FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 31, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency ahead of severe weather that is expected to begin this evening in Western Kentucky, especially the Jackson Purchase area, and has a high probability of producing long-track, violent tornadoes.

The Governor noted this is the same area devastated by the December 2021 tornadoes, and according to the National Weather Service, there is a high probability of severe tornadoes moving through this area once again up to I-65. The rest of Kentucky, with the exception of the East, should expect violent thunderstorms followed by significant winds with wind gusts up to 55 miles per hour.

“If you are in Western Kentucky, you need to be in a safe shelter by 5 p.m. Central Time,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is the worst forecast I’ve seen as Governor. I am declaring a state of emergency so that we can be prepared. We are taking this very seriously and we need you to take this seriously, too. Please be prepared. Let’s do everything possible to keep everyone safe.”

Due to the forecast, the Governor is closing all Kentucky state office buildings located in the central time zone, today, Friday, March 31, 2023, beginning at 3 p.m. CT. This closure extends to employees who may live or work within the central time zone. Executive Branch employees should follow guidance from their agency.

The Governor also activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect families from grossly overpriced goods and services. With the state of emergency in place, consumers in the commonwealth can report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. Under state law, price gougers can be held accountable.

The Governor asked Kentuckians to avoid calling 911 for traffic and weather updates. The Kentucky State Police requests that if you see or suspect that someone is stranded on the roadways, contact KSP at 800-222-5555.

With the advanced warning, the Governor urges all Kentuckians to have a safety plan to locate in a secure place during the storms.

“Practice going there before the weather arrives. A storm shelter or a basement is the best. An interior hallway away from windows is the second best. If you are in a mobile home, get out. Be somewhere safe long before this hits. Go to a neighbor’s house, an underground shelter or a nearby permanent structure,” Gov. Beshear said. “Monitor the weather on weather.gov, by watching local TV or listening to NOAA weather radio. Contact your local emergency management office if you need to find a safe place to shelter.”

For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.
 

Today is Terry Russell Day in Russell Springs. Mayor Eddie Thomas recently proclaimed the day for Terry due to his long service to the city as the city’s Public Works Director. Terry is now officially retired from the position and WAVE NEWS wishes him the best on his retirement…

Unemployment rates rose in 105 counties between February 2022 and February 2023, fell in 10, and stayed the same in five counties, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency of the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet.

Locally, unemployment rates were up both month-to-month and year-to-year in Adair and all surrounding counties.
 

Woodford County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the commonwealth at 3.2%. It was followed by Fayette County, 3.4%; Oldham and Scott counties, 3.5% each; Anderson, Carroll, Jessamine and Marion counties, 3.6% each; Bourbon County, 3.7%; and Boone, Franklin and Washington counties, 3.8% each.

The Russell County Fiscal Court and Morgan Sanitation have announced a Free Trash Disposal Day coming up on Tuesday, April 18th from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Russell County Landfill.

The trash disposal day will be for Russell County residents only.

Organizers ask that if you have white goods, which include refrigerators, stoves, washers, or any metal material, they can be dropped off at the recycling center any day, free of charge.

At the upcoming trash disposal day, no tires or paint and paint cans will be accepted.

For more information, contact the Russell County Judge-Executive’s Office or Solid Waste Coordinator Ashley Coffey at 270-343-2112.

On March 29, 2023 at approximately 04:30 AM, Russell Springs Police Department Officer Vance Davis responded to a call regarding a female that had ditched a white truck and left on foot; other calls had been received concerning the female attempting to steal other vehicles.

Sarha Harris, 23, of Russell Springs, was taken into custody and charged with the following: Theft By Unlawful Taking - Auto $1,000 < $10,000. Ms. Harris was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

RSPD Officer Davis was assisted by RSPD Officer Jeremie West and Russell County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Phipps.

Jim Liebe has the report for Wave News...

Jimmy Jude, age 43, of Warfield Kentucky, was taken into custody by Deputy Adams of the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just after 5:30 yesterday afternoon. Jude is charged with Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition of Property $10,000 or More and lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 28, 2023) – In accordance with a proclamation from the White House, Gov. Andy Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff until sunset on Friday, March 31, 2023, in honor and remembrance of the victims of the acts of violence perpetrated on March 27 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the commonwealth to join in this tribute. Flag status information is available at https://governor.ky.gov/flag-status.
 

On Sunday, March 26th, 2023 at 8:30pmET, Campbellsville Emergency Services was dispatched to a vehicle vs. pedestrian injury accident on Lebanon Avenue near Wildflower Drive. Eugene Lewis of Campbellsville stepped from the side of the roadway into the lane of travel of George Lapradd of Campbellsville. Mr. Lapradd attempted to avoid striking Mr. Lewis, but was unable to and struck him with the side of his vehicle.

Eugene Lewis was airlifted to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment where he is listed in critical, but stable condition. The driver was not injured.

Campbellsville Police Department Sgt. Jonathon Leigh is investigating the accident.

The Russell County Animal Welfare League is hoping to bring Somerset’s Hope for All Pets Low-Cost Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic to Russell County twice monthly.

Clinics would be open for low-cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats belonging to any Russell County resident on a pre-registration basis until all spots are filled.

“We know how important providing access to spay/neuter is in bringing down the numbers of homeless dogs and cats in our community, keeping dogs and cats out of shelters, and from possibly being euthanized because of pet overpopulation,” League President Connie Foster said.

What this would entail for the building owner is:
? allowing the mobile clinic to park outside the building and plug into an outdoor electrical outlet.
? providing a small indoor space where animals could recover following spay/neuter procedures. The indoor space would need to be heated and cooled and have running water. The building owner would not need to be on-site during clinics and Animal Welfare League volunteers would do all cleanup following each clinic.

The Animal Welfare League is looking at further options to provide additional financial assistance for services for pets owned by residents over the age of 65 and residents who receive public assistance.

If you have a building that could be used for clinics two days each month, or for further information, contact Animal Welfare League volunteers by email at RussellCountyAnimalWelfare@gmail.com, by phone at 270-321-1313, or on Facebook at Russell Co. Animal Welfare League.

Area Arrest 3-28-23

Eddie Pierce, age 35, of Russell Springs was arrested by Trooper Harper with the Kentucky State Police just after 2 a.m. this morning. Pierce was charged with Criminal Mischief, 1^st Degree, Tampering with Physical Evidence, No Registration Receipt, No Registration Plates, Improper Display of Registration Plates, Theft of Motor Vehicle Registration Plate, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance 1^st, No Tai Lamps, Speeding 26 mph greater than Speed Limit, Reckless Driving, Failure to or Improper Signal, Fleeing or Evading Police, 1^st Degree (Motor Vehicle), Wanton Endagerment-1^st Degree-Police Officer, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree (greater than 2 grams of Meth), No Motorcycle Operators License and Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession. He was lodged into the Russell County Detention Center.

Pursuant to Kentucky Revised Statute 160.352 in a district of a minority population of eight percent or more, the screening committee for a superintendent search must include one minority parent. If you would like to be nominated or nominate a candidate for the minority parent member of the Superintendent screening committee, please stop by the Adair County Board of Education’s Central office and make your nomination by 3:00 pm on Wednesday March 29, 2023. The election of a minority parent screening member will be held on Friday March 31, 2023. If you would like to cast a vote for those that are nominated, please come to the Central office between the hours of 8:00 am – 3:00 pm on Friday March 31, 2023.

 

The Columbia Police Department is seeking to identify this male and female. If you can identify either or both parties please notify The Columbia Police Department directly or Adair 911’s non-emergency number. 270-384-6464.

On Saturday, March 25, 2023 at approximately 8:31pmCT, Russell Springs Police Department Officer Blake Adamson was dispatched to a hit & run collision that occurred at the intersection of Highway 80 and US 127. Updated information from dispatch advised Officer Adamson that the vehicle continued southbound on US 127 and crashed into a ditch in the area of Bernard Lane. After crashing, the driver fled the vehicle on foot. Officer Adamson made contact with the driver in the parking lot area of the Northridge Shopping Center.

Pablo Cruz, 36, was charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident-Failure to Render Aid or Assistance and DUI. Cruz was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

RSPD Officer Adamson was assisted on scene by RSPD Officer Brenton Lane.

Coleman Miller, age 30, of Russell Springs, was taken into custody by Deputy Golden with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just after midnight. Miller was charged with Careless Driving, Assault 3^rd Degree – Police Officer or Probation Officer, Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence Controlled Substance 1^st, No Operators-Moped License, Resisting Arrest, Criminal Mischief, 1^st Degree, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Possession Controlled Substance 1^st Degree 1^st Offense (Drug Unspecified), Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree and Non-Payment of Court Costs, Fees or Fines.

Carrie Bernard, age 43, of Russell Springs was arrested by Deputy Golden with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just after 3 a.m. Sunday morning. Bernard was charged with Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence Substance, 1^st Aggravated and Criminal Mischief, 1^st Degree…

Both were lodged into the Russell County Detention Center.

On Thursday morning, March 23, 2023 CPD Officers were dispatched to a residence on Oak Street where a caller had stated that a female was repeatedly knocking on the door and walking around her property.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 24, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined lawmakers, recovery and addiction prevention experts and an addiction survivor to sign two pieces of legislation that support ongoing efforts to help Kentuckians fighting addiction.

In addition to the new laws, the Governor said Kentucky is leading the way in providing treatment services to Kentuckians through the state’s Treatment Access Program, which allows those without health insurance to enter residential treatment, and by creating Recovery Ready Communities, expanding health care coverage and increasing treatment beds. The state has increased the number of treatment beds by 50% since the Governor took office in 2019.

“My faith teaches me that there are second chances in this life and that we are all our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. To help every Kentuckian reach their full potential, we must live out our faith and values and help those struggling overcome,” Gov. Beshear said. “Let me tell you, this isn’t a battle that is going to be won in a day. We have to fight for the inches, that become the miles of progress. Thanks to a lot of folks working together.”

“I would just like to thank the Governor, the legislators that are here, our providers, our advocates and also thank those of you who are here with lived experience with substance use disorder, because we rely on you to help build the best system,” said Dr. Allen Brenzel of the Department for Behavioral Health. “I would also like to offer condolences to anybody who has lost a loved one. We know we are losing an average of six Kentuckians a day. Those are your brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, teachers, lawyers, doctors, plumbers. We know that is a loss of incredible human potential. We want you to know we have an incredibly complex plan to address this.”

“Thank you, Governor, and thank you for your leadership for all the way back to your time as attorney general. You kept addiction at the forefront of the problems we face in Kentucky,” said Van Ingram, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy. “We have to get it right. We have to keep fighting this fight every day.”

The Governor added that just today, his administration issued a Request for Proposal for support and oversight of mobile crisis intervention service providers across the state, which further supports those facing addiction as well as those in need of suicide and crisis intervention. 

House Bill 248
This legislation supports recovery housing by setting requirements for certification, operation and oversight of these residences. It is also aimed at helping these resources be more accessible and equitable.

“Our hope is potential barriers can be identified – like location, transportation and language services accommodations – and that programs can be created to overcome these obstacles and get more people the quality care they need,” Gov. Beshear said.

Last year, Gov. Beshear announced a new searchable website to help people in recovery find housing, FindRecoveryHousingNowKY.org.

“We are fortunate to have a governor and General Assembly that are so committed to addressing the social determinants of recovery and improving outcomes for individuals impacted by substance use,” said founder and CEO of Addiction Recovery Care Tim Robinson Jr. “For people earlier on in their recovery journeys, having a safe place to stay can make all the difference. House Bill 248 ensures that Kentuckians across the state will have access to quality housing as they transition out of a treatment program and work toward reentering society.” 

President of the Kentucky Recovery Housing Network advisory board Gene Detherage Jr. said, “Quality recovery housing provides, safe, affordable and recovery-supportive environments for individuals to maintain a lifestyle of recovery from substance use disorders. When we bridge the gap for people to move from acute care treatment programs with recovery housing, we give them the support and opportunity to rebuild their lives and find their place in the commonwealth. Recovery housing is a key building block to moving forward and empowering individuals to live full and productive lives which then go on to benefit every other life they touch.”

“Today’s signing of House Bill 248 continues to grow the hope that Gov. Beshear has already given to those struggling with addiction,” said Ashley Adkins, general counsel and vice president of outreach and development for Edgewater Recovery Center. “By protecting access to quality mental health and substance use treatment, we can improve outcomes, reduce stigma and make real progress toward saving the lives of our community members and loved ones.” 

“The transition to recovery housing can be a particularly vulnerable time for individuals who are recovering from substance use disorders. Under House Bill 248, Kentuckians will have protection against substandard housing providers that care more about profits than the health, well-being and safety of those in recovery,” said Chief Financial Officer for Stepworks, Deron Bibb.

“Every step taken to expand access to recovery services and treatment can make a difference in the lives of so many people fighting addiction,” said Barry Martin, CEO of Primary Care Centers of Eastern Kentucky and its spinoff treatment center, Beacons of Hope. “I am grateful to Gov. Beshear and the General Assembly for pushing through and signing legislation that will help more Kentuckians overcome addiction and go on to live healthier, fuller lives.”

“As our commonwealth faces the scourge of addiction head on, we are fortunate to have more and more options for recovery. HB 248 provides guidelines for those interested in operating a recovery house to ensure consistent standards of care and services across the state,” said Rep. Samara Heavrin. “I appreciate my local officials for working with me on this issue, my fellow lawmakers for their bipartisan support and the Governor for signing it into law.”

“House Bill 248 is transformative for the City of Elizabethtown,” Mayor Jeff Gregory said. “There are over 80 sober-living facilities in our city and we’re thrilled to be able to get legislation in place that will enable us to monitor and enforce regulations that secure these facilities are operating correctly for those at the most vulnerable stage of their life.”

Mayor Gregory added, “It’s a great day for recovery patients and it’s a great day for Kentucky cities, like Elizabethtown.”

“HB248 ensures quality standards of care will be provided to those vulnerable individuals who are seeking addiction services,” said Elizabethtown Police Chief Jeremy Thompson. “It will also help protect our citizens from bad actors being brought in from out of town who aren’t interested in recovery and who are victimizing our citizens.”

House Bill 148
This legislation will ensure direct payments from health insurance to the facilities providing care. Ultimately, this will not just help with the direct payments, but make things easier for those receiving treatment and their family members involved.

“We are committed to removing key barriers so that more Kentuckians battling opioid addiction can get help,” said Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander. “The cabinet’s implementation of the Governor’s and General Assembly’s initiatives has saved lives. We will continue to partner with all our communities to make a difference, remove stigma and bring needed treatment to everyone who wants help.”

Treatment Resources 
Call the KY Help Call Center at 833-8KY-HELP (833-859-4357) to speak one-on-one with a specialist who can connect Kentuckians to treatment.

Visit findhelpnowky.org to find information about available space in treatment programs and providers based on location, facility type and category of treatment needed.

Visit the KSP website to find one of KSP’s 16 posts where those suffering from addiction can be paired with a local officer who will assist with locating an appropriate treatment program. The Angel Initiative is completely voluntary, and individuals will not be arrested or charged with any violations if they agree to participate in treatment.

