On Thursday, June 29, 2023 Adair County Deputy Josh Durbin and K-9 Deputy Chandler Staten initiated a traffic stop on a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado truck on Campbellsville Road. A roadside investigation led to a search of the vehicle where a quantity of methamphetamine was located. The drugs are believed to have been intended for resale based on the quantity. 

On Wednesday night, June 28, 2023 Adair County Deputy Jailers requested that Columbia Police respond to the jail after they found suspected narcotics on a Cumberland County inmate during a booking search. The inmate, 51-year-old Jason Thrasher of Burkesville, KY had been taken into custody for Trafficking in Drugs in Cumberland County and had been transported to the ACRJ. Thrasher has also been charged with Promoting Contraband 1st degree. He remains lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Russell County Board of Education will be accepting sealed bids on the following items:
*1993 International Genesis Snub Nose Bus
*1993 International Bus on Handicapped Bus Platform. 
*Two (2) Southbend Convection Double Stack Electric Ovens
*Two (2) Wolf Convection Double Stack Ovens.    

A general description and pictures of the ovens and buses can be viewed at https://www.russell.kyschools.us/Content2/surplus

All items are sold “as is” and “where is” and it will be the responsibility of the purchaser to remove the ovens and/or buses.  All items must be removed by August 1, 2023.

If you would like to bid on multiple items, you must submit a separate sealed bid for each. 

Sealed bids must be clearly marked on the outside envelope: Russell County Board of Education, Attn: Marla Carnes, 404 S Main St., Jamestown, KY 42629.  Bids will be accepted Monday-Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm at the Russell County Board of Education or by mail.  Faxed or e-mailed bids are not accepted.  All bids must be received by July 13, 2023 at 9:00 am CDT. Bids will be opened at 9:05 am, July 13, 2023.  The Russell County Board of Education reserves the right to accept and/or reject any/all bids at the July 17 board meeting.

If you have questions about the items or would like to view the items, please call the Russell County Board of Education Central Office at 270-343-3191.

On Thursday night, June 29,  2023 CPD Officers responded to FiveStar on Jamestown Street following the report of a suspicious male in a vehicle. 

Upon arrival, CPD Officers made contact with the male and after speaking with officers, he denied consent to search his vehicle. K9 Unit Nitro with the Adair Sheriff’s Office was used and subsequently alerted on the male's truck. A search yielded findings of marijuana and suspected methamphetamine. 

Michael Compton, 52, of Columbia was taken into custody and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and possession of methamphetamine. 

Officer Elliot Smith made the arrest. He was assisted on scene by Sgt Drew Conn and the ACSO.

I have received several calls this week in reference to scams being affiliated with the use of sheriff’s offices and police departments. 

In these instances, the caller used an app to make it look like they were calling from an actual law enforcement agency. The caller had extensive information about the individual they were calling. Information included their family names, addresses, maiden names, license numbers, birth dates, and other identifying information.   

The caller proceeded to give case numbers where cases were pending against them and advised them if they wanted to go ahead and prepay their bond they could be given a court date instead of being arrested.  
   
While it is possible a law enforcement officer may call and talk to you about an incident, it’s highly unlikely you would not already know why they would be making contact with you.
 

If this occurs, please ask them for their name, department they work for, and badge number. Hang up the phone and look that agency’s phone number up from a legitimate source and call them directly.  Ask to speak to that officer and give them their badge number. Advise them of the nature of the call you received in order to authenticate the call was made from them. 

A police agency will never call you and ask you to make a direct payment for a ticket or a bond on a warrant. A bond can only be posted in person at a correctional facility or in person at your circuit clerk’s office. As law enforcement, we are not allowed, nor do we have the training or ability to post bonds at our agencies. Especially by apps such as Pay Pal, Venmo, or Apple prepaid cards.

Most of the time, once the money is paid, it is gone and not recoverable. The addresses with the accounts normally lead to abandoned houses or businesses,  if they even exist at all. Many times, jurisdictional issues arise because they are traced back to a foreign country.

If it doesn’t sound right , then it probably isn’t right. Please do not fall prey to these scam artists.

If you ever have any questions about a call you received wanting money sent online and whether it is official, please feel free to reach out to my office, the Columbia Police Department, or Kentucky State Police. We will be glad to help you.

Sheriff Josh Brockman 
Adair County Sheriff’s Office 
424 Public Square Suite 20 
Columbia,  KY 42728
270-384-2776
270-384-6464
 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 29, 2023) - Conservation officers with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources will join law enforcement agencies across the nation for Operation Dry Water over the July 4^th holiday weekend.

Operation Dry Water is a national campaign designed to educate the public about the dangers of boating under the influence (BUI). The campaign facilitates a national weekend of BUI detection and enforcement aimed at reducing the number alcohol- and drug-related incidents and fatalities around Independence Day each year, a holiday known for an increase in these types of occurrences.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement, the Kentucky State Police and local agencies will increase their presence around the state’s lakes and rivers Friday to Tuesday as a reminder not to boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“Operation Dry Water is an opportunity to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired boating,” said Maj. Shane Carrier, assistant director of Law Enforcement for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. “Our conservation officers will be extra vigilant in observing for those who exhibit impairment, especially those operating a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

A law enacted in 2019 allows Kentucky conservation officers to make a boating under the influence arrest based on probable cause of operator intoxication when an accident has caused property damage or physical injury. Persons arrested for BUI may be subject to 24 hours detention for a first offense and 48 hours for a second offense.

“We want everyone to have an enjoyable time on the water over the holiday weekend, but please be mindful about how you celebrate to help ensure everyone’s safety,” Carrier said. “Conservation officers will be offering reminders about other safe boating practices like wearing a life jacket and taking a boater education course.”

Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in boating accidents and fatalities, according to the U.S. Coast Guard’s 2022 Recreational Boating Statistics report.

Alcohol and drugs can affect judgment, balance, vision and reaction time for boat operators and passengers alike. They also can increase fatigue. Sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion may intensify the side effects of alcohol, drugs and some medications.

Boaters can learn more about boating laws in the Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide, the regulations summary booklet, available online at fw.ky.gov and wherever licenses are sold, or at Operation Dry Water.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife also urges all boaters to complete a state-approved Boater Safety Course before taking a vessel out on the water. These courses provide necessary training in boating laws, required safety equipment, and many essentials of boat operation including “rules of the road.”

Successful completion helps prevent accidents and boating law violations, both of which may be costly or even tragic.

Operation Dry Water is an annual effort coordinated by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and law enforcement agencies. More than 600 law enforcement agencies across the country, including nearly 8,000 officers, participated last year, resulting in 350,472 boater contacts and 794 BUI arrests over the course of the holiday weekend.

Judy Walters, 53, of Russell Springs, KY was taken into custody by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday night for Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition (Shoplifting). She was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

The National Weather Service has issued an Air Quality Alert for parts of the Commonwealth. Please see the attached link to learn more. https://www.weather.gov/lmk/. 

The Energy and Environment Cabinet has released the following statement regarding the air quality alert: Smoke from Canadian wildfires is impacting the commonwealth this week, causing hazy skies and poor air quality in some areas. (Track fire and smoke plumes here, https://fire.airnow.gov/ and air quality here, https://www.airnow.gov/)  The Air Quality Index, or AQI, is measuring in the “red” across parts of Kentucky today, meaning air quality is considered unhealthy for everyone. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should take the following measures to reduce exposure: o Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. o Keep outdoor activities short. o Consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them. You can track your local air quality here: https://www.airnow.gov/

Contact the Chamber with any JOB OPPORTUNITIES that you have available by noon on Thursday. An updated list will be posted to the Chamber's Facebook page on Thursday afternoon. ALL posts expire after four weeks. 

Redmond Tree Service is seeking a part time ground laborer. Pay will be based on experience. Please send your contact info and work experience or resume to our email at rtskentucky@gmail.com.

Hubbard’s Building Supply is hiring for a counter sales position. The job entails working with walk in customers, answering phones and taking orders, loading customers (must be able to pick up at least 100 lbs), need to have basic computer skills, basic knowledge of building materials, and honest. This is a full time position with benefits available. Stop by at 542 E. Steve Wariner Drive, Russell Springs M-F 6:30-4:30 or Saturday 7:00-12:00 to pick up an application.

United Citizens Bank  is looking to hire friendly and dependable people for teller positions at our Russell Springs Branch. If interested, please contact Brianna Bennett at briannab@ucbsky.com or Lesley Hurt at lesleyh@ucbsky.com or call 270-858-2265.
 
La Fonda Yummilicious Taqueria is in need of a server, a second cook and all around kitchen help.  If you are interested, call 270-866-7534 for more information or drop by in person at 517 S. Hwy. 127, Russell Springs, KY
 
Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency is hiring for a PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST to support and guide their clients as they look to overcome substance use and/or to provide support services to fill the needs of people seeking recovery. Applications available at:   www.lc-caa.org, submit applications to:  apply@ lc-caa.org
 
Russell County Public Library has two openings for their team of passionate and dedicated professionals. The COLLECTION SERVICES COORDINATOR is a full time position with benefits. The PUBLIC SERVICE ASSISTANT is a part time position. For more information and to apply, visit www.russellcountylibrary.com/employment

Russell County Detention Center is hiring for male and female guards for the night shift (7:00 P-7:00 A). Applicants should apply at 228 Brian Walter Drive.

Fair Oaks Rehabilitation is hiring. 6A-6P nurse, 6P-6A nurse, 6A-6P, AND 6P-6A CAN. You can apply in person at 1 Sparks Avenue, Jamestown, KY 42629 or call 270-206-2822 and ask for Tyson Baker.

 Associates in Eye Care of Russell Springs  is hiring for a Full Time Technician. Please drop off a resume and fill out an application at our office. They are located at 546 Steve Dr. Russell Springs, KY 42642. The office hours are Mon-Thur 8:30-5:00 and Fridays 8:30-4:00. If you have any questions, give us a call at 270-866-3177. 

United Citizens Bank of Russell Springs is looking to hire friendly and dependable people for teller positions at our Russell Springs Branch. If interested, please contact Brianna Bennett at briannab@ucbsky.com or Lesley Hurt at lesleyh@ucbsky.com or call 270-858-2265.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park  has multiple openings in our Food Service side! Currently we have full time state positions open for a Serving Attendant, Park Chef I, and a Cook II  These positions offer a variety of perks such as PTO, Retirement options, Health/Vision/Dental/Life Insurance, and much more! For more information give the park a call at 270-343-3111 or email mark.baker@ky.gov 
 

***TONIGHT-JUNE 28th***

Food, Fun, Fellowship, Music and FIREWORKS!! 
Music by CUMBERLAND THUNDER begins at 6:30pmCT. Fireworks will begin around 9:00pmCT. EVERYONE is invited!

LAKEFEST FESTIVITIES begin Friday, June 30th with pageants at 5:00pmCT and Triple Crown Wrestling beginning at 6:05pmCT. The festivities continue on Saturday, July 1st on the Square in Jamestown, KY. FIREWORKS will be Saturday, July 1st around 10:00pmCT. DON'T MISS this fun, family-friendly event!

