Public Meetings - Winchester, Kentucky

The Winchester City Commission met on Tuesday evening, June 2, 2026, with Mayor [Name] presiding and Commissioners Chenault, Strode, Toole, and Cox present. The meeting covered a wide range of business including a vote on an opioid strategic plan, a water rate ordinance for splash pads, a resolution for Washington Penn incentives, a public hearing on recovery housing, approval of the FY2027 budget, and numerous personnel actions. Consent Calendar - Opioid Strategic Plan Vote (Redo): A motion to redo the vote on the opioid strategic plan was approved unanimously. - Ordinance Amending Water Rate Schedules (Section 14-81.1): An ordinance adding public pools and splash pads to the water utility rate schedule was approved. Kyle Rainey of Winchester Municipal Utilities explained that the new tiered rate would provide a 55–60% reduction in water costs for qualifying city or county splash pads with a dedicated meter, without affecting residential rates. The top two tiers ($6.20 and $5.67 per 100 cubic feet) would be lowered to $2.59 across the board. The ordinance passed unanimously. - Resolution for Washington Penn Incentives: A resolution authorizing participation in the Kentucky Business Investment (KBI) program for Washington Penn, including a local contribution of 1% of the 2.015% occupational tax, was approved unanimously. - Ordinance – Recovery Housing Certification (First Reading): The first reading of an ordinance requiring certification of recovery residences was introduced. However, after public comment and discussion, the motion was withdrawn and the item was tabled for further revision (see Discussion Items). - FY2027 Budget Ordinance: The annual budget for fiscal year July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027 was adopted. The general fund budget totals $29,688,000 in resources and $29,517,890 in appropriations, with a surplus of $170,110. Other funds include Capital Equipment ($2,414,804), MAPS ($293,033), Room Tax ($202,502), and Other Funds ($2,495,486). The MAPS fund shows a negative balance of $450,967. Approved unanimously. - Orders 5A–5G: All general orders were approved unanimously including: 5A Memorandum with BCTC for EMT instruction; 5B Demolition bid for Lincoln Street (H&B Construction); 5C Change order for Main Street Streetscape; 5D Agreement for sports complex feasibility study with Bluegrass Community Foundation; 5E Reappointment of Taylor Kincaid to Tourism Commission; 5F Appointment of Amanda Adams to Tourism Commission; 5G Purchase of de-ice salt for FY2027. - Personnel Orders 6A–6Q: Seventeen personnel actions were approved unanimously, including resignations, retirements, reclassifications, promotions, and new hires for various city departments. Public Comments & Testimony - William Baker (22830 Street, Winchester): Speaking on behalf of Pontaville neighborhood, Baker thanked the city for denying a homeless shelter application at 133 Third Street. He requested the commission adopt an ordinance prohibiting homeless shelters, drug rehabilitation centers, and similar commercial uses in all residential neighborhoods. He asked for a timeline of first and second readings by October 20, 2026, and appointment of a point of contact for monthly follow-up. The Mayor acknowledged the request and said the city would review the proposal with legal counsel. - Jessica Nelson (3486 Stanford Drive, Winchester): A licensed therapist in long-term recovery, Nelson provided detailed critique of the proposed recovery housing ordinance. She raised concerns that: certification requirements could be impractical under state standards; conditional use permits may violate Fair Housing Act protections for persons with disabilities; inspection authority lacks clear limits and privacy protections; short-stay fees are inconsistent with recovery realities; and open-ended conditions could invite discriminatory application. She urged the commission to differentiate between levels of sober living and to avoid imposing requirements not applied to other rental residences. The mayor and commissioners acknowledged her points and noted personal experiences with both good and bad recovery housing. Discussion Items - Recovery Housing Ordinance: After introducing the first reading, the commission heard extensive public comment from Jessica Nelson and then discussed the ordinance at length. Commissioner shared a personal story of a problematic recovery house with 14 people in a 3-bedroom house, frequent police visits, and property crimes. The commissioner expressed support for regulating bad operators but cautioned against overbroad restrictions that could discriminate. The city manager suggested using Richmond’s ordinance as a model. The motion was withdrawn, and the matter was referred back to the city attorney for revision, with a target for the first meeting in July 2026. - Presentation on Paramedic Training Program: Major James Brown of Winchester Fire & EMS presented details of a partnership with BCTC and GRC for EMT