Woodford County Fiscal Court - Regular Meeting

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I will call this meeting of the Woodford County Fiscal Court to order.

Madam Clerk, would you please call the roll?

Offering our invocation this evening is Reverend Tony Harden of Journey Church. Thank you, Judge.

Shall we pray? Heavenly Father, I approach this court tonight with a thankful heart, so appreciative to be a part of such a beautiful community, and so thankful for these men and women who seek to lead. And tonight, my sole purpose is just to pray for them, to pray that they would seek your guidance, that they would do good works that are pleasing to you tonight, and Lord, I pray for their protection as they lead. Lord, we just want to offer all of these prayers in the name of your Son and my Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. Amen. Thank you. If you're able. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you, thank you. We do have a special guest with us this evening. We could call it a Good of the County program. For the good of the county, the greatest county in all of the universe, Woodford County. We are a La Crosse county in Woodford County. And we have with us Mr. Grayson Hodge, the 2026 Kentucky Mr. La Crosse. Would you all welcome Grayson and his dad? The Woodford County Fiscal Court is proud to recognize Mr. Grayson Hodge for being named the 2026 Kentucky Mr. Lacrosse, the Commonwealth's highest individual honor bestowed upon a high school lacrosse player. This distinguished recognition celebrates not only Grayson's outstanding athletic ability, but also his exemplary leadership, unwavering determination, his sportsmanship, his commitment to his teammates, and his commitment to excellence both on and off the field. Throughout his career, Grayson has proudly represented Woodford County with integrity, resilience, and a team-first mentality, inspiring his teammates, serving as a positive example to our younger athletes, and contributing significantly to one of the most successful periods in Woodford County High School lacrosse history. Grayson's dedication extends beyond athletics. He's demonstrated excellence in the classroom, which I know his mom and dad are very proud of, and he has consistently exemplified the values of discipline, character, and perseverance that define exceptional student athletes and, in fact, the best lacrosse player in all of Kentucky. Grayson's accomplishments have brought great pride to his family, his teammates, his coaches, our high school, and our entire community. Grayson holds many records in the record books. I believe he's the all-time leading scorer in Woodford County history, amongst other honors. So today, we honor you, Grayson, Mr. LaCrosse of Kentucky. So please come forward.

And it offered you the opportunity to say any words to everyone. I just want to say thank you for this recognition. I'm definitely honored to be receiving this award. There's so many great players in the state of Kentucky playing lacrosse. But I just think it shows the hard work I've put in. I thank you to all my teammates and coaches who have gotten me this place. I wouldn't be able to be here without them. And I'm happy to represent Woodford County.

Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Congrats, Grayson. Grayson is also a rising senior, so we have more excitement to come, another season to go, right? I would like to take the opportunity to also recognize Grayson's dad, Rob Hodge. Rob, we consider you one of the founders of Woodford County Lacrosse. You took it from non-existent program to a state Final Four program to a state champion club program. We have so many great... Young Woodford County is in lacrosse. The pipeline is full. We're excited. You know, your teammates achieved so much this year, Grayson. Folks like Parker Ishmael and some of these other guys that have just done tremendous things. We're so proud of you. If we could, we'd like to grab a picture with you in front of the Woodford County Home of Champions banner to recognize your successful and unbelievably unparalleled accomplishment. And I did notice your mom, Abby, is here with us too. Moms do it all. So she's a team mom and has also helped support the lacrosse program to bring it to these heights. So Rob and Abby and Grayson, thank you all for being here.

Thank you. That's awesome.

