Tom Britton

The Mayor's Town Hall featured Secretary Lindy Kpier of the Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet, who provided an overview of the cabinet's structure, which comprises 13 agencies integral to promoting tourism and heritage in the Commonwealth. Key topics included the impact of cultural sites like Alhamra and the Artisan Center in Berea, the Governor's School for the Arts, and the Kentucky Historical Society's role during the State Capital renovations. The Secretary also discussed the economic impact of events such as Bourbon and Beyond and Loudermilk Than Life, the extensive assets managed by Kentucky State Parks (44 parks, 17 resort lodges, 14 historic sites, etc.), and the role of Kentucky Venues (managing the Expo Center and Convention Center). The discussion also touched upon the recovery efforts following eastern Kentucky floods, highlighted in a governor's documentary, and recent economic impact statistics for Kentucky Performing Arts.

The meeting commenced with a roll call confirming a quorum, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Key administrative matters included a presentation from the National Weather Service regarding recent severe weather, focusing on winter storm warnings, snowfall probability forecasts for Hopkinsville, and historical data on tornado frequency, strength, and timing within the service area. The presenter also provided extensive information on accessing timely and detailed weather forecasts from the National Weather Service via their website and other professional channels, emphasizing the importance of having multiple warning sources, such as a weather radio and reputable apps, particularly ahead of severe spring weather events.

The meeting commenced with the reading of a proclamation designating December as Human Rights Month, recognizing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Key agenda items included the recognition and appreciation of the Cable Television Oversight Authority, which was subsequently dissolved through Ordinance 33-2025. The council also approved Municipal Order 48-2025, authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding and deed conveyance with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for safety improvements on Kentucky 107 Lefett Road. Additionally, Executive Order 48-2025, appointing Angie Graham to the Hopkinsville Small Business Commission, required and received city council approval. Discussions were also held regarding scheduling a future meeting to discuss the water park proposal.

The meeting included opening remarks, invocation by the Hopkinsville Fire Department's chaplain, and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussions involved the monthly financial report for October, which detailed interfund transfers, payroll tax revenue (noting an increase in equivalent payroll), property tax collections, and business license collections. The report also covered fund balances for the general fund, municipal road aid, and capital fund, noting that the general fund balance was running slightly above the previous year. Two ordinances were presented on their second reading: Ordinance 31-2025, amending Chapter 31 regarding Citizen Participation procedures, and Ordinance 32-2025, amending the Occupational License Tax payment requirements, effective July 1, 2026. Furthermore, Ordinance 33-2025, repealing the Cable Television Oversight Authority, was introduced on its first reading following the authority's recommendation to dissolve. The council also approved the minutes for the November 4, 2025, regular meeting and confirmed the reappointment of Karen Shield to the Historic Preservation Commission via Executive Order 47-2025, effective December 1, 2025.

The primary discussion focused on the required repairs for the water park, which has experienced ongoing leakage issues traced back to poor workmanship during original construction in 2006/2007, including improper pipe encasement and faulty glue joints. Three options were presented to the council: repairing current known issues (estimated at $350,000-$400,000, risking future leaks), completely replacing every underground line (rendering the park closed through 2026 and likely opening in 2027), or disclosing the water park, with the final bond payment scheduled for February 2026. Discussion also touched upon the water park's financial performance, confirming it consistently operates at a loss, functioning primarily as a quality of life amenity rather than a profit center. Previous litigation regarding the construction issues was also mentioned.