and paramedic training. Key points: Winchester Fire will teach classes as an outside contractor; students earn college credit; cost is approximately half that of internal training (e.g., $1,500 per student savings for advanced EMT); BCTC pays instructors; paramedic class planned for spring 2027. The program has already shown positive results, with ALS providers on fire trucks achieving return of spontaneous circulation in cardiac arrest cases. The presentation also highlighted the pathway from high school to career in EMS without leaving Winchester. The commission praised the program. Key Outcomes - Approved: FY2027 budget, Washington Penn incentives, water rate ordinance for splash pads, numerous personnel actions, Lincoln Street demolition bid, Main Street Streetscape change order, sports complex feasibility study agreement, tourism appointments, and EMT training memorandum. - Tabled/Referred: Recovery housing ordinance was withdrawn for further revision; city attorney to present revised version at the first July 2026 meeting. - Next Steps: City will review resident request for comprehensive zoning ordinance prohibiting shelters/rehabs in residential areas and follow up with legal advice. Demolition work on Lincoln Street expected to begin in late June after asbestos reports are filed.

The Winchester City Commission met on June 2, 2026, at 8:28 PM. Commissioner Cox was excused. The meeting featured a presentation on a strategic plan for opioid abatement funding, approval of routine items, informational updates, and comments from commissioners and the city manager. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter closed session for litigation. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of the May 5, 2026 special meeting (4:30 PM), May 5, 2026 regular meeting (5:30 PM), May 7, 2026 special meeting (9:00 AM), and May 8, 2026 special meeting (9:00 AM). Motion by Commissioner Toole, second by Commissioner Chenault. - Unanimously approved departmental agency reports (items A through K). Motion by Commissioner Strode, second by Commissioner Chenault. Presentation: Caico Opioid Solutions Network Strategic Plan - Jennifer Miles, a Clark County resident and former project director for the Healing Community Study, presented a proposal to develop a strategic plan for the use of opioid abatement settlement funds. The initiative is free and supported by the Caico Opioid Solutions Network with technical assistance from the University of Kentucky. Clark County was one of 20 counties selected statewide. The strategic plan will complement existing recovery-ready community efforts and help identify gaps for future funding. Commissioner Strode and Commissioner Toole serve on the city's opioid committee. The city manager noted the plan would not impact the local opioid abatement committee. The commission voted unanimously to support the strategic plan. Miles will collaborate with the ASAC committee and hold public meetings to gather input. The process is expected to take about a year. Informational Items - Mayor reported sending a letter to the governor requesting continuation of the freeze on the state gas tax (10 cents per gallon). However, a KLC update received on June 2 indicated that the reduction could cost cities $1.9 million per month in municipal road aid. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet testified that the reduction would decrease road fund revenues by $26.8 million every 30 days. The mayor noted that the city already supplements its paving program from the general fund. - A thank-you letter from Larry Long was received, praising firefighters Tyler Tay, Dallas Gross, and Michael Whiley for their professionalism. The mayor requested the letter be placed in their personnel files. - Mayor attended a Bluegrass ADD meeting that included training on Alzheimer's and dementia. She shared the information with the commission, noting the personal impact of dementia. Commissioner and City Manager Comments - Commissioner Strode announced the upcoming Beer Cheese Festival and thanked police, fire, and public works. She also noted she would replant flowers in planters that did not survive heavy rain. - Commissioner Toole had no additional comments. - City Manager reported that a sinkhole developed in the Carroll Road parking lot on May 29, 2026. It was determined to be an emergency repair due to a scouring issue around a 72-inch concrete culvert. Local contractors excavated and repaired the void, using concrete to stabilize the structure. The repair will be finalized after settling. Funding will come from the special projects account. The city manager also noted that the budget amendment first reading will be on the June 16, 2026 agenda, with second reading in July. Key Outcomes - Motion to support the strategic plan for opioid abatement funding (passed unanimously). - Approval of minutes and departmental reports. - Motion to enter closed session for litigation under KRS 61.810(1)(c) (passed unanimously). The meeting adjourned after closed session.

