Public Meetings - Elizabethtown, Kentucky

The Elizabethtown City Council held a work session on July 27, 2026. The meeting opened with recognition of long-serving city employees, followed by a detailed presentation from the Parks and Recreation Director, a proposal for a new facade grant program for the East Dixie corridor (South End), a public comment period addressing stormwater issues in Ashton Park, and council announcements. Employee Recognitions - The mayor recognized several employees for years of service: Ricky Marlett (Public Works, 20 years), Ryan Saron (Public Works, 25 years), Pete Chitla (Police Department, 30 years), David Kelly (Gas Department, 30 years), and Ed Pope (City Administrator, a record 45 years). Parks & Recreation Department Overview - Parks Director Seth Breitner presented an update. He highlighted the department's summer camp (seven-week session, 40 campers per week, five scholarships, selling out within 24-48 hours). For 2027, the city plans to add 20 spots per week, funded by a new 35-passenger ADA-accessible bus, increasing capacity from 280 to 420 campers. - American Legion Water Park attendance to date: 32,521, with 39 private rentals, 62 party room rentals, 254 swim lesson participants, and 339 water aerobics participants. Eight food trucks participated this year; the program may expand to seven days per week next year. The pool closes August 9 due to lifeguard availability (minimum 13-15 guards per shift required by state code). - Capital projects: Completed – University Drive basketball courts (two full-size, lit) and expanded parking; American Legion Park renovations (pavilion, year-round restrooms, pickleball shelter, food truck area, improved sidewalks). Ongoing – Freeman Lake Park north end restrooms and parking expansion (completing September). Upcoming – Trooper Lake planned pump track and seven miles of certified mountain bike trails; $80,000 Green Space grant awarded. - Statistics: American Legion Golf Course – 6,500 rounds in 12 months, revenue up from $16,000 (first year) to $100,000 this year; 2,700 local athletes use city facilities; 719 contracted field reservations; 151 acres mowed weekly; Freeman Lake Park – 420 shelter reservations, 2,100 fishing permits, 1,400 boat rentals, 37 large events (April-October); O Snap and holiday programs – 2,947 participants; Trails division maintains 30-35 miles of trails; Pritchard Community Center – 951 events and reservations; Gear Is Here program averages 350-400 checkouts per month (50-50 resident/non-resident split). - Councilmember Marty expressed appreciation for the department's work and noted that recent storms have caused flooding at University Drive (four times) and Freeman Lake Park, which is intentionally flooded to protect downstream neighborhoods. Discussion Items - South End Development Incentive Program – City Administrator Ed Pope and Business Development Officer Terry Ship presented a proposed facade grant program targeting existing businesses in the East Dixie corridor (from Haycraft to Lincoln Parkway along 31W, and the downtown area). The program offers up to $25,000 per project (50% reimbursement) for exterior improvements (painting, windows, doors, pedestrian connections, landscaping, parking lot improvements). It is retroactive to improvements made since January 2025. This is a cap, unlike the downtown facade program which has no cap (some downtown grants exceeded $50,000-$75,000). Councilmember Marty questioned the rationale for a cap; Pope explained it is intended to stretch limited annual funds (currently $100,000-$125,000) to more businesses. Councilmember Micah supported the program, noting it encourages property investment on the south side. Pope clarified that the program will be brought for formal action at a future council meeting. - Stormwater Concerns – Ashton Park – Two residents, Sandy Mattingley (132 Aiden Lane) and Joanne Bovich (624 Tristan Lane), addressed ongoing flooding and mud/debris issues from the D.R. Horton development. They reported that for 22 months, stormwater runoff has caused mud, silt, and debris to accumulate on their properties, sidewalks, and driveways, with water entering garages on Tristan Lane. They provided 50 photos and stated they have over 175 videos and 100 emails documenting the issue. They requested an immediate formal review of D.R. Horton's grading and drainage compliance, a pause on further permits until a permanent solution is in place, and cleanup of debris after rain events. Stormwater Director Rita Davis responded that erosion controls required by EPA and state regulations are slowing water entry into catch basins, causing bypass; that once upstream development is stabilized, controls will be removed and the system should function as designed. She noted recent extreme rainfall (5 inches in 2 hours, 2 inches in 35 minutes) exceeds design standards. The mayor suggested waiting until more lots are developed to assess the full system. Residents expressed frustration and concern about silt accumulation in the pond and safety hazards. Key Outcomes - The council heard the parks report and expressed appreciation; no formal action was taken. - The South End facade grant program will be refined (including potential provisions for landscaping maintenance) and presented for formal adoption at a future council meeting. - Stormwater Director Rita Davis will continue working with D.R. Horton and the residents, with no immediate change in policy or permits announced. The next city council meeting is scheduled for August 3, 2026. - Councilmember Tony Bishop was recognized for receiving the inaugural Senator Dennis Parrott Excellence in Government Award from the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce. - The meeting adjourned without a closed session.