For a video from Gov. Beshear on available treatment and resources, and the importance of knowing how to respond to an overdose, click here.

According to Adair County Sheriff Josh Brockman, the suspect wanted in connection with property crimes has been identified.

Sheriff Brockman says they would like to thank everyone for their calls in helping ID the suspect. He said calls immediately started coming in after media outlets posted the picture on their websites. Brockman says they were able to identify the suspect within 24 hours.

Albert Wilson, 35, of Burkesville, KY was arrested by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office early Friday morning. Wilson was charged with Careless Driving, Operating Motor Vehicle under Influence Alcohol/Substance, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Possession of Controlled Substance, 3^rd Degree (Drug Unspecified), Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree (Meth), Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree (Opiates), Operating on Suspended or Revoked Operators License, and Failure to Surrender Revoked Operators License.

Kelly Smith, 35, of Burkesville, KY was arrested on Thursday evening by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office for Wanton Endangerment 1^st Degree, Endangering the Welfare of a Minor, and Abandonment of a Minor.

Both were lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 23, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on recent bill signings; transportation funding; recovery efforts in Eastern Kentucky; an emergency regulation for a controlled substance; upcoming inclement weather; a new teacher apprenticeship program; and public health. He also named the students who competed in this year’s Governor’s Cup academic competition as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Measure to Stop Sale of ‘Gas Station Heroin’
Today, the Governor signed an emergency regulation classifying all products containing tianeptine, an unregulated drug known as “gas station heroin” that produces opioid-like effects, as a Schedule I controlled substance. Tianeptine, which is available online and in convenience stores and gas stations, has no known medical use. It has been linked to serious harm, overdoses and death according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

For resources on addiction and recovery, Kentuckians can visit findhelpnowky, the Kentucky Opioid Response Effort website, or call 833-8KY-HELP. To read more, see the full release.

Upcoming Weather
The National Weather Service and Kentucky Emergency Management are tracking a heavy rain event expected to peak tonight and continue through Friday night. There is a high potential for flash flooding and minor to moderate river flooding. The most impacted areas are in Northern Kentucky along the Ohio River into Southern Indiana.

There is also the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms Friday afternoon and evening with damaging winds, large hail and the potential for isolated tornadoes. The Governor encouraged Kentuckians to:

• Visit floodsmart.gov to see flood risks;
• Have a plan for getting to higher ground quickly;
• Have multiple ways to receive flash flood warnings; and
• Never walk or drive through flooded roadways.

Paid Apprenticeship Program in Nelson County To Build Teacher Pipeline
The Governor highlighted a program that will provide a streamlined pathway for high school students to become classroom teachers. In partnership with Western Kentucky University (WKU), Nelson County Schools has received state and federal approval to launch an apprenticeship program. This program will allow students to enroll in a dual-credit curriculum at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College and WKU, earning up to 59 hours of college credit while still in high school.

The paid apprenticeship will begin during the student’s junior or senior year of high school. Upon high school graduation, student apprentices will continue to be paid employees of Nelson County Schools while enrolled at WKU to complete the remaining 61 hours needed to earn their bachelor’s degree. For additional information about apprenticeships and more, visit kyworks.ky.gov.

“Teacher recruitment and retention has been a top priority for my administration since day one. I’m excited to highlight a trailblazing effort by Nelson County Schools to tackle this critical workforce issue,” said Gov. Beshear. “This program will serve as a national model to address the teacher shortage by growing the next generation of educators right there in their school district.”

Transportation Funding
Today, Gov. Beshear announced his approval of more than $1 million in discretionary transportation funding to six counties for road repairs. The funding is administered through the Department of Rural and Municipal Aid in the Transportation Cabinet. The counties receiving this new round of funding are Daviess, Knott, Lyon, Robertson, Simpson and Trimble.

“Our communities need safe, well-maintained local streets and roads in order to grow and thrive. The funding I’m announcing today will make a positive difference in these communities,” said Gov. Beshear. “Local streets and roads are vitally important to the Kentuckians who rely on them every day, and I’m glad to be able to offer this type of support.”

Eastern Kentucky Flood Update
The Governor provided an update on Eastern Kentucky’s rebuilding efforts.

Currently, 179 families are housed in travel trailers, and Kentucky State Parks are now housing 16 people, down from the 360 people sheltered on Sept. 1, 2022.

As of this week, over $1.1 million has been committed to building new homes and home repairs with nonprofit partners, including the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, Housing Development Alliance and Homes Inc.

The administration released a new Request for Proposal (RFP) for Program Management expertise. Proposals from interested parties are due by 3:30 p.m. EDT Friday, March 24. To learn more about this RFP, visit the Finance and Administration Cabinet’s website or click here.

If flood victims need help, they should call FEMA directly or visit a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC). The MARCs will be open until March 31. The centers are on a rotating schedule, which consists of two onsite personnel and one remote support person as needed. The staff will rotate from county to county each day. Visit governor.ky.gov/FloodResources for more information.

The Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund has raised over $13.2 million from more than 41,500 donors. To contribute, click here.

Governor Signs Bills into Law
Gov. Beshear joined lawmakers and advocates to sign seven pieces of legislation recently passed by the General Assembly.

House Bill 180 establishes biomarker testing coverage requirements for health benefit plans. Biomarker testing is a way to track the progression of certain diseases, especially tumors. The testing looks for genes that can provide information about the possibility of future cancer diagnoses. This bill requires health benefit plans to cover biomarker testing when it is deemed clinically appropriate by a qualified health care provider to treat, manage, diagnose or monitor the patient’s disease.

“This testing can prevent many unnecessary deaths and illnesses,” Gov. Beshear said. “This is another important step forward in improving people’s access to health care and treatment across the commonwealth.”

“What House Bill 180 does is get the right treatment at the right time to the right patient. I know we’ve all been touched by cancer here in Kentucky. We have the unfortunate ranking as No. 1 in lung cancer in the nation, and we seek to change that. We are moving in the right direction,” said Rep. Kim Moser of Taylor Mill. “This will save money, this will save lives. It will mitigate the long-term health effects that we see from cancer treatments that may or may not work. Again, this is an exciting day for Kentucky. Thanks again to Gov. Beshear.”

“This is a huge step forward for the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the people of Kentucky to get access to testing,” said Tony Remington, chief executive officer and co-founder of Gravity Diagnostics in Covington. “This is extremely important in the behavioral mental health space, so we are really excited about where we can go forward, working together to improve health care outcomes across the commonwealth. I want to thank Gov. Beshear and Rep. Moser, and I look forward to working hard to implement this bill.”

House Bill 146 requires the Office of Unemployment Insurance to change the minimum number of weeks for benefits from 12 to 16. It also requires the office to advise a claimant approved for Unemployment Insurance to be notified of additional benefits, training opportunities and financial aid resources available to them.

Last year, the Governor vetoed House Bill 4, the bill that cut weeks of unemployment for folks who may have spent more than a decade in a career and then were laid off.

This bill comes two weeks after the Governor announced that Kentucky set the lowest annual unemployment rate in state history for 2022 at 3.9%. The Governor emphasized that in order to continue this success, we need to continue supporting Kentuckians. The Governor also noted that Kentucky is one of only a few states that does not offer up to 26 weeks of unemployment.

“My faith teaches me that we should lift up our neighbors when they are hurting, not kick them down,” Gov. Beshear said. “Unemployment insurance is a critical resource for our families when they are hit with the unexpected, so we need to do everything we can to support it. This bill is a step in the right direction, but there is still work to be done.”

Senate Bill 30 protects Kentucky consumers from predatory practices related to automatic renewals and continuous service offers. The bill requires companies to be clear and transparent about when and how much a customer will be charged when it comes to paid subscriptions. The bill also requires more transparency about cancellation policies and changes in terms and conditions.

Susan Westrom, a former state representative from Lexington who previously sponsored the bill, joined Gov. Beshear for the signing and said, “It is wonderful to see that Kentucky is protecting our consumers who have unwittingly been charged for renewed subscriptions they did not renew.”

Senate Bill 281 requires the state to implement a strategy to replace at least 50% of the state fleet with qualified hybrid, fuel cell and other alternative motor vehicles and increase the use of alternative fuels.

House Bill 544 implements state regulation of Delta 8 products. The bill implements part of the Gov. Beshear’s 2022 executive order that establishes a regulatory structure to ensure that Delta 8 is sold and purchased safely in the commonwealth. Delta 8 contains THC, but at a lower level than marijuana. It is not a controlled substance in Kentucky nor under federal law, and a court has ruled that it is legal in Kentucky.

“This regulatory structure to ensure that Delta 8 is sold and purchased safely in the commonwealth can and will also serve as a template for when the General Assembly fully legalizes medical cannabis,” Gov. Beshear said. “We want Kentuckians to have access to the resources they need for relief. We want to make sure they can do that safely, and this bill is a good first step.”

“House Bill 544 makes it illegal for anybody under the age of 21 to purchase Delta 8. It’s going to require it to be behind the counter or in a secure cabinet, and it’s going to require labeling and batch testing to look for those dangerous residuals that can be left behind,” said Rep. Rebecca Raymer of Morgantown. “I want to thank the great leadership team that was supportive of this bill and my colleagues in the House and Senate for voting unanimously for it, and I thank Gov. Beshear for signing this important piece of legislation today.”

House Joint Resolution 76 relates to Kentucky State Parks funding. The bill designates $40 million towards campground upgrades, $20 million toward utility upgrades and $6 million towards broadband and wi-fi upgrades. Unfortunately, the bill also does not fund $40 million in building systems improvements, $22 million in accommodation upgrades and $22 million in recreational amenity upgrades. Without this vital funding, Kentucky State Parks are unable to make crucial infrastructure, accommodation and recreational improvements. The Governor also warned that this legislation could result in Jenny Wiley State Park shutting down.

“I am going to sign this legislation because of all the good funding it brings to our state parks –but we have an urgent need to do more,” Gov. Beshear said. “I urge the General Assembly to use the rest of the legislative session to right these wrongs and give our beautiful state parks the funding they need and deserve.”

“This funding is a great start for critical improvements,” said Department of Parks Commissioner Russ Meyer. “Of course, we have other important needs on our list that we’d like to see addressed in the future to keep our parks competitive and to continue to draw tourism in high numbers. Jenny Wiley, which housed many flood victims from Eastern Kentucky, does have structural and geotech issues. Lake Barkley, which housed our tornado victims in Western Kentucky, needs major structural repairs. Our parks do so much: they provide employment for communities across the commonwealth, they build tax revenue and they contribute to Kentucky’s cultural legacy. Thank you, Governor, for today’s acknowledgement and recognizing the importance of our parks. We pledge to continue the good work and to implement these projects promptly.”

Lastly, Senate Joint Resolution 58 designates the route from Camp Nelson in Jessamine County to the Kentucky/Ohio border at Mays Lick as the Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Historical Corridor. Brigadier General Charles Young was the child of enslaved parents and the third African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1889. He went on to a distinguished military and public service career. In February 2020, the Governor posthumously promoted Col. Charles Young to the honorary rank of brigadier general in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The bill also directs that the corridor be denoted with signage and that the state work to promote the historical, military and cultural significance of the corridor and to work with their counterparts in Ohio to promote the corridor as a regional attraction.

“I am so proud to know that everyone who passes through this area will know the name Charles Young,” Gov. Beshear said. “We have the responsibility to honor him and his legacy, and this is another step we are taking to ensure that.”

“It’s a great day to be alive when we have an opportunity to recognize this great legacy and the wonderful contributions that will occur from this corridor,” said Rodney Bennett of the Mason County Brigadier General Charles Young Cabin Committee. “This corridor will not only highlight the importance and significance of African American history, but African American history is American history, so it will serve as a catalyst to bring forth tourism and opportunities within this area, as well as champion the wonderful work and wonderful life that this gentleman led.”

“We owe Brigadier General Young – and his family – a debt of gratitude for the freedom we have today because of his service. I am proud that the Commonwealth of Kentucky continues to recognize his legacy and give him the respect he deserves,” said Justice and Public Safety Cabinet Deputy Secretary Keith Jackson.

“We are thrilled to see Gov. Beshear sign legislation to designate the route as the Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Historical Corridor. We in Mason County believe this honor will not only highlight the historical commitment Charles Young made to this country, but it will also recognize and educate others on the achievements, bravery and strength of African Americans throughout our history. Mason County is grateful for this action and we know it will have a positive impact for generations to come,” said Buddy Gallenstein of Mason County.

“Mason County is elated with the bipartisan work completed on behalf of Mason County’s own Brigadier General Charles Young and the Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Historic Corridor. Brigadier General Young’s impactful life is the perfect example of the authentic history Maysville and Mason County are blessed with. The Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Corridor highlights our local history and such an impactful life, bolsters regional economic development between Kentucky and Ohio, and supports our local cabin committee’s intentions of transferring the cabin into the National Park Service,” said Mason County Judge/Executive Owen McNeill. “I appreciate the efforts from Senator West and Neal as well as our State Rep. William Lawrence and, of course, Gov Beshear for all they’ve done in support of Mason County’s Brigadier General Charles Young birthplace cabin located in Mayslick.”

“On behalf of the National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations, it gives us great pleasure to see the Governor sign the resolution designating the Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Corridor. This designation encompasses five historical sites in Kentucky, encourages the extension into Ohio which will potentially include an additional five sites,” said Charles Blatcher III, chair of the National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations. “This act enhances visibility of little-known locations of historical importance in the region to the nation. Executing this bill provides a runway that will allow the posting of signage for public consumption throughout the region. The coalition has worked tirelessly over recent years to achieve the goal of bringing recognition to the Kentucky/Ohio Region. We look forward to posting and unveiling signage in the coming months. Ready and forward!”

Public Health
Gov. Beshear said that, over the past four weeks, COVID-19 case incidence has decreased. Since last week, the number of COVID-19 patients that are hospitalized, in the ICU or on a ventilator has also decreased.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear named the students who competed in the Governor’s Cup academic competition as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. Gov. Beshear also thanked and highlighted the work of the Kentucky Association for Academic Competition, coaches, parents and caregivers who supported the students.

“Congratulations to every Kentucky student who participated. It’s a huge accomplishment to take part in this program, and you should all be proud. I know we are proud of you,” said Gov. Beshear.

The Adair County School Board met for a Special Meeting on Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Here's Adair Co. Supt. Dr. Pamela Stephens...

Edmonton, Ky. (March 22, 2023) – Kentucky State Police in Columbia received information from the Pulaski County dispatch of a strong armed robbery and theft of a vehicle from Somerset at approximately 10:34amCT. The vehicle, a black Kia Soul, was last seen on the Cumberland Parkway traveling west.  

