Public Meetings - Richmond, Kentucky

The Richmond City Commission met on October 27, 2026, for a regular meeting. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Johnny King of Grace Covenant Church of God and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Police Chief Rodney Richardson. All commissioners were present. The agenda included new business recognitions, an update on the Battle of Richmond, several ordinance readings and votes, personnel actions, and public comments. Presentations & Recognitions - Pure Wellness: Ashley Renton presented her new business at 330 Eastern Bypass, offering infrared saunas, cold plunge, contrast therapy, salt room, lymphatic body roller, and hot yoga. She described it as a wellness center for 30-minute sessions benefiting joints, sleep, and skin. - Made New Mercantile: Co-founders Stacy Jordan and Nancy Brown presented their upscale thrift store at 454 Big Hill Avenue, selling clothing, books, and housewares to generate funds for community giving. Since opening September 3, they have provided clothing or household items at no cost to nine individuals, including a Madison Central senior and a father shopping for his children. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for November 6 at noon. Battle of Richmond Association Update George Ridings, president of the Battle of Richmond Association, reported on the 23rd annual reenactment. Key statistics: - Over 100 volunteers; 174 living historians from multiple states; approximately 354 cars on Saturday (estimated 1,000–1,500 visitors) and 144 cars on Sunday (estimated 400–500 visitors). - Visitor origins: 18 states and Wales, UK signed the guest book at the visitor center in the last 26 days, with over 100 visitors. - The association celebrated the transition to city management, new roofs on buildings, and the upcoming 25th anniversary event on November 8 featuring historian Jack Davis. - Future events: Christmas open house at Pleasant View on November 29, 2–4 p.m. Consent Calendar & Routine Approvals - Minutes: Approved minutes from the regular meeting on October 13 and workshop on October 15, 2026. - Ordinances (Second Readings and Votes): - Ordinance 26-28: Annex 0.35 acres at 217 Pleasure Drive (R1C zoning) – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-29: Annex properties at 223 Pleasure Drive and 611 Benjamin Drive (R1C zoning) – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-30: Zone change at 96 Punkin Road (88.36 acres) from R1A to R1C and R3 – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-31: Zone change for 49.53 acres on Berea Road (New Carriage Place Phase) from AG to R1C – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-32: Zone change for 18.09 acres on Berea Road (same development) from AG to R1C – unanimous. - Ordinance 26-33 (First Reading): Comprehensive sewer use ordinance (72 pages) summarizing wastewater regulations, discharge limits, permits, fees, and enforcement. Includes rate changes on page 52. Second reading scheduled for next meeting. - Ceremonial Orders (All Unanimous): - 26-168: Accept retirement of Jason Rollins (Codes Enforcement) effective Oct 31. - 26-169: Hire Kendall Jones as Mechanic 1 (Vehicle Maintenance) effective Oct 30. - 26-170: Promote Jonathan Lamb from Mechanic 1 to Senior Mechanic (Vehicle Maintenance) effective Oct 26. - 26-171: Transfer Jacob Cannon from Recycle (Equipment Operator 1) to Mechanic 1 (Vehicle Maintenance) effective Nov 13. - 26-173: Award sandblasting/painting bid for Paradise Cove Pool to True Colors LLC ($228,630) from Parks Aquatic Center fund. - 26-174: Appoint Robin Sayers to Architectural Review Board (three-year term expiring Oct 22, 2029), representing downtown businesses. - 26-175: Declare surplus property (list from police department) for electronic auction via GovDeals. - 26-176: Approve CDBG administration services contract with FAHE Consulting for $1,500 application fee and $10,000 administration, contingent on state fund release. - 26-177: Reclassify Austin Hall and Felix Clems from Labor 1 to Equipment Operator 1 (Public Works) effective Nov 13. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Brown (Richmond Downtown Neighborhood Association): Announced the annual “Mittens on Millstone” event on November 12, distributing new winter clothing (hats, gloves, sweatshirts, jackets, etc.) to homeless neighbors from 4:30–6 p.m. Collection boxes are at city hall, Signature Coffee, Jackson’s Restaurant, Fork Bank, and God’s Outreach. Encouraged donations, noting 100% of collected items go to those in need. Discussion Items - Covington Woods Drainage Issue: Commissioner Brewer asked for an update. City Manager Rob replied that engineers and the contractor met on site, with a plan to add detention ponds to catch runoff and divert water to the stormwater system. Neighbors have been contacted. Progress is ongoing. - Halloween Hoedown: City Manager announced the event has moved back downtown on Thursday (October 29?) from 6–8 p.m., with Main Street closed and free candy. Key Outcomes - All voted items (minutes, ordinances, orders) passed unanimously. - Ordinance 26-33 (sewer regulations) passed first reading; second reading at next meeting. - The city will continue to address Covington Woods drainage with engineered detention ponds. - Community encouraged to participate in Mittens on Millstone and Halloween Hoedown.