The Elizabethtown City Council and Planning Commission held a joint meeting on July 14, 2026, for an educational training session on potential zoning text amendments to regulate data centers. The meeting began with the swearing-in of new Planning Commission member Corey Blunt. No votes were taken; the session was purely discussion-oriented to gather feedback from both bodies. A public hearing on the proposed text changes is scheduled for July 28, 2026, at 6 p.m. Swearing-In of New Planning Commission Member - Mayor swore in Corey Blunt as the newest member of the Elizabethtown Planning Commission. Blunt previously served on the Civil Service Commission and expressed interest in a role with a larger purpose. The oath of office was administered per Kentucky law. Educational Training on Data Center Regulations - Planning Director Aaron Hawkins presented staff research on data center regulations, initiated by a Planning Commission resolution earlier in 2026. The training covered current definitions, zoning allowances, and proposed text amendments. - Current Definition: Data centers are currently defined as a "data processing facility" (over 20 years old), allowed by right in several zones (C2, C3, C5, I1, I2, MAZ). No data center applications have been received. - Proposed Definition: A new, modern definition for "data center" was presented, along with four subtypes: co-location, enterprise, edge, and hyperscale. - Proposed Zoning Changes: Staff suggested allowing only edge data centers in C2 (with a 10,000 sq ft cap), edge and enterprise in C3 and C4 (50,000 sq ft cap), accessory-only in C5, hyperscale as a conditional use in I1 (150,000 sq ft cap), all four types by right in I2 (no size limit), and edge/enterprise in MAZ. - Use-Specific Standards: A list of 14 standards (e.g., minimum 2,500 feet from residential zones for centers over 50,000 sq ft, 200-foot perimeter setbacks, pre-treatment of cooling discharge, renewable energy requirements) was discussed. Staff representative Matt Hess suggested adding language that data centers cannot diminish utility capacity for existing customers. Discussion Among Council and Commission Members - Councilmember Bishop questioned whether data centers in downtown should remain accessory only; Hawkins confirmed the proposal limits them to accessory use (edge only) in C5. - Debate arose over whether to retain subtypes or rely solely on square footage caps. Staff favored square footage for easier enforcement. Multiple members expressed preference for using square footage caps rather than subtypes. - Several members voiced concerns about hyperscale data centers, noting their high resource consumption (electricity, water) and limited job creation. A consensus emerged to limit data centers to accessory uses in commercial zones (C2, C3, C4) and industrial zones (I1, I2), with no standalone principal data centers allowed. - Discussion included whether to cap square footage citywide (e.g., 100,000 sq ft) to prevent hyperscale facilities. The group leaned toward making data centers accessory uses and researching typical square footage for accessory needs (e.g., banks, internet providers). - The use-specific standards were deemed unnecessary if data centers are only accessory; Hawkins agreed to remove them. - The Chair concluded that the consensus was to make data centers only accessory uses in all zones, with additional research on appropriate size caps, and to scrap the existing draft that included principal uses and multiple standards. Public Comments - Marta Martin, a policy analyst from Radcliffe (working in Elizabethtown), thanked the bodies for taking the issue seriously. She noted her experience with Louisville Metro's proposed regulations and expressed appreciation for the thorough approach. She stated that hyperscale data centers "make bad neighbors," pollute water and air, and urged careful regulation. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken. The meeting was a discussion to guide staff in revising the proposed text amendments. - Staff will research typical square footage needs for accessory data centers (e.g., banks, internet providers) and return with revised proposals. - A public hearing for the text amendment is scheduled for July 28, 2026, at 6 p.m. in the same chambers, where further public input will be accepted. - Staff will remove the use-specific standards and subtypes from the proposal, focusing on accessory-only data centers with size caps.

