Public Meetings - Richmond, Kentucky

The Richmond City Board of Commissioners met in regular session on October 14, 2025, to recognize Special Olympics athletes, celebrate Manufacturing Month, and review the police department's perfect safety audit score. The board approved numerous personnel actions, including promotions in police and fire departments, new hires, and retirements. It passed an updated alcohol licensing ordinance on second reading and introduced a blasting permit fee reduction. Contracts for soccer goals, fire training center carpentry, a copier lease, and a CDBG administration agreement were awarded. Charitable grants totaling $50,000 were distributed to 14 organizations. Public comments addressed homelessness support and pedestrian safety near the new soccer complex. Commissioners reported on the successful Millstone Festival and discussed traffic safety concerns. Presentations - Special Olympics Recognition: Six Madison County athletes were recognized for qualifying for the 2026 USA Special Olympics Games in Minnesota. Athletes present included Ellie Rose Deprez (swimming), Addison (track & field), Dakota Glassen (bowling), Leslie Rising (track & field), and Shane Stool (bowling). A chili supper fundraiser on November 7 at First United Methodist Church was announced. - Manufacturing Month Proclamation: Mayor Blythe proclaimed October 2025 as Manufacturing Month in Richmond. Representatives from local manufacturers Interstys and Electrodrive attended. - Kentucky League of Cities Safety Audit: Consultant Brian Dunn presented that the Richmond Police Department earned a 100% score on its triennial safety and liability review for the third consecutive audit. Chief Richardson and staff were commended. Public Comments & Testimony - Monica Barnes, representing Madison County Haven of Hope, thanked the board for a $5,000 charitable grant and noted the organization is working to establish a larger shelter. - A citizen (identified as Bill Stumbling Great) raised safety concerns about pedestrian traffic on 3rd Street near the new soccer complex, where people cross the road to watch games. He suggested future sidewalk installation and noted that speed sensors have helped. He commended the city for downtown improvements. Personnel Actions & Promotions - Police Promotions: - Daniel Toth promoted to Sergeant (effective Oct 31, pay grade 5). He has served 8 years, was Officer of the Year 2019, and is a firearms instructor and team leader. - Four officers promoted to Master Police Officer (effective Nov 14, pay grade 4): Addison Atkin, Kate Knight, Rebecca Foster, and Andreska Skees – all hired in 2020. Family members participated in a pinning ceremony. - Fire Department: - Patrick Tudor appointed Assistant Fire Chief (effective Oct 31, pay grade 7). He has 21+ years of service, starting as a volunteer in 2003. - Michael Kendrick and Richard Barnes promoted to Firefighter II (effective Oct 17, pay grade 3). - New Hires: - Five Safety Officers (non-sworn) for the Police Department: Dennis Schrader, Taylor Edwards, Todd Gavin, John Sebastian (full-time), and Miranda Thacker (part-time), effective Oct 27, pay grade 4. They will be dedicated to parks but can also handle traffic duties. Chief noted a new in-house safety officer academy. - Esther Harris hired as Codes Enforcement Officer (effective Oct 27, pay grade 3). - Retirement: Serena Wilson, warehouse supervisor in Recycling, retired effective Oct 31 after 25 years of service. Order accepted. Ordinances - Second Reading & Adoption (25-25): Ordinance amending alcohol license regulations (Section 117.17). Updates included simplified language, new license categories, updated fees (e.g., special temporary retail drink