On Monday, June 26, 2023 the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department (RSVFD) played a role in responding to a 2-vehicle collision on South HWY 127. At 3:34pmCT, the RSVFD was dispatched to the accident scene to provide support to both the Russell Springs Police Department (RSPD) and the Russell County Emergency Medical Services (RCEMS).

A dedicated team of 6 firefighters from the RSVFD responded to the call, working on the scene for approximately 20 minutes.

As a reminder, the RSVFD wishes to encourage all community members to be vigilant and practice safe driving habits, especially during peak travel hours. The safety of our citizens is always our top priority.

The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department extends its gratitude to the RSPD and RCEMS for their prompt action and collaborative support in this incident. This cooperative effort exemplifies the commitment of Russell Springs' emergency response system in maintaining the safety and well-being of our community.

At 1:54pmCT on Monday, June 26, 2023 the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department was alerted to a fire incident at the apartment complex located at 842 S. Main Street in Russell Springs. The RSFVD promptly responded to the emergency call and arrived at the scene in record time.

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a small fire on the balcony of one of the units. Acting quickly, the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department successfully extinguished the fire, minimizing damage to the structure and preventing further escalation. Their swift response and effective firefighting tactics ensured the safety of the residents and the surrounding area.

A team of eight trained and dedicated firefighters from the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department responded to the call and actively tackled the incident. Their coordinated efforts and quick action contributed to the successful containment of the fire within a mere 30 minutes.

Assistant Fire Chief Mark Barnett expressed his gratitude to the entire team for their unwavering commitment and professionalism in handling the situation. "I am very proud of our firefighters for their quick response to this incident. Their dedication to their duty and the community we serve is truly commendable," said Assistant Fire Chief Barnett.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the fire, ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents.

The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department extends its gratitude to the community for their ongoing support and cooperation during emergencies. They remind everyone to prioritize fire safety measures, including the proper use of fire alarms, extinguishers, and adherence to fire prevention guidelines.

• Operating Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd degree (Drug Unspecified)
• Prescription Controlled Substances Not in Proper Container 
• Possession of Open Alcohol Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle
• Reckless Driving
• Improper Equipment &
• Wanton Endangerment

• DAN ANTLE INSURANCE AGENT REQUEST
• AIRPORT BOARD REQUEST FOR FUNDS
• BANK OF COLUMBIA-FEDERAL HOMELAND LETTER OF CREDIT  
• ADAIR COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BUDGET PRESENTATION
• JIM BLAIR BATHROOM DISCUSSION  
• PERMISSON TO CHANGE THE ADMIN CODE - 30 DAY WAITING PERIOD FOR INSURANCE - 2ND READING 
• PERMISSION TO CHANGE THE ADMIN CODE FOR PROCUREMENT - 2ND READING 
• ARPA LOST REVENUE 
• SAM’S RENEWAL CHANGE FROM FEDERAL TO ALL GRANTS
• OPIOID SECOND SETTLEMENT WITH PERMISSION FOR JUDGE TO SIGN DISMISSAL OF PHARMACUTICAL REQUEST
• APPOINTMENT OF TREASURER
• OPEN ROAD BIDS WITH POSSIBLE AWARDING
• DEPARTMENT ISSUES DISCUSSION INCLUDING 911 PAYSCALE REQUEST
• PERMISSION FOR THE JUDGE EXECUTIVE TO SIGN THE COMPASS MINERALS AGREEMENT FOR THE SALT AUCTION
• OCCUPATIONAL TAX FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE 

Kentucky is home to a plentiful array of diverse natural resources that rival any other state in the country. Kentucky boasts 1,100 commercially navigable miles of rivers, which is second only to Alaska. With 12.7 million acres of commercial forest land and being amongst the five largest coal producers, our land and rivers are vital to our economy. With all Kentucky has to offer, from our waterways, forests, coal, mountains, farmlands, game, fish, and much more, we must be careful to ensure our resources are used and cared for appropriately. With this week’s legislative update, I want to share with you all the legislation we passed earlier this year to protect our natural resources and allow Kentucky energy to thrive. 

Modernizing water waste disposal protocols, Rep. Chris Freeland - HB 160 creates a collaborative agreement between industry stakeholders and the Kentucky Energy Cabinet. HB 160 also addresses the planning process for building the water waste disposal system used in waste water treatment facilities. 

Extending the waste management fund, Rep. Jim Gooch - HB 222 extends the state’s Hazardous Waste Management Fund until June of 2032. This fund is vital in waste disposal mitigation.

Ensuring public pensions remain stable, Rep. Scott Sharp – HB 236 mandates that state retirement systems move away from environmental, social and governance (ESG) driven investing to restore the emphasis on financial returns. 

Eliminating outdated RFG requirements, Rep. Jared Bauman - HJR 37 directs the Energy and Environment Cabinet to adopt revisions to the state air quality implementation plan to remove the reformulated gas requirement for Jefferson County and applicable parts of Oldham and Bullitt counties. 

Keeping fossil fuel-fired electric plants on the grid, Sen. Robby Mills – SB 4 prohibits the Public Service Commission from approving a utility’s request to retire a coal-fired electric plant unless the utility can demonstrate that the retirement will not negatively impact the reliability or resilience of the electric grid, or the affordability of customer rates.

Decreasing consumer electric rates, Sen. Phillip Wheeler – SB 192 allows investor-owned electric facilities to use securitization to recover costs associated with the retirement of a power plant or other significant assets as well as the costs incurred in severe weather events rather than seeking rate increases. Securitization allows a utility to refinance financial obligations in order to lower the costs to ratepayers by converting the short-term debt to longer-term secured debt.

Streamlining water pollution permitting process, Sen. Johnnie Turner – SB 226 eases the process for pollution discharge permits issued to companies engaged in surface mining. Despite the Governor from vetoing this piece of legislation, we overrode his veto and SB 226 is now law.

Repairing Kentucky’s dams, Sen. Johnnie Turner – SB 277 revises regulations and updates the framework for floodplain management in an effort to guide the upgrade of Kentucky’s inadequate and sometimes failing dams. The measure also requires dam owners to develop and maintain emergency action plans.

I also want to update you on what we are doing in the interim in regards to these issues. In the first meeting of the interim for the Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy, committee members heard testimony from representatives from a utility company its efforts to lower utility rates.  Among those efforts is the use of securitization, a financing process approved during the 2023 Regular Session that allows companies to borrow based on assets rather than using rate increases. Clearly safe and reliable energy resources are a major priority, particularly as questions arise about the future of the grid and the federal government puts more and more pressure on states to invest in alternative energy sources.

I would like to hear from you regarding your interest in any of the issues before the Kentucky General Assembly relating to natural resources and energy or otherwise. Feel free to reach out any time through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181 or by email at Amy.Neighbors@lrc.ky.gov. Send me an email if you would like to receive regular email updates, send me an email. For more information, please visit the legislature’s website at legislature.ky.gov.
 

Storm damage efforts continue throughout the night and morning in Adair County.

A multi agency response to storm damage began as the storm passed through Adair County last night beginning around 10:30PM central time.  Numerous trees were down last night and several remain due to power line entanglement.  

As of 3AM efforts of road crews, fire departments, law enforcement, emergency management and citizens had cleared over 75 trees from roadways.  

Adair County E911 had taken hundreds of storm related requests by 3AM dispatching for all agencies.  

Electric providers are working this morning making repairs but due to the multiple trees blocking some access and the number of damage areas it is taking an undetermined time for restoration.

Please use caution this morning as trees may have not yet been discovered in the hundreds of miles of roadway in Adair County.  New trees and limbs may break loose for a few days.  Never approach a utility line which may also be entangled in a tree. 

I want to thank our responders that have worked through the night and continue efforts over the next few days.

Mike Keltner 

On Sunday morning, June 25, 2023 at 1:21amCT, Deputy Josh Durbin initiated a traffic stop on Union Church Rd, 13 miles north of Columbia. After a roadside investigation, probable cause was found that the operator may be in possession of controlled substances.
 

A search of the vehicle yielded methamphetamine and the operator, 50-year-old James McClintock of Columbia, KY was taken into custody and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail for possession of a controlled substance 1 degree (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, rear license not illuminated, and improper headlights.

Deputy Josh Durbin is continuing the investigation.

On Saturday, June 24, 2023 Adair County Deputy Josh Durbin and K-9 Deputy Chandler Staten initiated a traffic stop on KY55 North. 
 

After an investigation it was found that the operator, Tony Saunders of Monticello, KY had an active Wayne County arrest warrant for trafficking in a controlled substance. K-9 Nitro was deployed on the vehicle and a positive hit indicator was given for controlled substances inside the auto. A search yielded a quantity of suspected methamphetamine.

Saunders was arrested on the outstanding felony indictment warrant out of Wayne County. A passenger, George Young, was taken into custody for Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (meth). Both men were lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Deputies Josh Durbin and Chandler Staten are continuing the investigation.

• Yevonda Popplewell, 39, of Russell Springs - arrested on Saturday night by KSP for DUI and Operating on a Suspended or Revoked License.
• Kevin Haddix, 57, of Albany - arrested on Saturday afternoon for Terroristic Threatening 3rd degree and Probation Violation (for a felony offense).

The Adair Courthouse Annex will be open as a temporary storm location until the storms end later tonight (Sunday, june 25, 2023).

Russell Springs, KY - The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department (RSVFD) was dispatched earlier tonight at 8:54 pm to a vehicle accident with injuries at 392 East Steve Wariner Drive. Assistant Chief Mark Barnett reported that the RSVFD responded to the scene with a team of 9 firefighters, who worked diligently for approximately one hour.

In addition to the RSVFD, emergency responders from the Russell Springs Police Department, Russell County Sheriff's Office, and Russell County Emergency Services were also present at the incident location. The collaborative efforts of these agencies ensured a coordinated response to the accident.

At this time, the details and circumstances surrounding the accident are still under investigation by the Russell Springs Police Department.

The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department extends its sincere gratitude to all the responding agencies for their swift assistance and professionalism in handling the situation.

Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an eleven-count indictment on June 21, 2023, charging four men with trafficking in methamphetamine and fentanyl, and one with a firearm offense and money laundering.  

U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Ron Eckart of the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force made the announcement.

According to the indictment, between January 1, 2019, and December 9, 2022, Chaz Hughes, 30, of Louisville, Kentucky, Joshua Salazar, 33, of Lebanon, Kentucky, Curtis Cunningham, 26, of Lebanon, Kentucky, and Steven Edlin, 49, of Loretto, Kentucky conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and 40 grams or more of a fentanyl mixture.

Hughes is also charged in a separate count with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Salazar is also charged in a separate count with distributing 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and six-counts of money laundering. Salazar was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On July 29, 2011, in Marion Circuit Court, Salazar was convicted of trafficking in cocaine. On August 19, 2016, in Nelson Circuit Court, Salazar, was convicted of trafficking in cocaine, felon in possession of a handgun, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Cunningham is also charged in a separate count for distributing a fentanyl mixture.

As of today, Salazar, Hughes, Cunningham, and Edlin have all made their initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Hughes and Salazar face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. If convicted, Cunningham and Edlin face a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.   