The Richmond Plan and Zoning Commission met on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The agenda included approval of previous meeting minutes, a zone map amendment, two subdivision plats, and policy amendments regarding recreation requirements and private land preservation. Meeting Minutes Approval - Minutes of the September 16, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (6-0). - Minutes of the September 30, 2026 special call meeting were approved (5-0-1, Commissioner Short abstained). Public Comments & Testimony - Veronica Wolman (336 Overland Drive) asked if the proposal involved opening Overland Drive for access to the newly rezoned property. - Carolyn Heisell (Highland View) expressed concern about safety if Highland View were opened, noting the narrow width of the street. - Terry Connor (115 Highland View, 46-year resident) spoke about the loss of privacy and asked the commission to consider the impact of development on long-time residents in the area. Discussion Items - Zone Map Amendment (Hallon View Drive / Overland Drive): Applicant Mike Eves requested a zone change from B3 to R1C. He stated a previous application for a mixed-use plan was withdrawn after opposition from the city commission and neighbors. Eves estimated the site could accommodate 10 or fewer single-family homes. He also requested the elimination of a 2015 land use restriction that prohibited access from abutting streets so the property could be developed for residential use. - Spring House Land LLC Preliminary Plat: Mike Eves presented a preliminary plat for the Spring House development. The plat defines lots for a proposed Tractor Supply and Taco Bell and includes the connection of Ravana Drive to Checkerboard Drive. The developer noted that Tractor Supply would be contractually obligated to build a portion of the road extension. - Carriage Place Phase Four Final Plat: Steve Baker (Midwest Engineering) presented the final plat for 26 duplex lots (R2). The plat includes a new city street connecting Carriage Place Drive and Southern Cross Drive, providing a secondary access and a looped water line. A speed hump was added for traffic calming. - Recreation Requirements for R1 and R2: Director Kevin presented a proposal to strike recreation area requirements for single-family (R1A, B, C) and two-family (R2) subdivisions from the Recreation and Landscape Manual. He cited maintenance burdens, complaints from residents, and crime as reasons. Multifamily (R3) requirements will remain unchanged. - Private Land Preservation Zone: Director Kevin introduced an ordinance allowing subdivisions to dissolve common green spaces and expand individual lots, making them private property. Discussion focused on maintenance of preserved areas (e.g., fallen trees), the role of Homeowners Associations (HOAs), and the fact that detention ponds are explicitly excluded from this ordinance and will be addressed separately. Key Outcomes - Zone Map Amendment: Approved (6-0). The B3 to R1C zone change was granted, and the associated 2015 land use restriction will be removed. - Spring House Land LLC Preliminary Plat: Approved (6-0). - Carriage Place Phase Four Final Plat: Approved (6-0) with staff approval for remaining revisions. - Recreation Requirements Removal: Approved (6-0). The strikeout of recreation area requirements for R1 and R2 zones was accepted. - Private Land Preservation Zone: Approved (6-0). The new regulation was adopted. - Future Agenda: Director Kevin stated that detention pond regulations are the next item to be addressed by the commission.