license $166.66, quota retail package $752.45), and clarified penalties. Approved unanimously. - First Reading (25-26): Ordinance reducing the blasting permit fee from $500 to $50 to align with other jurisdictions. Will be voted on at the next meeting. Bids & Contracts - Soccer Goals (25-145): Awarded to Challenger Teamware for $120,291.45 for the Richmond Regional Sports Complex. Funded by bond proceeds. Includes goals, nets, wheels, flags, accessories, and shipping. - Fire Training Center Carpentry (25-150): Awarded to SERVPRO of Richmond for $84,673.24. Rebudgeted from FY25 to FY26. Lower bid excluded for not meeting specifications. - Copier Lease (25-159): Authorized mayor to execute a 48-month lease with Toshiba for $1,568 per month for city hall, public works, vehicle maintenance, and recycling departments. Better service location in Richmond. - CDBG Administration Contract (25-156): Approved contract with Fahy Consulting for $1,500 (application) and $10,000 (administration) for the 2025 Richmond Recovery Project (Liberty Place). Grant funds from the Kentucky Department for Local Government. Grants & Donations - Charitable Grants (25-157): Approved $50,000 total to 14 organizations: CASA of Wilderness Trail ($5,000), God's Outreach Madison County Food Bank ($5,000), Hope's Wings ($2,500), Hospice Care Plus ($2,000), Humane Society Animal League for Life ($5,000), Madison County Haven of Hope ($5,000), Redeeming Hope ($5,000), New Liberty Family Shelter ($5,000), Richmond Area Arts Council ($5,000), Special Olympics of Kentucky ($5,000), Salvation Army ($2,500), YMCA Black Achievers ($2,000), and NAACP Richmond County ($1,000). (Special Olympics amount was corrected from $2,500 to $5,000.) Appointments & Resignations - Housing Authority (25-147): Accepted resignation of Sylvia Powell, effective immediately, thanking her for service since 1997. - Tourism Commission (25-148): Reappointed Cassidy Johnson for a term expiring 2028. - Human Rights Commission (25-149): Reappointed Dejan Grave for a term expiring 2029. Community Reports & Updates - City Manager: Announced recycling building photo opportunity on Oct 15 and “Late Night with the Colonels” at Dillingham Park on Oct 16. - Industrial Development (David Stipes): Reported acquisition of new industrial park property on Duncan Road, annexed into city. Applied for KPDI grant for entrance development. Noted that The Natural State Green Grass has opened a medical cannabis cultivation facility in Industrial Park 3, starting with 25 employees and expecting up to 100. - Commissioner Brewer: Reported Millstone Festival success with 15,000 attendees, 150+ vendors, 40 on waiting list, a car show, and 21 pairs of twins in the contest. Planning for next year underway. - Commissioner Cole: Raised traffic safety concerns at the intersection of the bypass and Boggs Lane (near Walmart and Soft Shoes) after several recent injuries. Requested review by Police Chief and Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Also mentioned need for a right-turn lane from Lowe's/Aldi. - Commissioner Goble: Praised partnerships with Madison County Schools after a Leadership Madison County education day. - Mayor Blythe: Acknowledged a donation of $46-48,000 from Mobile for restroom upgrades at the park. Noted New Vista Clinic ground-breaking on Robert R. Martin. Commended fire department for transporting patients during a multi-ambulance accident. Suggested giving participation medals to all twins contest entrants in the future. Key Outcomes - All ordinances, orders, and contracts were approved unanimously (with recorded votes) except the blasting permit ordinance (first reading, no vote). - The board voted to adjourn after hearing reports.