This case is being investigated by the DEA, the IRS, the ATF, the KSP, and the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari is prosecuting the case.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

A Green County man died in a 1-vehicle accident late Wednesday night on US 68 (Edmonton Road) in Green County.

20-year-old Samuel Young was traveling in the area of Mt. Lebanon Church when he left the road and struck a tree head-on. Young was pronounced dead at the scene by the Green County Coroners Office.

Funeral services are scheduled for Sunday at Cowherd & Parrott Funeral Home in Greensburg who's in charge of arrangements.

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky (June 23, 2023) – Kentucky State Police Post 15 in Columbia received a call from the Kentucky Department of Community Based Services (DCBS) requesting assistance with an investigation they had in Taylor County.

On Thursday afternoon, June 22, 2023 at approximately 4:33pmET, KSP Troopers responded with DCBS personnel to Berry Road to assist them with an investigation. While DCBS was conducting their investigation, Troopers made contact with Kyrie Hollins, 30, of Campbellsville. Ms. Hollins reported that Jonathon McAllister, 49, of Campbellsville, had assaulted her two days before KSP Troopers arrived. Over the course of the assault investigation, KSP also learned that two juveniles in the home had injuries. 

As a result of the preliminary investigation of the incident between Ms. Hollins and Mr. McAllister, an arrest warrant was issued for Jonathon McAllister for Strangulation 1^st Degree and Assault 4^th Degree. As a result of the preliminary investigation of the injuries to the two juveniles, Jonathon McAllister and Kyrie Hollins were arrested and charged with Criminal Abuse 1^st Degree (Child 12 or Under) and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor. Both individuals were lodged in the Taylor County Detention Center. The previously mentioned arrest warrant for Jonathon McAllister was also served on him at the time of his arrest.

The case remains under investigation by Trooper AJ Mattingly and Trooper Trey Binder.  Troopers Mattingly and Binder were also assisted in the investigation by other KSP Troopers. 

Early Friday morning, June 23, 2023 at 2:53amCT, Adair County Deputy Josh Durbin attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a 2005 Subaru Outback on KY 61 South. The driver, identified as 37-year-old Adam Nix of Hamilton County, TN, was suspected of operating under the influence as he was traveling into oncoming lanes. The vehicle failed to stop and continued on into the city limits of Columbia where Columbia Police attempted to deploy spike strips. The pursuit traveled through several city streets before leaving city limits and gong onto Pelham Branch Road. The pursuit led to the Cane Valley area before going into Green County. The vehicle then made a turn and headed back to Adair County where Sheriff Josh Brockman joined in the pursuit.   
   

The pursuit came to an end in the limits of Columbia when the vehicle entered into a dead end parking lot, struck a fence, and was boxed in by the sheriff's vehicle and city police cruisers. The driver, Adam Nix, then exited and fled on foot, with Sheriff Brockman and Deputy Durbin in pursuit. Nix was captured in a field where he failed to obey commands and Deputy Durbin deployed his taser.
 

Adam Nix was taken into custody and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail on multiple felony offenses including:

• Operating a motor vehicle under the influence 
• Fleeing & evading police 1st degree (aggravated circumstances)
• Possession of a controlled substance 1st degree (methamphetamine) 
• Possession of marijuana 
• Possession of drug paraphernalia 
• Reckless driving 
• Operating on suspended license 
• Criminal mischief 1st degree 
• Wanton endangerment 
• Improper passing 
• Going the wrong way on highway &
• Criminal littering.

Deputy Durbin was assisted by Sheriff Brockman along with Columbia Police Department and Kentucky State Police.

The latest unemployment numbers for the Lake Cumberland Area are out for the month of May. Russell County had a 5.2 percent rate and Adair County at 5 percent rate, according to the newly released data from the Kentucky Center for Statistics.

McCreary County had the highest jobless rate in May at 5.4 percent, followed by Wayne County at 5.3 percent, Clinton 4.8 percent, Pulaski 4.7 percent, Casey 4.1 percent, Green and Taylor counties each at 3.6 percent, and Cumberland County at 3.2 percent. The average unemployment rate in the Lake Cumberland district was 4.5 percent.

Carroll County recorded the state’s lowest unemployment rate at 2.8 percent while Magoffin County, at 8.9 percent, had the state’s highest unemployment rate.

The Jamestown Police Department investigated a 1-vehicle accident on Thursday...
 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 22, 2023) - Conservation officers and biologists with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources want to remind the public that sightings of black bears are common across Kentucky and encounters with them are possible, especially in early summer.

As young males disperse from their primary range in eastern Kentucky to establish new home ranges for themselves and search for mates, bears may be spotted on farms in rural areas, in residential areas, and occasionally within town or city boundaries virtually anywhere in the state. Sightings have recently been reported in eastern, southeastern, and southcentral Kentucky, including one recent report in southern Fayette County in the heart of the Bluegrass region.

“Young male black bears may accidentally find themselves in a more populated area without meaning to do so,” said John Hast, wildlife biologist and bear specialist with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. “They are on their own for the first time and just discovering humans. They are generally wary of people and will keep moving to exit a populated area on their own, usually at night when humans are less active.”

There are burgeoning bear populations in both eastern Kentucky and the Ozarks region of Missouri. It is not unusual in the early summer for young male bears to wander well outside of the primary bear range in eastern Kentucky. These bears get pushed out of the areas where they were raised by older, dominant males. They may wander up to several weeks or more into unfamiliar territory in search of good habitat and prospective mates, before returning to the mountains. Bears can travel 20 miles or more in a day if undisturbed.

“Not having any idea where they are, and likely being scared with all the new sights and sounds, bears can easily get lost and wander further into a town or city instead of away,” Hast says. “People should be mindful not to engage with a bear and to remove any potential food source to encourage them to keep moving.”

Black bears have a natural fear of people and dogs, and adverse encounters are extremely rare. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife advises the public to never approach or feed a bear, which can result in a negative encounter. If you ever encounter a bear, keep a safe distance and never approach it. If you feel a bear is posing an immediate danger, call local law enforcement immediately.

Residents of an area where a bear has been spotted should secure their garbage in a garage or other building, not leave pet food outside, and clean and securely store barbecue grills.  These are all best practices in general for people to prevent problems with wildlife.  Also, people should not feed birds in bear range or in areas where they have been recently observed. It is a violation of Kentucky law to intentionally feed bears.

In Kentucky, hunting bears is regulated and limited to defined seasons in the established bear zones in eastern Kentucky to ensure a sustainable and healthy population.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife maintains an extensive amount of information about black bears on its website. Go online to fw.ky.gov and search under the key words, “black bear,” or visit www.bearwise.org.

Jordan Bryant, 30, of Jamestown was taken into custody by Russell County Deputy Ron Golden, just before 11 last evening. Bryant was charged with Theft of Services and lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Charles Artrip, 30, of Russell Springs - arrested Thursday afternoon by the RSPD for Public Intoxication of a Controlled Substance (excluding alcohol). He was also lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

On Tuesday, June 20, 2023 Campbellsville Police received a request from the Shively Police Department in apprehending an individual in Campbellsville with a warrant from Jefferson Circuit Court for Manslaughter 2nd degree and Assault 2nd degree.  

Campbellsville Police Officers located 28-year-old Dayshawna Harris in Campbellsville city limits. She was arrested without incident and charged with possession of marijuana during the arrest. 
 

On Monday, June 19, 2023 at 9:45amCT, Adair County Deputy Chris Tweedy received a call of an injury accident 14 miles east of Columbia. According to the preliminary investigation, 38-year-old Danielle Luttrell of Columbia, KY was operating a 2006 Toyota Sienna van traveling on Dunnville Road, when the vehicle hydroplaned due to standing water on the road. Luttrell then left the roadway and struck a tree.

• Trifecta Print & Design 
• Bank of Columbia
• Community Trust Bank
• First and Farmers Bank 
• Lindsey Wilson College
• The Adair County Fire Dept.
• The Adair County Sheriff’s Dept.
• The Adair County Extension Office
• Green River Window and Door and
• Kimbler’s Plumbing

1. HISTORIC COURTHOUSE-APPROVAL TO CHANGE FIRE ALARM FOR RENOVATIONS
2. ADJOURNMENT 

Russell Springs Elementary School has been awarded a FRYSC AmeriCorps Literacy Tutor.  Please see attached document for additional information and interested parties can apply by following this link:  FRYSC AmeriCorps Literacy Tutor Application.

If you have any questions, please contact RSES FRYSC Director Mr. Gordon Lester at Gordon.lester@russell.kyschools.us.

Kentucky State Police (KSP) Commercial Vehicle Enforcement will participate in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Operation SafeDRIVE (Distracted Reckless Impaired Visibility Enforcement) from June 20-22. This enforcement campaign targets unsafe driving behavior that often leads to crashes involving passenger cars and commercial vehicles. It complements national efforts to educate all drivers on safely sharing roads with large trucks.

The national SafeDRIVE initiative cracks down on dangerous interstate driving behaviors such as aggressive driving, speeding, tailgating, failing to wear a seat belt, distracted driving, and driving under the influence. During this effort, KSP Commercial Vehicle Inspectors will open scale facilities, ensuring commercial drivers follow safety regulations, including hours of service compliance, commercial driver license compliance, medical certification, and commercial motor vehicle credentialing.

Officer Stevie Douglas, East Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Spokesperson, says Operation SafeDRIVE can significantly impact highway safety.

“It is important to our officers that everyone travels safely on our roadways,” said Douglas. “Operation SafeDRIVE is an opportunity for us to ensure drivers follow the rules of the road and offer tips to keep drivers protected.”

KSP encourages all motorists to take the following advice while driving on the roads:

• Stay out of blind spots: Large trucks and buses have big blind spots on all four sides.
• Pass safely: Make sure you can see the truck driver in their side mirror. Use your turn signals, and don’t linger in the blind spot. Make sure you can see the CMV vehicle in your rearview mirror before pulling in front.
• Don’t cut off large vehicles: It takes a large truck traveling at highway speeds the length of two football fields to stop.
• Don’t tailgate: Tailgating a commercial vehicle puts you in a blind spot.

Operation SafeDRIVE coordinates with a national campaign run by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration called “Our Roads, Our Safety,” which educates all motorists on how to share the road safely.

The mission of KSP is to promote public safety through service, integrity and professionalism using partnerships to prevent, reduce and deter crime and the fear of crime, enhance highway safety through education and enforcement, safeguard property.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that beginning Monday, June 26, 2023 a portion of Warner Ridge Road (KY 3281) in Russell County will be closed to through traffic for a bridge replacement project. 

Starting Monday, the roadway will be closed to through traffic at the bridge over Jobbes Fork at mile point 1.7 which is located between Story Lane and Lawless Cemetery Road.

A signed detour route will be posted during the closure.

The road is expected to reopen Aug. 14.The starting date and duration of the closure may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays.

Jave LLC was awarded the contract in May for a total of $898,314.

For Kentucky’s latest traffic and travel information, visit goky.ky.gov or navigate traffic by downloading the free Waze app at www.waze.com. Motorists can also access traffic information for the District 8 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 and at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.  