The Winchester City Commission met on May 5, 2026, to issue a proclamation, approve a grant application, table a recovery residence ordinance, and pass numerous administrative orders. The meeting also included planning for upcoming budget workshops. Proclamation: Professional Municipal Clerks Week - Mayor Winchester proclaimed May 3–9, 2026, as Professional Municipal Clerks Week, recognizing City Clerk Joy Curtis (Diana Lane) and all professional municipal clerks for their service. Resolution: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Application - The commission unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the completion and filing of a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant application for up to $200,000 in grant funds with the Department of Transportation. Ordinance: Certification of Recovery Residences (Second Reading) - Commissioner Toole moved to table the ordinance until the June meeting for further research and review. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Strode and passed unanimously. - City Manager Mike noted that the ordinance needs refinement and that he will reconvene a stakeholder group to address questions, focusing on protecting first responders and the city. The next regular meeting in May is canceled due to Election Day, so the ordinance will be taken up at the first June meeting. Orders (Items 5A–5G and 6A–6E) - The commission approved a series of items unanimously: - Appointed Daniel Gillam to a four-year term on the Winchester County Administrative Hearing Board. - Declared certain city property obsolete and surplus. - Authorized transfer of surplus equipment to the Clark County Detention Center. - Declared additional city property obsolete and surplus. - Accepted the resignation of Derek Hood from the Winchester Historic Preservation Commission due to a perceived conflict of interest. - Approved a contract with Palmer Engineering for engineering services for the Winchester Farmers Market Pavilion and Restaurant. - Appointed Matt Davidson to a three-year term on the Historic Preservation Commission. - Amended position descriptions for grant writer and building inspector/pay classification plans. - Reclassified Matea Knox from receptionist/finance to tax and license clerk (as part of training to become city clerk). - Accepted the resignation of Xavier Riley, Firefighter 3. - Reclassified Alicia Martin from Grant Writer to Grant Coordinator. Public Comments - No members of the public spoke during the comment period. Budget Workshop Planning - City Manager discussed scheduling budget review meetings. The commission will determine a date (likely a half-day in the week of May 12–13) to review department budgets. Budget binders were distributed, and commissioners were asked to provide lunch preferences for upcoming employee appreciation events. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Cox reported that Jerry Tax is hospitalized after a major heart attack and asked for thoughts and prayers for him and his family. Key Outcomes - Proclamation for Professional Municipal Clerks Week adopted. - SS4A grant application authorized. - Recovery residence ordinance tabled to the June 2026 meeting. - All administrative orders (5A–6E) approved unanimously. - Budget workshop date to be determined by May 7. - Meeting adjourned.

