U.S. Representative James Comer has voiced strong opposition to a proposal by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to introduce vehicle pass fees at the Kendall Recreation Area near Wolf Creek Dam starting in 2027.

In a recent statement, Comer’s office expressed total opposition to the proposed fees, criticizing the Corps of Engineers for failing to notify local lawmakers or provide details on how the fees would be administered or collected.

Comer raised concerns over potential operational costs, questioning whether the plan would require hiring additional federal personnel or installing expensive, high-maintenance kiosks. He also highlighted the potential impact on local commerce, noting that fees could reduce public access to Big Daddy’s Snack Shack, a local business operating within the recreation area.

"Congressman Comer is 100% opposed to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers attempt to charge visitors any fee to enjoy the beautiful Kendall Recreation Area," the statement read, adding that neither Comer nor Rep. Hal Rogers were informed prior to the announcement.

Sandy Simpson, Comer’s District Director, met with hundreds of concerned local residents at the Kendall Recreation Area to gather feedback and address community frustration. According to Simpson, Comer and Legislative Director Sarah Coffman are scheduled to speak directly with officials from the Army Corps of Engineers on Monday to demand that the proposed fee structure be dropped immediately.

Drawing parallels to a prior dispute over municipal water charges from Lake Cumberland, Comer’s office stated he plans to use all available resources to contest the plan and represent local interests during upcoming discussions with federal officials.