Russell County School Superintedent Michael Ford tells WAVE listeners what took place... 

Date Issued:  6/14/2023

Time Issued:  2:10 p.m.

A BOIL WATER ADVISORY is in effect for Columbia-Adair Utilities District consumers on Brock Burris Rd, 6074-7435 Edmonton Rd, and G Taylor Rd. The advisory has been issued due to main line break. 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.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 19, 2023) – Kentucky Proud, the official agricultural marketing brand of Kentucky, has launched a new website and an easier way for consumers to find a wide range of products with roots in Kentucky soil for the whole family to enjoy.

“Kentucky has so much to offer and at the Department of Agriculture we are the biggest fan of Kentucky producers,” Commissioner of Agriculture, Dr. Ryan Quarles said. “Our goal is to showcase our farms and farm families and all the wonderful products created by them, while at the same time enhancing the consumers’ ability to find all of the fantastic products the commonwealth has to offer.”

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) introduced the Kentucky Proud concept in 2002. Initially named Kentucky Fresh, KDA set out to create a central platform to raise awareness of Kentucky’s ever-expanding agricultural efforts by promoting farmers, farm families, and farm impact products. Now more than 20 years later, the Kentucky Proud brand is recognized across the commonwealth.

The completely new website, kyproud.com, brings that statewide recognition to new light, allowing consumers to easily search for Kentucky farm products with a newly implemented product locator. Consumers can search for members by business and product categories or by a list of specific products. A variety of filter and sort options provides consumers with additional ways to tailor their searches and locate a wide range of local businesses and products. The new site also integrates seasonal promotions, information about the Kentucky Proud program, and agriculture throughout the commonwealth.

For Kentucky Proud business members, the new website also offers some added updates. Member businesses can login to a newly developed member portal to view and update their membership, as well as access available grant applications and additional member benefits. Kentucky Proud has more than 6,600 members across the commonwealth, including at least one business in all of Kentucky’s 120 counties.

In an effort to promote the new website, Kentucky Proud has launched a media campaign, along with creating a videoshowcasing the hard work farmers do year-round to provide the best local products for consumers. Filmed over the course of an entire year, the video features working farm locations across Kentucky through all four seasons, complete with original music, “Kentucky With You,” from Louisville musician, Brigid Kaelin.

To view the new website and see all Kentucky Proud farmers and farm families have to offer, visit kyproud.com.

Those interested in becoming Kentucky Proud members, can learn more and complete an application here: https://kyproud.com/about-membership. Membership is open to all the state’s farms and businesses that produce and sell Kentucky agriculture products.

The Kentucky Department of Highways will temporarily close a portion of KY 379 in Russell County beginning Monday, June 26 as crews work to replace a cross drain beneath the roadway.

Starting Monday, KY 379 will be closed to through traffic at the intersection of KY 1058 near the old Union Chapel Elementary (mile point 8.3). The closure is expected to be completed by Friday, June 30. A signed detour route will be posted. 

The start date and duration of work may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays. 

Motorists can access travel and traffic conditions at http://goky.ky.gov or contribute their own reports at www.waze.com or via the Waze mobile application.

Traffic information for the District 8 counties is also available at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 or by following us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.  

On Saturday night, June 17, 2023 at 11:48 p.m., Chief Deputy Brandon Hitch and Deputy Emily Wall took Andrew Saunders, 28, of Barbourville into custody after an investigation. Earlier in that day, the sheriffs office received a call of a gas drive-off at Highway 206 Country Mart. Later in the evening, the vehicle was spotted off KY 206 about 4 miles east of Columbia.  

Upon contact and investigation, Saunders was found to be under the influence of an intoxicating substance and was in possession of a quantity of meth, marijuana, counterfeit money and drug paraphernalia. It was also found that the 2010 Cadillac he was operating had been stolen from a Walmart parking lot in London, KY on Saturday morning. 
 

Saunders was placed into custody and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail on the following charges:

• Trafficking in a controlled substance 1st degree (methamphetamine)
• Receiving stolen property over $10,000
• Possession of marijuana
• Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Theft of gasoline
• Driving on a DUI suspended license &
• Possession of a forged instrument (counterfeit money).

Chief Deputy Brandon Hitch was the arresting officer. He was assisted by Deputy Emily Wall and Officer Justin Cross.
 

On Friday, June 16, 2023 at 10:07 p.m. K-9 Deputy Chandler Staten initiated contact with Mark Rice, 27, of Greensburg on Dohoney Trace.

During the investigation it was believed that Rice was in possession of illegal substances and Deputy Staten deployed his K-9 Nitro who gave a positive hit indicator. A search was conducted and suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, pills, drug paraphernalia, and a handgun were recovered. Rice was also found to be a convicted felon and was unable to be in possession of any firearms by KY statute.

Rice was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail on the following charges:

Trafficking in a controlled substance 1st degree (methamphetamine)

Possession of a controlled substance 3rd degree (drug unspecified)

Prescription controlled substance not in proper container

Possession of marijuana

Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Possession of drug paraphernalia and 

Driving on a DUI suspended license.

Deputy Staten was assisted by Officer Justin Cross. The Sheriffs Office is continuing investigation

• Dennis Hargis, 38, of Columbia - arrested on Saturday morning by the CPD for Criminal Trespassing and Indecent Exposure.

• Steven Gilliam, 38, of Columbia - arrested early Saturday morning by KSP for Speeding, Reckless Driving, Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Substances (3rd or greater offense), Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, Rear License Not Illuminated, and Criminal Littering.

The Columbia Police Department responded to a report of suspicious parties in the Walmart parking lot on Friday night, June 16, 2023.
 

Upon arrival, CPD Officers made contact with a male and female who were detained and found to be in possession of narcotics and suspected methamphetamine. 

As of 3:31 pm on Friday, June 16, 2023 the Columbia - Adair County Utilities District boil water advisory for customers from 6074 to 7435 Edmonton Rd, Brock Burris Rd, and G Taylor Rd 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.

Frankfort, KY - The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved $4,364,618 for agricultural diversification and rural development projects across the commonwealth at its monthly board meeting. Three local counties were approved for CAIP funds:

• Adair ($206,000)
• Russell ($195,400) and
• Casey ($270,000)

A total of fifteen counties were approved for CAIP funds (see below).
 

"The grants awarded today will enhance the ability of Kentucky's agriculture community to build upon its already vast achievements," said Commissioner of Agriculture and board chair Dr. Ryan Quarles. "The Kentucky Agriculture Development Board's focus on a variety of projects and programs helps encourage diversity among our agriculture community and builds more farming and agricultural capabilities across the commonwealth."

County and State Funded Projects

• Anderson County Farm Service, Inc. was approved up to $169,300 in multi-county funds, with the option to pursue the remaining balance from a loan with Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC). This project will support the modernization of the existing feed manufacturing plant. For more information, contact Ben Tinsley at ben.acfs@gmail.com.
• Circle T Ranch Summer Horse Camp was approved up to $51,509 in multi-county funds to support camp restoration. For more information, contact Lisa Bush at circletranch@bellsouth.net.
• Loretto Grain, LLC was approved up to $1,000,000 in matching county and state funds, with the option to pursue the remaining uncommitted balance in the form of a participation loan, to aid in building a grain elevator. For more information, contact Albert Peterson at albert@peterson-farms.com.
• McLean County Cooperative Extension was approved $2,000 in McLean County funds to support the costs of a poultry specialist to speak at the Summer Ventilation Farm Visits. For more information, contact David Fourqurean at dfour2@uky.edu.
• Organic Association of Kentucky was approved up to $369,684 in state funds over a two-year period to aid in program positions. For more information, contact Brooke Gentile at brooke@oak-ky.org.
• Pike Veterinary Services, LLC was approved up to $100,000 in state and Hart County funds to support the purchase of Hartland Animal Hospital practice. For more information, contact Dr. Andrew Pike at pikevetservicesbilling@gmail.com.
• Reclaimed Ranch Fiber Mill, LLC was approved up to $127,626 in multi-county funds matched by state funds to establish a micro-processing service and mini mill in Northern Kentucky. If the applicant does not receive multi-county fund commitments, then they have been offered the option to pursue a loan with KAFC. For more information, contact Melissa Kaale at reclaimedranchky@gmail.com.
• University of Kentucky Research Foundation was approved up to $158,010 in state funds to support the continued research of Kentucky hay production used in the equine industry. For more information, contact Dr. Ray Smith at raysmith1@uky.edu.
• Warner Fertilizer Company, Inc. was approved up to $124,284 in multi-county funds, contingent upon county support, to support the startup of aerial drone services. For more information, contact Ricky Maxey at rmaxey@warnerfc.com.

State Programs
On-Farm Energy Efficiency Incentives Program
The On-Farm Energy Efficiency Incentives Program provides incentives for Kentucky farm families to increase the energy efficiency of existing equipment or facilities on the farm.

Six On-Farm Energy Efficiency Incentives Programs were approved by the board totaling $45,986:

• Laurel ($10,150)
• Logan ($10,150)
• Marion ($9,150)
• Pulaski ($1,650)
• Wayne ($4,736)
• Woodford ($10,150)

County Programs
County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP)
CAIP provides Kentucky agricultural producers with cost-share assistance on practices to allow them to improve and diversify their current farm operations. CAIP covers a wide variety of agricultural enterprises in its 11 investment areas, including, but not limited to, bees and honey; equine; forage; beef and dairy cattle; goats and sheep; horticulture; poultry; swine; timber and technology, as well as energy efficiency and production; farm infrastructure and water enhancement; marketing; and value-added production.

15 CAIPs were approved by the board totaling $2,117,644:

• Adair ($206,000)
• Allen ($189,805)
• Boyle ($180,000)
• Butler ($60,243)
• Casey ($270,000)
• Franklin ($136,306)
• Grant ($220,000)
• Hart ($300,000)
• Hickman ($45,814)
• Johnson ($36,000)*
• Lyon ($38,000)
• McCracken ($84,000)
• Powell ($49,476)
• Russell ($195,400)
• Washington ($106,600)*

Deceased Farm Animal Removal (DAR)
The Deceased Farm Animal Removal Program serves as a measure to facilitate the coordination of environmentally-sound and cost-effective disposal of deceased livestock for Kentucky producers.

Three DAR programs were approved by the board totaling $38,750:

• Boyle ($15,000)
• Franklin ($8,750)
• Washington ($15,000)

Shared-Use Equipment Program
The Shared-Use Equipment Program assists broad-based community organizations with the purchase of farm equipment. The equipment purchased is made available for producer use in a specific county on a leased basis.

Two Shared-Use Equipment programs were approved by the board totaling $26,325:

• Garrard ($12,675)
• Powell ($13,650)

Youth Agricultural Incentives Program (YAIP)
YAIP encourages youth to engage in and explore agricultural opportunities.

Three YAIPs were approved by the board totaling $33,500:

• McCracken ($10,500)
• Powell ($3,000)
• Washington ($20,000)*

All application periods and deadlines for CAIP and YAIP will be advertised locally.