The Elizabethtown City Council held a special meeting on July 13, 2026, to consider four municipal orders covering reappointments, sidewalk improvements, property transfer for affordable housing, and a grant for a nature park. The council also heard a public comment requesting a tree buffer and a presentation on natural gas billing delays. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from June 15, 2026 – unanimous. - Municipal Order 53‑2026 – Reappointment of Titus Sublet to the Code Enforcement Board with a term expiring July 7, 2029 – unanimous. - Municipal Order 54‑2026 – Acceptance of bids from BC Concrete for concrete installation and removal services for sidewalk repairs, excluding continuous poured curbs because Sable Construction’s bid was higher than the city could recommend. The mayor noted that Sable Construction might be used for other projects on a case‑by‑case basis – unanimous. - Municipal Order 55‑2026 – Transfer of three properties (605, 607, and 609 Moore Drive) to Hardin County Habitat for Humanity at no cost, and waiver of city utility connection fees (sanitary sewer, natural gas), building plan review fees, construction fees, and electrical fees to facilitate affordable housing construction – unanimous. - Municipal Order 56‑2026 – Authorizing a $2 million grant application to the Kentucky Department of Local Government under House Bill 900 for the Elizabethtown Nature Park (Parks and Trails Conservatory Project) – unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen Macy (1028 Pawnee Drive) requested installation of a tree buffer between Pawnee Drive and 3027 Ring Road to address noise pollution, lack of privacy, erosion, aesthetic concerns, and environmental benefits. The mayor responded that the city is evaluating the request but noted that such buffers have not been installed elsewhere and that future development of the adjacent lot owned by Mr. Owens might require a buffer. Macy expressed concern about indefinite delay and suggested the city could recoup costs if the lot is developed later. The mayor said the city will continue to work on the issue. Discussion Items - Natural Gas Billing Delays – CFO Jeff Hawkins explained that postal processing delays at the Louisville facility have caused some customers not to receive their gas bills. The city is suspending late fees and penalties for cycles 1 and 2 (due on the 1st and 10th of the month). Cycle 3 was unaffected. Hawkins encouraged customers to sign up for electronic bills, ACH payments (no fee), or online account management to avoid future issues. Councilmember Fulkerson suggested hand‑stamping mail to keep it in Elizabethtown, but Hawkins noted that doing so depends on post office staffing and is not always possible. - Announcements – Councilmember Fulkerson reported that the Hardin County Fair raised $7,000 for the Beds for Kids program through Helping Hand of Hope. The mayor announced that a section of Highway 222 will be dedicated to Staff Sergeant Ben Pennington on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Glendale Christian Church. Key Outcomes - All four municipal orders were approved unanimously without recorded opposition. - The council will continue to evaluate the tree buffer request and may require a buffer if the adjacent property is developed. - The council entered closed session pursuant to KRS 61.810(1) to discuss the general nature of existing or imminent litigation and specific economic development proposals. No action was expected following the closed session.

Note: The transcript of the meeting indicates the date as April 22, 2026, but the system specifies the meeting took place on April 27, 2026. This summary uses the system-provided date. The Elizabethtown City Council held a work session on April 27, 2026, covering a police promotion, presentations on community programs and infrastructure, and several announcements. No formal votes were taken; the session focused on receiving information and discussing future projects. Ceremonial Items - Swearing‑in of Michael Mertz as Patrol Lieutenant: Mayor administered the oath of office. Chief recognized Mertz’s seven years of service in patrol, narcotics, and as sergeant. Family and fellow officers attended. Presentations and Reports Mission Hope for Kids / Hope Academy - Dara Bryant presented on behalf of the organization. Since registering as a 501(c)(3) in 2012, Hope Academy has produced 15 high school graduates, all of whom began attending in elementary school and continued through high school. Six of those graduates earned bachelor’s degrees (from Campbellsville, Western, and UK), and one is pursuing a postgraduate military career. Five former students are currently enrolled in college (ECTC, Morehead State, Western). For the 2026 graduating class, four students are enrolled: one gainfully employed, one enrolling at ECTC, one heading to cosmetology school, and one enlisting in the U.S. Army. Bryant read a testimonial from a 2025 graduate who credited the program with helping her adjust to college and life. Council members expressed strong support for the organization and noted the council’s annual enthusiasm for funding it. North Downtown Neighborhood Plan - Amy Williams (Taylor Siefker Williams) presented the plan, which was developed from September 2025 to March 2026 with two community workshops. The plan identifies 14 improvement projects under five themes: infrastructure, walkable connections, identity and design, balanced development, and neighborhood pride. Key findings: about 75% of residents cited speeding on Main Street; 80%+ wanted more lighting (though mapping showed many existing lights); connectivity to downtown was a major desire. Highlighted projects include: - Main Street intersection improvements at Crutcher and Williams, lane narrowing (striping or median), and a neighborhood traffic management plan. - Alley improvements (Vega, Quince, possibly McLeod Place) and a clean‑and‑clear initiative. - Sidewalk and trail additions (priority: Crutcher Street, then Williams, Brown, Warfield) and crosswalk upgrades. - Railroad crossing improvements at Crutcher (near‑term) and a potential new crossing at William Street (long‑term dream, likely not at‑grade). - Bike racks, water/wastewater coordination, gateways and placemaking, dilapidated building maintenance, design guidelines, commercial transitions on Mulberry, a pocket park, community garden support, a neighborhood liaison group, public art/murals, and community‑led events (e.g., seasonal decorations, tree program, yard of the month). - Next steps: finalize the plan, program CDBG funds. In FY2026‑2027: complete a drainage plan for the entire neighborhood, environmental documentation, and the West Railroad sidewalk. In FY2026: decide on Main Street lane‑narrowing option. In FY2027‑2028: design Main Street and the two intersections, with construction possible in FY2028. Future projects (beyond 2032) may require outside funding. - Council members discussed the proposed trail/boardwalk behind the courthouse (part of the downtown plan) and the difficulty of adding railroad crossings. The mayor noted the need to coordinate with the railroad. Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion - Andrew Bowen and Jim Haggerty (Prime AE) presented the facility plan for expanding the Valley Creek plant. The plan aims to increase capacity to 18 million gallons per day (MGD) from the current 13 MGD, with a peak hydraulic capacity of 42 MGD. After evaluating three options—building a new plant (estimated $150‑180 million) or expanding the existing plant via biological or chemical treatment—the city chose biological treatment. This option saves significant capital and operational costs, avoids a new discharge pipeline to the Nolan River (saving $8‑10 million), and maximizes reuse of existing infrastructure. The plan also includes rehabilitating existing facilities for a 20‑year life, a new operations and maintenance building, and a new wet‑weather storage basin. - The facility plan was submitted to the Kentucky Division of Water in December 2025; on April 24, 2026, the state gave preliminary approval to proceed to public hearings. Final approval is expected in six months. Two contracts were presented: one for design and construction procurement (estimated 16 months of design, construction from 2028 to mid‑2031), and one for pilot testing of sludge dewatering equipment (belt filter press vs. centrifuge) to determine the best technology for the plant. - Council members expressed appreciation for the thorough planning and noted the importance of the expansion for continued growth. Public Comments - None. Council Information Items & Announcements - Next regular meeting: May 4, 2026. - Birthday wishes: Councilmember Julia Springsteen’s birthday was acknowledged for the next day. - Pathway Home Program: Officer Denham, in partnership with Helping Hand of Hope’s Hope Burke, launched a program to provide bus tickets, hotel stays, and meals for individuals stranded in the city. Donations will be accepted through Helping Hand of Hope. Social media posts will share details. - American Legion Park (Funtopia) reopening: The park’s renovations (new pavilion, bathrooms, sidewalks, shade structures) are ahead of schedule and complete. The park is open for the summer, including the pool, pickleball courts, and Funtopia. - Work ethic certification interviews: Councilmember noted the city’s participation in interviews at Central Hardin High School, highlighting talent retention and the value of city job opportunities. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - The council received the North Downtown Neighborhood Plan and the wastewater treatment plant expansion update. Staff will proceed with next steps, including: scheduling a public hearing for the wastewater facility plan, beginning design work, and evaluating project delivery methods (e.g., construction manager at risk). - The police promotion was officialized. - The city will promote the Pathway Home program and the reopening of American Legion Park. - The meeting adjourned without a closed session.

The Elizabethtown City Council held its regular meeting on April 20, 2026, at 8:24 PM (based on the source timestamp). The meeting opened with an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call. All council members were present: Bishop, Fulkerson, Isaacs, Jones, Springsteen, and Tyler. The minutes from the April 13, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from April 13, 2026 – motion carried without opposition. Recognitions - Mason Druin (Commercial Inspector) was recognized for achieving Level 3 Building Inspector status – the fastest attainment in city history (1 year 5 months, exceeding the 1-year requirement for Level 2). He can now inspect all buildings and perform plan review. - Todd Williams was recognized for becoming a licensed electrical inspector, the second such inspector in the city. He passed the exam after studying extensively. - The council also introduced Jamie Henderson, a retired Radcliffe fire chief, who has joined the inspections and planning department. Public Comments & Testimony - Judy Elliott, a resident of St. John Estates, addressed the council regarding a long-standing stormwater drainage issue. She documented flooding events dating back to 2006, 2013, 2018, and 2025, noting that water has entered her home and caused property damage. She requested that the project be included in the 2026-2027 budget and asked about interim mitigation measures. She expressed frustration that despite multiple emails and public records requests, she had not received direct responses from city staff. She stated that she has installed trench drains, sump pumps, and hoses at her own expense. - Council members responded: Mayor Gregory acknowledged the issue and explained that the city is aware of the drainage problems in St. John Estates, but a comprehensive engineering study is needed to avoid harming downstream properties. He noted that the city attorney has been handling correspondence due to Ms. Elliott’s threat of litigation, which prevents direct staff responses. Councilmember Bishop added that the project is in the budget process, competing with other stormwater projects, and a final decision on funding will not be available until the budget is adopted in June or July. The council reiterated that they cannot fix one problem in isolation and must follow a systematic process. Discussion Items - First Reading of Ordinance 8-2026 – Zoning map amendment for 1612 North Miles Street from R2 (Suburban Residential) to R3 (Urban Residential) to allow short-term rental use. The change was found consistent with the comprehensive plan. The ordinance was read by summary and moved to a future vote. - Municipal Order 27-2026 – Appointment of Rick Townsend to the Board of Zoning Adjustment to fill an unexpired term ending December 31, 2026. Mr. Townsend, a retired military combat veteran, was introduced by the mayor. The order was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2-2026 – Amendment to the comprehensive plan to adopt the Downtown Master Plan (2026). The plan, endorsed by the Planning Commission on March 24, 2026, aims to enhance public spaces, mobility, walkability, and mixed-use cultural districts in downtown Elizabethtown. Councilmembers expressed excitement and thanked the citizen committee that developed the plan. The resolution was adopted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Minutes of April 13, 2026 approved. - Ordinance 8-2026 (zoning map amendment) received first reading; second reading and final vote will occur at a future meeting. - Municipal Order 27-2026 adopted, appointing Rick Townsend to the Board of Zoning Adjustment. - Resolution 2-2026 adopted, adding the Downtown Master Plan to the comprehensive plan. - The stormwater drainage issue in St. John Estates will be considered during the 2026-2027 budget process; a definitive answer on funding and timeline is expected by June/July 2026. No interim measures were promised. - Next regular meeting: April 27, 2026. - E-Scrap Recycling Event: Saturday, April 25, 2026, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM at the AGC Automotive Plant. - Spring Cleanup: Ongoing; political signs in right-of-ways will be removed.