The Winchester City Commission held a special meeting on May 5, 2026, at 8:31 PM. The meeting included a proclamation for Building Safety Month, approval of previous minutes, departmental reports, correspondence updates, and a motion to enter closed session for property acquisition. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the April 7, 2026 special (4:30 PM) and regular (5:30 PM) meetings, and the April 21, 2026 regular (5:30 PM) meeting were approved unanimously. Motion by Commissioner Cox, seconded by Commissioner Toole. No discussion or amendments. - Departmental and Agency Reports (Items A-I): Accepted unanimously. Motion by Commissioner Strode, seconded by Commissioner Chenault. No discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard during the meeting. Discussion Items - Proclamation for Building Safety Month 2026: Mayor Joel Marie read the proclamation, declaring May 2026 as Building Safety Month in Winchester, Kentucky. The theme for 2026 is "Built to Last." Rob Jeffries was recognized. - Correspondence from Cody Angel: Acknowledged as informational. - Palmer Engineering Study: A study on turning lanes at Lexington Avenue at a cost of $3,600 was noted. - Fire Chief Chris Whitley Report: Reported on the annual supplemental payment program. The city will receive a total of $476,000 for the year, payable quarterly at $119,000 per quarter, starting August 2026. These funds reflect fiscal year 2024. - Alicia Martin on LARP Projects: Under House Bill 546, the Local Assistance Road Program, the city applied for road repaving funds. Four of five submitted roads (Pendleton, Magnolia, Early, and Flanagan) were selected, totaling $251,000 from the state. These funds will cover the full cost of paving those roads in the upcoming paving cycle (August/September). - Mayor's Announcements: - Recognized the Bluegrass College Academy dual credit graduation for 2026. - Presented a proclamation for Arbor Day at the home of Wanda Bachman, who turned 100 years old. - Signed a proclamation for Older Americans Month at the Generation Center. - Met with a field representative from Senator McConnell's office (positive meeting, future funding hoped). - Met with STNL Development Company regarding Winchester Village (exciting developments expected). - Commissioner Strode's Announcement: - Announced that the Chamber board agreed to fund banners for the boys' and girls' basketball teams at the high school. Twenty banners (10 girls, 10 boys) will be placed downtown. - Coordinating with Brian to move two old flower pots to the courthouse steps and planting new ones. - Commissioner Toole: Reminded of First Drop Block next Friday and Farmer's Market opening this Saturday. - City Manager: Noted that one item for closed session is property acquisition (61810 meeting). - City Attorney: Had no additional items. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Unanimous approval of minutes and departmental reports. - Funding: $476,000 annual supplemental payment from the state for fire services; $251,000 LARP funds for road repaving. - Closed Session: Motion to adjourn to closed session for property acquisition under KRS 61.810B. Motion made, seconded by Commissioner Strode, and passed. The special commission meeting was simultaneously adjourned upon conclusion of the closed session.

The Winchester City Commission met on April 21, 2026, to consider a first-reading ordinance on recovery residences, approve multiple personnel actions including the hiring of two police officers, and discuss budget and community updates. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - None explicitly designated; all items were voted on individually. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up or offered comments. Discussion Items - Ordinance (First Reading) – Recovery Residence Certification: An ordinance promoting public health and requiring certification of recovery residences for individuals in recovery from substance use. Commissioner Strode questioned the difference between for-profit and nonprofit residences, application of board of adjustment rules, fair housing laws, and business license fees. City staff clarified that the ordinance would be enforced through the board of adjustments and included a $1,000 annual licensure fee in addition to the general business license. The ordinance was approved unanimously on first reading. - General Order – Fifth Street Stream Restoration Project: Approved a bid of $96,700 from Circle G Excavating LLC for the Fifth Street stream restoration project. Unanimous. - Personnel Actions: - Employed Kennan Martin and Michael Baker as police officers (uncertified). Chief Thompson highlighted the department's staffing challenges, noting the department had been down 32 officers, and praised the commission for making the department competitive. Both officers are local residents. - Granted educational certification incentive salary increases to Tristan Frame and certain other personnel. - Terminated the employment of building inspector Jennifer Meredith. - Amended position descriptions for accounting specialist and tax and license clerk. - Reclassified Laura Poe (also known as Beth) from tax and license clerk to accounting specialist. Key Outcomes - All agenda items received unanimous approval. - The meeting adjourned to closed session for property acquisition under KRS 618.10B, after which the public meeting was adjourned. Additional Updates - Commissioner & City Manager Reports: - Commissioner Chenault reported progress on the High Side Main Street project, with only a few items remaining before final approval and a warranty period. - KU street lights on High Side expected to be connected by end of week or early next week. - First "Rock the Block" event scheduled for May 15th downtown, sponsored by tourism and chamber. - Commissioner Cox updated that pipe covers for High Side have been ordered and received. - Work camp this summer will host 298 youth from 12 states, working on 55 homes from July 5-11. - City Manager Flynn announced the Splash Park opening on May 23rd (rain date May 30th) and reported that fuel costs exceeded budget by $11,000 in March, impacting operations. - Commissioner Toole challenged others to donate to the splash pad admission fund, noting she donated $500 last year. - Mayor announced budget work sessions on May 7th and 8th, and confirmed that Publix will be developing on Kobe Road, with a press release expected soon. Closed Session - The commission voted to go into closed session for property acquisition under KRS 618.10B and then adjourned the public meeting.