*Existing programs receiving additional funding.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 15, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear released the 2022 Overdose Fatality Report stating that 2,135 Kentuckians lost their lives to a drug overdose last year. That is a decline of more than 5% compared with the previous year and is the first decline since 2018.

“Seeing a decrease in overdose deaths is encouraging, but we still have a long way to go, because one Kentucky life lost to overdose is one too many,” said Gov. Beshear. “As your Governor, I will work every day to improve access to treatment and programs to help those fighting this disease to win while also providing Kentucky’s law enforcement with more resources to get these dangerous drugs off our streets.”

The report indicates that 90% of overdose deaths involved opioids, and fentanyl continues to be the most prevalent drug contributing to those deaths, accounting for 72.5% nationwide in 2022. Potent, inexpensive methamphetamine was also a significant contributor to overdose deaths.

Recently, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released the national overdose death data, which listed Kentucky as one the few states to record a decline in overdose deaths. A recent article from the Associated Press noted that Kentucky is one of only eight states that saw a significant decrease in overdose deaths last year, while the nation as a whole saw an uptick in deaths. The article notes that the decrease in overdose deaths is due to Kentucky’s intentional work to address addiction and offer more treatment services.

Since taking office, Gov. Beshear has increased the number of treatment beds in the community by 50% and secured the largest number ever of corrections-based addiction treatment beds.

“Over the past year, we have heavily focused on increasing access to clinical care for those suffering from addiction while offering more harm reduction measures,” said Van Ingram, executive director of the Office of Drug Control Policy. “These efforts have shown positive effects, but we must continue to be diligent in fighting this epidemic because it affects everyone everywhere in more ways than one.”

Overdose deaths are tracked by the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center using data from the death certificates database at the Office of Vital Statistics under the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Today’s news follows last week’s announcement that state inmates are securing employment and addiction treatment at record levels, which has allowed the Beshear administration to record the lowest recidivism rate in state history at 27.15%.

Before becoming Governor, Beshear was the most aggressive attorney general in the country in filing lawsuits against opioid manufacturers and distributors. Gov. Beshear has always fought to make sure the settlement funds from the lawsuits he initially filed would go directly to treatment and to those communities impacted by the opioid epidemic.

Last month, Gov. Beshear announcedthat Kentucky’s Counterdrug Program seized 142 pounds of fentanyl over seven months that could have caused almost certain death for more than 28.9 million people. The Governor then moved to continue the team’s work of disrupting the supply of illicit drugs in the commonwealth by signing the fiscal year 2024 State Drug Interdiction and Counterdrug Activities Plan. Support is provided to multiple state, local and federal agencies in the plan’s team, including Kentucky State Police, Kentucky National Guard, Appalachian High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Agency.

In March, Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky is also 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.

This year, the Governor also signed legislation that supports recovery housing by setting requirements for certification, operation and oversight of these residences and legislation that ensures direct payments from health insurance providers to the facilities providing care.

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

Treatment Resources
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, 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 Kentucky State Police website to find one of 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.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 14, 2023) - In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, the Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) reminds Kentuckians be on the lookout for signs of elder financial abuse, including potential exploitation and scams. To help protect senior investors, DFI recommends establishing a trusted contact on all accounts.

A trusted contact is a person authorized, in limited circumstances, to discuss account activity concerns with the financial firm on the investor’s behalf. In these instances, the financial firm has been unable to contact the investor directly. A trusted contact may be a family member, attorney, accountant or another third-party that respects the investor’s privacy and knows how to handle the responsibility.

“As part of its mission to serve and protect the public, DFI provides educational outreach and resources to reduce senior financial abuse and exploitation,” said Marni Rock Gibson, DFI’s acting deputy commissioner. “Establishing a trusted contact adds a layer of security to your account and puts your financial firm in a better position to help keep your account safe. This is one of many proactive steps Kentuckians can take to establish financial security.”

The North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), of which DFI is a member, has developed resources to discuss what a trusted contact is, why they are important and how they help investors protect themselves. You can find NASAA’s trusted contact videos on its YouTube page. There are factsheets and links to other helpful information on NASAA’s Investor Education page.

DFI asks anyone with suspicions of senior financial exploitation to contact the agency at (800) 223-2579. Fraud and scam-prevention information can also be accessed at KFI.ky.gov by clicking on “Resources”.

The Adair County School Board will meet on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at 6:00pmCT at the Board Conference Room on Greensburg Street in Columbia. The meeting is open to the public.

**Meeting called to order**

**Adair County Board Members will open meeting with 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 TO CLOSE OUT FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023

  7.   APPROVAL OF CATALOG BIDS FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR

   8.   PERMISSION TO APPLY AND SUBMIT APPROVAL OF FEDERAL ASSURANCES FOR ALL FEDERAL GRANTS AND ARP FUNDS FOR THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR – Jaimie Wisdom

   9.   ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PERSONNEL ACTION

REGULAR AGENDA

    10.    SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT

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

    12.   APPROVAL TO CREATE ADAIR COUNTY SCHOOLS 2023-2027 STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP PLAN & PORTRAIT OF ADAIR LEARNER BASED ON COMMUNITY-DEVELOPED DRAFT – Sarah Hatton/Susan Pfefferman

    13.   APPROVAL OF KSBA ANNUAL POLICY & PROCEDURE UPDATES – Robbie Harmon

    14.   APPROVAL OF 2022-2023 AMENDED SCHOOL CALENDAR (NTI DAYS) – Robbie Harmon

    15.   APPROVAL OF MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Jaimie Wisdom

    16.   APPROVAL OF 2023-2024 BOND OF TREASURER AND FINANCE OFFICER – Jaimie Wisdom

   17.   APPROVAL OF PREMIUM INSURANCE RENEWAL OPTION FOR THE 2023/2024 SCHOOL YEAR.

   18.   APPROVAL TO SCRAP TECHNOLOGY SURPLUS – Jason Rector

   19.   BUILDINGS & GROUNDS UPDATE – Steve Burton

   20.   PUBLIC COMMENTS

   21.   ADJOURNMENT

At 5:27PM on Tuesday, June 13th, 2023 Adair EM, Adair EMS, Adair Co. Sheriffs Office, the Breeding Fire Department Technical Rescue and the Columbia-Adair Co. Fire Department were dispatched by Adair E911 to the area of Holmes Bend Campground. The response was for a report by 2 juvenile females (approximately 8 years old) that multiple children and adults had fallen into a deep ravine, were stuck and were possibly in the water.  
 

Upon arrival, the juvenile females led responders to the scene of the incident which began on the campground trail, then continued off the trail toward the lake.  

One female victim had made her way back up to the top of the ravine and told first responders that three more people were stuck on a cliff between two rock drop-offs. Visual contact with the persons was made where they were assessed for any life-threatening injuries. Thankfully, all were in stable and relatively unharmed condition, just unable to safely move along the cliffside. 

Rope access was established for responders and the stuck persons were assisted to the top of the ravine. All parties were able then to walk out on their own with assistance. Minor cuts and bruising were noted to all parties.  

The Adair County E911 center documented 40 minutes from the time of units being dispatched to all persons being rescued.  

In addition to the multiple county responder agencies, Campbellsville Fire & Rescue was notified to be enroute for technical rescue assistance.
 

Adair County EM Director Mike Keltner would like to thank the brave girls that made the report, the off-duty firefighter from Lincoln County and all first responders for the quick assistance provided.

By Columbia Mayor Pamela Hoots:

It has been a busy first few months of 2023 for the City of Columbia. We continue to have a lot going on with projects, grants, and the general day-to-day operation.

Grants

This year we have applied for several grants.

The City of Columbia is working on a grant with the Appalachian Research Commission (ARC). This grant is approximately $900,000. It will assist with gas line expansion for economic development, a new regulator station for expansion on the bypass, and new lines for residential and to the school system. The city received notification last month by the state that Governor Beshear and Commissioner Keene have requested a full application for the project, which is great news for our town. We want to continue to support economic development for future growth for our town and county. (Grant is 70/30) based on location.

The city has applied for a grant for $1.4 million that will allow for utilities, a pavilion, a meeting space for educational purposes, and more. This grant is a 100% grant. This is for the park area located on Burkesville Street.

The city had applied for PHMSA grant for replacing old gas lines. (100% grant). We were “highly recommended” and are entering the second submission. It is for $5 million.

On Monday, we voted to apply for a Community CFI grant (federal). This is for the procurement of EV stations for public access. We are partnering with a private company, (Franklin Ford), which is a grant requirement.

City Police

 This year we have had two DARE graduations. Two of our officers are assigned and trained in DARE (Jimmy Luttrell and Adam Cravens). The two graduations were at the Adair County Middle School and the Adair County Elementary School.

Also, we were fortunate that Adair Countian, magician Lance Burton, performed at the Adair County Middle School for the students. He did a great job and the kids loved him.

The DARE trailer looks great. It is now in Frankfort, Kentucky, getting the final touches. We received a grant for this trailer and truck to pull it.

New Business

We continue to be so excited about the opportunities that are coming to our community. Aren’t you?

We have Zaxby’s that is scheduled to open sometime around Labor Day. Little Caeser’s will be opening this fall. Hooligan’s is expanding to the shopping area near Walmart.

Keystone Development just had a groundbreaking of their new retail center. They will have space available for four locations. A corporate AT&T store will be locating in that area.

A new Don Franklin Ford location is locating on the bypass. It will have around 26-28 new service bays. They are anticipated to hire around twenty employees.

Kay’s Diner has moved into the former Sugarbella location.

GRACIE Counseling Service and New Hope Counseling have had ribbon-cuttings in the last few weeks.

Last week, Save A Lot had a Grand Re-Opening.

On another note, Synergy Food Group is now supplying summer meals to some school districts in Kentucky. (They had an Art Show last week for the community).

Special Activities

Our fifth annual Paint The Town and Truck-It-Up will be held the last Friday of July. The last week teams will paint the sidewalks around town and they will be judged on that Friday. Tiffany is handling signup for the sidewalks and Sydney for the food trucks.

We are so pleased with the response to the Veterans Banners. We are happy to be a part of this event honoring our veterans in the community. We are at 67 and plan on 100 next year.

We have a Little Free Library outside City Hall. You can drop off books or pick one up. Jada is handling the coordination.

We will do another update in the next couple of weeks to talk about projects, parks and recreation, gas, city, and sanitation.

A Russell County Grand Jury has returned several indictments. Lisa Clark has details...

Mike Scales with WAVE NEWS has the complete rundown of todays indictments... 

Russell County Judge Executive Randy Marcum spoke with WAVE NEWS following last nights meeting...

The Adair County Fiscal Court will meet in regular session on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 9:00amCT in the basement of the Adair Annex. The public is invited to attend.

AGENDA

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PRAYER
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
                                

 1.    APPROVAL OF AGENDA

 2.    DISBURSEMENTS

 3.    LINE TO LINE

 4.    FUND TO FUND

 5.    BUDGET AMENDMENTS

 6.    BANK OF COLUMBIA PRESENTATION

 7.    2023-2024 BUDGET-1ST READING       

 8.    OTHER BUSINESS

 9.    PUBLIC COMMENTS

10.   ADJOURNMENT

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 12, 2023) – Dairy farmers, producers, and industry representatives joined Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles Monday to sign a proclamation honoring the dairy industry and proclaiming June as Dairy Month in Kentucky.