The Richmond Planning and Zoning Commission met on September 17, 2025, to approve previous meeting minutes, elect officers, and discuss regulations for overnight homeless shelters. The meeting included the introduction of a new city attorney and a unanimous vote to table the shelter discussion pending further information on state regulations. Consent Calendar - Approval of September 4, 2025 Meeting Minutes: The minutes were approved with a correction noted by Commissioner Perkins. The motion carried unanimously (Commissioner Francis absent, 6-0). Discussion Items - Election of Chair: Commissioner Stell was nominated by Commissioner Grant? (the transcript indicates Commissioner Grant nominated Dr. Miller, and another member nominated Keith Eugene, but the votes show Commissioner Stell receiving 4 votes and Dr. Miller 3. Commissioner Stell was elected chair. Prior to the vote, Dr. Miller outlined his priorities: improving zoning oversight, enforcing parliamentary procedures, and being proactive with the comprehensive plan. - Election of Vice Chair: Commissioner Miles was nominated by Commissioner Stell? (the transcript shows Commissioner Stell nominated Ms. Miles) and Dr. Miller was nominated by another. Dr. Miller received 6 votes, Commissioner Miles 1, electing Dr. Miller as vice chair. - Determination for Overnight Shelters: The commission reviewed proposed zoning districts for overnight shelters, based on a prior work session. Staff presented a list of zones (A, B, C) with 500-foot setbacks from residential uses and public parks. The RIDC (Richmond Industrial Development Corporation) requested exclusion of I-1 and I-2 zones, but the commission noted that RIDC's covenants could restrict use. A representative named Monica (likely from a shelter organization) spoke about state regulations requiring 220 square feet per person, noting that many shelters do not comply. She emphasized her desire to follow all regulations from the start. Commissioner Perkins asked about the minimum number of occupants and square footage requirements. The city attorney, Chris Johnson, offered to obtain the exact state regulations. Dr. Miller moved to table the item until the next meeting to allow time for that information. The motion passed unanimously. - Introduction of New City Attorney: Chris Johnson was introduced as the new city attorney. He expressed his willingness to assist. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The September 4, 2025 meeting minutes were approved with a correction. - Election of Chair: Commissioner Stell was elected chair with 4 votes. - Election of Vice Chair: Dr. Miller was elected vice chair with 6 votes. - Overnight Shelter Discussion Tabled: The commission voted unanimously to table the discussion on overnight shelter zoning until the next meeting, pending receipt of state regulations from the city attorney. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

The Richmond City Board of Commissioners held a special call meeting on September 16, 2025, as a replacement for the regular meeting originally scheduled for the following Tuesday. The meeting included an invocation by Jamie Jordan, a member of the Section 8 Housing Board and Housing Authority Board, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by retired Staff Sergeant Paul Mazurik, a member of the Madison County Veterans Committee and Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame. The board approved multiple ordinances and orders, including tax levies, zoning changes, personnel actions, and contracts. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the workshop meeting on August 21 (noon), the regular meeting on August 26 (6 p.m.), and the regular meeting on September 9 (6 p.m.). Proclamations & Presentations - Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October 2025): A representative from Hope Swings (the local domestic violence shelter) reported that 57 people in Kentucky lost their lives to domestic violence last year. She noted that a $16,000 grant from Kentucky Housing Corporation was cut due to state funding reductions, and urged the community to support a fundraiser at Mad Mushroom (100% of sales on September 17) to help offset the loss. The proclamation was signed by the City of Richmond, City of Berea, and Madison County Fiscal Court. - Paint the Town Pink (Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 2025): Carrie Martin (Director of the Foundation at Baptist Health Richmond) announced that Kentucky now leads the nation in cancer rates. The campaign has raised over $150,000, funding a new cancer center and quilts for patients on their first day of treatment. Events include a kickoff on September 26 at the courthouse lawn and a 5K neon night run on October 3. The proclamation was signed by all three local governments. Public Comments & Testimony - George Childs: Raised several concerns: (1) a deep drain rut at the corner of North Collins and Main Street (near CBS) that previously had an orange cone but is now a hazard; (2) requested that Planning and Zoning Commission meetings be televised like commission meetings; (3) expressed concern that the door district policy may not allow carrying cups between businesses, potentially increasing trash; (4) suggested that fees on vacant properties should be higher to discourage holding; (5) noted that the recycling bin deposit is $10 but refundable, making it almost free; (6) asked how the city will fund the 911 system after the first