On October 13, 2026, the Richmond City Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting that included proclamations, new business recognition, multiple first- and second-reading ordinances, personnel actions, property donations, economic development measures, and updates on the Richmond Regional Sports Complex. The meeting concluded with commissioner comments on community events, park improvements, and traffic safety. Proclamations and Recognitions - Domestic Violence Awareness Month: The city, along with Madison County Fiscal Court and the City of Berea, proclaimed October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Kaylene Carpenter of Hope's Wings accepted, thanking the city for financial support and partnership. - Alpha Delta Kappa Month: Proclaimed October 2026 in recognition of the women educators' organization. Whitney Hamilton, committee chair, noted the chapter's community donations to God's Outreach Backpack Program, Redeeming Hope, Glenn Marshall Family Resource Center, and upcoming support for Haven of Hope. - Manufacturing Month: October 2026 was proclaimed Manufacturing Month. Grayson Eves of the newly formed Economic Development Department spoke. - New Business Recognition: Liz Noland introduced The Haven, a heated/non-heated Mat Pilates and Sculpt Studio, located downtown. She described the most affordable rates in Kentucky and a second location opening in Lexington in November 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Brown (Richmond Downtown Neighborhood Association) announced the fourth annual "Mittens on Millstone" event on November 12, 2026 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the city park, collecting new hats, socks, gloves, and coats for people experiencing homelessness. He thanked the city for allowing use of the park. Discussion Items - Alley Closure (Ordinance 26-27, Second Reading): The city closed an alley off Heath Street adjacent to MBR properties after the landowner requested it. The ordinance was approved unanimously. - Annexations (First Readings – Ordinances 26-28 and 26-29): The board introduced annexations for 217 Pleasure Drive (0.35 acres) and 223 Pleasure Drive/611 Benjamin Drive (0.38 and 0.42 acres) in the Hillcrest Subdivision, with R1C zoning. City Manager explained the owners seek annexation to connect to city sewer. - Zone Changes (First Readings – Ordinances 26-30, 26-31, 26-32): The board introduced three zone changes: 88.36 acres at 96 Punkin Row (R1A to R1C/R3), 49.53 acres on Berea Road (agricultural to R1C), and 18.09 acres on Berea Road (agricultural to R1C). All recommendations came from the Planning and Zoning Commission. - Donation to Habitat for Humanity (Order 26-161): The city donated a vacant lot at the corner of Orange Street and Halle Irvin Street (Lot B) to Habitat for Humanity to build affordable housing. Commissioner Cole suggested exploring larger-scale projects with grant funding, similar to a past community development block grant project. The order was approved unanimously. - Dissolution of Richmond Industrial Development Corporation (Order 26-162): The board authorized the dissolution of RIDC, transferring assets to the city. City Manager noted the transition to an in-house Economic Development Department with a four-person team and $950,000 budget, replacing RIDC's $24,000 budget and one person. The order passed unanimously. - Talent Recruitment Grant (Order 26-163): The board authorized the city to apply for a $50,000 state grant (80% funded, city matching 20% via payroll) to create a talent and industry program. Grayson Eves explained a four-tier program connecting EKU students with local employers through site tours, classroom projects, micro-internships, and job placement. Approved unanimously. - Sports Complex Landscaping Contract (Order 26-164): The board awarded a landscaping contract for the 280-acre Richmond Regional Sports Complex to Ecton Nursery of Lexington, originally $257,360. Commissioner Brewer moved to amend the amount to $187,010 after removing some trees and shrubs. The city attorney confirmed the per-unit bid allowed the reduction. Approved unanimously. - Change Orders for Sports Complex (Order 26-167): Approved change orders 5 and 7 for bid package two as construction nears completion. - Appointment to Architectural Review Board (Order 26-165): Laurie Tatum was appointed to fill a vacancy, with term through May 1, 2027. The city attorney confirmed no conflict of interest with her role on the Tourism Board. - Irvin McDowell Park Improvements: Commissioner Newby requested restoring a field for girls' fast-pitch softball at Irvin McDowell Park, noting youth are turned away due to insufficient facilities. City Manager committed to obtaining quotes for lighting and inviting the softball organization to discuss needs. Commissioner Newby also raised parking restrictions in the city lot leased to EKU, after a mother parking during practice received a ticket. City Manager agreed to review the lease hours. - Millstone Festival Report: Commissioners Cole and Brewer praised the festival, reporting 116 cars in the car show and strong vendor satisfaction. They suggested starting the festival at 10 a.m. instead of 11, and adding vendors in the courthouse area. City Manager noted a waiting list of 40–60 vendors. - Traffic Safety Concerns: Mayor Blythe expressed alarm at red-light running incidents, noting near-misses that day. He urged attention to the issue. Key Outcomes - Approved Unanimously: - Second reading alley closure (Ordinance 26-27). - Property donation to Habitat for Humanity (Order 26-161). - Dissolution of RIDC (Order 26-162). - Talent recruitment grant application (Order 26-163). - Landscaping contract as amended (Order 26-164). - Sports complex change orders (Order 26-167). - Personnel actions: promotion of Charles Campbell and Austin Minyard (written as Miniard in the order) to Master Police Officer; acceptance of firefighter Scott Coomer's retirement; acceptance of public works resignation (Tyler Causey); hiring of Kylie Powell (police records clerk, $23.07/hour); promotion in fire department; adoption of updated battlefield curator job description; hiring of Lache Mullins as battlefield curator; hiring of James Reynolds, Tony Toppins, and Caleb Mink as equipment operators ($18/hour); appointment of Laurie Tatum to Architectural Review Board. - First Readings Introduced (to be voted at next meeting): - Annexations (Ordinances 26-28, 26-29). - Zone changes (Ordinances 26-30, 26-31, 26-32). - Other Actions: The city manager committed to allowing the local soccer club to use four turf fields starting November 9, 2026. Meeting Adjournment The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:37 p.m.

This recording is a community announcement rather than a formal city council or board meeting. No agenda or minutes were provided. The speaker promoted the Irvington House Museum’s October exhibit on the history of mills in Madison County and invited residents to visit the museum at 345 Lancaster Avenue in Richmond, Kentucky, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the recording opened with questions about Millstone Park, the Millstone Festival, and mill-named roads. Presentation Content - The museum exhibit features artifacts and written documentation from the era when dozens of grist mills dotted the Madison County landscape. - The narrator stated that a great number of grist mills sprang up around central Kentucky in the 1780s, soon after pioneer settlement, and that Kentuckians built them along waterways to grind corn, wheat, and other grains for flour, cornmeal, and whiskey. - Central Kentucky counties each had dozens of grist mills in the 1800s, and Madison County was no exception; road names such as Bogeys Mill, Hagan's Mill, Morin Mill, and Potts Mill in Paint Lick recall that era. - The grist mills were not only manufacturing locations but also sources of community activity, where people learned news, met friends, and transacted business; mills were located within a day's wagon ride, about five to ten miles, from farmers and settlements. - Early mills were custom mills powered by water or animals; later, as technology developed, merchant mills like the Zaring Mill in downtown Richmond were additionally powered by steam. The Zaring Mill was especially popular in its time and engaged in active marketing. - The announcer cited Dr. Fred Allen Ingall Jr., an EKU professor and local historian, who wrote articles documenting Richmond's history for decades; in a January 1981 Richmond Register article, he recalled the acronym UZPF, which stood for “Use Zaring's Patent Flower” and was a quick code for the famous downtown Richmond product. Key Outcomes - No formal actions, votes, or decisions were made during the recording. - The announced next step is for residents to visit the Irvington House Museum throughout October to see the exhibit and learn more about the history of mills in Madison County.

Interviews with City Officials - Kelly McBride (Host): Introduced the interviews and encouraged community participation in the Millstone Festival. - Mayor Robert Blythe: Expressed that his favorite part of the festival is talking with people and seeing new visitors each year. He noted the car show has been a pleasant surprise and that citizens have suggested additional festivals featuring car shows and food trucks, indicating that many good ideas come from the community rather than City Hall. - Commissioner Jim Newby: Stated that the festival showcases Richmond and its offerings, and he values the chance to reconnect with people he hasn't seen in years. He highlighted the festival's role in introducing visitors to Richmond and surrounding areas. - Commissioner Mike Brewer: Emphasized that the festival shows what Richmond is made of, with many people investing their time. He praised the history of the Millstone Park and Speedy Denny's donations. He invited people to come enjoy the festival and Richmond's history. - Commissioner Mindy Gobel: Expressed pride in the festival giving Richmond its own identity. She enjoys the food trucks and the opportunity to catch up with friends. She noted economic impacts such as visitors buying gas, shopping, and potentially staying overnight. - Commissioner Tammy Cole: Described the festival as an easy, fun day with good craft vendors, food options, and live music. She noted that visitors from surrounding areas can see improvements to downtown Richmond. She encouraged everyone to attend Millstone Festival 2026. Key Outcomes No decisions, votes, or formal outcomes occurred. The purpose was to promote the Millstone Festival and encourage attendance.