KSP Trooper Jamie Heller, along with other Troopers from the Columbia Post, were given the vehicle information to attempt to locate on the Parkway. Heller was able to locate the vehicle traveling west on the Parkway at a high rate of speed. When Heller attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver, identified as 32-year-old Matthew Cole of Madison, TN, refused to stop and accelerated to speeds over 100 mph. During the pursuit, Cole stopped his vehicle in the roadway and shifted to reverse ramming his vehicle into the front of Heller's police Tahoe. Cole continued west where Troopers with Columbia Post were able to successfully use tire deflation devices. Cole ran the vehicle off the right side of the Parkway through a fence into a field. 

Cole was taken into custody after a short foot pursuit. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail and charged with the following:
 

1. Speeding 26 mph or greater
2. Reckless Driving
3. Operating on a Suspended License
4. Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree (Motor Vehicle)
5. Fleeing or Evading Police 2nd Degree (On Foot)
6. Resisting Arrest
7. Assault 3rd Degree (Police Officer)
8. Wanton Endangerment 2nd Degree
9. Recovery of Stolen Property
10. Armed Robbery 1st Degree &
11. Theft of a Motor Vehicle over $10,000

Trooper Jamie Heller is investigating and was assisted by units from KSP Post 15 in Columbia, the Metcalfe County Sheriffs Office, and EMS.

Date Issued:   3/10/2023
Time Issued:  9:00 a .m.

A BOIL WATER ADVISORY is in effect for consumers of Ray Coffey Rd, 2410-3103 Milltown Rd, 55-1139 Portland Rd, & Charlie Smith Rd. The advisory has been issued due to main line leak. Following such an event, the potential exists for bacteriological contamination of the water supply therefore this Boil Water Advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure. Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking, bringing the water to a rolling boil for three minutes before using. This advisory will remain in effect until the situation has been corrected and test results have shown the water to be of an acceptable quality. For more information concerning the Boil Water Advisory, contact Lennon Stone at Columbia Adair Utilities District, 270-384-2181.

It was a busy meeting for school leaders at last nights Russell County Board of Education meeting. Superintendent Michael Ford spoke with WAVE NEWS and discussed what took place... 

WAVE News asked Supt. Ford about a recent alleged incident in the school district involving a teacher and a male RCHS student. Mr. Ford stated that Aaron Bunch resigned his teaching position with the Russell County School System effective Monday, March 20, 2023 and that no other comment could be given at this time due to an ongoing investigation.

The Columbia Police Department made an arrest for sexual assault after concluding an investigation which began on February 16, 2023. The victim, a female juvenile, originally came forward while attending Adair County High School stating a family friend had sexually assaulted her while frequently visiting her residence. 

The investigating officer received an order to remove the female from the residence while the investigation was ongoing and found sufficient evidence to bring charges against one male subject. 

Jeremiah Shatzer, 36, of Columbia was taken into custody on Monday evening, March 20, 2023 without incident while he was at his place of work. Shatzer has been charged with rape first degree; a class B felony.
 

Additionally, a family member of the victim, James Manning, 30, of Columbia has been charged with assault 4th degree (domestic violence) in connection with the investigation. 

CPD Officer Holly Necessary is the investigating Officer.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 20, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear was joined by health care leaders and lawmakers in the Capitol Rotunda for a bill-signing ceremony honoring the passage of legislation that expands health care services for Kentuckians.

The measure, House Bill 75, also supports Kentucky’s hospitals by boosting Medicaid payment rates for outpatient procedures performed at hospitals. The law is expected to provide needed budgetary support for hospitals, especially the state’s rural health care facilities.

“More than any other entity, Kentucky’s hospitals have felt the strain of increased demand on resources and services as we’ve dealt with the impacts of a global pandemic over the past three years as well as devastating weather events,” said Gov. Beshear. “We must do everything we can to support our hospitals and ensure they are equipped to provide the services and care needed in their communities. I am thrilled to sign HB 75 into law, ensuring that our hospitals, especially our rural providers, can continue to improve health outcomes for all our Kentucky families.”

“HB 75 is aimed at improving access to quality health care to each and every Kentuckian as well as serving as a lifeline to rural hospitals serving communities throughout our commonwealth,” said Rep. Brandon Reed of Hodgenville. “With HB 75 now granting access to hospitals to be reimbursed for outpatient services, hospitals will be able to harness federal resources while using those state funds. This measure simply builds on legislation we approved in 2019 with Rep. Bam Carney, and 2021 with HB 183. I thank the Kentucky Hospital Association, which once again trusted me with their legislation, and my primary co-sponsor, Dr. Danny Bentley, for his help and guidance through this process. Thank you to the many co-sponsors on both sides of the aisle and thank you to our governor for your approval.”

The new law, which was supported by the Kentucky Hospital Association (KHA), requires the state’s Department for Medicaid Services to assess outpatient services and provide additional payments to hospitals to reduce payment gaps between Medicaid reimbursements and what would be paid by private health insurance. The measure also allows Medicaid to create a hospital rate increase program for individuals enrolled in its fee-for-service program to pay up to the upper payment limit of the federal Medicare program. The legislation is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2023.

“The passage of HB 75 and the Governor signing the bill into law will help to strengthen and stabilize hospitals and health systems throughout the commonwealth, especially those in rural areas of Kentucky who have been historically vulnerable,” said Donald H. Lloyd II, President/CEO of St. Claire HealthCare in Morehead. “The Governor’s leadership and the collaborative work of the House and Senate on this matter is a testament to our state’s leadership and his ongoing commitment to ensure access to high-quality health care for all Kentuckians.”

Chief Executive Officer at Pikeville Medical Center Donovan Blackburn said: “Through and by the adoption of HB 75 into law, this is truly a lifesaving action. This will not only save hospital jobs and services but also imagine what would happen to businesses, especially in rural communities, that depend on local hospital purchases and wages to support their businesses. This is a significant piece of legislation at a time of our state’s greatest need in order to preserve the quality of care for all Kentuckians.”

“Hospitals are on the front lines of Kentucky’s health care system and are absolutely vital to our state and ensuring that all Kentuckians have access to lifesaving services and care,” said Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander. “We are excited to launch this program to provide additional support to the commonwealth’s hospital community and ensure members of the Medicaid program have access to quality treatment and care – whenever they need it.”

“The Kentucky Medicaid program serves one out of every three Kentuckians,” said Department for Medicaid Services Commissioner Lisa Lee. “The additional funding provided through HB 75 will allow hospitals to continue to deliver quality care designed to improve the lives of those we serve and, as a native of Eastern Kentucky, I am excited for the opportunities this legislation will provide for our rural communities. The department is thankful for the collaboration of all involved in this important legislation. Gov. Beshear’s signature on this legislation demonstrates his commitment to ensuring health care is available to all Kentuckians.”

“The Kentucky Hospital Association and its member hospitals are grateful to bill sponsor Brandon Reed and Sen. Steve Meredith for being champions of rural hospitals, along with the legislative leadership and Gov. Beshear for their support in making HB 75 a reality,” stated KHA President & CEO Nancy Galvagni. “HRIP has been a lifeline for the state’s hospitals as they faced the most challenging financial times in recent history. Adjusting the program to include outpatient care for Medicaid patients will further the program’s goal, especially in rural hospitals. Keeping the doors open ensures all Kentuckians will continue to have access to the quality care they need.”

Gov. Beshear has also worked to strengthen our health care systems. In 2021, he announced that Kentucky hospitals would receive an additional $800 million to $1 billion annually to help advance the quality of care of Medicaid members and provide a stable base for hospitals that are extending beyond the financial challenges of the pandemic. That same year, the Governor announced that Kentucky hospitals meeting federal quality measures could receive up to $1.1 billion in increased payments the next year to help deliver and expand quality health care to the commonwealth’s Medicaid members.

Gov. Beshear believes that health care is a basic human right and has worked to expand access to care. During his first week in office, the Governor expanded access to critical health care for nearly 100,000 Kentuckians by eliminating governmental roadblocks.

In an effort to improve maternal and child health outcomes and increase access to life-saving health care services for more Kentuckians, Gov. Beshear expanded Medicaid coverage to a full 12-month postpartum period.

The Governor also relaunched kynect, which offers health coverage options for every Kentuckian. The program was expanded to include many other programs that can help our families in need, including access to food benefits.

The annual Kevin Williams Hometown Concert to raise money for children in Russell County is looking to be the biggest ever.  

Russell County native, Kevin Williams, celebrates his 30th year as guitarist and band leader for the Gaithers.  He is the longest-running band leader in a Christian music TV series in history. His studio career includes playing guitar on over 3,000 recording projects and over 2 million units sold with over 120 gold and platinum projects. 

Williams says he is so grateful for how Russell County comes together for this cause.

For the last 9 years, “Kevin’s Kids” has raised record amounts of money to be used exclusively for the needs of children in Russell County. 

This years celebration concert event will be at the Russell Springs First Baptist Church Saturday, April 15th at 6pm. It's absolutely free and will feature some of the local musicians who influenced Williams, whom he holds in high regard such as Larry Beasley and the Crossroads Quartet.  

Williams also brings in major musical talents every year. Past celebrities have included Grammy winner Russ Taff, Buddy Greene, and Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, and Wes Hampton among others. 

This year, in addition to his local regulars, Williams brings with him from the Gaither tour, Michael Shade Rowsey, along with the award-winning pianist Matthew Holt. There will also be a community choir. The concert will feature special guest and Grammy nominee, Todd Suttles of the Gaither Vocal Band. Suttles is internationally known and loved. 

Individual businesses can help sponsor the organization and the fundraising. For more information, call 270-866-6495. Doors open at 5pmCT pm Saturday, April 15th for the big concert.

Corey Sheppard, 22, of Russell Springs was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon by Kentucky State Police. Sheppard was charged with No Registration Receipt, No Registration Plates, Improper Display of Registration Plates, Failure to Wear Seat Belts, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Failure of Non-Owner/Operator to Maintain Required Insurance, Operating on Suspended or Revoked Operators License, Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence of Controlled Substance, Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (more than 2 grams of Meth).  He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

The Russell County School Board will meet on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 4:30pmCT ...

The Adair County School Board will meet on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at 6:00pmCT at the Board of Education Conference Room. The meeting is open to the public.

**Meeting called to order**

***Pledge of Allegiance***

***Prayer***

1.   APPROVAL OF AGENDA

2.   APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

3.   APPROVAL OF MINUTES

4.   APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT

5.   APPROVAL OF PAYMENT OF BILLS

6.   APPROVAL OF SHORTENED SCHOOL DAY WAIVER TO KDE FOR STUDENT

• 2120299995

7.   ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PERSONNEL ACTION

REGULAR AGENDA

8.   SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

• Presentation of GRREC Kentucky Educator Rank Change

9.   UPDATE ON CURRICULUM/DEEPER LEARNING – Sarah Hatton/Susan Pfefferman

10.   APPROVAL TO UPDATE JOB DESCRIPTION OF CURRICULUM RESOURCE TEACHER TO INSTRUCTIONAL COACH AND TO INCREASE THEIR EXTENDED DAY CONTRACT FROM 10 TO 20 DAYS – Sarah Hatton

11.   APPROVAL OF 2023-2024 ADAIR COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION ATHLETIC/ACADEMIC AND EXTRA SERVICE STIPENDS – Craig Biggs

12.   APPROVAL FOR CUMBERLAND FAMILY MEDICAL TO USE THE ADAIR COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL FIELD/FACILITIES OR IN CASE OF RAIN THE ADAIR COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL GYM ON SATURDAY APRIL 29, 2023 FROM 9:00AM TO 12:00PM FOR A MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS EVENT AND APPROVAL TO WAIVE FEES – Jennifer Blair

13.   APPROVAL OF ADAIR COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOLD 8^TH GRADE FORMAL ON FRIDAY MAY 12, 2023 AT THE RED BARN EVENT RENTAL - Rodney Morgeson

14.   APPROVAL OF STUDENT TEACHER AGREEMENT BETWEEN CAMPBELLSVILLE UNIVERSITY AND ADAIR COUNTY SCHOOLS

15.   APPROVAL OF DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY PLAN – Jason Rector

16.   DISCUSSION/APPROVAL OF PHONE SYSTEM PROPOSAL – Jason Rector

17.   APPROVAL OF NEW FAMILY RESOURCE 21^ST CENTURY PROGRAM SALARY SCALE – Jaimie Wisdom

18.   APPROVAL OF 2023 ADAIR COUNTY SCHOOL STAFFING ALLOCATION GUIDELINES REVISION – Jaimie Wisdom

19.   APPROVAL OF MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Jaimie Wisdom

20.   BUILDINGS & GROUNDS UPDATE – Steve Burton

21.   PUBLIC COMMENTS

22.   ADJOURNMENT

• Adair County Cattlemen's Association, Inc. was approved $16,000 in Adair County funds to run a Youth Cost Share Program. For more information, contact tbright@uky.edu.

• Green Terrace Market was approved $33,050 in Daviess County funds to purchase refrigeration equipment. For more information, contact Johnkharralson@gmail.com.

• Kenton County Fiscal Court was approved $250,000 in state and Kenton County funds to build a farmers’ market pavilion in downtown Independence, Ky. For more information, contact scott.gunning@kentoncounty.org.

• Kentucky Department of Agriculture was approved $210,000 in state funds over a two-year period (2023-2024) to continue to support the Kentucky Grape and Wine Council (KGWC). For more information, contact tyler.madison@ky.gov.

• Bath ($284,900)
• Bell ($30,000)
• Boone ($13,507)*
• Madison ($235,000)
• Mason ($66,150)*
• Montgomery ($83,000)
• Owen ($150,000)
• Rowan ($93,639)
• Spencer ($135,500)

• Bath ($5,000)
• Mercer ($13,375)

• Laurel ($15,300)
• Mercer ($16,750)

• Bath ($35,000)
• Mercer ($15,000)

Unemployment rates fell in 79 counties between January 2022 and January 2023, rose in 28, and stayed the same in 13 counties, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency of the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet.

For Adair County, unemployment ticked up 1.2 percent from December to January, and was up half a percent from January of last year.
 

Woodford County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the commonwealth at 2.9%. It was followed by Fayette and Scott counties, 3.1% each; Anderson, Carroll and Oldham counties, 3.2% each; Bourbon and Jessamine counties, 3.3% each; and Henry and Marion counties, 3.4% each.

Jacob Campbell, 28, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested by Deputy Melton of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just after 5 yesterday afternoon. Campbell was charged with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2^nd Degree (Identify).

Jessica McKee, age 37, of Somerset, KY was arrested on charged of Criminal Possession of Forged Instrument 2^nd Degree (Identify), Theft of Identity of Another Without Consent, and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth).

Both were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Michael Shaw, 38, of Columbia, KY was arrested by Trooper Bale of the Kentucky State Police on Thursday afternoon for charged with Speeding 24mph over the Limit, Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth), Resisting Arrest, and Fleeing or Evading Police (Motor Vehicle).

He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

1. Update on project funding. The site selection consultant working with the Kentucky Association of Economic Development (KAED) has recommended funding for our project to the Cabinet.
2. Update on Industrial Park work. Todd Metals completed the drain ditch, an erosion mat and grass seeding.
3. Update on Application to EDA for funding.