The Elizabethtown City Council held a special meeting on April 13, 2026, to conduct routine business, discuss the Downtown Master Plan, hear public comments, and enter closed session. Key actions included approval of a $981,700 roundabout construction contract, a $12,000 inspection contract for a park project, and a mutual aid agreement for emergency management. The meeting also featured a detailed presentation on the downtown vision and a resident request for a tree buffer. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the April 3, 2026, meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. - Fair Housing Month Proclamation: The mayor announced he signed a proclamation declaring April 2026 as Fair Housing Month. Municipal Orders - Municipal Order 25‑2026 – Veterans Way Town Drive Roundabout Project: Accepted a bid from Summit Civil LLC in an amount not to exceed $981,700 (Contract 14‑2026). The order also authorized change orders up to $147,255 total. Councilmember Falkerson questioned the bid award because Summit Civil is a new company (established less than a month), but staff explained that the owner, Aaron Gatlin, has prior experience on city projects, and the city requires performance and payment bonds. Additional safety measures will be implemented due to high speeds on Veterans Way. Vote: Unanimous approval. - Municipal Order 26‑2026 – Freeman Lake Park North End Parking Lot Project Special Inspections: Approved a $12,000 contract with Thoroughbred Engineering for special inspection services (soils testing and inspection) for the parking lot project. Vote: Unanimous approval. Resolution - Resolution 1‑2026 – Emergency Management Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement: Authorized the city to enter into a statewide mutual aid agreement for emergency response, allowing the exchange of supplies, equipment, personnel, and services during disasters. The mayor will serve as primary representative; the emergency management coordinator as alternate. Vote: Unanimous approval. Finance Director Update - Cash Balances: The general fund is down $2 million due to large purchases (Woodland Dry property, Hayden Farms, and a $600,000 loan to the airport board). Sewer and gas fund balances are up following rate increases. - Key Revenues: Occupational tax and property tax are strong. Restaurant and hotel taxes are below an “aggressive” budget. Net profits tax is significantly down, partly due to late filers (April 15 deadline); receipts expected to improve by May. - Spending: Admin and fire departments are over budget—admin due to unplanned large projects, fire due to a $1.3 million fire truck purchase (to be reimbursed from bond funds). Other departments are under budget. - Personnel & Succession: Three retirements (David Evans, Kim Compton, Tim Reynolds) represent over 100 years of combined experience. Internal promotions are planned; a succession plan is being developed. The finance department is also working with Magnolia Bank (new banking services), online forms (paused due to potential state legislation), and addressing dead gas meters. Downtown Master Plan Presentation - Planning Process: The city worked with consultant TSW for about a year. Public involvement included a survey and a public meeting, with strong consensus on key ideas. - Defined Downtown Boundaries: Roughly from Miles Street to Poplar Street, across to Central Avenue, over the railroad tracks, and down South Main Street to Valley Creek. The cemetery property was excluded based on public feedback. - Two Main Components: (1) A Development Toolkit (14 tools providing design and redevelopment guidance) and (2) an Action Plan (10 projects and 3 programs). - Highlighted Focus Projects: - Square Redesign: Convert the square to a one‑lane roundabout, remove 27 on‑street parking spaces (increasing pedestrian space by 47%), add raised crosswalks, and create pull‑off lanes for ADA access and quick stops. - Flex Street (South Main Street): Connect City Hall to the square with a street that has no curbs, trench drains, and flush sidewalks—allowing closures for festivals and events without affecting Dixie Highway traffic. - Valley Creek Boardwalk: Create a two‑tier boardwalk along the creek for pedestrians, with access points for kids to play. Must be designed to avoid impeding stormwater flow (requires Division of Water approval). - City Hall Redevelopment: Conceptual multi‑building design with parking hidden in the center and a public plaza that could accommodate a Christmas tree. - Phasing & Funding: A phasing strategy outlines which projects can be done quickly (some under $50,000) and which are longer‑term (into 2035+). The plan suggests funding mechanisms but notes cost estimates are preliminary. Public Comments - Karen Macy (1028 Pawnee Drive) and neighbors: Formally requested a comprehensive tree buffer (native evergreens) and/or soundproof wall along the property line of Pawnee Drive and 3027 Ring Road (Owens property). They cited noise pollution, lack of privacy, erosion, and aesthetic concerns from a cleared commercial development zone. The residents offered to allow trees on their own