“In June, we want to celebrate the hard work and resiliency of Kentucky’s dairy farmers,” Commissioner Quarles said. “With the constant pressure on our agriculture producers to adapt to change, we can look at our dairy partners as a group who has made those needed changes and continues to provide the wholesome and nutritious dairy products we have always enjoyed. June is the perfect time to celebrate Dairy Month and honor the service and the hard work of the Kentucky dairy farmer.”

The dairy cattle industry saw a bump in numbers for 2023. Dairy cows increased by 1,000 head, making 2023 the first Jan. 1 year-over-year increase since 1986. Kentucky’s 45,000 dairy cows produce milk – the Official Beverage of Kentucky – along with ice cream, artisan cheeses, and other tasty dairy products. Dairy farmers help provide Kentucky families with the calcium, protein, vitamins, and minerals they need to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

On average, each dairy cow produces 6.5 gallons of milk a day, meaning Kentucky dairy cows produce more than 107 million gallons of milk each year. Milk ranks eighth as a Kentucky agriculture product with Kentucky dairy producers receiving more than $244 billion in cash receipts from sales of dairy products. On average each dairy cow generates more than $13,700 in economic ripple effect each year. Barren County has the most dairy cows, followed by Adair, Logan, Christian, and Todd counties.

“The Kentucky Dairy Development Council (KDDC) represents all dairy farms within the state of Kentucky, and we salute them in their efforts of bringing wholesome milk to the marketplace,” said H.H. Barlow, KDDC executive director. “It is a 24/7/365 day a year endeavor and we are proud of all that they do. We also appreciate all consumers of all dairy products – without them we wouldn’t have a market for our products. Have yourself an extra bowl of ice cream to cool off this summer and help us celebrate June Dairy Month.”

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture helps Kentucky dairy farmers and processors find new markets for their products and conducts dairy cattle shows across the state. For more about the department’s services to the dairy industry, go to www.kyagr.com.

Dairy farmers, producers, and industry representatives joined Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles Monday to sign a proclamation honoring the dairy industry and proclaiming June as Dairy Month in Kentucky. For more photos from the event, click here. (Kentucky Department of Agriculture)

• Glenn Lamon Farmer, 36, of Parkers Lake, KY - arrested on Saturday night by CPD for DUI, Possession of Marijuana and Driving on a DUI Suspended License (3rd or more offense).
• Jeffery Bailey, 46, of Campbellsville and Tracy Burton, 55, of Columbia - arrested by the ACSO on Saturday night for Assault 4th degree (Dating Violence). Ms. Burton also charged with Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place. 

• Eric Roy, 42, of Russell Springs - arrested on Saturday night by the RCSO for Public Intoxication, Menacing, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, and Possession of Marijuana.
• Mark Jonczy, 63, of Russell Springs - arrested on Saturday afternoon by the RCSO for Menacing, Resisting Arrest, 4th degree Assault, Wanton Endangerment, Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon, and Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place.

The Russell County Board of Education has several available employment opportunities. Here is the link to view/apply:  Employment - Russell County Schools (kyschools.us). 

Interested parties can call the Russell County Board of Education at 270.343.3191 with questions.  

Russell, Adair, and all of the Lake Cumberland area is now in a “moderate drought,” according to the most recent data released on Thursday from the U.S. Drought Index.

A swath of moderate drought is now showing up in Russell, Adair, Casey, Pulaski, Wayne and Taylor counties up through a portion of the Bluegrass Region in central Kentucky. The rain Wednesday was helpful but wasn’t enough to make changes to the current drought index.

Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas shares what took place at Thursday evening's meeting of the R.S. City Council... 

FRANKFORT, KY (June 8, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that there are more Kentuckians employed than ever before in state history with more than 2 million Kentuckians employed, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in their federal survey of business establishments.

The Governor also highlighted that 57,000 new jobs have been filled since the beginning of his administration.

“This is our best chance to turn our brain drain into a brain gain, making sure we never lose our talented young people to any other state ever again, but instead other states’ talented young people start moving to Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our goal is to ensure the success we’re seeing reaches every area of the commonwealth, and that no one is left out. There are more secure jobs out there for Kentuckians than ever before, and this is an exciting time for our families.”

During the Team Kentucky update, the Governor also shared news on economic development; discretionary transportation funds; the Recreational Trails Program; rubber mulch projects; relief to care providers; the Kentucky Main Street Program; a Juneteenth ceremony at the Capitol and recovery efforts in Eastern Kentucky. He also named Kentucky women veterans as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development
In May, Gov. Beshear announced that his administration secured the first-ever state-level credit rating from the major credit rating agency Fitch Ratings. Today the Governor noted this rating was due in part to the state’s improved pensions, something he has made a priority during his time in office.

“Protecting the pensions for our law enforcement officers, firefighters, teachers, social workers and public servants is something I have fought for my entire career. Pensions are promises – earned from hard work and should never be put at risk,” said Gov. Beshear. “I am proud to announce that the pensions of our first responders and public servants are more secure than ever.”

Gov. Beshear highlighted the first Kentucky Product Development Initiative to be completed as also the latest step toward turning around a failed investment from the previous administration. In September of 2022, the Governor announced his administration had recouped $15 million invested by the administration of former Gov. Matt Bevin into an aluminum mill that never materialized. Today, Gov. Beshear announced that the Northeast Kentucky Regional Industrial Authority closed on the site acquisition in the EastPark Industrial Park, finalizing the process of acquiring additional acreage in addition to land donated back to the community. Gov. Beshear also noted that $750,000 in state support for the $1.5 million project was dispersed.

“We fought to get that land back. Coming in, I never would have thought that we could secure both the money and the land, but we are now at a special place where we can have a real project, real hope and real jobs,” the Governor said. “Now we have one of the bigger sites in the commonwealth to put the next big economic development project on.”

Gov. Beshear joined local officials from Taylor County and leaders from INFAC North America, an automotive manufacturer that specializes in cables, antennas, horns, actuators and electric vehicle (EV) battery system assemblies, to break ground on the company’s expansion in Campbellsville, which will create 220 Kentucky jobs with an investment of at least $53 million.

The Governor joined local officials from Graves County and leaders from Osmundson Mfg. Co. to break ground on the company’s new multimillion-dollar manufacturing facility. The investment further strengthens Kentucky’s agritech and manufacturing sectors and will create 80 quality jobs over the coming years.

On Monday, the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) welcomed its 14th passenger airline as British Airways completed its first-ever flight with nonstop service from London-Heathrow Airport (LHR), making CVG the only airport to offer a nonstop flight to the United Kingdom in Kentucky, Ohio or Indiana. The flight will now operate five times per week in the summer and four in the winter and travelers from CVG can connect to more than 70 countries and nearly 200 destinations with British Airways.

Discretionary Transportation Funds
Today, Gov. Beshear celebrated every county in Kentucky having received discretionary funding for transportation projects, with more than $4.4 million in funding announced today for 46 projects in 29 counties. These awards include:

• $405,000 for Breathitt County to resurface nearly three miles on Miller Branch Barwick Road;
• Over $144,000 for Bracken County to resurface two miles of Moore Road;
• $122,000 for Fleming County to replace the Branch Brothers Bridge and make it safer for residents; and
• $18,000 for Wolfe County to install guardrails on Russel Road and Turnip Road.

“Our roads are what connect us, and I have made it a priority as Governor to improve our roadways so that Kentuckians can get to work, church and school safely,” said Gov. Beshear. “Whether someone is driving on a rural back road or a major highway, they deserve a smooth and safe route and today’s awards will help us accomplish that.”

Bracken County Judge/Executive Tina Teegarden, Breathitt County Judge/Executive Jeff Noble, Fleming County Judge/Executive John Sims Jr., and Wolfe County Judge/Executive Raymond Banks attended the update and accepted the checks for these awards.

Recreational Trails Program
Gov. Beshear announced his recommendation of 11 projects across Kentucky to receive funding from the federal Recreational Trails Program. In total, $1,125,584 in funding will go toward improving outdoor spaces around the state. Each project must receive clearance from the Federal Highway Administration.

The Governor highlighted three projects he is recommending for funding. The Menifee County Fiscal Court will use $200,000 to make improvements to multi-use equestrian and hiking trails located near Cave Run Lake.

“I want to thank Governor Beshear and the Department of Local Government for partnering with Menifee County by awarding the $200,000 in Recreational Trails funds,” said Menifee County Judge/Executive Rick Stiltner. “This is another opportunity for our county to grow tourism.”

The City of Greenville will use $55,000 to extend the Muhlenberg County Rails to Trails by an additional mile. The Powell County Fiscal Court will use $245,000 to make improvements to the Hollerwood Off-Road Park.

Menifee County Judge/Executive Rick Stiltner, Muhlenberg County Judge/Executive Mac McGehee, Powell County Judge/Executive Eddie Barnes and Greenville Mayor Ed DeArmond attended the update and accepted checks for these awards.

Rubber Mulch Projects
The Governor announced grant funding for 16 projects across the commonwealth that will use rubber mulch to build walkways, playgrounds, benches, picnic tables and more. The funding comes through the Energy and Environment Cabinet’s Waste Tire Trust Fund.

Gov. Beshear recognized three grant recipients, including $67,000 to Bracken County, $24,000 to Powell County and $9,300 to Taylor County.

Bracken County Judge/Executive Tina Teegarden, Powell County Judge/Executive Eddie Barnes and Taylor County Judge Executive Barry Smith attended the update and accepted the checks for these awards.

Relief to Home- and Community-Based and Long-Term Care Providers
Gov. Beshear announced additional support for providers delivering home- and community-based services, as well as long-term care services.

For home- and community-based (HCB) providers, a retroactive rate adjustment will provide an estimated $13 million in additional payments for services delivered from Jan. 1, 2022, to May 1, 2023. To assist nursing facilities that deliver nursing home services, Kentucky Medicaid is maximizing the annual rate adjustment for inflation and will retroactively adjust rates going back three years. This will result in an increase of $99.6 million (including $18.9 million in state share) over the next state fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

“We’re very grateful the Governor and his team were able to come up with an innovative solution to provide much-needed funds for our facilities, and for being a good steward of the Medicaid budget,” said John Muller, chief operating officer, Carespring, via video. “These funds will go a long way for the residents we serve, as well as the team members we need to retain, and those we need to recruit.”

Main Street Program
The Governor highlighted the Kentucky Main Street Program, part of the Kentucky Heritage Council, which has helped create significant growth for main streets in the commonwealth. In 2022, the program brought $45.9 million in new investment to downtown commercial districts and helped create 587 new jobs. That same year, 130 new businesses and 201 rehabilitation projects were completed in main street districts.

“Kentucky’s downtown areas are rich with art and culture. Our main streets make each community unique, and they’re the heart of our small towns,” said Gov. Beshear. “The Kentucky Main Street Program works to keep our downtown areas thriving through the preservation of historic buildings, support of local businesses, redevelopment of commercial buildings and economic development.”