• We hope to submit the application before the EDA Cabinet meeting on March 30. 
• Billy Dickinson, Project Manager with the Cabinet for Economic Development, has been appointed to help us with the application. 

     4. We have made in-person and Zoom presentations and hosted site visits.

1. We met with James Jones, Chief District Engineer for District 8 of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. 
2. We have requested a proposal from a consultant for a traffic study.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 16, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on economic development growth; the second round of funding from the Cleaner Water Program; expansion of the Everybody Counts program; the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and recovery and rebuilding efforts in Eastern and Western Kentucky. He also named Walker Montgomery, Darnell “SuperChef” Ferguson and the Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development
Gov. Beshear highlighted two economic development projects that are expected to create 54 jobs and that represent more than $35 million in new investment.

On Tuesday, Gov. Beshear announced a new distribution facility in Midway for Lakeshore Learning Materials, a developer of educational materials and classroom furniture and supplies, creating 40 full-time jobs with a $27.3 million investment.

Yesterday, the Governor announced continued momentum of the state’s manufacturing sector as Lexair Inc. will expand existing operations in Lexington with an $8.5 million investment creating 14 quality jobs.

Cleaner Water Program
Tuesday, Gov. Beshear announced the commitment of $32,384,071 in the second round of funding from the Cleaner Water Program to support 75 projects that will provide clean drinking water and improve water infrastructure across 19 counties in Kentucky. Now, funding has been committed to all 120 Kentucky counties and all $500 million has been allocated. In total, the Cleaner Water Program will bring water or sewer services to an estimated 4,255 unserved homes and improve water or sewer service for 88,115 underserved homes. 

“As Governor, and also as a dad, I want to make sure all of our families can turn on their faucets and know that water is safe to give their children,” Gov. Beshear said. “That is why I worked with lawmakers to launch the Cleaner Water Program. I want to thank lawmakers for their partnership and support, and today, I’m proud to report that every single Kentucky county has received funding and all $500 million has been allocated.”

Everybody Counts
The Governor announced that Everybody Counts, his successful career and education pilot with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), will add four new business partners in its second year. The Center for Healthcare Workforce Innovation, CSX Transportation, Southpaw and WireCrafters are joining the original Everybody Counts business partners of UPS, Ford Motor Co., GE Appliances and Kroger in Jefferson County this year.

Gov. Beshear also announced that the success of Everybody Counts in JCPS is serving as a launching pad to expand similar initiatives for graduating seniors in Fayette, Franklin, Scott and Shelby counties. Everybody Counts is actively recruiting graduating seniors, as well as business, postsecondary and community partners in all five Kentucky school districts.

“As Governor of an education first administration, I’m excited to see the continuing momentum build for Everybody Counts. I also want to encourage businesses to get on board with this initiative that can match employers with young adults at a time when Kentucky has more job opportunities than people to fill them,” said Gov. Beshear.

To learn more, see the full release.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
Gov. Beshear said that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has released nearly $8 million to Kentucky for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP. This brings the total amount of funding for LIHEAP to almost $81 million. For more information, visit chfs.ky.gov. 

“These dollars will directly help eligible families in need. Funding can help folks pay their heating, cooling and energy bills,” said Gov. Beshear. “So far, this program has helped around 150,000 Kentucky families.”

Eastern Kentucky Flood Update
The Governor provided an update on Eastern Kentucky’s rebuilding efforts.

Currently, 189 families are housed in travel trailers, and Kentucky State Parks are now housing 16 people, down from the 360 people sheltered on Sept. 1, 2022.

As of this week, there is over $16.9 million in awards approved for the buy-out program. The awards account for 93 properties from the City of Jackson and Breathitt, Knott, Letcher and Perry counties. Homeowners wishing to learn more about the program are encouraged to contact their local judge/executive or emergency management office for more information.

Last week, Gov. Beshear released a new Request for Proposal (RFP) for Program Management expertise. Proposals from interested parties are due by March 24 at 3:30 p.m. EDT. To learn more about this RFP, visit the Finance and Administration Cabinet’s website or click here.

The Governor said the Private Property Debris Removal, or PPDR, will build on contractor activities to restore safe and sound communities. More details on eligibility criteria will be released soon and will be available on the Eastern Kentucky flood resources website. To begin the process, property owners must contact their fiscal court if they have flood-related debris that needs to be collected. Someone representing the county will then come to the site and assess whether the debris is eligible for this program. So far there are nearly 200 properties in four counties that have requested assistance. The state expects pickups to begin as soon as next week.

If flood victims need help, they should call FEMA directly or visit a Multi-Agency Resource Center. The centers are on a rotating schedule, which consists of two onsite personnel and one remote support person as needed. The staff will rotate from county to county each day. Visit governor.ky.gov/FloodResources for more information.

The Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund has raised over $13.2 million from more than 41,500 donors. To contribute, click here.

EKY and WKY SAFE Fund Awards
Today, Gov. Beshear announced more awards from the Eastern Kentucky SAFE Fund to communities and public entities impacted by the devastating late July 2022 floods. This week, nearly $22.5 million in funding was approved for communities, including:

• $52,780 to the City of Booneville to fund a FEMA match;
• $3 million to the Breathitt County Fiscal Court to alleviate fiscal strain;
• Over $1.8 million to the Breathitt County School District to alleviate fiscal strain;
• Over $670,000 to the Clay County Fiscal Court to alleviate fiscal strain and fund a FEMA match;
• $897,000 to the City of Hazard to fund a FEMA match;
• Nearly $447,000 to the Owsley County Fiscal Court to alleviate fiscal strain and fund a FEMA match;
• $2.8 million to the Perry County Fiscal Court to fund a FEMA match;
• $10 million to Kentucky Emergency Management to cover costs of private property debris removal; and
• $2.8 million to the Knott County high-ground site, Olive Branch, for water and wastewater infrastructure.

The Governor also announced a $26,600 award from the Western Kentucky SAFE Fund to Bowling Green Municipal Utilities to bridge the funding gap for a fiber system installation project.

Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery
This week the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced an overhaul of the agency’s disaster recovery efforts to better serve communities who face the direct impacts of weather-related disasters. The steps as they will streamline the agency’s disaster recovery and resilience work by increasing coordination, reducing bureaucracy and increasing capacity to get recovery funding to our communities more quickly.

HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge made the announcement yesterday in Jackson, Kentucky, just as Kentucky is set to received nearly $300 million in Community Development Block Grant –Disaster Recovery.

“These are critical funds that will support long-term recovery in the communities most impacted by the devastating flooding in Eastern Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said. “State, federal and local leaders will continue to work together to make sure we rebuild every life and structure.”

Funding for Western Kentucky Farmers
Gov. Beshear shared good news for farmers affected by the December 2021 tornadoes. Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that farmers affected by the storms can apply for cost-share assistance through the Emergency Grain Storage Facility Assistance Program. Farmers can apply at their local Farm Service Agency office. Applications end Dec. 29, 2023. Visit fsa.usda.gov for more information.

“This program will provide financial assistance to farmers who are still recovering from losses due to the tornadoes, specifically aiding in the construction of new grain storage capacity,” said Gov. Beshear. “I urge you all to take advantage of these resources. We want to provide you with as many resources as possible to get back on your feet. Kentucky farmers are essential to our state’s success.”

Team Kentucky All-Stars
The Governor named honorees at the 55th annual Governor’s Prayer Breakfast as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. A Nicholasville native, Walker Montgomery, shared his musical talents at the breakfast. Celebrity chef Darnell Ferguson, who spends his time giving back to the Louisville community with his nonprofit SuperChef’s CAPE, was the keynote speaker and shared stories about his remarkable journey. The Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department of Breathitt County received the William Cooper Faith and Community in Action Award at the Prayer Breakfast for their work helping families in Eastern Kentucky affected by flooding.

“I can truly say, I left this morning’s breakfast feeling more hopeful and inspired than before I arrived. And that is thanks to some of the special people who took part in this event,” said Gov. Beshear. “Walker, Darnell and the entire team of the Rousseau Volunteer Fire Department, thank you for leading by example, helping our people and showing us the true spirit of Team Kentucky.”

Mayor Regina Hinton shared with WAVE NEWS what took place...

South Kentucky RECC has issued yet another scam alert to members this week saying a customer had received a scam call from a woman misrepresenting herself as an SKRECC employee.

RECC said the woman told the customer that their payment had been returned by the bank due to “bad endorsement” and that their power would be disconnected by 5 p.m. without immediate payment.

South Kentucky RECC says they will never call and demand payment and says if you receive a call like this, to hang up and call your local office and to never give personal or financial information out over the phone.

South Kentucky RECC’s Jamestown office can be reached by calling 270-343-7500.

Jordan Durham, 35, of Columbia was arrested by Deputy Thomas with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just before 4:30 yesterday afternoon. Durham was charged with Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (more than 2 grams of Meth), Persistent Felony Offender 1, Trafficking in Marijuana (less than 8 oz) 1^st Offense, Possession of a Handgun by Convicted Felon. Durham was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Russell County Clerks office will be closed on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 due to training!

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 14, 2023) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet advises boat title owners that motorboat registration requests will be accommodated at all County Clerk offices starting April 3. Annual registration renewals are typically accepted beginning March 1, but additional time is necessary to allow the decal vendor to reprint and deliver tags required to complete the registration process. Current registrations do not expire until April 30, 2023.

“We want boat owners who opt to renew early aware of the temporary delay to honor their time and avoid an unnecessary trip,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “We expect to have new decals available at County Clerk offices well ahead of the April 30 registration expiration for owners to update their tags and continue enjoying the open water.”

Every motorboat registered in Kentucky must display a valid, unexpired tag. The boat’s unique registration number and boat number are printed on certificates of registration at County Clerk Offices and the tags are then peeled and placed on each side of the boat. Due to a label defect, a reprint is necessary to ensure durability once exposed to water. New shipments will be delivered to each County Clerk Office. Last year, more than 187,000 decals were issued by county clerks.

Enbridge Pipeline (Texas Eastern) is going to be blowing down the pipeline in the area of West 80 / 768 and the Parkway around 2PM today (Tuesday). This will be a loud jet engine type sound.  
 

FEBRUARY 2023 ACTIVITY REPORT 
300 calls for service

25 Arrests

11 Domestic

12 Accidents - non-injury 

6 Accidents - injury 

62 Officer Requests

8 EMS Assists

12 Mental Health Transports

81 total Court Papers Served

4,597 Court Security Transport Miles

63 Vehicle Inspections

20 CCDW

February 2023 Property Taxes Collected:  $74,235.37

2022 Property Taxes Collected:  $11,690,308.44

Jacob Eads,  21, of Liberty, was taken into custody by Officer Grimes on Monday afternoon for Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1^st, 1^st Offense (more than 2 grams of Meth) and Fleeing or Evading Police, 1^st Degree (Motor Vehicle). He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum spoke with WAVE NEWS following Monday's meeting... 

Columbia/Bowling Green, Ky. (March 13, 2023) – Juveniles in custody at Adair and Warren Juvenile Detention Centers have been charged with assault 3^rd after attacking staff and the Kentucky State Police (KSP).

On Thursday and Saturday of last week, juveniles orchestrated three separate attacks between the two facilities.

Three juveniles at Adair Juvenile Detention Center attacked staff of the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and KSP during Thursday’s evening medicine distribution. In response, KSP and DJJ both charged the males with assault 3^rd. On Saturday, one juvenile at Adair Youth Development Center, which is connected to the detention center and houses juveniles post adjudication, physically attacked a correctional officer. The correctional officer deployed pepper spray and was able to quickly regain control preventing any injuries. The male has been charged with assault 3^rd.

Also, on Thursday, at Warren Juvenile Detention Center a male juvenile attacked a correctional officer, striking the staff member multiple times in the face. The correctional officer deployed pepper spray and returned the juvenile to his living unit. The correctional officer required medical treatment. The juvenile has been charged with assault 3^rd.

These events were all contained and did not turn into larger events because of the changes the administration has made, including having the Kentucky State Police on site, as well as better-equipping staff to control these disturbances by deploying recently obtained defensive equipment, including pepper spray. Additional security enhancements ordered by the Governor are being implemented and others are pending legislative action.

The Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC) approved $4,996,821 for 22 agricultural loans for projects across the commonwealth at its monthly board meeting.

Loans approved include $250,000 for the Agricultural Infrastructure Loan Program in Adair County and $250,000 for the Beginning Farmer Loan Program in Green County.

Agricultural Infrastructure Loan Program

• Adair County - $250,000

Beginning Farmer Loan Program (BFLP)

• Clinton and Green counties - $250,000 each

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On Thursday, March 9, 2023 at 4:10 a.m., Adair County 911 received a call of a 2-vehicle injury collision 8.5 miles east of Columbia on KY206.  
   

Deputy Sheriff Josh Durbin responded to the call and upon arrival, found that two vehicles had struck head-on and one operator was entrapped in his vehicle. 
  

As of 12:18 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2023 the boil water advisory for customers on Ray Coffey Rd, 2410-3103 Milltown Rd, 55-1139 Portland Rd and Charlie Smith Rd has been lifted by the Division of Water Columbia Office. This means your water is safe for human consumption. You no longer have to boil your water.

The Russell County Fiscal Court will meet on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 5.3pmCT.

The Fiscal Court, in conjunction with the Road Committee, will meet at 5:00pmCT.
 

1. DISBURSEMENTS
2. LINE TO LINE 
3. FUND TO FUND
4. BUDGET AMENDMENTS  
5. OTHER BUSINESS
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS
7. ADJOURN

The Lake Cumberland State Park, after being without electricity and closed for nearly a week due to last Friday’s windstorm, reopened today (Friday, March 10th). The Park did suffer a power loss and many downed trees and broken poles. According to park official, Lure Lodge and nearby cabins on the Park’s property did not sustain any structural damage.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 9, 2023)– Today, Gov. Andy Beshear, First Lady Britainy Beshear, Kentucky Emergency Management Director Jeremy Slinker and Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander attended the Team Kentucky update to inform Kentuckians on economic development success; the state’s lowest annual unemployment rate; recent inclement weather and rebuilding efforts in Eastern Kentucky; Medicaid renewals; services for seniors; foster care and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The Governor and First Lady also named school social workers as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development
Gov. Beshear shared good economic development news happening in the commonwealth.

On Monday, the Governor announced a new “Supply Kentucky” initiative to boost job growth, reduce costs and provide more security in Kentucky companies’ supply chains. Supply Kentucky started as a partnership with the Cabinet for Economic Development and the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers to launch CONNEX Kentucky, a new online platform that provides a searchable supply chain database for Kentucky manufacturers.

Yesterday, Gov. Beshear said the first round of up to $34 million in state funds is one step closer to being distributed for the development of land and buildings in local communities to support new, good-paying jobs and economic growth across Kentucky. There are 54 site and building development projects moving forward in the initial round of the Kentucky Product Development Initiative.

General Fund Growth and Lowest Unemployment Rate
The Governor announced that February’s General Fund receipts rose 11.4% compared to February of last year. Collections for the month were over $1 billion, the largest February receipt total on record.