property but argued the buffer should be on the developer’s side. They noted the developer (Dirt Works) is only putting down topsoil and grass seed and plans to plant vines, which they oppose. Council Response: Staff noted that buffer requirements only apply when a formal development plan is submitted. Council expressed frustration with similar situations and committed to reviewing the site. The city’s stormwater department will also investigate erosion from recent fire hydrant flushing. - Judy Elmore (Rock Church): Asked the council to consider a preventive ordinance so property owners know ahead of time about buffer requirements, avoiding the need for costly remedial action. Council responded that buffer requirements are already known to developers through the planning commission process, but clearing trees before a plan is filed is currently allowed. Council Information Items - Next Meeting: April 20, 2026. - Birthday Wishes: The council wished Councilman Tim Isaacs (39th birthday – April 14) and Councilman Lamar Jones (38th birthday – April 15) a happy birthday. - Councilmember Falkerson’s Appreciation: Falkerson publicly thanked Jeff Henderson of Tennis Technologies for apologizing and correcting issues with the Winchester Park tennis court resurfacing project, noting the company “made it right.” Closed Session - The council unanimously voted to enter closed session under KRS 61.810(1) to discuss pending litigation, real property acquisition/sale, and economic development proposals. No action was anticipated after closed session. Key Outcomes & Next Steps - Approved roundabout construction contract ($981,700) and inspection contract ($12,000). - Approved mutual aid agreement for emergency management. - Staff will investigate the Pawnee Drive buffer/erosion concerns; potential ordinance review may follow. - The Downtown Master Plan will be used to guide future budget requests and project phasing. - Finance director will continue budget preparations, with council budget meetings starting in about one month. - New banking services with Magnolia Bank are in transition; online form development may resume after state legislative session ends.

The Elizabethtown City Council held a special meeting on March 23, 2026, at 8:24 PM. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, three second‑reading ordinances regarding annexation and zoning changes, a detailed presentation from the Natural Gas Department, remarks from a community leader honoring a fallen soldier, and an overview of the city’s annual spring cleanup program. All votes were unanimous, and the council scheduled its next meeting for April 13, 2026. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the March 16, 2026, regular meeting. - Ordinance 5‑2026 (Annexation – Litchfield Road): The council adopted a second‑reading ordinance annexing property at Litchfield Road, as requested by Delta Living Trust and Sharsaya LLC. The property will be zoned Regional Commercial (C‑3) upon annexation, following the Planning Commission’s recommendation. The owners provided written consent, and the required 45‑day notice was given to Hardin County. The vote was 6‑0. - Ordinance 6‑2026 (Zoning Map Amendment – 106 East Memorial Drive): The council unanimously adopted a second‑reading ordinance changing the zoning at 106 East Memorial Drive from Neighborhood Office (C‑1) to Neighborhood Commercial (C‑2) to permit a dog grooming facility. The change was found consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan. Vote: 6‑0. - Ordinance 7‑2026 (Zoning Map Amendment – 237 West Poplar Street): The council unanimously adopted a second‑reading ordinance changing the zoning at 237 West Poplar Street from Urban Residential General (R‑2) to Downtown Mixed Use (C‑5) to allow an event space. Council members noted the project would draw people to the outer edge of downtown. Vote: 6‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Remarks from Mike Bell (Community Leader): Mike Bell, introduced as “Brother Mike Bell” and a local legend, addressed the council regarding the recent death of a local soldier, Specialist Pennington, who was injured in Operation Fury and died three weeks prior. Bell described the community’s outpouring of support during the funeral procession and memorial service, noting that the Pennington family had planned the funeral on their daughter’s 30th birthday. He also apologized for failing to recognize Mayor Jeff Gregory during the memorial service’s dignitary introductions. The mayor responded that he was not attending for recognition and commended Bell’s speech. Bell’s remarks were heartfelt and not part of a formal public comment period, but they were the only public testimony given. Discussion Items - Natural Gas Department Presentation (Matthew Hobbs): Matthew Hobbs, Director of the Natural Gas Department, presented a “State of the Union” on the department. Key points included: - Workforce: 12 full‑time employees; average age drops from 35 to 21 when including the construction crew, indicating high turnover. - Regulatory Burden: The department oversees three inspection areas (storage, distribution, transmission), each