Scottsville Mayor David Burch spoke about the Main Street Program and what it means to his community.

“The Heart of Scottsville, as our Main Street program is called, has been instrumental in the revival of our downtown district. In a small town like Scottsville, the success of the city itself is most clearly measured by the vitality of its downtown,” said Mayor Burch. “The program has built on pride in our past to form hope for our future. All these programs organized and implemented by the Heart of Scottsville provide a sense of ownership for our community.”

Juneteenth Event Preview
Gov. Beshear said on Monday, June 19, there will be a Juneteenth ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda to honor the strength and courage of African Americans and the contributions they have made to the country. The Governor will also sign a proclamation officially declaring June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth in Kentucky.

“This is an important day in our history as Americans – one where we stand united in acknowledging the end of our nation’s greatest injustice,” said Gov. Beshear. “And while we’ve made progress, we must acknowledge that we still have a long way to go for true equality. We must not hide from our history, even the parts that are painful. We must learn from it and make progress for a better tomorrow.”

Eastern Kentucky Flood Update
The Governor provided an update on recovery and rebuilding efforts in Eastern Kentucky. Currently, 98 families are housed in travel trailers, and Kentucky State Parks are now housing 14 people, down from the 360 people sheltered on Sept. 1, 2022. Over 280 households have transitioned out of the Commonwealth Sheltering Program in Eastern Kentucky.

FEMA has approved more than $107.1 million in Individual Assistance grants. As of this week, nearly $31.5 million has been approved for the FEMA buy-out program. The awards account for 183 properties in Perry, Breathitt, Letcher, Knott and Floyd counties as well as the Coty of Jackson. The Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund has raised over $13.2 million from more than 41,500 donors. To contribute, click here.

If you need help, please call FEMA directly or visit a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC). MARC locations can be found at governor.ky.gov/Flood-Resources.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear named Kentucky women veterans as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars to honor Women Veterans Day on June 12. He highlighted a new “Our Stories, Our Service: Kentucky’s Women Veterans” exhibit at the Kentucky Historical Society, which will be on display beginning June 13. The exhibit honors Kentucky’s women veterans and their significant military contributions.

“Women have served our country for generations, although it was not until after World War II that women were able to serve as permanent members of the armed forces and officially be recognized as Veterans. Women have played a crucial role in protecting our freedoms and our future, and we, as Americans, should give thanks for their bravery, sacrifice and commitment to our country,” said Gov. Beshear.”

The ribbon cutting at New Hope Counseling was held on Thursday with Columbia Mayor Pamela Hoots taking part in the ceremony.

The Campbellsville Police Dept. is seeking help in identifying the two individuals (in the photos below) who are wanted for questioning in an ongoing investigation. If you can identify them and their whereabouts, please contact the Campbellsville Police Dept. via Facebook Messenger. You can leave the information or a phone number where you can be contacted. 

The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department raised more than $9,800 for the WHAS Crusade for Kids last weekend. That number does not include those who submitted donations electronically, according to officials.

Jason Faulkner, who is currently the Director of Assessment and Accountability with the Laurel County School District, was hired as the new Adair County School Superintendent during a special called school board meeting on Wednesday afternoon. Faulkner's first day on the job will be July 1^st.

Ronald Litteral, 33, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday evening. Litteral was charged with Distribution of Obscene Matter and lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

According to Russell County Sheriff Derek Polston, a one-vehicle wreck near the Lake Cumberland State Park entrance on Wednesday morning claimed the life of a Russell County woman.

The accident occurred just before 9:00amCT this morning when 50-year-old Holly Elli, who was operating a 2002 Honda Accord, left the roadway and hit an embankment, causing the car to flip. Elli was ejected from the vehicle.

Sheriff Polston and Deputy Gwinn Wooldridge investigated the accident. The South Russell Fire Department and Russell County EMS assisted on scene. 

Mayor Regina Hinton and the Jamestown City Council are examining a water & sewer rate increase that is desperately needed, according to the engineering firm that conducted a rate study for the city.

The Frankfort, KY engineering consulting firm Kenvirons, performed a rate study and presented slides to the Council last night. The report included a 20-21 percent increase on water rates along with a roughly 50 percent increase on sewer rates. A proposal on water rates could be slightly higher if the City opts for an ordinance that would provide more funds for the depreciation of equipment.

No action was taken at Tuesday's special-called council meeting.

James Campbell, 59, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested by RSPD Officer LLane early Wednesday morning for Possession of Methamphetamine and Drug Paraphernalia. Campbells was also charged with Fleeing/Evading Police (on foot) and lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

At 8:56 PM on Tuesday, June 7, 2023 the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to Benard Funeral Home located on Main Street in response to reports of smoke in the attic. Thanks to the swift action of firefighters, the fire was promptly extinguished, confining the damage to a small area in the attic.

Ten firefighters from the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department promptly arrived at the scene to tackle the fire. Fire Chief Bobby Johnson expressed his gratitude to the crew for their rapid response, highlighting that the situation could have escalated significantly had it not been for their swift action.

The fire was caused by an installation in the attic that caught fire. Due to the efficient and effective efforts of the firefighters, the flames were swiftly extinguished, limiting the extent of the damage and preventing the fire from spreading to other parts of the building.

Chief Johnson further emphasized the importance of quick response times in emergency situations. He praised the firefighters for their professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to protecting the community.

The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department would like to extend their appreciation to the local community for their ongoing support and cooperation. The collaborative efforts between the fire department and the community contribute to maintaining the safety and well-being of the entire area.

The Adair County School Board will have a Special Called Meeting on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 5:00pmCT at the Board Conference Room on Greensburg St, Columbia.
 

AGENDA

** Meeting called to order**
 

1.      APPROVAL OF AGENDA
 

2.      APPROVAL TO HIRE THE NEW SUPERINTENDENT

3.      APPROVAL OF EXECUTION OF AGREED CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT

4.      APPROVAL TO ADJOURN

The ribbon cutting for the Kentucky Mesonet station in Russell Springs was held earlier today (Tuesday, June 6, 2023). The mesonet is headquartered at Western Kentucky University and operates stations across the state that monitor and collect weather and climate data. The system has 78 stations throughout the commonwealth (including Russell County). The mesonet station in Russell County is located just off Hwy 1611 on Farmer Road at farmland owned by Mr. John Adams in the Ono community. 

Several dignataries were in attendance for the ribbon cutting including WKU President Dr. Timothy Caboni. The WAVE's Lisa Clark had a chance to speak with Dr. Caboni about the mesonet station and its importance to agriculture...

One of the goals of the mesonet system is to provide information to weather forecasters that will allow them to make faster and more accurate predictions related to potentially dangerous weather. Data collected by the mesonet system is also distributed to Kentucky farmers. Shane Holinde, who works for Kentucky Mesonet, tells us more...

Here's former Russell County Judge Exec. Gary Robertson to tell us when the project began...

Current Russell County Judge Exec. Randy Marcum was at the ribbon cutting today...

Kentucky Mesonet is the official source for weather and climate data in the Commonwealth. The Kentucky Mesonet provides real-time weather information from its network of stations across the state. You can download the Kentucky Mesonet app on your smart phone and get a weather data update every 5 minutes, including air temperature, solar radiation, rainfall, and wind speed and direction. On your desktop, go to www.kymesonet.org.

John Adams family & WKI President Timothy Caboni cutting the ribbon at Kentucky Mesonet Station #78.

Ribbon cutting at Kentucky Mesonet station in Ono community of Russell County.

WKU President Dr. Timothy Caboni speaking at ribbon cutting.

This boil water advisory has been lifted!

Date Issued:  6/6/2023

Time Issued: 1:00 p.m.

 A BOIL WATER ADVISORY is in effect for Columbia-Adair Utilities District customers from 149-1493 Bennett Ridge Rd, G Sexton Rd, and Slater Rd. The advisory has been issued due to a main line break. 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.

By Sharon Burton

Adair County Community Voice Editor 

The Columbia city council met for its regular monthly meeting Monday night. During the meeting the council approved $12,000 for the Columbia-Adair County Airport. The request came from the airport board, whose members volunteer their time for the upkeep of the facility and grounds. 

The city council accepted a bid for black aluminum fencing around a new splash pad being constructed at the city park from DGS Fence Co. for $13,896. The council approved an earlier bid but voted to rebid after making a change to the specifications as recommended by DGS Fence.

The city council approved a bid for phase 2 for Citizens Park, which is property located on Burkesville St. The bid includes a dog park, gravel for a roadway, and removing old buildings on the property. Luxury Lawn and Landscape had the low bid of $29,136. The council voted to accept the low bid.

Councilman Robert Flowers said he has received a lot of calls about phase 1 not being completed, which includes a walking trail. Phase 1 was approved several months ago. Following discussion, the council voted to notify the contractor they have 30 days to complete the project.

The council appointed Lisa Coop to the board of adjustments and Amy Walker to the Board of Assessment Appeals.

The council gave first reading on a budget amendment for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30, and first reading for a budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Mayor Pam Hoots said the proposed budget includes a 5 percent pay increase for employees, pays firefighters an extra $5 per run within the city limits, and allocates funding for three fire hydrants, two in the major shopping area on Burkesville St. and one on West Page St.

Mayor Hoots received approval to apply for a grant to install charging stations for electric vehicles. If approved, fast-charging stations would be installed.

Mayor Hoots gave the council an update on several properties in the city limits where owners were cited under the city’s nuisance ordinance. The owners of five properties are in the process of cleaning them and have been given 30 days to complete the cleanup, Hoots said.

Council members Rhonda Loy, Sharon Payne, Mark Harris, Robert Flowers and Dr. Ronald Rogers attended the meeting. Hannah Peck was absent.
 

Draven Burchett, 18, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by Deputy Golden with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just after 1 a.m. Tuesday morning. Burchett was charged with Terroristic Threatening, 3^rd Degree, Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place (1^st and 2^nd Offense) and Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree.

Ethan McQuire, 21, of Covington was arrested by Trooper Roark of the Kentucky State Police on Monday night. McQuire was charged with Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Cocaine), Operating Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol and Possession of Open Alcohol Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle.

Both were lodged into the Russell County Detention Center.

Campbellsville Fire - Rescue was dispatched to a report of a drowning on Sunday, June 4, 2023 around 5:30pmET at Green River Lake State Park. Upon arrival, firefighters secured the scene, interviewed witnesses and deployed public safety divers. It was determined that a 37-year-old male was underwater and unaccounted for.

At approximately 6:30pmET on Sunday, rescue efforts switched to a recovery operation. Sonar operations, dive operations and ROV operations was conducted until the early morning hours on Monday with no success due to the large amount of bottom debris. 

During Mondays operations, personnel conducted side scan operations and located a potential target and was confirmed with KYFW tow-fish sonar. Special operations divers deployed to the target locating the missing subject in 32 feet of water in heavy brush. 

No other civilian injuries were reported. One special operations diver did sustain a minor laceration during dive operations that required stitches.

The drowning is being investigated by Kentucky Fish & Wildlife and the Taylor County Coroner's Office.  