On Monday, the Governor announced that Kentucky set the lowest annual unemployment rate in state history in 2022 at 3.9%. This is the lowest rate seen since the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics began reporting state unemployment rates in 1976. Click here to read the full report.

“These statistics are just the latest numbers proving that Kentucky is an economic powerhouse and that we are creating good-paying jobs for our families,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are in the midst of the best economic roll that Kentucky has ever been on.”

Recent Inclement Weather
Last Friday, March 3, Gov. Beshear declared a State of State of Emergency after meeting with leadership from the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management, the National Weather Service and the Kentucky National Guard. To date, there are 69 counties and 27 cities that have declared local states of emergency for their communities. Joint damage assessments are being conducted across the commonwealth by state representatives, impacted communities and FEMA.

“These storms claimed the lives of five Kentucky loved ones, neighbors and friends,” Director Slinker said. “We mourn with their families today, acknowledging that no amount of disasters we experience as a commonwealth will ever prepare our hearts for the loss of one Kentuckian.”

On Sunday, Gov. Beshear visited the city of Freemont, in McCracken County, where an EF-2 tornado tore through the town, destroying homes and causing property damage. No Freemont resident lost their life during that event.

“This is a miracle and should remind us all to take warnings seriously and have an emergency plan in place for potential severe weather,” Gov. Beshear said.

As of Thursday morning, there were 3,308 power outages in Kentucky, down from around 475,000 reported on March 4. Utility companies are continuing their work to restore power to all those affected.

Eastern Kentucky Flood Update
Director Slinker provided an update on Eastern Kentucky’s rebuilding efforts.

Currently, 195 families are housed in travel trailers, and Kentucky State Parks are now housing 18 people, down from the 360 people sheltered on Sept. 1, 2022.

If flood victims need help, they should call FEMA directly or visit a Multi-Agency Resource Center. The centers are on a rotating schedule, which consists of two onsite personnel and one remote support person as needed. The staff will rotate from county to county each day. Visit governor.ky.gov/FloodResources for more information.

The Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund has raised over $13.1 million from more than 41,500 donors. To contribute, click here.

Rebuilding Homes in Eastern Kentucky
Last week, Gov. Beshear joined an Eastern Kentucky family to break ground on the first home to be partially funded by the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund. The Governor also recently announced that the state has secured land for two high-ground communities, Olive Branch in Knott County and Skyview in Perry County, with additional properties actively being considered. The vision for these properties includes high-ground homes, vibrant communities with modern amenities, mixed-use residential options and civic and community facilities.

To help bring this vision to life, Gov. Beshear released a new Request for Proposal (RFP) for Program Management expertise. The successful bidder will execute the design, engineer and construct infrastructure as well as coordinate with the commonwealth, Team Eastern Kentucky Relief Fund, the Kentucky Housing Corporation and nonprofit home builders to begin home construction.

Proposals from interested parties are due by March 24 at 3:30 p.m. EST. The deadline for written questions is at noon tomorrow, March 10. To learn more about this RFP, visit the Finance and Administration Cabinet’s website or click here.

Federal Medicaid Renewal Coming Soon
Secretary Friedlander joined Gov. Beshear to remind Kentuckians that the federal pandemic benefit that made it easier for low-income families to sign up for free health care is changing. Starting this year, Medicaid enrollees must once again participate in an annual renewal to determine eligibility for Medicaid. To learn more, see the full release or click here. 

“When the public health emergency expires, things will revert back to the processes in place prior to March 2020,” said Secretary Friedlander. “Thousands of Kentuckians will be impacted by this and will need to take action. People are on standby to help walk you through the renewal.”

Services for Seniors
Secretary Friedlander said the meal program for seniors, led by the Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), has served nearly 10 million meals since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“March is National Nutrition Month, and as we all know, it marks the three-year anniversary of the first case of COVID-19 in Kentucky,” said Secretary Friedlander. “Over the course of three years, DAIL and community partners have served meals to seniors at an unprecedented rate.”

Secretary Friedlander also highlighted the Programs of All-Inclusive Services for the Elderly, or PACE, operated by the Department for Medicaid Services and DAIL. The program enables older Kentuckians to access health care services, allowing them to continue living in their home.

“The implementation of this program is still in the early stages, but the interest continues to build. This program is taking tremendous steps forward, and it expands options for individuals who want to age in their home,” said Secretary Friedlander. “Thank you to every Kentuckian who supports or cares for our seniors. Let’s continue to work together and be a neighbor helping a neighbor.”

Foster Care Update
Secretary Friedlander also announced that the number of children in foster care has decreased to less than 8,500 after peaking in 2020 at over 10,000 children. Kentucky is among other states experiencing the most significant drop in children in foster care due to focused efforts.

In 2020, Kentucky became the fifth state to implement the Family First Prevention Services Act. Family First Prevention Services include Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Teams, the Family Preservation and Reunification Program, the Kentucky Strengthening Ties and Empowering Parents program, Multisystemic Therapy Prevention Pilots and the Intercept Prevention Pilot.

The Family Preservation and Reunification Services program alone has seen a 94% success rate in keeping children in their homes. These prevention efforts are also saving the state and taxpayers money. Since 2019, the Department for Community Based Services has invested $11.4 million in prevention. Costs for out-of-home care have been reduced by $79.1 million.

“There has never been a more critical time to address the welfare of our children. Our child welfare approach is helping to ensure prioritizing keeping families safely together,” said Secretary Friedlander. “In spite of strides made, patterns persist, proving there is still work ahead of us. This administration is committed to identifying and addressing the drivers that create these disproportionalities.”

Affordable Connectivity Program 
Today, Gov. Beshear shared options for eligible Kentucky residents to receive assistance through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that helps ensure households can afford high-speed internet for work, school, health care and more.

The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. A household is eligible for the ACP if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or if a member of the household meets at least one of the criteria listed on FCC.gov/ACP.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
First Lady Britainy Beshear named school social workers as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. The Governor also proclaimed March 5-11, 2023, as School Social Work Week in the commonwealth.

“As parents to two public school kids, Andy and I recognize the important role every teacher and school employee play, and that is especially true of our school social workers,” said First Lady Britainy Beshear. “To these heroes working daily to support Kentucky’s children:  We see your value. We see the hard work you put in daily to make a difference, and we are so grateful for your efforts and the positive impact you’re making for kids across Kentucky.”

Adair County School Board Chairman David Karnes spoke with Wave News after the meeting...

Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas spoke with WAVE NEWS following the meeting...

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 9, 2023) – Due to action by Congress, today, Gov. Andy Beshear reminded Kentuckians the federal pandemic benefit that made it easier for low-income families to sign up for free health care is changing. Starting this year, Medicaid enrollees must once again participate in an annual renewal to determine if they are eligible for Medicaid.

Kentucky will initiate annual renewal notices beginning in April 2023 for those with a renewal date of May 31, 2023. Renewals will continue throughout the year and will vary depending on an individual’s date of enrollment in the program.

The Governor first provided this information to Kentuckians Feb. 2, 2023, as part of his standing Team Kentucky update media briefing. The Governor stated, “The 260,000 Kentuckians who were able to sign up for Medicaid during the pandemic will need to transition to one of three health care options: regular Medicaid, Medicare or kynect.”

“We want everyone to pay close attention to important changes coming soon and take action to make sure you choose the best health care option for you and your family,” Gov. Beshear said. “My administration as well as managed care organizations will be reaching out with more information and will be sharing updates.”

When the public health emergency was declared in January 2020 at the onset of the pandemic, certain Medicaid and Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program requirements were eased, including the need to determine program eligibility every 12 months. The sign-up process was also made faster and easier to help people, some of whom were newly unemployed, get assistance more quickly.

Kentuckians who may be affected by the change in federal law include those who have attained employment or new employment at a higher wage, are eligible for another type of Medicaid coverage or are aging into Medicare.

Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander said, “Our goal is for people to be aware that their coverage is going to change; what steps to take to make sure they continue to have coverage; where to get help, if help is needed; and when to take action.”

The Governor’s administration is planning outreach efforts to enrollees in multiple ways. The Department for Medicaid Services is also partnering with Medicaid-managed care plans, community health centers and other providers and advocacy organizations that serve Medicaid members. Medicaid is also collaborating with the state-based marketplace to help people get signed up for coverage.

Renewal Instructions
Medicaid renewal occurs throughout the year, and enrollees will be asked to verify information when their renewal month arrives. If they are no longer eligible for coverage, they will be notified and given appeal rights. They will also be provided with options for coverage, including signing up for a Qualified Health Plan on the state-based marketplace, kynect.

Kentuckians who may be impacted will receive a summary of approaching changes and reminders to update their mailing address, phone number and email address as soon as possible. This may be done on the kynect.ky.gov site or by calling kynect at 855-4kynect (855-459-6328).

Renewal Help
A new website for all things related to these renewals, as well as new eligibility determinations and other information about Medicaid, is now live. Visit MedicaidUnwinding.ky.gov for more information.

Medicaid members can also get help from a kynector or licensed insurance agent online or by calling the number listed above. Kentuckians who are 65 and older may call the State Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) Hotline at 877-293-7447 (option #2). They can also call the Department for Aging and Independent Living at 502-564-6930 and ask for a SHIP counselor to learn about Medicare options.

Renewal Timeline
According to the new federal law, all Medicaid renewals as well as eligibility determinations must be initiated by March 31, 2024 and completed by May 31, 2024. Kentucky will initiate annual renewals in April 2023 for those with a renewal date of May 31, 2023. Renewals will vary depending on the date of enrollment in the program. Members will receive a notice about 60 days before their renewal date. If their information is correct in kynect, the enrollee will not need to take any action until contacted by the Department for Medicaid Services about renewal.

SOMERSET, KY. (March 09, 2023) –The Kentucky State Police Post 11 London presented evidence to the Pulaski County Grand Jury resulting in the indictment of Michael I. Correll, 44 years old of Somerset, KY on March 8, 2023.  Michael Correll retired from the Somerset Police Department as a Captain on November 1, 2022. 

The initial investigation began on January 8, 2023 when KSP Post 11 London was contacted by Somerset Police Chief William Hunt. Chief Hunt became aware of suspicious activity involving Retired Captain Mike Correll and requested the Kentucky State Police to initiate in investigation into the incident.

The Pulaski County Grand jury returned an Indictment on several charges.

1. Burglary 1^st Degree
2. Burglary 3^rd Degree (10 counts)
3. Tampering with Physical Evidence (4 counts)
4. Abuse of Public Trust Under $10,000
5. TBUT or DISP Controlled Substance U/$10,000 (2 counts)
6. Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 2 or more grams (Methamphetamine)
7. Receiving Stolen Property (Firearm)
8. Official Misconduct 1^st Degree
9. Unlawful Access to Computer 1^st Degree

Michael Correll was arrested by KSP Post 11 personnel and lodged in the Pulaski County Detention Center without incident on March 8, 2023. 

KSP Investigative Sergeant Billy Correll is continuing the investigation. He was assisted by Post 11 personnel, and the Somerset Police Department. The Somerset Police Department is continuing to fully cooperate and assist in this investigation.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 8, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear said up to $34 million in state funds are one step closer to being distributed to develop land and buildings in local communities to support new, good-paying jobs and economic growth across Kentucky.

There are 54 site and building development projects moving forward in the initial round of the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI). The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development (CED) is now reviewing each project for a recommendation of approval by the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFI) in the coming months. The projects will be announced once they are approved by KEDFI.

Gov. Beshear and the Kentucky General Assembly approved $100 million in funding for KPDI during its regular 2022 session. The $34 million represents the first round of funding to support economic growth across the state.

“This is a critical effort to ensure we have room for existing and new companies to grow their businesses and add new jobs to our already red-hot economy,” Gov. Beshear said. “Identifying and developing new sites that are shovel-ready makes sure our local communities are ready to land their next major economic development project.”

“This is great news for our commonwealth and an incredible opportunity for the communities receiving this first round of funding,” said Rep. Adam Bowling of Middlesboro, who sponsored the legislation that established KPDI. “The Kentucky Product Development Initiative is based on the simple premise that we have to be willing to invest in ourselves if we want to create jobs and corporate investment. This investment will go a long way toward increasing the quality and quantity of available sites and marks the next chapter in our progress to making this the best place to live and work. I applaud our partners in the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and Kentucky Association for Economic Development for their work over the past 11 months in working toward this announcement.”

KPDI is a collaboration between CED and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED). It provides state support for potential upgrades to sites and buildings across the commonwealth to ensure Kentucky remains a prime location for growing companies across all industry sectors.

“We are excited about the success of this first round of statewide KPDI projects as it is giving communities across the commonwealth a resource for investing in their assets,” said Haley McCoy, president and CEO of KAED. “We had great participation last year, and KAED is looking forward to supporting communities as they prepare to apply in round two this year.”

Applications are first evaluated by an independent consultant based upon all facets a prospective company would consider, from workforce availability, access to all infrastructure and detailed information on costs associated with development. In turn, these projects will generate increased economic development opportunities and job creation for Kentucky residents. KPDI furthers the efforts of the pilot PDI program, which was established in 2019 and provided nearly $7 million in state funding for 20 site development projects statewide. Learn more about KPDI at kpdi.ky.gov.

Investment in site development throughout Kentucky furthers recent economic momentum in the commonwealth, as the state builds back stronger from the effects of the pandemic.

Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced the creation of 43,200 full-time jobs and 828 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling $24.6 billion in announced investments.

The Governor has now secured the best two-year period in state history for economic growth.

In 2021, the commonwealth shattered every economic development record in the books. Private-sector new-location and expansion announcements included a record $11.2 billion in total planned investment and commitments to create a record 18,000-plus full-time jobs across the coming years.

That momentum continued strongly into 2022 with 248 new-location and expansion announcements totaling 16,000 full-time jobs behind nearly $10.5 billion in new investment.

The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. The average incentivized hourly wage in 2022 was $26.78 before benefits, the second-highest mark since 2010 and an 11.5% increase over the previous year.

Gov. Beshear also announced the two largest economic development projects in state history. In September 2021, Gov. Beshear and leaders from Ford Motor Co. and SK Innovation celebrated a transformative $5.8 billion investment that will create 5,000 jobs in Hardin County. And in April 2022, the Governor was joined by leadership at Envision AESC to announce a $2 billion investment that will create 2,000 jobs in Warren County. These announcements solidify Kentucky as the EV battery production capital of the United States.

Kentucky’s success has been noted by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings, which have upgraded the state’s financial outlook to positive in recognition of the commonwealth’s surging economy.

Site Selection magazine placed Kentucky second nationwide and first in the South Central region for its annual Governor’s Cup ranking for 2022, which recognizes state-level economic success based on capital investments.

Gov. Beshear’s administration is projected to post the four highest years of budget surpluses in Kentucky history, and the state’s rainy-day fund has a record balance of $2.7 billion.

This week, Gov. Beshear announced a new “Supply Kentucky” initiative with the goal of boosting job growth, reducing costs and providing more security in the supply chains of our Kentucky companies.