year, noting that the county had discussed water meter fees and the city had split from the county's approach. Discussion Items - Ordinance 25-22 (Ad Valorem Tax for 2025) – Second Reading & Vote: The ordinance set the personal property tax rate at 13.7 cents per $100 (down from 15.3 in 2024) and the real property rate at 11.1 cents per $100 (down from 12.1 in 2024). The City Manager noted that the city took the compensating rate and that the total taxable footprint increased to approximately $396 million. The ordinance passed unanimously. - Ordinance 25-23 (Zoning Change at Heath Street and Estel Avenue) – Second Reading & Vote: The property (0.289 acres, vacant) was rezoned from B-1 (Neighborhood Business) to I-1 (Light Industry) based on a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission after a public hearing. The board adopted the commission’s findings of fact. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 25-24 (Amendments to Zoning and Development Ordinance) – Second Reading & Vote: The amendments added “Social Assembly” as a conditional use in zones R1A, R1B, R1C, R2, R3, RE, PSP, B1, B2, B3, and B4, and “Shooting Range” as a conditional use in zones AG, B3, I1, and I2. Commissioner Cole expressed concern about monitoring wedding venues in residential neighborhoods, citing parking issues in his older neighborhood. He also questioned the term “outside the core” for shooting ranges; the City Attorney clarified that it means not downtown and that indoor shooting ranges are intended. The City Manager noted that both uses require approval by the Board of Adjustments, providing additional oversight. The mayor added that the board could revisit the policy if problems arise. Passed unanimously (Commissioner Cole voted yes but with comments). - Ordinance 25-25 (Alcohol License Application Regulations) – First Reading: The City Attorney read the full text of the amended ordinance, which updates the city’s alcohol licensing process to align with current Kentucky law, including references to cannabis-infused beverages (from hemp), online state applications, and new fee schedules. The City Manager stated this was part of a review of ordinances by the Kentucky League of Cities. Commissioner Cole confirmed the changes bring the city into compliance. No vote was taken; the second reading will occur at the next regular meeting. - Order 25-140 (Resignation in Recycle Department): Accepted the resignation of Gary Lockhart, effective September 26, 2025, with thanks for his service since 2017. Passed unanimously. - Order 25-141 (Hiring in Recycle Department): Hired Jason Lewis as a Labor 1 in the recycle department at $15.75 per hour, effective October 3, 2025, contingent on pre-employment requirements. Commissioner Newby requested a social media campaign to promote free curbside recycling (only plastic, paper, and cans; no glass; cardboard can be dropped off). The City Manager agreed and invited the recycling director to give a report at the next work session. Passed unanimously. - Order 25-142 (Golf Cart Lease for Gibson Bay Golf Course): Awarded a four-year lease to Lads of Memphis, Tennessee for 64 2026 Club Car Tempo gasoline golf carts. The City Manager noted this was the cheapest gasoline proposal and that the city should plan for electric carts and a new building next time. Passed unanimously. - Order 25-143 (Updated Interlocal Agreement for Madison County 911 Communications Center): Approved an updated agreement with Madison County Fiscal Court and the City of Berea. The City Attorney corrected language in the order: cost sharing is based on total calls of service (previous calendar year), not population. Current shares: Richmond 56%, County 24%, Berea 20%. The order does not affect the prior board’s decision on first-year funding. Passed unanimously. - Order 25-144 (Change Order No. 1 for Phase 1A of Richmond Regional Sports Complex): Approved a change order for $396,396 with Allen Company for regrading and drainage improvements. The City Manager explained the changes: grading for safety at Goggins Lane exit (line-of-sight), regrading around roundabouts at Goggins Lane and Tates Creek entrances, installing drainage under a berm, and creating accessible paths between tiered soccer fields. The city has sufficient contingency funds from the original bond. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All ordinances and orders passed unanimously except Ordinance 25-25 (first reading, no vote) and Ordinance 25-24 (passed with Commissioner Cole’s comments). - The board approved the 2025 ad valorem tax rates (personal: 13.7 cents/$100, real: 11.1 cents/$100), a decrease from 2024. - The zoning change at Heath and Estel (B-1 to I-1) was approved. - The zoning ordinance was amended to define social assembly and shooting ranges as conditional uses in specific zones. - The alcohol license ordinance was read for the first time; second reading and vote scheduled for the next regular meeting. - Personnel actions: acceptance of resignation (Gary Lockhart) and hiring (Jason Lewis) in the recycle department. - A four-year golf cart lease for Gibson Bay was awarded to Lads of Memphis. - The updated 911 interlocal agreement was approved, with cost shares based on call volume. - A change order for the sports complex ($396,396) was approved, funded from contingency. - The next regular meeting was noted to be on the second Tuesday (date not specified) and the Millstone Festival is scheduled for October 4, 2025.