The Winchester City Commission convened on April 7, 2026, to receive a strategic update from the Kentucky League of Cities (KLC), discuss the allocation of opioid settlement funds, approve infrastructure and personnel items, and pass a joint resolution supporting America 250 KY. The meeting began with an invocation and call to order. Strategic Plan Update Jonathan and Sarah of the Kentucky League of Cities presented the 2026 Strategic Work Plan update. The commission identified four top goals: quality of life, housing, parks and recreation, and infrastructure. Completed projects from the 2023 plan included the Fulton Road extension, downtown entertainment district, Jackson Street Bridge removal, and adding Juneteenth and Veterans Day as city holidays. Ongoing projects include the 7th Street project, maintaining EMS, MLK Jr. Bridge replacement, Fulton Road roundabout, and stormwater upgrades. Seven strategic areas were defined: infrastructure, quality of life, community events, parks and recreation, housing, safe city, and education/workforce training. Direct budget impacts include housing (blighted properties), stormwater, a family entertainment center, first responders’ needs, parks, and salaries/benefits. KLC also highlighted Winchester’s inclusion in two articles in their city magazine. Opioid Settlement Fund RFP Discussion City Manager Mike Flynn presented a request for proposals (RFP) for disbursing approximately $470,000 in opioid settlement funds. The RFP mirrors Clark County’s process, with open enrollment from March 1 to April 30 and funding periods July 1 to June 30. A selection committee will consist of three voting members of the ASAP board and two city commissioners. The city manager recommended a 15% cap on indirect costs and quarterly reporting. Fire Chief White presented a proposed community paramedicine program costing $200,000 over 18–24 months ($136,000 upfront). The program would deploy a paramedic to follow up with discharged patients, ensure medication compliance, and reduce emergency system overuse. The city manager recommended proceeding with the program regardless of funding, and suggested the city apply to the county for $75,000 from its opioid fund to share the cost. Public comments were heard: - Cody Angel (ASAP vice chair) expressed support for the selection committee and offered ASAP board members to serve. - Commissioner Tool voiced concerns about the need for public meetings and a cap on funds. - Lindsay Horsman, Becky Hissick, Jessica Rose, and a community volunteer (Tish) advocated for keeping opioid funds local, investing in workforce development, barrier relief (e.g., license fees, work boots, tools), and second-chance employment programs. They emphasized that local, ground-level coordination is critical for successful re-entry. Regional pooling for larger workforce initiatives was suggested as more appropriate for state-level funding, with a one-to-one local match requirement noted. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Street Lighting The commission reviewed a scope of work for conduit and street lights along MLK Jr. Boulevard from Shoppers Drive to the road’s end. The project cost is $25,000, split equally between the city and the Clark County School Board. The city manager recommended approval to get ahead of future development. The commission unanimously approved the city’s portion. East Broadway Parking Adjustment The city manager proposed reconfiguring parking near the Veterans Memorial on East Broadway. No parking spaces will be lost, and one handicap space will be gained. The commission concurred without a formal vote; Commissioner Strode expressed personal dislike of diagonal parking but did not oppose. America 250 KY Joint Resolution The commission passed a joint resolution with the Clark County Fiscal Court supporting the America 250 KY celebration of the nation’s 250th birthday. Discussion included a planned liberty tree dedication and a community parade. The mayor confirmed that Winchester will host fireworks for the 250th celebration. Key Outcomes - Canceled the April 21, 2026 special meeting. Also noted cancellation of May 19 meeting due to Election Day. - Approved the opioid settlement RFP framework; the city manager will adjust dates and finalize. - Authorized the city manager to proceed with the paramedicine program and apply to the county for $75,000. - Approved MLK Jr. Boulevard street lighting scope of work (city pays half, $12,500). - Passed the America 250 KY joint resolution. - Approved change order No. 1 for three EC units (ambulances) for $1,064,697. - Approved a contract with Palmer Engineering for Streetscape phase 2 and 3 engineering services (funded by TAP grant). - Appointed Lucy Jenkins to a three-year term on the Historic Preservation Commission. - Approved educational certification incentive salary increases for certain personnel. - Approved amendments to position descriptions for payroll specialist/HR administrator and human resources coordinator/payroll specialist. - Approved reclassification of Joanna Brady from accounting clerk to lead payroll specialist/HR administrator. - Accepted the resignation of firefighter Kenneth Fall. All votes were unanimous unless noted.