This week, the Governor also announced that Kentucky set the lowest annual unemployment rate in state history for 2022 at 3.9%. This is the lowest rate seen since the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics began reporting state unemployment rates in 1976.

Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at CED.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.

Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Frankfort, Kentucky (March 8, 2023) – During day 21 of this year's Regular Session of the General Assembly, the Kentucky House of Representatives entertained a vote on several pieces of legislation in the consent calendar, including HB 391.

HB 391, sponsored by Representative Amy Neighbors of Edmonton, would require the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and long-term care provider associations to lead an annual joint training for long-term care facility surveyors and long-term care providers.

"This bill is about enhancing our current healthcare workforce by providing a means for professional development where providers need it most," said Representative Neighbors. "This will increase transparency and communication while promoting high-quality care to long-term residents."

There are provisions in place for trainings of this nature, however HB 391 allows industry stakeholders to be involved in these trainings as a means to broaden the scope of information that providers and surveyors are trained on.

For more information regarding HB 391 as well as current and past legislative measures, please visit legislature.ky.gov or click here.

Adair County Coaching legends Mark Fudge and Keith Young were inducted last night into the 5^th Region Hall of Fame. The ceremony was at halftime of the Boys Regional Basketball Championship game at Hart County. 

(Bios below)

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (March 7, 2023) – Though Kentucky’s electric cooperatives have restored service to 94 percent of the consumer-members who lost power in Friday’s windstorm, co-ops are not letting up on their massive response to the natural disaster.
 
“It’s all hands on deck,” said Randy Meredith, Director of Safety & Training at Kentucky Electric Cooperatives, the association which supports local co-ops. “Co-op crews are not letting up. We are working around the clock. Each crew is working 16 hour shifts at staggered times, so there are crews working 24/7.”
 
Co-ops are making steady progress restoring power. At the height of the windstorm on Friday, more than 300,000 consumer-members lost power in Kentucky. As of 1:00pm (EST) on Tuesday, about 15,000 members remain without power. The remaining outages are among the most difficult to address.
 
“In addition to the many communities, industries and neighborhoods served by electric cooperatives, co-ops also pride themselves in providing electricity to the most remote, most difficult to serve areas of Kentucky,” said Joe Arnold, Vice-President of Strategic Communications. “These areas are also often among the most difficult to restore service after a natural disaster given the terrain and other factors. Our co-ops value every co-op member, and with the help of mutual aid crews from co-ops in 11 states, they have made significant progress.”
 
About 500 personnel have arrived from more than 60 sister co-ops. Coordinated by Kentucky Electric Cooperatives, the statewide association of co-ops, crews are working here from Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. 
 
Because the national network of transmission and distribution infrastructure owned by electric cooperatives is built to federal standards, line crews from any co-op in America can arrive on the scene ready to provide emergency support, secure in their knowledge of the system’s engineering.
 
Several co-ops are receiving assistance from other utilities within the state, as well as hundreds of contract crews. Co-ops report more than 600 broken utility poles and thousands of power lines down across the 117 counties served by co-ops across the commonwealth. 
 
Kentucky-based United Utility Supply Cooperative is assisting with storm response to cooperatives across the region. Its Cooperative Distribution Center in Louisville is responding with transformers, power lines, poles and all other materials needed to outfit an electric utility.

Columbia, KY - Adair County Athletics is proud to announce a new 5-year sponsorship agreement with Brown & Brown, Inc. and M. Neal Holdings, LLC. The multi-year donation is the largest sponsorship to date for the Adair County Athletics program. Brown & Brown, Inc. will pay over a five-year period to sponsor various marketing initiatives including naming rights on the ACHS gym floor and title sponsor rights for the Athletics Hall of Fame that is slated to launch in the fall of 2023.

“Sponsorships like this will help us take our athletic programs to the next level,” said Craig Biggs, District Athletic Director for Adair County Schools. “Adair County’s student athletes will benefit in many ways for years to come, and I want to express my sincere appreciation to Mike Neal and Brown & Brown for their generosity.”

Brown & Brown, Inc. is the fifth largest independent insurance brokerage in the United States. They provide risk management solutions to help protect what customers value most. The Brown & Brown, Inc. of Kentucky location is one of 450 offices across the country. They specialize in personal lines insurance (auto, RV, homeowners, etc.), commercial lines coverage for all businesses with a niche market in RV and auto dealership coverage, and F&I products and training for RV and automotive dealers across the country.

Mike Neal, President of M. Neal Holdings, LLC, is a 1987 graduate of Adair County High School. Although a cardiovascular issue prevented him from participating in high school athletics, he worked very closely with both basketball and football programs announcing games on local radio. After graduation he also served as president of the ACHS Boys Basketball boosters. He started his insurance career at Commonwealth Life Insurance Company. In 1991, he began working at Reed Brothers Insurance. In 1996, he became a partner and opened his second main street shop in a neighboring town. Mike started a niche marketing business selling commercial insurance to dealers in RV, used auto, powersports and manufactured housing. The revenues for his agency exceeded $4 million in 2008. That same year, Mike sold the niche marketing book of business with revenues of $2.4 million and joined Brown & Brown as President of Brown & Brown, Inc. of Kentucky. 

Today, he continues to lead all of Brown & Brown of KY and is also President of Brown & Brown Dealer Services, a division within Brown & Brown devoted to auto and RV dealer training and F&I products. Profit centers operating under the BBDS umbrella include Automotive Development Group, F&I Resources, Dealer Associates, United Development Systems, MBA Insurance--an RV rental insurance office, and Vehicle Administrative Services—a roadside assistance and ancillary product provider. Estimated 2022 revenues for Brown & Brown Dealer Services are 200M+.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 7, 2023) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that the Kentucky Soil and Water Conservation Commission has selected 345 Kentucky farm projects to receive a total of $4,203,631 in tobacco settlement funds.

The money will help farmers promote practices that protect water quality and prevent soil erosion. Projects include alternative water sources for livestock, grassed waterways, fencing to facilitate rotational grazing and cover crops.

“When Kentucky’s farming families prosper, so does Team Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said. “Through this funding, our farm owners are able to address issues that impact our environment and implement practices that improve productivity and increase their bottom line.”

Tobacco Master Settlement funds are appropriated each year by the General Assembly to support the program. Funds are distributed with the assistance of the 121 Soil and Water Conservation Districts across Kentucky which work with local farmers to verify and submit proposed projects for consideration. Award recipients have two years to complete the project. 

The Conservation Commission has obligated more than $180 million in state cost share funds over the past 30 years. In fiscal year 2022, reimbursements were made for the completion of 456 projects. These included more than 50 miles of fence, 1553 acres of cover crop and about 20 miles of pipeline to supply 184 waterers. 

The most recent list of applications, approved by county, can be seen here (or below).

Soil and Water Conservation Commission Chair Danny Shipley, a farmer in Allen County said, “The Cost Share Program helps farmers and landowners throughout Kentucky be better stewards of our land. The program helps landowners address existing soil erosion, water quality and other environmental problems associated with their farming or woodland operation.”

The Soil and Water Conservation Commission is administered by the Division of Conservation, within the Energy and Environment Cabinet.

“We’re honored to work with our farming community through this and many other programs,” Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman said. “It’s inspiring to see how these projects make such a difference for our farmers.”

Allan Bryant, chair of the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts and farmer in Henry County, said: “These funds give us the opportunity to take better care of our land for the next generation. I’m happy to say that the partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Kentucky Division of Conservation and conservation districts across the state stand ready to assist and provide technical knowledge to install and make these practices work.”

For more information about the State Cost Share Program, contact the Soil and Water Conservation District in your county or click here.

An Adair County Grand Jury has returned numerous indictments ... https://ridingthewave.com/assets/files/ADAIR-INDICTMENTS-MARCH-7-2023.pdf. 

We remind you that indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

UPDATE:  As of 11:55 a.m. on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 the boil water advisory for customers from 68-716 Eastridge Cemetery Rd, Union Church Rd, AF White Rd, J Knifley Rd, and all side roads in between has been lifted by the Division of Water. This means your water is safe for human consumption. You no longer have to boil your water.

Date Issued:  3/6/2023

Time Issued: 1:00 p.m.

A BOIL WATER ADVISORY is in effect for consumers from 68-716 Eastridge Cemetery Rd, Union Church Rd, AF White Rd, J Knifley Rd, & all side roads & in between. The advisory has been issued due to a main line leak. Following such an event, the potential exists for bacteriological contamination of the water supply therefore this Boil Water Advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure. Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking, bringing the water to a rolling boil for 3 minutes before using. This advisory will remain in effect until the situation has been corrected and test results have shown the water to be of an acceptable quality. For more information concerning the Boil Water Advisory, contact Lennon Stone at Columbia Adair Utilities District, 270-384-2181.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (March 6, 2023) – The mutual aid response to power restoration in Kentucky continues to grow, as two more states have sent crews to sister co-ops here.
 
With the addition of co-op crews from Indiana and Arkansas, co-ops from 11 different states are now assisting, not including the crews from within Kentucky who are also traveling to neighboring cooperatives.
 
With damage as widespread as any natural disaster in Kentucky electric cooperative history, co-ops are making steady progress restoring power. At the height of the windstorm on Friday, more than 300,000 consumer-members lost power in Kentucky. As of 4:00pm (EST) on Monday, about 34,000 members remain without power. With the ground saturated from heavy rains, heavy trucks have had difficulty accessing damaged infrastructure.
 
About 475 personnel have arrived from more than 60 sister co-ops. Coordinated by Kentucky Electric Cooperatives, the statewide association of co-ops, crews are working here from Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
 
Because the national network of transmission and distribution infrastructure owned by electric cooperatives is built to federal standards, line crews from any co-op in America can arrive on the scene ready to provide emergency support, secure in their knowledge of the system’s engineering.
 
In addition, several co-ops are receiving assistance from other utilities within the state, as well as hundreds of contract crews. Co-ops report more than 600 broken utility poles and thousands of power lines down across the 117 counties served by co-ops across the commonwealth.
 
“Though co-ops have made steady progress restoring nearly 90 percent of the outages since Friday, this last 10 percent will likely be the most challenging and time consuming,” said Chris Perry, president and CEO of Kentucky Electric Cooperatives. “Co-op staff take these outages personally and share the urgency of co-op members to restore service as quickly as possible. The messages of support from the membership are so encouraging.”
 
Kentucky-based United Utility Supply Cooperative is assisting with storm response to cooperatives across the region. Its Cooperative Distribution Center in Louisville is responding with transformers, power lines, poles and all other materials needed to outfit an electric utility.
 

A Russell County couple was arrested on felony drug charges following a traffic stop on Friday, March 3, 2023.

At 11:49pmCT on Friday night, K-9 Deputy Chandler Staten and K-9 Nitro initiated a traffic stop on the LBN Cumberland Parkway. The stop was on a 2015 Hyundai Elantra traveling eastbound. A roadside investigation led to the search of the vehicle where suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located. 
 

Arrested and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail was Anthony Frost, 41, of Russell Springs who was charged with no registration plates, possession of a controlled substance 1st degree, and possession of drug paraphernalia

Also arrested was Mcquada Frost, 35, of Russell Springs. She was charged with possession of a controlled substance first degree (methamphetamine) and possession of drug paraphernalia. Frost was also charged with promoting contraband (a felony) after a female Deputy Jailer located narcotics hidden on her body during a body search during the booking process.

The Adair County Sheriffs Office is continuing the investigation.

Former educator in Russell County and Mayor of Russell Springs has passed away.

Hollis DeHart, age 84, who served 3 terms as Russell Springs mayor and before that served on the city council, passed away Friday following an illness.

DeHart also served as a teacher and principal at Russell County High School, assistant superintendent of Russell County Schools and also served as the school district’s transportation director.

On Sunday, March 5, 2023 at approximately 6:18pmCT, the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department responded to a dryer on fire at a residence at 37 Reeder Rd. The fire was contained to the laundry room and the dryer itself.

Nine firefighters quickly responded to the scene and worked diligently to extinguish the fire. Thanks to their prompt response and efficient efforts, the fire was contained and did not spread to other areas of the home.

According to Fire Chief Bobby Johnson, the cause of the fire was determined to be a clogged dryer vent. He reminds everyone to clean their dryer vents regularly to prevent fires like this from occurring. He also advises against leaving dryers unattended, as this can increase the risk of fire. Residents should take precautions to prevent fires in their homes. It is important to have working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and to create a fire escape plan with your family.

For more information or to schedule a fire safety inspection, please contact the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department at 270-866-3158.

Supt. Michael Ford says school will be in session in Russell County on Monday...

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (March 5, 2023) – With damage as widespread as any natural disaster in Kentucky electric cooperative history, co-ops are making steady progress restoring power.
 
At the height of the windstorm on Friday, more than 300,000 consumer-members lost power in Kentucky. As of 1:00pm (EST) on Sunday, about 87,000 members remain without power. With the ground saturated from heavy rains, heavy trucks have had difficulty accessing damaged infrastructure.
 
Because all 26 of Kentucky’s electric cooperatives sustained damage in this historic event, Kentucky co-op crews have stayed at home to restore power locally. As of Sunday afternoon, more than 375 personnel have arrived from 58 sister co-ops. Coordinated by Kentucky Electric Cooperatives, the statewide association of co-ops, crews are working here from Illinois, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.
 
Because the national network of transmission and distribution infrastructure owned by electric cooperatives is built to federal standards, line crews from any co-op in America can arrive on the scene ready to provide emergency support, secure in their knowledge of the system’s engineering.
 
In addition, several co-ops are receiving assistance from other utilities within the state, as well as hundreds of contract crews. Co-ops report hundreds of snapped utility poles and thousands of power lines down across the 117 counties served by co-ops across the commonwealth.
  
“With the help of our fellow co-ops, power restoration work is continuing around the clock.” said Chris Perry, president and CEO of Kentucky Electric Cooperatives. “Our member co-ops understand this prolonged outage is a major inconvenience for members. We hear and share their frustration. We are thankful that most homes and businesses were spared damage in this event, but the persistent high winds and hurricane-strength gusts on Friday took a tremendous toll on electric infrastructure.”
 
Kentucky-based United Utility Supply Cooperative is assisting with storm response to cooperatives across the region. Its Cooperative Distribution Center in Louisville is responding with transformers, power lines, poles and all other materials needed to outfit an electric utility.
 

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Follow Kentucky Electric Cooperatives on Facebook and Twitter for outage updates. The electric cooperative outage map is available at this link.
 

FRANKFORT, KY (March 4, 2023) – Today (Saturday), Gov. Andy Beshear briefed Kentuckians after severe storms produced violent thunderstorms, dangerous winds, flooding and several small tornadoes. Wind speeds in some locations surpassed 70 mph. At least five Kentuckians died because of the storms.

Yesterday (Friday), the Governor declared a state of emergency ahead of the severe weather and closed state office buildings at 11 a.m. EST.

