Franklin County

The committee discussed updates on park improvements, including sidewalk and concession stand construction and the status of walking trails. Driving range maintenance and equipment procurement, such as a ball washing machine, zero-turn mower, and new ball dispenser, were addressed. The report also covered the near-completion of the pro shop remodel, artwork projects, disc golf course design, a upcoming tree planting dedication ceremony, and considerations regarding the park name.

The committee discussed equipment needs for the Fire, Sheriff, and Road Departments for the 2026-2027 period, including tractor procurement and road grader utility. Discussions regarding park and golf projects included a maintenance storage facility, irrigation system improvements, construction of an amphitheater, and the potential repurposing of a barn for event revenue. Additionally, maintenance needs for the Clerk's office and Boys and Girls Club roof, as well as computer IT requirements, were reviewed.

This document introduces the new Frankfort and Franklin County Strategic Plan, which was developed by economic development expert Jay Garner of Garner Economics. The plan is available on the KCDC website and is supported by several reports, including the People Product and Place Presentation, People Product and Place Report, The Workforce Delivery System Report, and the Competitive Realities Report, indicating a focus on economic development, workforce, and regional assets.

The court approved the Sheriff's participation in the State Advancement Program and their budget for the upcoming calendar year, including setting maximum amounts for deputy staff. Other actions included authorizing a change order for road department complex paving, approving title services for a buyout program, and submitting a grant application for household hazardous waste management. The court also approved a ground lease for county-owned property, various professional service agreements for MS4 permit compliance and software, and a 3% pay increase for several county departments. Additionally, the court authorized a short-term certificate of deposit investment, hired a new Human Resource Director, and conducted first readings of numerous ordinance amendments to the administrative code.

The meeting included a work session featuring public comments, a road department update, and a report from the Judge. Actions taken included the approval of a memorandum of understanding between the Thorn Hill Education Center and the Franklin County Regional Jail for adult education services, and the awarding of bids for environmental database reviews and appraisal services related to the Natural Resources Conservation Service Emergency Watershed Protection Home Buyout Program. The court also authorized professional services contracts with the Bluegrass Area Development District for a community development block grant and a congressional directed grant for the Farmdale Sanitation Interceptor Sewer Project. Additionally, the court approved the use of grant funds for fire department equipment, accepted financial statements from the Farmdale Sanitation District, passed an ordinance amendment regarding zoning map atlas and amendments, authorized the payment of arbitrage rebate, received the treasurer's report, approved budget transfers, and ordered the payment of claims.