Thank you all for allowing us to recognize another champion and great young Woodford County. I would move to public comment. Anybody seeking to make a public comment? Anybody here to make a public comment? Seeing none, we can move to the approval of the minutes of the regular and special meetings of June 9th. Are there any additions or corrections to the minutes? Are there any objections to approve the minutes as presented? Seeing no objections, I will approve the minutes without objections. Reports. I would like to recognize that we have a special guest with us. We have the mayor of the city of Versailles who is here to support Woodford Wills and we also have a presentation from Woodford Wills. So if you would please come to the podium and

I'm Herb Pettigine. I'm a board member and a volunteer driver for Woodford Wheels. In Woodford County there are limited options if you don't have a car or can't drive and Woodford Wheels provides transportation for these individuals, particularly those who are elderly and disabled. We provide rides for any purpose within the county and plus any medical needs in adjacent counties and rides to and from the airport. Majority of our rides are for medical specialists in Lexington. And some of our riders still drive within Woodford County, but are intimidated by the navigating and the traffic within Fayette County and so they'll not feel safe so we can provide that. Last month marked four years that we have provided rides and during that time we've provided over 4,000 We've transported passengers over 38,500 miles. And then if you add the mileage that the volunteers drive to and from their homes to provide those rides, that adds up to a total of 65,600 miles. So about 2.6 times around the world. But that's just the part that we can quantify. there's perhaps a greater value that doesn't lend itself to numbers, and that's friendship. Loneliness is a big problem for seniors, particularly the homebound. And our drivers are volunteers. They aren't getting a paycheck. They're there because they genuinely care about their neighbors in our community. And our ride coordinator tries to pair people up so that a rider will generally get the same driver or small group of drivers. So over time, you get to develop a true friendship with them. You get to learn about their stories and about their families. And for some of the residents who are longtime residents of Woodford County, you get to hear a lot of the local history. And part of this is also that we look out for each other. I can give an example. There was one rider I had who had just started using a walker and had two steps from his porch down to the driveway. And I noticed he wasn't very safe the way he was putting his walker down and then leaning over. So I brought that to his attention and also let the family know. And so they talked to the therapist he was working with and so found a safer way for him to maneuver. And this can be important because some of our riders are signed up by family members who are outside the county or even outside the state. So we're another set of eyes to help let them know if we see any issues. But it also works both ways. I was having some shortness of breath under mild exertion. I was thinking, well, you know, it kind of came gradual, so just getting out of shape and age and stuff. But two of the riders, they expressed real concern and said, you really need to check that out. So I did and found out it was something that could be corrected by surgery. So I got that addressed. So, you know, we develop... real friendship and we look out for each other. So that's an important part of this. Woodford Wheels is a vital part of our county being a caring, age-friendly community. We sincerely appreciate the financial support the fiscal court has provided for Woodford Wheels and we look forward to continuing to work with you. Now I'm going to pass out an annual report for you to you can look at more in leisure. But I want to point out a thing on the third page. There's a chart of the rides and Of course, the last dot indicates just a partial year. But it looks like it's leveling off. And that can be deceiving because the rides can fluctuate quite a bit based on the medical needs of the riders. And in particular, we had one rider who unfortunately passed away. He was deeply beloved by our driving community. But he was a dialysis patient. Now, dialysis, they have to go in three times a week. And it's for several hours, so there'll be one driver will take the person in, and then a second driver will generally pick them up. So that adds up, you know, six rides a week, over 300 rides a year. And of course, this is not something a family can handle easily, especially if folks are working. So, you know, Woodford Wheels can provide that, but you can see that something like that can add a lot of variation there. I don't believe we have any dialysis patient right now, but we have had as many as three at a time. That was back when we had a dialysis facility here in the county. So that kind of explains the fluctuation there. Now, as I wrap up, I'm going to... leave two challenges for the fiscal court members. First of all, the number of riders we have there at the end of 2025 was 66. Since then, we've added at least 10 more. We know there are a lot more people out there. So I suggest that you find a constituent who could use our services and encourage them to get signed up with us. So that's your first challenge. The second challenge is as we grow the number of riders, we also need to increase our volunteers. And we are fortunate in that our volunteers don't quit. We don't have turnover. But we need to keep expanding that. So I would suggest that each of you try to find someone in your district who would be a good driver for us. Or consider driving yourself. Even just one or two rides a month. That would be helpful. I'm going to tell a little story here. I picked up a rider from a... hairdressing appointment. And she was going on. The mayor took me to the appointment. The mayor took me. So, you know.