“These were very serious storms, but thankfully we saw the potential impact early and Kentuckians took the advice given, which made a big difference,” said Gov. Beshear. “When it comes to power, this is going to be a multi-day event as we recover from very significant and widespread damage to power lines. We need everyone to continue to use caution in the days ahead. Accidents can still happen due to downed power lines and high water. We’ve heartbreakingly already loss 5 people and we don’t want to lose any more, so please stay alert.”  

Kentucky Emergency Management Director Jeremy Slinker reminded Kentuckians about generator safety and staying away from power lines. “Always remember not to use generators indoors,” he said. “Countless numbers of poles and lines are down – always assume they are hot, and do not get near them. Report these downed lines to authorities.”

• Damage assessments are in progress across the commonwealth and will be ongoing.
• Four direct fatalities have been confirmed: a 23-year-old male in Edmonson County; a 63-year-old male in Logan County; a 68-year-old male in Simpson County; and a 41-year-old female in Fayette County.
• One indirect fatality has been confirmed: a 84-year-old male in Bath County.
• As of 11:11 a.m. EST, 396,517 Kentucky customers were without power. The storm caused a total of 536,569 outages, but power has already been restored for more than 140,000 customers.
• Utility companies are preparing for a multi-day effort to restore power.
• 1,874 Kentuckians are under a boil water advisory.
• There was no significant damage to travel trailer sites housing survivors of the Western Kentucky tornadoes and Eastern Kentucky floods. Jenny Wiley State Park has lost power, but that does not impact water availability or the function of any travel trailers.
• Eight counties have filed emergency declarations and 29 counties have announced plans to do so, while two cities have filed emergency declarations, with nine cities having announced plans to file. Click here for an updated list.
• One shelter in Hardin County housed five people on Friday evening. KYEM is reaching out to all county emergency managers to assess potential needs.
• Five water districts are under limited operations: Barkley Lake, Edmonson County, Scottsville, Campbellsville and Greensburg.
• Team Kentucky has provided resource support, including:
  • Five oxygen tanks have been provided to homebound patients in Woodford County.
  • Three generators have gone to Grayson County for water treatment purposes.
  • One trailer of water for Taylor County; and
  • One National Guard Toss Team and Forestry Cut Team were deployed to McCracken County on Friday and finished their work on Friday.
• Emergency and transportation crews have cleared storm debris and hazardous materials from roadways.
• Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray signed an order providing regulatory relief for commercial vehicles assisting with power restoration and debris removal within affected areas.
• The Governor asked Kentuckians to avoid calling 911 for traffic and weather updates. The Kentucky State Police requests that if you see or suspect that someone is stranded on the roadways, contact KSP at 800-222-5555.
• The Governor activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect families from grossly overpriced goods and services. With the state of emergency in place, consumers in the commonwealth can report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. Under state law, price gougers can be held accountable.
• The Governor also reminded Kentuckians to never put generators indoors and to use them at least 8-10 feet outside of their residence, where there’s no chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If you need help or someone to talk to, we want to encourage you to call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990. The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24/7, year-round, confidential crisis counseling and emotional support resource for survivors, responders and anyone in the U.S./territories struggling with distress or other mental health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disaster.
• For additional disaster safety tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.

• Disrupt communications, water and transportation.
• Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, ATMs, banks and other services.
• Cause food spoilage and water contamination.
• Prevent use of medical devices.

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.
• Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
• Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.

• Go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.

• Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.

Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.

Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.

Have enough nonperishable food and water. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.

• Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and other hazards.
• Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.
• Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family and pets.
• Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
• Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
• Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

• When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.
• If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. Consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately for a new supply.

From Representative Amy Neighbors

Legislators are officially half way through the 2023 Regular Session and legislation is moving through both chambers as lawmakers keep an eye on the calendar. Wednesday, February 22 marked the final day to file new bills in the House and a total of 594 bills have been filed. Most legislative work takes place in committees during the first half of session, so I would like to provide you with an overview of the bills committees passed last week. 

Small Business & Information Technology: The committee heard HB 264, which creates the General Regulatory Sandbox Program under the office of the Attorney General. This program allows a person to obtain legal protections and limited access to the market without obtaining a license or authorization. HB 264 provides safeguards for public health, safety, and the financial well-being of public consumers.

Education: Members heard three pieces of legislation in the House Committee on Education. First members heard HCR 34, which would establish a task force to monitor the Lottery Trust Fund. Since 1989, over six billion dollars have been collected in the trust fund and HCR 34 would comprehensively study the uses of the money collected. Next, the committee heard HB 85, legislation that would allow students to be reimbursed with funding from the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES) money if they enroll in a program offered by a proprietary school that is one in of Kentucky’s five high demand work sectors. Also, HB 85 would allow students of military families who had to attend a high school out of state or a Department of Defense school to earn KEES money based on their previous year at a Kentucky high school. Lastly, the committee heard HB 319, which continues the legislature’s efforts to address the state’s teacher shortage by increasing access to careers in education. It does so by cutting unnecessary and antiquated regulatory requirements, streamlining the process for job searches, and expanding access to and award amounts available through the Teacher Scholarship Program.

Economic Development & Workforce Investment: Members discussed HB 364, which would prohibit public employers from withholding money from an employee’s paycheck to go towards labor organization dues that fund political activity. HB 364 does not apply to current collective bargaining agreements, and it also prohibits employers from sharing an employee’s information with a labor organization.

Judiciary: In the House Judiciary Committee last week, lawmakers heard testimony about three different bills. HB 78 adds aunts and uncles to those who can be guilty of incest under the law. This corrects the current statute defining those who can be guilty of incest. The committee then heard HB 225 which would no longer require licensed attorneys to pay dues to the Kentucky Bar Association and make it a voluntary trade association. Last, they heard HB 231 which allows the Department for Community Based Services to request a criminal justice agency to perform a federal name-based criminal history record check of each adult residing in a home in which a child is placed during an emergency placement.

Transportation: Members heard three pieces of legislation last week in the House Committee on Transportation. HB 21 would allow children who are homeless and at least age 16 to obtain an identification card. The price of the identification card would be set at $5. HB 21 also allows people who are homeless to obtain a driver’s license to commute to and from work. Next, the committee heard HB 217, which is a clean-up bill for HB 284 passed in the 2022 regular session. HB 284 created an electronic titling and registration system, and HB 217 would push back the implementation date to January 1, 2025. 

Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection: Legislators on the House VMAPP committee heard three bills last week. HB 244 which would recognize the Challenge Academy as a separate school district, making the transition easier for kids attending the school. They then heard about HB 29 which would strike to word Kentucky from the requirements to be placed in a veteran cemetery. This allows for the cemeteries to continue to receive federal funding. Lastly, they heard testimony about HB 226 which would establish the administration of behavioral health community crisis response and transfer the administration from the Department for Military Affairs to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Agriculture: Members of this committee met last week to consider HB 130, which grants the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund the ability to offer heavy machinery in their Shared-Use Equipment Leasing program and allows farmers to use this leased equipment across county lines.

Licensing, Occupations, & Administrative Regulations: Committee members heard testimony about three pieces of legislation. HB 287 would change deposit requirements for charitable gaming organizations. Current requirements state deposits are to be made every day no matter the amount made that day. It would change deposits to once a week unless they have made over $2,500 in one day. They next heard about HB 129 which would require CHFS to update and modernize birth center regulations. It would also exempt the free-standing birth centers from requiring a certificate of need to run the facility. Lastly, they heard about HCR 50 which would establish a task force to study historically untapped workforces and how to get those people to work.

Natural Resources and Energy: Members of this committee met Thursday to consider HB 236, which mandates that state retirement systems move away from ESG investing so better returns are garnered. ESG is an investment method that vests in environmental factors like solar futures and coal. This method is considered high risk and does not garner the same returns as other, traditional investment methods. The committee also considered HJR 37, which would remove reformulated gasoline requirements for Jefferson, Oldham, and Bullitt County. Reformulated gas on average costs $0.16 per gallon more than traditionally refined gasoline. RFG was put in place in these areas to assist in repairing the ozone layer. However, studies show that there are currently significantly less ozone and air pollution issues in the Louisville metropolitan area, and there are more cost-effective ways to combat air pollution.

Banking and Insurance: Members of the committee met last week to discuss regulating public insurance adjusters through HB 232. This measure regulates public insurance adjustors by mandating that fees imposed do not surpass 10% of an insurance claim amount. Public insurance adjusters act independently of insurance agencies to adjust claims for consumers who are unsatisfied with the claim they have received through their insurance company. These adjusters also assist in extenuating circumstances of natural disasters. 

Health Services: House Health and Family Services: Committee members met last week to consider 5 pieces of legislation. First, the committee discussed HJR 38, which would direct the Department for Medicaid Services to apply for a Medicaid waiver to permit the coverage of triage, treatment, and transport of patients by emergency ambulance services and submit a State Plan Amendment (SPA) to cover treatment in place, and urges the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for ambulance services. These recommendations come from the EMS Taskforce that met through the interim. Next, HB 56 was discussed, which names regional county health center services areas and states that when a Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) operates outside of their region, they do so as a Behavioral Health Service Organization (BHSO). HB 56 also states that when there is an unmet need in a region, the CHFS secretary would allow other CHMCs to operate in the area as a CMHC instead of a BHSO. HB 134 was also considered, which would exempt healthcare providers from the prior authorization process so long as they are approved for at least 90% of the prior authorization requests submitted by the provider. The insurer would evaluate whether the provider qualifies for an exemption every six months. If the insurer finds that the provider is no longer under the 90% approval requirement, then the insurer may rescind the provider's prior authorization exemption. The committee substitute adds several independently practicing behavioral health provider types to the insurance code definition of healthcare provider.

Additionally, the committee discussed HB 290, that allows the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to share data from the state’s prescription monitoring system, KASPER, with the federal government, including providers who are employed by military bases in Kentucky. Currently, KASPER data can only be exchanged with states. Lastly, members heard testimony on HB 200 that establishes the Kentucky Healthcare Workforce Investment Fund (KHWIF) to be administered by the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE). The fund would provide a dollar-for-dollar match with healthcare partners for healthcare training scholarships for Kentucky residents for healthcare program incentives. All legislation considered passed through committee and is heading for a vote on the House floor.

I can be reached here at home anytime, or through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. Feel free to contact me via email at Amy.Neighbors@lrc.ky.gov. If you would like more information, please visit the LRC website www.legislature.ky.gov.

The Adair County Judge Executive has issued an Executive Order to close the Adair County Annex building (offices only at 11:00 A.M. CT) to use the building as a storm shelter due to expected severe weather. All offices within will be closed due to this Executive Order along with the Green River Animal Shelter, and The Adair County Recycling Center.  The Adair County Annex basement will be open for anyone who needs shelter from the storms. Please stay tuned to your local radio station and media outlets and take necessary precautions as needed to remain safe!

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 3, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear briefed Kentuckians ahead of severe storms that are expected to produce damaging winds, isolated tornadoes and excessive rainfall across much of the state and declared a state of emergency.

According to the National Weather Service, strong to severe storms are possible between noon and 5 p.m. EST, ahead of and along a cold front. Damaging winds, in addition to severe storms, are expected today, and the strongest winds are expected during the afternoon and early evening. The heaviest rainfall totals are expected north of the Western Kentucky and Bluegrass parkways. A tornado watch is in effect for most of Western Kentucky. Isolated hail up to the size of a quarter is possible. A flood watch is in effect across Southern Indiana and portions of Central Kentucky.

“We have been through so much and lost too many Kentuckians to severe weather; we don’t want to lose anyone else. Please make a plan and prepare for today’s expected weather events,” Gov. Beshear said. “Emergency management, communications, transportation, energy and environment staff are activated and monitoring the storms at our Emergency Operations Center. We also have the Kentucky National Guard and Kentucky State Police ready to respond.”

The Governor asked Kentuckians to avoid calling 911 for traffic and weather updates. The Kentucky State Police requests that if you see or suspect that someone is stranded on the roadways, contact KSP at 800-222-5555.

The Governor also activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect families from grossly overpriced goods and services. With the state of emergency in place, consumers in the commonwealth can report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. Under state law, price gougers can be held accountable.

Kentucky Emergency Management Director Jeremy Slinker joined the Governor in urging Kentuckians to prepare now for the pending storms.

“It's time to put our ‘Severe Weather Awareness Week’ plans into action,” Director Slinker said. “Make sure that if you have to travel, you have an emergency kit in your car, and that you have an emergency kit at home filled with food, water, first aid kits, batteries and rain gear. And always remember, if you see a road that’s flooded: Turn around and don’t drown.”

Director Slinker also reminded Kentuckians to never put generators indoors and to use them 8-10 feet outside of their residence where there’s no chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Governor said that the Personnel Cabinet provided guidance to state employees last night urging telework when possible. Earlier this morning, state employees were notified that state office buildings would close at 11 a.m. EST to make sure employees have time to get home safely. Many state employees will still be working remotely to make sure critical government services remain available.

The Governor thanked the school districts that closed schools for the day so students, teachers and school staff could stay safe at home. He also thanked local officials and emergency management leaders for taking action locally to prepare for the storms.

“For the Kentuckians who have already been through so much, I know that these secondary events could cause more emotional distress,” Gov. Beshear said. “If you need help or someone to talk to, we want to encourage you to call or text the Disaster Distress Helplineat 800-985-5990.”

The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24/7, year-round, confidential crisis counseling and emotional support resource for survivors, responders and anyone in the U.S./territories struggling with distress or other mental health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disaster.

For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.
 

From Adair County Emergency Management Director Mike Keltner:

We currently have 2 outdoor warning sirens that have failed the recent siren test (Lindsey Wilson College and Wal-Mart Area). The estimated time to repair is unknown at this time. We want to remind  the public that the outdoor warning sirens are meant for persons outside. During a severe weather event, they will probably not be heard in a household or business.  

EDMONTON, Ky. (March 3, 2023) - On August 11, 2022, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15, received a call from Metcalfe County Sheriff’s Office requesting assistance investigating a missing person from a residence on Breeding Road in Metcalfe County.

KSP Troopers and Detectives responded to the area and learned Corey Nathan Hart, age 35 of Greenfield, Wisconsin, had been reported missing.  KSP launched an investigation into Mr. Hart’s disappearance. 

On February 22, 2023 at approximately 9:30 A.M. CST, KSP received information that an individual had located possible human remains on Betty Sparkman Road in Metcalfe County.  KSP Troopers and Detectives responded to the area and confirmed the remains were indeed human.  Due to the use of rapid DNA testing technology, the state medical examiner’s office was able to quickly identify the human remains to be Corey Nathan Hart. 
 

During the ensuing investigation, Detectives obtained information leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant charging Christopher Leon, age 38 of Calipatria, California, with the murder of Corey Nathan Hart.  On February 23, 2023 at approximately 1:48 P.M. EST, Trooper William Spears of KSP Post 12 in Frankfort served the warrant and arrested Mr. Leon in Lexington.  Mr. Leon was lodged in the Fayette County Detention Center.

KSP Detective Mike Dubree continues the murder investigation.