The Winchester City Commission met on April 7, 2026, to review EMS March statistics, receive an update on employee health insurance renewal, and hear commissioner comments on community events. The meeting was followed by a work session on health insurance. Consent Calendar - Members approved a motion (by Commissioner Strode, seconded by Commissioner Chanel) related to the EMS totals for March 2026, which showed 220 calls and exceeded the next highest month by approximately $30,000. Commissioner Cox commended EMS staff and Chief Politley for the accomplishment, attributing it to the commission's support of staffing and equipment. The motion carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Correction of Name: The city manager corrected a previous reference to "Rocky Atkins," noting the correct spelling is A-D-K-I-N-S. - Employee Health Insurance Update (Work Session): Jeff Truitt of BIM Group presented the annual health insurance renewal. Key points included: - Proposed 4.3% budget increase with no changes to plan design. - Current enrollment: 164 employees covering 394 lives. - Dental and vision rates unchanged; vision benefit enhanced by moving to a VSP network (previously embedded in medical), providing discounts and copays. - Historical context: The city moved to a self-funded plan with Anthem network about 10–15 years ago, leading to more stable costs. Current plan year claims cost increased 27% year-over-year, but the lower increase is justified by: - A pending $70,000 stop-loss reimbursement. - Removal of high-cost claimants. - Recent five months running at 60% of budget. - City will pay 95% of the increase, employees 5%, resulting in a per-pay-cycle increase of $2–$6 depending on coverage. - The plan is above average in design and contribution level compared to other cities. - Commissioners expressed support for the recommendation; no formal vote was taken during the session. Commissioner Comments - Commissioner Strode: Reported on fundraising for the Beer Cheese Festival and Pioneer Festival, noting community generosity. He also mentioned the stage will be set up on Depot Street by Public Works and will remain until 11:30 p.m. - Commissioner Cox: Recruited work camp participants for 54 homes to be serviced in July. He also celebrated the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams winning state championships, clarifying that 1928 boys and girls titles were in a different format (six-on-six girls basketball). He noted that he coached girls’ basketball in the late 1980s and observed some teams still playing in skirts. - Commissioner Toole: Invited the public to a parade on Sunday, April 11, at 5 p.m., encouraging attendees to wear red Cardinal attire. Key Outcomes - Approval of EMS Report: The commission voted unanimously to approve the March 2026 EMS totals (motion by Strode, second by Chanel). - Health Insurance Direction: The work session concluded with consensus to move forward with the proposed 4.3% increase, plan enhancements, and employee contribution structure. Formal adoption may occur at a subsequent meeting. - Community Events Confirmed: The parade and festival activities were acknowledged and supported.