On September 28, 2026, Mayor Robert Blythe and Whitney Bailey, Disaster Response Project Director for Apple Red LegalAid, issued a public service announcement regarding a free legal clinic. The clinic, titled "Rooted in Apple Lachia Legal Clinic," is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Madison County Public Library in Richmond, Kentucky. Workshop Details - Attorneys will be available to execute estate planning documents free of charge, including a Simple Will, Power of Attorney, Living Will, and Funeral Planning Declaration. - Attorneys can also discuss property ownership and provide legal advice about next steps to clear title and update deeds (e.g., if still in a grandparent's name). - Eligibility: individuals who cannot afford a private attorney, low-income disaster survivors, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and older persons. - Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is recommended to guarantee same-day service by calling 844-478-0099. - For those unable to attend on October 7, call the same number to apply for services. - Additional information will be shared on the Facebook pages of the City of Richmond and WBON.

The City of Richmond used its September 23, 2026 community update to promote the sixth annual Millstone Festival, scheduled for Saturday, October 3 in historic downtown Richmond. The transcript is the only source provided; no agenda or minutes were available. Event Details - The festival will run from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. - More than 30 food and beverage vendors and more than 160 craft and community vendors will line the streets. - Live music will be performed throughout the day by the Jenkins Twins, Bourbon Revival, and Rhythm Phoenix. - A trolley from Central will again be offered because parking is a top concern for attendees. Speakers & Positions - Elizabeth Foster with Richmond Parks and Recreation said the community has taken a lot of pride in the festival, which she described as exciting. She encouraged residents to seek more details through the posted link and Richmond Parks and Recreation on Facebook. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or council actions were reported. The update directed residents to follow Richmond Parks and Recreation on Facebook and watch for Richmond Reels on the City of Richmond and WBON Facebook pages for a complete vendor and event schedule.

The Richmond Board of Commissioners met on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 (transcript begins at 21:27:25 UTC). The board approved the August 19, 2026 meeting minutes, adopted an amendment to the roadside sales ordinance adding B4 districts and changing the permit structure, reviewed a state statute allowing the city to seek court-appointed receivers for inactive homeowners associations, and scheduled a September 30, 2026 work session on recreation and green space standards. Consent Calendar - Minutes (August 19, 2026): Commissioner Miller moved to approve the August 19, 2026 minutes; Commissioner DeGrant seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Roadside Sales Amendment (Section 150.157.044): City staff explained that B4 districts (typically shopping malls) were not among the zones where roadside sales permits could be issued, which became a problem once staff began processing these applications. The amendment adds B4 districts and changes the permit duration from a 3-day or 21-day permit to a single 30-day permit, with up to four permits per vendor at the same location per calendar year (increased from three). Staff noted the change better fits seasonal vendors such as fireworks tents and flower sellers at Richmond Mall. One sign not more than 12 square feet is permitted; no merchandise or signs may be displayed in a public way. The 30-day period runs from permit issuance, so a tent may remain for the full 30 days even if sales activity ends early. Storage containers are handled under a separate ordinance and must be temporary or, if permanent, landscaped and placed at the rear of commercial properties. Enforcement is coordinated with the code enforcement office; unpermitted roadside vendors are told the rules and either move or obtain a permit. The transcript's roll call for this vote includes a "Commissioner Theodore" who does not appear elsewhere in the record; this appears to be a transcription error. - Homeowners Association Receiver Statute (KRS 381.803): Planning Director Chris presented a page-and-a-half overview of a state statute passed roughly two years ago that allows the city, through the Board of