatement projects and discussed the scope of the next phase of the Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) Expansion and Improvement Project, which includes increasing peak flow capacity, improving efficiency, and preparing for future nutrient removal regulations. The construction cost for this phase is estimated between $85M and $100M, to be funded by CSO Surcharge revenue and a secured SRF loan. Next steps outlined include advertising the project for bid in March 2025 and completing construction by June 2028, necessitating a request for an extension to the LTCP completion date.

The Board of Commissioners addressed several agenda items. Under Old Business, Ordinance No. 16, 2025 was adopted, authorizing Change Order No. 4 with Mechanical Construction Company for the 26th Street Pump Station Rehabilitation Project, increasing the contract by $3,784.00. Ordinance No. 17, 2025 was adopted, authorizing the Mayor to execute a contract with JMK Electric Co., Inc. to install a backup generator for the Ashland Police Department. Ordinance No. 18, 2025 approved a Minority Loan Agreement totaling $50,000.00 to M&J's Rolling Cafe, LLC from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Ordinance No. 19, 2025 authorized the Mayor to request $10,000,000.00 in Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations funding through Congressman Hal Rogers' office for the City of Ashland Conference Center Project. Ordinance No. 20, 2025 authorized the Mayor to submit an application to the KYOVA Interstate Planning Commission for $750,000.00 in additional funds for the Winchester Avenue Streetscape Project, with a 20% city match. Ordinance No. 21, 2025 authorized the purchase of streetlight poles along Winchester Avenue from Kentucky Power Company for $1.00. Resolution No. 10, 2025 approved and ratified the Mayor's declaration of a local state of emergency related to a 24" water main failure, allowing for emergency procurement procedures. Other new business included forwarding calls regarding trash on Kirk and 45th Streets, considering a joint meeting with surrounding entities, and a request for re-establishing downtown parking enforcement. The Board also discussed the possibility of hiring a consultant for the conference center project, confirming no consultant would be hired without Board approval.

The Ashland Board of Commissioners meeting includes discussions on various ordinances and municipal orders. Key items include amendments to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan for 2021 and 2022, reallocation of funds from the Salvation Army Rehabilitation Project to the Hope's Place Roof Replacement Project and the Hillcrest-Bruce Mission HVAC Replacement Project, and agreements for engineering services with HDR Engineering, Inc. and Howerton Engineering & Surveying PLLC. The board will also consider a contract with BLK Construction, LLC for concrete and asphalt repair work, and an agreement with Gullett Sanitation Services, Inc. for the removal and dewatering of reservoir solids at the Ashland Water Treatment Plant. Additionally, the meeting covers the adoption of the 2025 Housing Choice Voucher Program Administrative Plan and the creation of a CDBG Committee. New business involves repealing an ordinance prohibiting fortune telling and addressing opioid litigation settlements.

The City of Ashland's 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan outlines a strategy for community development and addressing the needs of low-and-moderate-income persons through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Key focus areas include Infrastructure Improvements, Minimizing and Preventing Homelessness, Safe and Affordable Housing, Dependable Public Facilities, Adequate Public Services, and General Administration. The plan aims to develop sustainable neighborhoods, improve housing and economic conditions, foster safe and livable communities, ensure financial health, deliver efficient services, and promote community engagement.

The meeting addressed several key items, including a bench request from Elks Lodge 350, which was approved. An update was provided on the Central Park Playground, noting that new equipment has been installed and the playground border is expected to be delivered soon. The board also approved the removal of trees at Murphy's and Nobil's buildings downtown. Additionally, the board approved the request by Columbus Foundation, Capt. Stephen for the return of the Nina & Pinta Replica Ships at the Port of Ashland.