Jerrod Smith, 30, of Fountain Run, KY was taken into custody by Trooper Poole of the Kentucky State Police on Thursday night..Smith was charged with Sodomy, 1^st Degree – Victim greater than 12 years of Age, Sodomy, 1^st Degree, Rape, 1^st Degree and Sexual Abuse, 2^nd Degree. Smith was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Columbia City Council will have a Regular Called Meeting on Monday, March 6, 2023 at 6:00pmCT at City Hall.

AGENDA

ROLL CALL
 

1^ST ITEM:  MOTION TO APPROVE MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 06, 2023 REGULAR CALLED MEETING

2^ND ITEM:  LITTLE LEAGUE PARK UPDATE BY TODD DAVENPORT, PRESIDENT OF THE LITTLE LEAGUE BOARD

3^RD ITEM:  APPROVAL TO SIGN AGREEMENT AND RESOLUTION BETWEEN THE CITY OF COLUMBIA AND KY TRANSPORTATION CABINET, DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAYS TO PAVE WESTLAKE DRIVE

4^TH ITEM:  1^ST READING OF ORDINANCE: 110.44. VOLUNTARY ANNEXATION REQUEST OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF ADAIR VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY AND HUDSON STREET

5^TH ITEM:  APPROVAL TO APPLY FOR KY ABANDONED MINE GRANT

6^TH ITEM:  APPROVAL TO PAY 50% OF THE COST OF FIREWORKS SHOW FOR 4^TH OF JULY

7^TH ITEM:  APPROVAL OF BID FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A FENCE FOR THE SPLASH PAD

8^TH ITEM:  APPROVAL TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS FOR STREET PAVING

9^TH ITEM:  APPROVAL TO APPLY FOR A CRUMB RUBBER GRANT                                  

CITIZENS COMMENTS

COUNCIL COMMENTS

MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS                           

MOTION TO  ADJOURN 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 2, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear, First Lady Britainy Beshear and Dr. Steven Stack attended the Team Kentucky update to inform Kentuckians on economic development success; Read Across America; rebuilding and recovery efforts in Eastern Kentucky; the largest Kentucky State Police (KSP) recruitment class in years; and public health. The Governor also named advocates working to fight against cancer as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development
Gov. Beshear shared economic development news and highlighted companies investing in the commonwealth.

On Wednesday, the 2022 Governor’s Cup rankings were released, with Kentucky placing second nationally in economic projects per capita – up from ninth place last year – and first in the South Central region. The state also secured the ninth spot in the country for total qualifying projects, moving up two spots from the previous year.

Kentucky took the second spot in the South Central region for overall qualifying projects, secured 11 of the Top 100 Micropolitan areas – cities with populations between 10,000 and 50,000 – and tied for third nationally with 40 micropolitan projects.

“This is the result of hard work and dedication that we have always embraced here in the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “There is no better place to do business than in Kentucky.”

The Governor also announced that Kentucky will receive a $117 million award to expand access to capital for small businesses across the state through the U.S. Department of Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative.

Last week, Gov. Beshear joined local officials to break ground on a new Simpson County facility for Trader Joe’s East Inc., a leading retail distributor and supplier of food and beverage products, which will create 876 full-time jobs, including 91 direct roles behind a more than $259 million investment.

Read Across America
First Lady Britainy Beshear encouraged Kentuckians to join her in celebrating Read Across America Week. The annual weeklong celebration of reading kicks off today, March 2, and ends March 6.

“To all the young Kentuckians out there, I hope you will join me in celebrating Read Across America today through March 6,” said First Lady Beshear. “I hope you’ll keep reading for the rest of your life and find the same joy it brings to me.”

Largest Starting KSP Cadet Class since 2014
Gov. Beshear announced that KSP welcomed 103 new cadets to the training academy in Frankfort on Sunday. This is the largest starting cadet class since 2014. The Governor recognized the KSP recruitment branch for working to recruit more troopers and increase diversity.

The cadets will receive 24 weeks of basic training with more than 1,000 hours of law enforcement education. For the first time, the cadet class will also receive training on integrated video recording systems and will be equipped with body-worn cameras upon graduation.

“To our new cadets, your choice to pursue this heroic career is a true testament to your desire to create a better, safer Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “Team Kentucky will be praying for you, supporting you and advocating for resources to keep you safe as you work to keep us safe.”

Eastern Kentucky Flood Update
Gov. Beshear provided an update on Eastern Kentucky’s recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Currently, 203 families are housed in travel trailers. Kentucky State Parks are now housing 20 people, down from the 360 people sheltered on Sept. 1, 2022.

As of this week, over $12.6 million in awards have been approved for the buy-out program. The awards account for 75 properties from Perry County, the City of Jackson, Breathitt County, Letcher County and newly approved Knott County applicants. Homeowners wishing to learn more about the program should contact their local judge/executive or emergency management office for more information.

If flood victims need help, they should call FEMA directly or visit a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC). MARCs are on a rotating schedule, which consists of two onsite personnel and one remote support person as needed. The staff will rotate from county to county each day. Visit governor.ky.gov/FloodResources for more information.

The Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund has raised over $13.1 million from more than 41,500 donors. To contribute, click here.

EKY and WKY SAFE Fund Awards 
Today, the Governor announced nearly $5.5 million in awards from the Western and Eastern Kentucky SAFE Funds. From the Western Kentucky SAFE Fund, Taylor County will receive more than $60,000 to help with ineligible debris removal.

Awards from the Eastern Kentucky SAFE Fund include:

• Over $1.75 million to the City of Hazard to help with strained finances after the floods;
• $3.5 million to the Knott County Fiscal Court to fund a FEMA match; and
• $160,000 to Letcher County to fund a FEMA match.

Public Health
Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH), updated Kentuckians on measles and upcoming changes to COVID-19 reporting.

Last Friday, DPH confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated Jessamine County resident. Measles is a contagious respiratory virus that causes a high fever, rash, cough, runny nose and red eyes. Those who develop symptoms should self-isolate and call their medical provider to arrange testing. Unless you are severely ill, please call first so you don’t expose others to measles. Dr. Stack encouraged Kentuckians to get vaccinated against the virus.

Dr. Stack also provided an update on the federal COVID-19 public health emergency, which is set to end May 11. DPH continues to adapt its COVID-19 activities to support appropriate ongoing surveillance, information sharing and education.

When the public health emergency concludes, changes will begin to occur in the data collected and available to report related to COVID-19.

DPH will continue COVID-19 surveillance through kycovid19.ky.gov. The dedicated DPH COVID-19 question hotline will end May 12, concurrent with the end of the federal public health emergency. Starting March 6, DPH will standardize its COVID-19 dashboards to a single platform. The new version will be interactive and support additional pop-up information.

“COVID-19 is not over, but the formally declared public health emergency will soon end,” said Dr. Stack. “Thank you, all Kentuckians, for your engagement, kindness and care for each other during this generation-defining, once-in-a-century pandemic. We have gotten through this, and we got through it together.”

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear named all advocates working to fight against cancer as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

The Governor and First Lady continue to support Kentuckians working to defeat cancer through increased research and awareness efforts. In February, the Governor recognized Childhood Cancer Research Advocacy Day and met with children and families affected by the disease. Yesterday, the Governor and First Lady recognized Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and emphasized the importance of regular screenings. The Governor also met with Daphne’s Legacy today, a Frankfort-based nonprofit working to raise awareness and help those affected by Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

“So many Kentuckians are impacted by cancer, including me and my family. It’s hard to lose someone we love, but when we work in their honor to help others it gives a meaningful way to honor and remember them,” said Gov. Beshear. “Today’s Team Kentucky All-Stars are working daily to raise awareness around different types of cancer and help more people affected go on to live full lives.”

Richmond, Ky. (March 2, 2023) - Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that 27 law enforcement officers from agencies across the state have graduated the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s (DOCJT) basic training academy. These law enforcement officers will now serve and protect the commonwealth to create safer communities.

“We look forward to the good work you will do once you return to your communities,” Gov. Beshear said. “Thank you for your commitment to keeping the commonwealth safe.”

DOCJT is committed to providing officers with best practices, the latest technology training and legal information to protect the diverse communities they serve. The graduates of Class 535 received more than 800 hours of recruit-level instruction over 20 weeks. Major training areas include patrol procedures, physical training, vehicle operations, defensive tactics, criminal law, traffic and DUI, firearms, criminal investigations, cultural awareness, bias related crimes and tactical responses to crisis situations.

The everchanging nature of public safety and protection requires DOCJT to remain on the cutting edge of law enforcement training practices. This includes providing officers and recruits with latest technology training and legal information available to protect the diverse communities they serve. Advancements in training, facilities and instruction are made often, allowing DOCJT trainers and trainees to have the most possible resources at their disposal.

Today’s 27 graduating law enforcement officers are now ready to wear the badge of honor along with the other 1,084 Kentuckians who have completed their basic training since December 2019. They will work together to create a commonwealth that is safer for all Kentuckians now and into the future.

“Completion of basic training is just the beginning of a rewarding journey,” DOCJT Commissioner Nicolai Jilek said. “Each day that you put on that uniform, know there is a community who feels safer and more secure because of your commitment to integrity and professionalism.”

The Beshear-Coleman Administration is proud to welcome the 27 new law enforcement officers into the partnership of public safety. Along with all those currently serving in law enforcement, graduates will play key roles in the ongoing effort of making each of Kentucky’s communities safer.

Class 535 graduates and their agencies are:

Robert B. Adamson, Russell Springs Police Department

Christopher D. Allen, Prestonsburg Police Department

Zachary T. Bryant, Frankfort Police Department

Michael A. Cast, Grayson County Sheriff’s Office

Caleb B. Cope, Murray Police Department

William M. DeAtley, Northern Kentucky University Police Department

Daniel R. Drury, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office

Ethan M. Ellis, Campbellsville Police Department

Kaden G. Gervacio, Danville Police Department

Jarrett A. Graber, Glasgow Police Department

Kenneth D. Helton, Harlan Police Department

Jacob C. Highbaugh, Munfordville Police Department

Timothy A. Hively Jr., Bellefonte Police Department

Andrew L. Jefferson, Maysville Police Department

Kelci N. Keen, Franklin Police Department

Justin T. Luttrell, Casey County Sheriff’s Office

Alexander R. Mutter, Metcalfe County Sheriff’s Office

John T. Myles II, Lawrenceburg Police Department

Cole R. O’Brien, Independence Police Department

Christopher H. Pacheco, Hopkinsville Police Department

Adam L. Payne, University of Louisville Police Department

Tyler M. Pigman, Hazard Police Department

Jacob L. Rickard, Owensboro Police Department

Jacob E. Sexton, Hart County Sheriff’s Office

Joseph Seth Taylor, Hardinsburg Police Department

Brandon W. Thompson, Scottsville Police Department

Mathew K. Warfield, University of Louisville Police Department

DOCJT provides basic training for city and county police officers, sheriffs’ deputies, university police, airport police throughout the state, only excluding Louisville Metro Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Bowling Green Police Department and the Kentucky State Police, which each have independent academies.

Beshear-Coleman Administration Commitment to Making Kentucky a National Leader in Public Safety

The Beshear-Coleman administration’s top priority is the safety of all Kentuckians. The Governor's public safety actions are creating safer communities and a better Kentucky now and into the future.

The recently enacted bipartisan state budget signed by Gov. Beshear allows the commonwealth to take additional steps to make Kentucky a leader in public safety by enhancing law enforcement training, creating safer communities and improving the safety of both law enforcement officers and Kentuckians. In July 2022, the Governor announced additional steps to enhance public and officer safety, including funding for a new firearms training facility, a Western Kentucky training site feasibility study and an increased training stipend for law enforcement officers.

In October 2022, the administration took another step forward in creating safer communities by awarding more than $350,000 in grant funding to prevent youth crime across the commonwealth.

In June 2022, Gov. Beshear announced the Military to Law Enforcement Program (M-2-LE). M-2-LE allows local law enforcement agencies in Kentucky to hire active service members within all U.S. military branches during their last 180 days of service. Upon being contracted by a law enforcement agency, the military member will continue to receive their pay and benefits from the U.S. Military while they undergo law enforcement training at the Department of Criminal Justice Training.

Since taking office, Gov. Beshear has awarded almost $8 million in grant funding to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in purchasing the tools and resources that will not only allow them to protect Kentucky communities but will also ensure their safety as they stand on the front lines every day. Recently, the administration announced nearly $2 million in grant funding to enhance public safety, curb the sale of illegal drugs and fight addiction.

Gov. Beshear has championed legislative action like Senate Bill 64 and House Bill 254, making it easier for law enforcement to conduct undercover stings and increase the chances of stopping a horrific crime against a child from being facilitated through the internet. These actions will also provide law enforcement officers with the authority to charge offenders with harsher crimes to keep them away from the public, preventing further interactions with Kentucky’s most vulnerable population.

The boil water advisory on highway 1383 has all been lifted.

The Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) presented Senator Max Wise (R-Campbellsville) with a 2022 "Friend of Kentucky Cities" award for carrying House Bill 453 to final passage in the Senate.

"House Bill 453 will help protect public resources while maintaining transparency, which is a top priority for city officials,"KLC Director of Public Affairs Bryanna L. Carroll remarked. "The bill allows local governments to protect tax dollars involved in contract bids and clarifies rules for video teleconference meetings to ensure the public stays informed and connected. We appreciate Senator Wise's support on this and other measures that help city officials operate efficient and successful governments."

Dennis Lambert, age 32, of Somerset, was taken into custody by Trooper Scott of the Kentucky State Police just before 5:30 yesterday afternoon. Lambert was charged with Failure to Wear Seat Belt, No Registration Plates, No Registration Receipt, Operating Vehicle with Expired Operators License, Careless Driving and Operating Motor Vehicle under Influence Alcohol .08 – 1^st. Lambert was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

Frankfort, Kentucky (March 1, 2023) – The Kentucky House of Representatives entertained a vote on HB 130, sponsored by Representative Amy Neighbors, yesterday which expands the variety of farming equipment offered through local shared-use equipment leasing programs.

HB 130 grants farmers and producers the ability to lease more specialized equipment through the Kentucky Shared-Use Equipment Program and allows them to use that equipment on farming operations that may not be within the county they lease from. 

“This measure is a way to ensure that our producers have the equipment they need when they need it and at an affordable price,” said Representative Neighbors. “Expanding the shared-use equipment leasing program protocol will be integral to making these local operations more efficient.”

The Shared-Use Equipment Program is offered through the Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund and is powered by local fiscal courts and conservation offices. Currently, the scope of equipment offered through this program is limited, and HB 130 allows the program to include specialized equipment and machinery that would otherwise be a burden to the farmer to purchase.

HB 130 passed the House unanimously and is now headed to the senate for a vote.

For more information regarding HB 130 as well as current and past legislative measures, please visit legislature.ky.gov or click here.

The area of 1383 in the Eli area will be low pressure or out of water this morning due to a water main break in the alligator two area. Also, there will be a boil Water advisory until further notice For the customers without water on Hwy 1383 and roads off that. 

from

Terry Russell 

Mike Scales with WAVE NEWS, has the list of Indictments handed down by the Grand Jury yesterday...