subject to federal or state regulations every 1–3 years. Recent enforcement of drug and alcohol testing policies required a rewrite from 3 pages to 86 pages. All departments are facing increased documentation requirements. - Locate Requests: Locate requests have grown from 5,400 (2022) to 8,000 (2024), then dipped to 7,600 in 2025. One full‑time employee handles them, averaging a locate every 15 minutes if working non‑stop. - Pre‑pay Program: The pre‑pay program approved 18 months ago now delivers an extra 1,000 MMBtu/day to the city gate and saves about $100,000 per year. Currently at about 10% of flow; could be increased to 40–50% safely. - Load Factor: The system is flowing at about 93% load factor on average over three years, leaving only 7% capacity for growth before additional supply is needed. The system can carry 2.2 BCF annually; average flow is 1.9 BCF. - Well Work: Three well remediation phases are completed; no further well work is expected until 2029. Future costs should drop from $250,000 per well to about $50,000 per well. - Dehydrator Project: Deferred due to inconsistent bids; will proceed by end of budget year but carefully. - Employee Exchange Program: A cross‑training initiative with Customer Service and Utility Office yielded efficiencies, including switching from electronic to manual devices at one‑quarter the cost and discovering new Springbrook software capabilities. - Inspection Results: The federal inspection of the storage field (April 2025) returned zero infractions after a year‑long review; initial three violations were explained away. - Upcoming Inspection: The state Public Service Commission will inspect distribution and transmission units in August 2026 for about two weeks. - Spring Cleanup Program Presentation (Don Hill): Don Hill, Director of Public Works, announced the annual spring cleanup program: - Dates: March 30 – May 1, 2025 (tentatively). - Schedule: Collection will circulate through four city areas multiple times; brush collection runs simultaneously but on separate trucks. - Guidelines: Items must be separate from brush, placed within 10 feet of the street, and not block traffic or drainage. No household garbage, hazardous materials, liquids, construction debris, tires, or automobiles. Loose items in clear plastic bags (max 50 lbs) are accepted. Bags can be purchased at Public Works or Pritchard Community Center ($3/roll of 25 or $27/case of 250). - Appliances: Last week of April (April 27 – May 1) by appointment only (call 270‑737‑7890). Appliances containing Freon must be tagged showing proper removal. - E‑Scrap Recycling Event: April 25, 2026, at AGC Automotive Americas plant, sponsored by AGC, Tri‑State E‑Scrap, Altech, and Hardin County Government. - A map of the four collection areas is available on the city’s website and Facebook page. Key Outcomes - All three ordinances passed unanimously (6‑0). - The April 6, 2026, regular city council meeting was canceled; the next meeting will be April 13, 2026. - The council did not enter closed session and adjourned by unanimous consent. - The community’s support for the Pennington family was recognized; an entire community showed solidarity during the funeral.

The Elizabethtown City Council held its regular meeting on March 16, 2026, beginning with an invocation and pledge. The council approved minutes from March 9, 2026, received the mayor's annual report highlighting city achievements, and conducted several first readings of ordinances and municipal orders for board reappointments and project approvals. Discussion Items - Mayor's Annual Report: The mayor presented key achievements from 2025, including a reduction in property taxes by the council, a 23.7% drop in overall crime rate over three years, and 952 cubic yards of debris collected (50 dump truck loads). The street operations crew paved 11.2 miles of city streets at a cost of approximately $2.65 million. Traffic collisions decreased by 5.7% in 2025. The city constructed over 2,000 feet of sidewalk improvements, including the Hump Street and Terry Court Street sidewalk and drainage project. The mayor clarified that state roads (e.g., North Mulberry, Ring Road, 31W, St. John Road, bypass) are not city-maintained. - Board Reappointments: The mayor announced reappointments to the Airport Board (Willie Wood and Glenn Deaton, term to March 5, 2030) and the Elizabethtown Tourism Commission (Pat Clark and Todd Davis, term to March 15, 2029). All appointees were praised for their service. - Ordinance 5-2026 (First Reading): Annexation of property on Litchfield Road, requested by Delta Living Trust and Charcia LLC, to be zoned regional commercial. Owners gave written consent; 45-day notice provided to Hardin County. - Ordinance 6-2026 (First Reading): Zoning amendment for 106 East Memorial Drive from C1 (Neighborhood Office) to C2 (Neighborhood Commercial) to allow a dog grooming facility. Approved by planning commission and consistent with comprehensive plan. - Ordinance 7-2026 (First Reading): Zoning amendment for 237 West Poplar Street from R4 (Urban Residential General) to C5 (Downtown Mixed Use) to allow an event