Commissioners, to petition the circuit court to appoint a receiver to act in place of a homeowners association that disappears or fails to maintain infrastructure. The city could recover associated costs through that mechanism. The director said he was not aware of any Kentucky city that had yet used it, and he offered to speak with residents facing HOA problems and to consider potential test cases. Commissioners cited examples of HOAs collecting fees and failing to maintain sidewalks and common areas. - Parks, Sidewalks, and Green Space Maintenance: Commissioners discussed conditions at Nash Park, including missing curb cuts that force pedestrians to walk through fenced yards, an unmowed path with no gravel, and a buckled sidewalk between two homes that raises liability questions. HOA-dedicated green spaces were described as a persistent maintenance problem because responsibility is disputed; one commissioner noted that residents at Ash Park had HOA fees withdrawn from their checking accounts without maintenance being performed. A commissioner recalled that years ago the Carriage Gate subdivision off U.S. 25 was promised a bike trail connection by the golf course that never materialized, and suggested revisiting green space requirements for new subdivisions. - September 30 Work Session: The planning director proposed a September 30, 2026 work session to review the recreation and landscape manual and green space requirements, consider what has worked and what has not, and discuss possible ordinance changes. Commissioners agreed to a 5:30 p.m. start; staff asked each member to confirm by email and said a notification would be sent once all members had confirmed. The director's report was folded into this discussion. Key Outcomes - Adopted the roadside sales ordinance amendment (adding B4 districts; 30-day permits; up to four permits per vendor per calendar year) by unanimous roll-call vote. - Scheduled a September 30, 2026, 5:30 p.m. work session on recreation and landscape manuals and green space requirements. - Directed residents with HOA issues to contact the planning director; the city may consider the KRS 381.803 receiver mechanism for future test cases. - Adjourned by unanimous vote following the director's report.

The Richmond Board of Commissioners met on September 8, 2026, for a regular meeting. The meeting opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Brownie and Cadette Girl Scouts. A special presentation honored Coach Rachel Carter with the Key to the City for her work with youth soccer. The commission then addressed a full agenda including tax rates, manufactured home regulations, alley closures, contract change orders, personnel actions, and charitable grants. All items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the regular meeting of August 25, 2026, by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward to speak. Presentations & Informational Reports - Coach Rachel Carter Recognition: Presented with the Key to the City and named UISA Boys Competitive Coach of the Year for her contributions to youth sports and quality of life. - Millstone Festival 2026: Public Information Officer Kelly McBride announced the festival will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Main Street. Platinum sponsor: Dreaming Creek Brewery. Gold sponsors: Allen Company Inc. and EKU. Features include live music (Jenkins Twins, Bourbon Revival, Rhythm Phoenix), a car cruise-in for vehicles 1972 and older, twins contest, petting zoo, Shriner train rides, and a free trolley shuttle from Madison Central parking lot. - Neon Night Run/Walk: Save the date for Friday, September 25, 2026, downtown on Water Street (6–10 p.m.), a Paint the Town Pink event sponsored by the Quarter, Baptist Health, EKU, and the City of Richmond. Block party at 6 p.m., kickoff celebration at 7 p.m. with a joint proclamation from all three Madison County governments. Discussion Items - Ordinance 26-25 (Ad Valorem Tax – Second Reading): Levies 2026 property taxes at 15.5 cents/$100 for personal property, 11.0 cents/$100 for real property, and 28.7 cents/$100 for motor vehicles. A 2% discount for payment before November 1, face amount due November 1–December 31, 2026, 10% penalty and 15% interest after January 1, 2027. City Manager noted the compensating rate was used; total assessed value rose from $75 million to $86 million. Unanimous approval. - Ordinance 26-26 (Manufactured Homes Compatibility – Second Reading): Adopts standards per KRS 100.348 to regulate qualified manufactured homes. Requires a minimum 7/12 roof pitch. The city attorney clarified