The Richmond City Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on September 9, 2025, beginning with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Girl Scouts Troop 2673. The meeting included recognition of a new business, a presentation from the One Stop Resource Referral, multiple ordinance readings and orders, public comments, and announcements of upcoming events. All votes on consent items, ordinances, and orders were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The minutes from the August 12, 2025 regular meeting and a special call meeting were approved by motion (Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Newby). Vote: all yes. Public Comments & Testimony - Blake Jones (314 North 2nd Street) – Addressed an ongoing dispute with a neighbor over an alleyway that serves seven residences. He stated that the neighbor claims ownership of the alley, but city records indicate a right-of-way. Jones reported multiple police responses, a handgun incident, and three code enforcement citations (including one for a FedEx box). He expressed frustration that the city cannot resolve the property line issue, which he said has become a civil matter. The city manager and attorney explained that code enforcement and business licensing actions have been taken, but the alley ownership dispute requires private legal action. Jones thanked the commission for their time. - Unnamed Resident (Hampton Ridge) – Complained about semi-trucks ignoring “No Semis” signs on Robert Martin Road, especially around the stockyards on Fridays. The mayor said he would investigate enforcement options. Presentations & Discussion Items - New Business Recognition – Botanicals – Stephen Greaser, owner, described his new coffee shop and event space at 459 Eastern Bypass (next to Peddler’s Mall). He stated he moved to Richmond 14–15 years ago from the Army Depot project and saw a need for a community gathering space. The business offers Kentucky-roasted coffee, local pastries, houseplants for sale, and discounts for first responders and veterans. Hours: Monday–Saturday 6 a.m.–4 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m.–2 p.m. - One Stop Resource Referral of Madison County (Enrich) – Adam Harrell, with support from city manager Daniel, presented an update. He noted the program launched seven weeks ago and has seen over 2,300 check-ins and 430 unique individuals. Key statistics: 1,800 meals distributed, 260 housing inquiries, 10 participants moved from unemployed to full-time employment, 33 mental health referrals, and 22 KC Law petitions (emergency substance abuse intervention). A $45,000 HIPAA-compliant platform grant from findhelp.org is used to track referrals and reduce duplication. The top needs identified via Self-Sufficiency Outcome Matrices: employment, income, food insecurity, housing, and transportation. Harrell emphasized the program’s goal of driving individuals toward self-sufficiency. - Ordinance 25-21 (Second Reading) – Entertainment Destination Center (EDC) License – The city attorney summarized the amendment allowing businesses in or adjacent to the EDC to sell alcohol in common areas from 11 a.m. Thursday to 1 a.m. Sunday, using city-approved cups and with city-deeded common areas. The city manager said the request came from downtown businesses and cited other Kentucky cities with similar rules. No public opposition. Motion by Commissioner Newby, seconded by Commissioner Brewer. Vote: all yes. - Ordinance 25-22 (First Reading) – Ad Valorem Tax Rates for 2025 – The city manager explained that the city is taking the compensating rate, resulting in lower rates: real property from 12.1¢ to 11.1¢ per $100, personal property from 15.3¢ to 13.7¢ per $100, motor vehicles at 28.7¢ per $100. Despite growth (taxable assets increased by $390 million), the tax rate decreases. Motion to bring to floor by Commissioner Brewer, seconded by Commissioner Newby. Second reading will occur at the next regular meeting. - Ordinance 25-23 (First Reading) – Zoning Change on Heath Street & Estel Avenue – Change from B1 (Neighborhood Business) to I1 (Light Industry) for 0.289 acres. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval after a public hearing. The city manager noted the site already sits in an industrial area. Motion by Commissioner Goble, seconded by Commissioner Brewer. - Ordinance 25-24 (First Reading) – Zoning Ordinance Amendments – Adds “social assembly” (e.g., wedding venues) and “shooting range” as conditional uses in specified zones (R1A, R1B, R1C, R2, R3, RE, PSP, B1–B4 for social assembly; AG, B3, I1, I2 for shooting range). The city manager explained that applicants must still obtain approval from the Board of Adjustments, which will enforce parking, ADA, and safety requirements. Commissioner Cole expressed concern about parking impacts in residential neighborhoods. The city manager and planning director stated that the conditional