Firefighters Responding: 17

Responding Apparatus: Rescue 1, Squad 1, Squad 2, Squad 3, TSAR 1, Marine 1, Marine 2 and Chief

Assisting Agencies:

Campbellsville Taylor County 911 Center

Campbellsville Taylor County EMS

Taylor County Fire Department

Taylor County Sheriff Office

Taylor County Coroner's Office 

Ky Fish and Wildlife

Kentucky State Park Ranger

US Army Corps of Engineers and

Russell County Rescue Squad

The Columbia - Adair County Volunteer Fire Department has received a grant from Nationwide Insurance for a grain bin rescue tube. Over 1200 applications were submitted with 60 fire departments being awarded the grant.

Along with the equipment was training provided by the National Education Center for Agriculture on proper use of the tools. They provided a great fire training prop and class for the Adair County Fire Dept. and several other agencies that participated.

With the growing number of grain farms in the area, this equipment will be beneficial to the ACVFD in these types of emergencies.

The Adair Co. Fire Dept. wants to thank Day and Day Feed for loaning them the grain for the training prop. Also thanks to the Breeding Area Volunteer Fire Dept. and Adair County EMS for participating in the training.

Activity Report May 2023

Calls for service 620

Citations 55

Motorist assists 8

Escorts 13

Accidents investigated 27

Injury accidents 4

Incident reports 8

Cases opened 9

A Russell Springs man was taken into custody in Adair County on Sunday on 2 counts of Probation Violation for a Felony Offense.

Justin Antle, 38, was taken into custody by Deputy Padgett with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office on Sunday night. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The first Monday, June 5th, regularly scheduled outdoor warning siren test will be postponed.  I will make notification of the rescheduled date as soon it is available. 
 

Mike Keltner 

Director,

Adair Co. Emergency Management

The Columbia City Council will have a Regular Called Meeting on Monday, June 5, 2023 at 6:00pmCT at City Hall.

AGENDA:

ROLL CALL

OPENING PRAYER

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

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

2^ND ITEM:  APPROVAL OF LAKE CUMBERLAND AREA DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT, TITLE VI PROGRAM

3^RD ITEM:  REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDING FROM COLUMBIA/ADAIR AIRPORT

4^TH ITEM:  BID APPROVAL FOR FENCING AT SPLASH PAD

5^TH ITEM:  BID APPROVAL FOR NEXT PHASE OF CITIZENS PARK
 

6^TH ITEM:  APPT. TO BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS
 

7^TH ITEM:  APPT. TO BOARD OF ASSESSMENT APPEALS
 

8^TH ITEM:  FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 220.187.

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING COLUMBIA'S  ANNUAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 7/1/2022 - 6/30/2023
 

9^TH ITEM:  FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 220.188.

AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING COLUMBIA'S ANNUAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 7/1/2023 - 6/30/2024 BY  ESTIMATING REVENUES & RESOURCES AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE OPERATION OF CITY GOVERNMENT

MAYOR’S ANNOUNCEMENTS
 

COUNCIL COMMENTS
 

CITIZENS COMMENTS: (LIMIT 3 MINUTES PER CITIZEN OR ORGANIZATION)
 

MOTION TO  ADJOURN

The Adair County School Board will hold a Special Called Meeting on Monday, June 5, 2023 at 6:30pmCT in the Board Conference Room,1204 Greensburg Street, Columbia, KY.

Agenda

Meeting called to order

1. Approval Of Agenda

Regular Agenda

2. Closed Session pursuant to KRS 61.810 (1) (F) for Adair County Superintendent search process

3. Approval to adjourn

The following individuals were arrested over the weekend in Russell County...

• Ravin Davis, 28, of Jamestown - arrested on Saturday night by the RCSO for DUI and Possession of Marijuana. 
• Alton Curtsinger, 40, of Harrodsburg and Larry Roberts, 52, of Russell Springs - arrested late Saturday night by the RSPD for Disorderly Conduct.
• Abraham Trujillo, 19, of Russell Springs - arrested on Saturday by the RSPD and charged with alcohol intoxication in a Public Place and Disorderly Conduct.
• James Kiser,  58, of Jamestown - arrested on Friday afternoon for Strangulation and Assault 4th Degree (minor injuries).

?All individuals were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

As of 11:52 a.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023 the Columbia-Adair Utilities District boil water advisory for customers on 406-571 Oak St., 501-531 Ashley Court 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.
 

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. (June 2, 2023) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined local officials from Taylor County and leaders from INFAC North America, an automotive manufacturer that specializes in cables, antennas, horns, actuators and electric vehicle (EV) battery system assemblies, to break ground on the company’s expansion in Campbellsville, which will create 220 Kentucky jobs with an investment of at least $53 million.

“Our economy is only as strong as the companies that continue to invest and believe in what Kentucky has to offer,” said Gov. Beshear. “INFAC North America has been a key contributor to the commonwealth’s manufacturing sector for 15 years and will now play a role in supporting our rapidly growing EV industry. I want to thank company leadership for their continued presence and investment in Taylor County and look forward to their success in Campbellsville for many years to come.”

The expansion project, located at the company’s existing facility in Campbellsville, comes in response to growing customer demand to boost growth in North America and increase the company’s global competitiveness. The $53 million investment will see the company add 125,000 square feet to its existing 110,000 square feet building for increased manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, the project will create 220 quality, full-time jobs for Kentuckians. This project marks the second expansion by INFAC North America at their Campbellsville facility since it was established in 2008.

“Since the opening of INFAC North America in Campbellsville, Kentucky, we’ve always been very happy with the excellent workforce and supportive local and state organizations,” said INFAC Chairman Ohe Gil Choi. “When the time came for the next investment and expansion to prepare for INFAC North America, there were many options to consider, but it was an easy decision for us to invest in Campbellsville because we already knew how easy it would be to work with the local government, both at the state and county level, and how good the teamwork would be with the diligent, hardworking people of Taylor County.”

Established in South Korea in 1969, INFAC specializes in the manufacture of automotive components such as control cables, solenoids, antennas, actuators and horns. Recently, the company expanded into the field of eco-friendly technology, adding EV battery and electrification-control systems to its list of products. In September 2008, the company established INFAC North America with its first production facility in the United States, located in Campbellsville. The company quickly outgrew the initial space in Taylor County and added an additional 110,000-square-foot assembly, manufacturing and warehouse facility in 2013.

This project adds to Kentucky’s thriving manufacturing sector, which includes more than 5,000 facilities and employs over 250,000 people statewide. Administration-to-date, nearly 590 new-location and expansion projects from manufacturers are expected to create nearly 30,000 full-time jobs with over $22 billion in new investments.

Taylor County Judge/Executive Barry Smith is encouraged to see a quality company expand its existing business in the community.

“This is a great day for Campbellsville and Taylor County,” said Judge Smith. “We are excited to have INFAC expand in our community. INFAC’s huge capital investment is a testimony to the excellent work ethic of our people.”

Campbellsville Mayor Dennis Benningfield noted the strong local workforce and future potential this investment brings to Campbellsville.

“We are very excited to see the expansion of INFAC in Campbellsville,” said Mayor Benningfield. “I want to thank them for making this large investment. Their decision to expand in Campbellsville speaks to the strength and dedication of their local workforce. We look forward to their future growth potential and the effect on our local economy.”

Ron McMahan, executive director and CEO of Team Taylor County, is excited to see the job opportunities created by the project.

“We are honored to have INFAC expand their existing manufacturing facility in Campbellsville,” said McMahan. “Their capital investment and job creation will have a tremendous economic impact on our community. It is always a great honor to have an existing business grow their presence in Taylor County.”

INFAC’s continued growth 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 46,300 full-time jobs and roughly 860 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling $26 billion in announced investments.

The Governor also 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 announcea $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. On May 12, Gov. Beshear announced that his administration secured the first state-level credit rating upgrade in 13 years and the first-ever such upgrade from Fitch Ratings.

Site Selection magazine recently placed Kentucky first in the South Central region and top-5 nationally in its 2023 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects. The publication also 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.

Gov. Beshear recently 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.

The Governor also recently announcedthat Kentucky set the record for the longest period with the lowest unemployment rates in state history. On May 18, Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky set a new historic low unemployment rate of 3.7%, which is the lowest rate ever recorded in the commonwealth.

To encourage investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) in January 2023 preliminarily approved a 15-year incentive agreement with the company under the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based agreement can tax incentives based on the company’s investment and annual job and wage targets.

By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments.

In addition, INFAC North America can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives.

For more information on INFAC North America, visit infac.com.

A detailed community profile for Taylor County can be viewed here.

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, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
 

Kentucky State Police Post 15 will be conducting periodic traffic safety checkpoints in the Post 15 area, which includes Green, Taylor, Marion, Washington, Russell, Casey, Adair, Metcalfe, Monroe, Clinton, and Cumberland counties. These checkpoints will be conducted as part of Post 15's highway safety efforts.

Troopers will be checking for violations of Kentucky traffic and regulatory laws relating to motor vehicle equipment safety, licensing of drivers, motor vehicle registration, and operation of motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicants.

A complete list of traffic safety checkpoint locations can be found at the following link: http://kentuckystatepolice.org/post15checkpoints

Travis Crew, 39, of Dunville, KY was arrested by Kentucky State Police on Thursday night. Crew was charged with Speeding 26 mph or greater over the Speed Limit, Reckless Driving, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, No Registration Receipt, No Registration Plates, Improper Displey of Registration Plates, Operating Motor Vehicle under Influence of Controlled Substance 3^rd (Aggravated Circumstance) and License to be in Possession. He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Christopher Corbin, 38, of Columbia, KY was arrested by KSP early Friday morning for No Registration Receipt, No Registration Plates, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operators License and Operating Motor Vehicle under the Influence of a Controlled Substance (Aggravated Circumstances).

James Kiser, 58, of Jamestown, KY was taken into custody by the Columbia Police Department on Thursday evening. Kiser was charged with Strangulation 2^nd Degree and Assault, 4^th Degree (Minor Injuries).

The Adair County School Board will have another Special Called Meeting on Friday, June 2, 2023 at 5:00pmCT at the Adair County Board Conference Room.

**Meeting called to order**

1.   APPROVAL OF AGENDA

REGULAR AGENDA

2.   CLOSED SESSION PURSUANT TO KRS 61.810 (1) (F) FOR THE ADAIR COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS
 

3.   APPROVAL TO ADJOURN

Governor Andy Beshear is scheduled to be at two events in Campbellsville, KY on Friday, June 2, 2023...

On Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 2:52pmCT, the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department (RSVFD) was dispatched to a 2-vehicle accident with injuries on the Louie B. Nunn (Cumberland) Parkway near mile marker 67.

Upon arrival, the RSVFD worked alongside the Russell County Sheriffs Office and Russell County EMS. Two helicopters were deployed and landed at Russell County Hospital to transport the patients involved in the accident. The names of the victims have not been released.

Fire Chief Bobby Johnson expressed his gratitude to all the individuals involved for their unwavering dedication in managing the situation effectively and ensuring the well-being of those affected.

The Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department remains committed to serving and protecting the community, and we appreciate the support of our fellow emergency response agencies.