that HOAs and deed restrictions still control and that these homes must be built within the last five years. Effective upon publication. Unanimous approval. - Ordinance 26-27 (Alley Closure – First Reading): Closes an alley off Heath Street connecting to Big Hill Avenue, requested by adjacent property owner MBR Properties LLC. City Manager stated the alley is impassable and creates unwanted gatherings. Second reading and final vote scheduled for October 13, 2026. - Order 26-132 (Sports Complex Change Order): Approved $153,819 change order with contractor Rising Sun Development for bid package two, including conduit for future security cameras, concrete pads for bleachers at tennis/pickleball courts, masonry bases for kiosk signs, fuel tank containment, and revised grading for tennis/pickleball layout. Funded from project fund. Unanimous. - Order 26-137 (10-Day USPS Payment Grace Period): Adopts a 10-day grace period for payments mailed via USPS, effective immediately. Does not apply to Richmond Utilities or payments by other delivery methods. City attorney noted the delay is caused by mail being routed through Louisville for postmarking. Unanimous. - Order 26-139 (Firefighter Hires): Hired five firefighters (Cooper Atkins, Ethan Shackelford, John Combs, Wallace Reims, Keaton Young) effective September 14, 2026, at pay grade 3. Fire Chief Tudor reported over 200 applicants; these are “the cream of the crop.” Staffing now at 74. Unanimous. - Order 26-140 (Resignation – Buildings & Grounds): Accepted resignation of Vernon Cecil effective August 15, 2026. Unanimous. - Order 26-141 (Resignation – Battlefield Curator): Accepted resignation of Emma Carmack effective September 4, 2026. Position posted. Unanimous. - Order 26-142 (Firefighter Promotions): Promoted Christopher Neal (2025), Herb Lovett (2024), and Samuel Blackburn (2022) to Firefighter II effective September 4, 2026. Unanimous. - Order 26-143 (Resignations – Public Works): Accepted resignations of equipment operators Russell Barrett and Zachary Stanley. Unanimous. - Order 26-144 (Resignation – Police): Accepted resignation of Master Police Officer Rebecca Foster, effective immediately. City thanked her for service since 2020. Unanimous. - Order 26-145 (Charitable Grants): Approved $50,000 in grants to 20 organizations, including $5,000 each to Richmond Area Arts Council, Casa of the Wilderness Trail, Hope’s Wings Domestic Violence Program, Redeeming Hope Inc., Humane Society Animal League for Life; $3,000 each to New Liberty Family Shelter, Madison County Haven of Hope; $2,500 to Special Olympics of Kentucky; and smaller amounts to others. Unanimous. - Order 26-146 (Employee Status Change – Buildings & Grounds): Reclassified Jay Cornelson from Sports Field Specialist to Assistant Director of Buildings and Grounds effective September 14, 2026, pay grade 4. He will manage Lake Reba Park. Unanimous. - Order 26-147 (Job Description Update): Adopted an updated job description for the administrative assistant position (Wanda Bailey), reflecting current duties. Unanimous. - Order 26-148 (Employee Status Change – Fire): Changed Nicholas Stevens from Training Officer to Firefighter III effective October 2, 2026. Unanimous. City Manager & Commissioner Reports - City Manager: Met with Heritage Council for property audit at battlefield; curator position being filled; visitor center to reopen by September 30 thanks to association and tourism staff. Sports complex soft opening planned for mid-November; sponsorship packages to be released September 21; EKU and professional soccer groups are interested. Downtown traffic lights out of sync – contact District 7. Code enforcement process takes time due to legal constraints; fines accumulate and liens can be placed. Commissioner Brewer raised concerns about gravel driveway enforcement; City Manager explained the step-by-step process. Commissioner Newby noted mobility issues prevented attending battlefield event. Mayor Blythe celebrated new businesses downtown and encouraged attendance at Tasty Tuesdays and Millstone Festival. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (5-0) on every ordinance and order except the first-reading alley closure (no vote needed). - Next regular meeting: October 13, 2026, for second reading of the alley closure ordinance. - Next steps: The sports complex is on track for a mid-November soft opening; the battlefield visitor center is expected to open by September 30; USPS grace period effective immediately; new firefighters begin September 14; code enforcement continues on specific properties with escalating fines.