Joe Engle

The meeting provided an update on the FEMA disaster recovery process, detailing the steps from damage assessment and portal entry to project funding. Discussions highlighted the complexity and time-consuming nature of navigating federal and state disaster assistance programs. Key topics included the 2022 and 2025 flood events, the challenges of getting road and bridge projects approved, and the success of the voluntary property buyout program, which has helped residents relocate. The team emphasized the importance of their partnership with state and federal entities in responding to major disasters.

The meeting addressed various financial and administrative matters, including the authorization of bill payments, invoice approvals, and budget transfers. Key agenda items included the approval of multiple draw requests for the Sky View Water and Sewer projects and the Upper Second Creek Sanitary Sewer project. The court reviewed and approved resolutions regarding the USDA Farm Service Agency representatives, land acquisition, economic development funding through KEDFA, and the naming of a portion of Highway 451. Additionally, the agenda covered the road adoption for Michael Drive, the selection of title insurance services for the Home Buyout Program, the settlement of excess fees for the County Clerk and Sheriff, a personnel hiring decision for the Grants Department, and a review of 911 statistics.

The Perry County Fiscal Court's strategic direction focuses on promoting a diversified and healthy economy, developing strong communities, and ensuring sustainable economic growth. Key initiatives include assisting existing businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and improving the quality of life. The plan leverages workforce development through the 'Work Ready Community' certification, utilizes 'Opportunity Zones' to attract investment in low-income areas, and supports small businesses via the 'HUBZone' program. The overarching aim is to provide opportunities for a trained workforce, foster a clean and healthy environment, and achieve positive economic development.

The meeting agenda included several items requiring approval. Key actions involved a declaration of local state of emergency due to severe winter storm and extreme cold temperatures, and the approval of Resolution 2026-004 to apply for LGEDF funding for bond payments. The Court also approved the second amendment to the service contract with Waste Connections and draw requests for the Upper Second Creek Sanitary Sewer Phase 1 project. Additionally, demolition and clearance services for NRCS 5075 and FEMA DR 4663 Buyout Programs were awarded to various contractors. Other resolutions approved the submission of 911 Grants for system refresh and dispatcher console upgrades. Discussions included updates on FEMA Projects, 911 statistics, and a recycling update.

The meeting agenda included guest speakers presenting on the Appalachian Service Project, an update on Trails, and a donation presentation for the Fire Department Fundraiser. Key actions involved approving bill payments, invoices, transfers, and the Perry County Sheriff 4th Quarter Budget. The court planned to award contracts for legal services, appraisal services, technical appraisal review services, and environmental review services related to the NRCS EWP 5082 Home Buyout Program. Further items included approving a resolution to file an LGEDF application for the Perry County Fiscal Court Bond Payments Project and approving draw requests for the Sky View Water & Sewer Project. Resolutions were also planned for filing an LGEDF application for road repairs and acquiring/railbanking a railway corridor. Finally, approval was sought for a Lease Agreement with Wabaco Pentecostal Church, Inc. and a Service Agreement with Sonitrol for CCTV installation.