space. Approved by council as consistent with comprehensive plan. - Municipal Order 20-2026: Reappointment of Corey Blount to the Civil Service Board for a term ending March 2, 2029. - Municipal Order 21-2026: Reappointment of Rick Horn to the Civil Service Board for a term ending March 2, 2029. - Municipal Order 22-2026: Acceptance of bid from Schroeder Construction Inc. for the West Railroad Avenue project, not to exceed $497,833, with contingency authority up to $74,674.95. The project (first phase of a CDBG project) will upgrade sidewalks, drainage, sewer lines, and street improvements over a two-block section. - Municipal Order 23-2026: Acceptance of banking services proposal from Magnolia Bank for a five-year term with city option for two renewals. Council Member Tony Bishop urged rebidding in five years to ensure savings, noting that the tourism commission bids every three years and has saved money. - Public Comments: None. Key Outcomes - Minutes from March 9, 2026, approved unanimously. - All three first-reading ordinances (5-2026, 6-2026, 7-2026) were passed with unanimous votes (recorded as voice votes without dissent). - Municipal orders 20-2026 (Blount reappointment), 21-2026 (Horn reappointment), 22-2026 (West Railroad Avenue bid), and 23-2026 (banking services) were all adopted unanimously. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 23, 2026. - The mayor requested prayers for the Pennington family, noting services planned for Saturday, with Sergeant Pennington to be flown to Fort Knox.

The Elizabeth Town City Council met on March 9, 2026, and approved multiple municipal orders for infrastructure projects, including a land purchase for a new mountain bike park, and denied a zoning change for a property on St. John Road. The meeting opened with a prayer and pledge of allegiance, and a moment of silence was observed for a recent community loss. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from February 17, 2026. - Passed second reading of Ordinance 4-2026 to close a portion of Sutton Lane, incorporating it into Commerce Drive (unanimous 6-0). Municipal Orders - Wastewater Treatment Plant Berm Repair: Accepted bid from Phillips Brothers Construction for $97,279, with change order authority up to $9,727.90. Approved unanimously. - Pine Valley Drive Water Main Extension: Accepted bid from Gary W. Clifford Enterprises for $156,833.30, with change order up to $23,525. Approved unanimously. - Freeman Lake Park Tennis Court Resurfacing: Accepted bid from Tennis Technologies for $110,126, with change order up to $16,518.90. Councilmember Bishop voted no, citing unresolved issues with a previous resurfacing at Winchester Park Neighborhood Association. Staff noted Tennis Technologies had done good work on other city courts. Passed 5-1. - Freeman Lake Park North End Parking: Accepted bid from Caulfeld Brothers Construction for $698,200, with change order up to $104,730. There was a $270,000 gap between bids, but staff confirmed the bid was within 10% of the engineer's estimate. Approved unanimously. - Highland Park Sanitary Sewer Improvements: Accepted bid from Dirt Works Unlimited LLC for $188,010, with change order up to $28,215. Approved unanimously. - KBI for LoTA Aluminum: Extended industrial development incentives for LoTA Aluminum's new manufacturing facility in the TJ Patterson Industrial Park. Approved unanimously. - QEDA Funding for Valley Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant: Authorized application for a forgivable loan up to $30 million for expansion, in collaboration with Hardin County. Approved unanimously. - KPDI for Economic Development: Authorized application for up to $2 million from the Kentucky Product Development Initiative for public improvements at Gill Nicely Industrial Park, with a local match up to $400,000. Approved unanimously. - Land Purchase for Trooper Lake Preserve: Approved purchase of 38.36 acres from Parish and Neelam Patel for $20,000 per acre (appraised value), to be added to existing 75 acres for a new mountain bike park. Funding from Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund. Mayor thanked Zeb Weiss for assistance. Approved unanimously. - Denial of Zoning Change for 707 St. John Road: Accepted the Planning Commission's recommendation to deny a map amendment from suburban residential to high-density residential and regional commercial. Councilmember Tyler voted against the denial, arguing the property owners had made significant changes and that traffic concerns were addressed. The motion to adopt the denial passed with one dissenting vote (5-1). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. City Council Information Items - Next city council meeting scheduled for March 16, 2026. - Recognized Barb Jones, Human Resources Manager, as an Elizabethtown Community and Technical College distinguished alumnus. Key Outcomes - All municipal orders were adopted: most unanimously, the tennis court resurfacing and zoning denial passed 5-1. - The council went into closed session pursuant to KRS 61.810 for deliberation on real property, litigation, and personnel, with no action expected afterward.