The Winchester City Commission met on March 17, 2026. The meeting included a presentation of the fiscal year 2025 audit (which received a clean opinion), a vote on an appeal of a denied beer cheese relief fund grant, a decision to pause the Downtown Development Incentive Fund (DDIF) program, acceptance of the resignation of the Strategic Communications and Downtown Development Director, second reading of an ordinance establishing safety officer duties, and several routine personnel actions. The meeting concluded with a closed session for property acquisition and potential litigation. Consent Calendar - Employing Dana Robbins as police officer three (discussion included welcome from commissioners). - Employing Darrell Daly and Monty Stamper as crossing guards. - Employing Anthony Epperson as operator one. - Amending the position description of administrative assistant/historic preservation commission assistant to administrative planning assistant (with a request to add attendance at board of adjustment meetings to examples of work). - Adopting a vehicle maintenance mechanics shop form and position description classification and pay plan. - Adopting a police officer three position description classification and pay plan. - Second reading and adoption of an ordinance establishing the duties of city safety officers (unanimous roll call vote). - Withdrawal of appeal (item 3B) by Catherine Pate and Cynthia Markham (Harlow's Lux Living) for a denied beer cheese relief fund grant. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak on items not on the agenda. Discussion Items Fiscal Year 2025 Audit Presentation - Tom Sparks of Summers McCreary & Sparks presented the audit. Key points: - The city received a clean (unmodified) audit opinion. - Cash increased by approximately $6.6 million, primarily due to a $12.3 million loan parked in capital funds. - Unassigned fund balance decreased from $5.1 million (2024) to $3.6 million (2025), prompting a warning about future budget monitoring. - Revenues rose $4.7 million (mainly federal grants); expenses increased $5.3 million (wages/benefits and capital expenditures such as police cruisers, fire truck, ladder truck). - A new accounting standard (GASB 101) required a $652,000 liability increase for compensated absences. - No compliance issues or audit findings were reported. - Finance Director Alicia thanked staff and the commission for their support, noting the audit represented her first full budget cycle. - The commission unanimously voted to adopt the audit. Appeal of Denied Beer Cheese Relief Fund Grant (Item 3A – Charlena Harman, The Hall) - City Manager Michael Flynn explained that the original grant process required a CPA to certify actual losses. The CPA who previously provided pro bono certification is no longer available, and the city's CPA refused to certify projected numbers. - The applicant could not provide verifiable actual losses, and providing their data to the city would make it public record (the previous process shredded documents after CPA review). - Commissioner Strode expressed a desire to help but noted difficulty without violating application requirements. - Whitney Leggett clarified that the application requirements were the same for all businesses; actual losses were required. - Commissioner Toole moved to deny the appeal, stating that if guidelines exist, they must be upheld. - Vote: 3-2 to deny the appeal (Commissioners opposed were not explicitly named, but the motion carried with three ayes and two nays). Pause of Downtown Development Incentive Fund (DDIF) Program - City Manager Flynn and Whitney Leggett recommended pausing the program for a minimum of 18–24 months due to lack of a sustainable revenue source. - Existing grants in progress (e.g., rental assistance) will be completed. Six applications already submitted will be held and processed when the program reopens (subject to updates). - Commissioner Toole noted that over $580,000 has been invested in downtown through the DDIF and related programs. - Motion to pause passed unanimously. Resignation of Whitney Leggett, Strategic Communications and Downtown Development Director - The commission accepted the resignation with regret. Several commissioners commented: - Commissioner Toole noted the position has high turnover and recommended serious revision or pause of the role. - Commissioner Chenault praised Leggett's leadership with downtown businesses and the beer cheese festival, calling the job the toughest in the city. - Mayor Reed thanked Leggett and noted her next position is with Berea College. - The resignation was accepted unanimously. Other Items - Item 6D (amending position description) included a discussion where Commissioner Strode requested adding attendance at board of adjustment meetings to the examples of work. Staff agreed to amend. Key Outcomes - The fiscal year 2025 audit was adopted unanimously. - The appeal of the denied beer cheese relief fund grant (The Hall) was denied by a 3–2 vote. - The DDIF program was paused for 18–24 months; existing grants continue. - Whitney Leggett's resignation was accepted. - The ordinance establishing city safety officer duties passed on second reading (unanimous roll call). - All personnel orders (crossing guards, operator, position description amendments) were approved. - The commission unanimously voted to adjourn to closed session for property acquisition (KRS Chapter 61.810(1)(b)) and potential litigation (KRS Chapter 61.810(1)(c)).