use process and building codes would prevent nuisance uses. Motion by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Goble. - Order 25-133 – Surplus Property Disposition – Declared surplus items (including two motorcycles and vehicles) from the police department to be sold via GovDeals.com. Motion by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Goble. Vote: all yes. - Order 25-134 – Appointment of Fire Chief – Robbie Smith appointed effective September 19, 2025 at Pay Grade 08. Smith has served since 2002, rising through ranks. He thanked the commission, his family, and firehouse colleagues. Motion by Commissioner Brewer, seconded by Commissioner Goble. Vote: all yes. - Order 25-135 – Hiring in Recycled Department – Joshua Taylor hired as Labor I at $15.75/hour, effective September 19, 2025, subject to pre-employment requirements. One-year probationary period. Motion by Commissioner Newby, seconded by Commissioner Brewer. Vote: all yes. - Order 25-136 – Youth Football Facilities Agreement with Madison County Youth Football League – One-year term for use of Lake Eva Park football facilities. The city manager noted a longer agreement will be considered next year when the new park opens. Motion by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Goble. Vote: all yes. - Order 25-137 – Fire Training Center Installation Bids – Plumbing contract awarded to First Call Construction ($28,600), HVAC to Dunwright Services ($45,800), electrical to First Call Construction ($40,030). Funded from Fire Department Capital Outlay (FY26). The project is expected to remain under budget. Motion by Commissioner Brewer, seconded by Commissioner Newby. Vote: all yes. - Order 25-138 – Appointment to Board of Adjustments – Kenny Hill appointed for a four-year term expiring September 9, 2029. Hill is a Marine veteran and works at Bluegrass Army Depot. He replaces Kennard Bosley (30+ years service). Motion by Commissioner Newby, seconded by Commissioner Goble. Vote: all yes. - Order 25-139 – Park Equipment Purchase – Remote control mower (60-inch track) from Brown Equipment ($25,000) and 4WD cab tractor with 12-ft flex mower from Hobdee Dye and Reed ($59,075) for the Richmond Regional Sports Complex. Funded from Capital Project Sports Complex Bonding. Motion by Commissioner Brewer, seconded by Commissioner Goble. Vote: all yes. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items, ordinances (first or second reading), and orders were approved unanimously. - Ordinance 25-21 (EDC alcohol license) passed on second reading and will take effect immediately. - Ordinances 25-22, 25-23, and 25-24 passed on first reading; second readings will be at the next regular meeting (September 16, 2025). - The city manager announced the next regular meeting on September 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.; Millstone Festival on October 4, 2025; and an EKU hoops event (date to be rescheduled due to conflict with commission meeting). - The city attorney noted that the alley dispute raised by Blake Jones is ultimately a private civil matter requiring property surveys and legal action. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:58 p.m.

The Richmond City Board of Commissioners met on August 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included presentations on local businesses, historical society projects, and the Battle of Richmond reenactment; a first reading of an ordinance to expand downtown entertainment district hours; approval of several personnel actions and contracts; and public comments regarding code enforcement issues. Presentations - New Business Recognition: Carrie Hensley, Small Business and Economic Development Coordinator, introduced Bill Daff, owner of Leaf and Barrel Cigar and Bourbon Lounge, located at 103 Big Hill Avenue. The business is now open Tuesday through Saturday, with plans to expand to Sundays during football season. Commissioners welcomed the new business. - Madison County Historical Society Update: Sharon Graves, president, thanked the city for grants. She presented commissioners with a children's activity book funded by a $10,000 grant. The society also reported that three footprint signs highlighting African American history in Richmond are at the graphic designer and will be installed soon. She invited the public to a rededication ceremony on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the North Second Street side of the courthouse for World War I and World War II memorials. - Battle of Richmond Presentation: Philip Seifert and George Ridings, president of the Battle of Richmond Association, reported on the 22nd annual reenactment held August 23-24, 2025. Attendance was estimated at 1,300 to 1,800 people, with 525 cars counted. There were 150 living historians and about 100 volunteers. Highlights included a period baseball game, a visit from a descendant of the original owner of Pleasant View (the battlefield park house), and attendees from Spain and Illinois. The battlefield corridor spans from Big Hill to the Kentucky River. The association presented Mayor Blythe with a replica period badge and named him "Encourager in Chief" for his support. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Kokinda (downtown resident) expressed frustration about a neighbor at 314 N 2nd Street operating a construction business (Blue Jade Construction) without a home occupancy permit or business license. He reported that despite complaints to code enforcement over 14 months, issues remain, including a porta-potty, heavy trucks in the alley, and unauthorized use of his property for driveway access. The city manager acknowledged the complaint and said the city would readdress the matter. - Ed Brown (Richmond Downtown Neighborhood Association) invited commissioners to a neighborhood walk on September 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM starting at City Hall Park, to better understand downtown issues. Discussion Items - Ordinance 25-21 (First Reading): An ordinance to amend the downtown entertainment destination center. The city manager explained that the change would permanently activate the entertainment district from Thursday at 11:00 AM through Sunday at 1:00 AM, allowing alcohol to be carried out of licensed establishments. The ordinance also transfers permit approval authority from the city manager to the city attorney (ABC administrator). Commissioners discussed that this would eliminate the need for special event permits for homecoming, Millstone Festival, and Christmas parade. No vote was taken; it will return for second reading. - Order 25-126 – Hiring City Attorney: The board approved hiring Chris Johnson as city attorney/ABC administrator, effective September 2, 2025, at pay grade 10. Johnson previously worked at the Kentucky League of Cities and is an EKU alumnus. The vote was unanimous (5-0). - Order 25-127 – Firefighter Retirement: The board accepted the retirement of Brooks Elder from the fire department, effective August 31, 2025, after 23 years of service. Commissioners praised his leadership. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Order 25-128 – Hiring Firefighters: The board approved hiring Christopher Neal and Shane Thornton as Firefighter 1, effective September 19, 2025, at pay grade 3, with a 12-month probationary period. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Order 25-129 – Playground Project Bid: The board awarded contracts for the Richmond Regional Sports Complex playground: Bluegrass Recreational Sales for Playground Area 1 ($683,000) and Playground Area 2 (turf only, $160,000), and Recreation Insights for Playground Area 3 ($249,000), total $1,092,000. Funding comes from bond allocation. The project is under budget; the playground is expected to open late August 2026 for the first half, with the second half in fall 2026. Commissioner Newby asked about handicap accessibility; the city manager confirmed it includes all-inclusive pieces. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Order 25-130 – Housing Authority Board Appointment: The board appointed Jamie Jordan to the Richmond Housing Authority Board for a term expiring January 1, 2026. Jordan also serves on the Section 8 housing board, which the city manager noted helps coordination. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Order 25-131 – Hiring Public Works Employee: The board approved hiring Christopher Mullins as Equipment Operator 1, effective September 2, 2025, at pay grade 2, with a one-year probationary period. Commissioner Brewer noted he may be a local driver. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Order 25-132 – Street Paving Bid: The board awarded the paving bid to Allen Company Inc. for $463,146.30, funded from the municipal road aid fund. A public hearing was held on August 26, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The city manager noted the initial bid was $578,000, so some streets were eliminated to stay within the $533,000 available. Vote: unanimous (5-0). - Meeting Schedule Change: The city manager proposed moving the second September meeting from September 23 to September 16 due to the Kentucky League of Cities Conference. The board approved the change, resulting in meetings on September 9 and September 16, 2025, with no work session on September 23 due to the State of the University event at EKU. Vote: unanimous (5-0). Key Outcomes - All orders and motions passed unanimously (5-0) unless noted. - Ordinance 25-21 received first reading; second reading will occur at a future meeting. - The September 2025 meeting schedule was changed: regular meeting on September 9, second meeting moved to September 16. - The city manager committed to re-address the code enforcement complaint from Joe Kokinda. - Commissioners were reminded of the neighborhood walk on September 16 at 5:00 PM.

The Richmond City Commission held a meeting on August 20, 2025, addressing multiple agenda items including zoning map amendments, a proposed Chipotle restaurant, new use classifications for wedding venues and shooting ranges, a resident-led rezoning request, and updates on industrial development and infrastructure. Key decisions were made on zoning changes and new conditional use definitions. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from July 16, 2025, were approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded during the meeting. Discussion Items - Zone Map Amendment for MBR Properties (Heath Street and Estel Avenue): The applicant, Mike Rice (MBR Properties), requested a rezoning from B-1 (Neighborhood Business) to I-1 (Light Industrial) for a 0.23-acre lot at the corner of Heath and Estel. The property is currently vacant and planned for light industrial warehousing. Staff noted that I-1 setbacks (25 feet) and minimum building site (1 acre) would limit future development, potentially requiring a variance. The amendment was approved unanimously (6-0). - Chipotle Restaurant Proposal (adjacent to 859 Eastern Bypass): Representatives presented a plan for a Chipotle with a drive-up window in an existing parking lot. Commissioner Perkins raised concerns about traffic flow, safety, and parking on both sides of the drive aisle, suggesting the parking area adjacent to the bypass should have a single entrance/exit. Staff argued the plan meets all development ordinance regulations and that the drive aisle remains unchanged. No formal action was taken; the item was considered ministerial and will proceed to plan review. - Zone Determination for Wedding Venue (116 Miller Drive): The owner sought a use classification for a wedding/event venue on a historic 4-acre residential property. Staff proposed adding "social assembly" as a conditional use in the zoning ordinance to cover wedding venues, birthday parties, and similar events. After discussion, the commission voted to approve social assembly as a conditional use in all zoning districts except I-1, I-2, mobile home parks (MPs), planned unit developments (PUDs), professional office (P1), and agricultural (AG). The motion passed 4-2 (Commissioners Miller and Miles dissenting). - Zone Determination for Shooting Range: A business owner in a B-3 (Highway Business) zone requested a use classification for an indoor shooting range. Staff recommended allowing shooting ranges as a conditional use in B-3 and I-1 zones, noting that I-2 (Industrial Park) would be inappropriate due to existing covenants. The commission approved shooting ranges as a conditional use in B-3 and I-1 zones unanimously (6-0). - Baker Court Rezoning Request: Approximately eight to nine residents on Baker Court requested a rezoning from R-2 (Medium Density Residential) to R-1 (Low Density Residential) to prevent future high-density rentals. The commission agreed to proceed with official applications, requiring each resident to sign a formal application, similar to a previous process on High Street. - Other Business: - Industrial Park Acquisition: The city received a $2 million grant toward the purchase of the Burnham Farm (189 acres) on Duncan Lane for $4.744 million. The property, currently zoned agricultural, will be rezoned to I-2 for industrial development. The purchase is expected to close next week. - Homeless Shelter Discussion: Commissioners suggested a workshop to discuss homeless shelter solutions before any formal agenda item is presented, following a planned trip to Louisville to gather information. - Infrastructure Updates: Kevin reported that 60-65% of outstanding fire hydrant and sidewalk issues in subdivisions have been resolved, with remaining developments on schedule. Letters of credit have been released for three completed subdivisions. Key Outcomes - Zone Map Amendment Approved: The rezoning of the Heath and Estel lot from B-1 to I-1 was approved unanimously. - Social Assembly Conditional Use Adopted: Wedding venues and similar events are now permitted as conditional uses in all zones except I-1, I-2, MPs, PUDs, P1, and AG (passed 4-2). - Shooting Range Conditional Use Approved: Shooting ranges are allowed as conditional uses in B-3 and I-1 zones (unanimous). - Baker Court Rezoning to Proceed: Residents will submit formal applications for rezoning from R-2 to R-1. - Burnham Farm Acquisition: The city will proceed with closing on the 189-acre property for industrial development, with a future rezoning request expected. - Workshop on Homelessness Planned: A workshop will be scheduled after the commission's visit to Louisville. Next Steps - The social assembly and shooting range use classifications will be forwarded to the city commission for final adoption. - Baker Court residents will complete and submit rezoning applications. - The industrial park closing will proceed, with a rezoning application to follow. - A workshop on homeless shelters will be scheduled for a future meeting.