The meeting convened at 4:30 p.m. with a prayer led by Chief Thompson, followed by approval of previous minutes and departmental reports. The work session featured an extensive presentation from Police Chief Thompson on department operations, new personnel, canine therapy dog Gus, equipment upgrades, and federal programs. The city manager provided updates on infrastructure projects. The 4:30 session adjourned at approximately 5:21 p.m., with the 5:30 regular meeting to follow. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the February 17, 2026 special meeting (4:30 p.m.) and regular meeting (5:30 p.m.), and the March 3, 2026 special meeting (4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.). Motion by Commissioner Tools, second by Commissioner Strode; all in favor. - Approved departmental and agency reports as presented. Motion by Commissioner Chenaud, second by Commissioner Strode; all in favor. - Informational items in meeting packets were acknowledged without action. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the work session. Discussion Items - Police Department Presentation – Chief Thompson reported on the following: - Therapy Dog Gus: Introduced Gus, a 29‑pound Labrador retriever therapy dog acquired through a $10,700 grant (with $6,000 from the school board and local forfeiture funds totaling $22,000). Gus is trained for obedience, school visits, and comfort for families and children. He lives with Captain Charles, and four handlers are certified. Rural King and Tractor Supply will provide dog food. Gus will be groomed monthly. - Staffing: The department has 33 sworn officers (budgeted for 35). New officer Dana Robbins (formerly of Mount Sterling and Corpus Christi) will start on day shift. Two conditional job offers extended; five non‑certified applicants in background checks. Communication staff remains at 16 full‑time dispatchers and two part‑time. - Equipment and Training: A crime scene vehicle was purchased and equipped; evidence custodian Chief Palmer has processed major scenes. Duty weapons were replaced via grant from Glock to SIG Sauer P320 (duty) and P365 (off‑duty), switching from .40 to 9mm. Training showed improved accuracy. A joint Special Response Team (SRT) with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office was formed, led by Sergeant West Conway, currently with 14 WPD members. The SRT has deployed twice, successfully resolving incidents. Federal forfeiture funds totaling $1.2 million were received from IRS for past cases, now in a forfeiture account earning 4.25% interest. Code enforcement under WPD has handled 210 complaints since January 1, 2026. - ICE 287(g) Program: The department enrolled in the program in December 2025. Two officers completed training and conducted an immigration interview, making WPD the third active agency in Kentucky. This qualifies the department for $100,000 for two vehicles and $7,500 per officer for equipment. Additionally, WPD is checking on illegal immigrant children placed in foster care (10 checks so far, generating revenue). Chief Thompson emphasized the program targets only criminal illegal immigrants, not general sweeps. - Task Forces: A detective serves on the DEA task force, and another on the U.S. Marshals task force. Narcotics enforcement has reduced overdoses and drug availability. Photos of seized drugs and money were shown. - City Manager Comments: Mr. Dykman reported: - Fifth Street Stream Restoration Project: $350,000 project funded by an OSG grant; bids advertised March 17, opening March 31, with construction expected to start in July. - MLK Bridge Project: Met with engineers and Division of Water; permits in progress. Total project cost $1.8–$1.9 million, with city paying $25,000. Expected to improve fire response and traffic for three schools in the area. - Mayor’s Announcements: - The GRC girls basketball team recognition will be moved from April 7 to April 21 at 4:30 p.m. (to accommodate the KLC strategic plan presentation). Commissioners are asked to wear GRC attire. - A suggestion to hold a city commission meeting at Russell County High School was discussed; a committee (led by Joey) will explore feasibility. - Thanked Whitney Leggett for her service to the city. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve minutes and departmental reports passed unanimously. - Motion to adjourn the 4:30 meeting (made by Commissioner Cox, seconded by Commissioner Tool) passed unanimously at approximately 5:21 p.m. The 5:30 regular meeting was scheduled to follow. - No votes were taken on the police department presentation or city manager updates; they were for discussion and information. - The GRC girls basketball team will be honored on April 21 at 4:30 p.m. - A committee will be formed to explore holding a meeting at the high school.