I'm a volunteer driver.

Yeah. So, of course, she was an old-time resident. She should know that, you know, a small community, everybody... you know, holds many hats. But, you know, if you volunteer, that might bring surprise and delight to your constituents. So, in conclusion, thank you again for your support. Contact information is on the last page. For those who are online, I will give the phone number. 859-753-8091. That's 859-753-8091. Okay, I'll take any questions you might have at the present.

Thank you, Mr. Pettyjean. Does anybody have any questions regarding Woodford Wheels? I have good news that we have already had the... Second reading of our budget. So you are included. The appropriation has already been approved. And I just want to say what a wonderful program it is. I do appreciate the mayor's leadership in both the founding and then being a volunteer driver. I know she's had to leave meetings we've been in because she has to go fulfill her commitment to take folks places. But transportation has always been an issue for a community of our size. And Woodford Wills fills that gap in need so well. And I know I speak for the fiscal court when I say we're proud to be a funding partner.

Thank you. Again, my thanks.

Yes, sir. Thank you.

Okay.

Any questions or comments from the fiscal court? Well, thank you. Thank you for your presentation. Mayor, also thank you for being here. We have several items of business that touch on our partnerships with Versailles, like the property acquisition of the 105 Industry Drive. We are looking at the MOU on the turf project. We have the big sink sidewalk project. EDA consulting agreement. Yeah, a lot of good stuff.

Thank you.

No, no, you're more than welcome to be excused. You're more than welcome to be excused. But you can also stay. I'm sure that you enjoy public meetings and spending time in the audience. Thank you, thank you. All right. I would like to call upon our county clerk, Ms. Sandy Jones, for your report. And we also have a special recognition.

If I may, I'd like to start first with the updates and then go into the second portion of it.

Yes, please.

So this 2026 primary election, I'd like to give a small little report on that. We had what was a low turnout normally for primary elections, but it was higher than what we had thought it would be. We have 21,814 registered voters here in Woodford County, and our voter turnout for this election was 6,603 voters, and this gave us a 30.27% voter turnout. So once again, we're in the fifth to sixth highest in the state percentage of voters for this election. Once again, I can't say enough good things about our four voting centers. It was all fast and efficient, and the voters were always very appreciative to how we were able to move people in and out. Most importantly, I want to express my gratitude to everyone who helped make this election possible. As always, I thank Rick Hartley and his crew, which includes the community service workers who worked tirelessly 14 to 16 hours with us the day of the election and all the days before. They don't only just deliver, they help assemble, pick up the voting machines and all the equipment that it takes to pull this election off. the willingness is always tremendous in itself but their positive attitude with working with us is very much appreciated and we couldn't do it without them so i want to thank them from the bottom of our heart scott gail and the road department employees make sure that we had everything that we needed which was a trailer truck putting up signs whatever it was a huge part of this election sheriff will hoyt i want to thank you always for the coverage that you give us at all the voting centers a huge thanks goes to rich pictor and his wonderful staff who are always ready willing and able to help us at falling springs it gives us another opportunity to show place our beautiful beautiful recreational facility To all the precinct election officers who so graciously give up their time and effort to making this election everything we can have hope for, my staff, and I thank each one of you. Last, but certainly not least, there are no words that I could truly express my appreciation to all my staff who give all that they have leading up to the weeks of the election and then the weeks afterwards. For my second report, I would like to update you regarding the Digital Access Project, also known as the DAP. As I reported to you before, this project will revolutionize the way we access and preserve our Woodford County land records with no expense to our general fund. This is because I received good news from the Kentucky Department of Library and Archives last week announcing that an $89,000 grant will be awarded to Woodford County for this project. These funds appropriated to Woodford County will cover the expense of completing this digital access project, which means all documents will be digitized and indexed from the first deed filing in 1789 to the 1966 land records that are currently digitized and indexed as mandated by Kentucky law. The long-term advantage of having these land records from 1789 to the present in digital form and accessible on the internet will reduce the physical handling of these recorded pages in the vault, thereby increasing the longevity of the actual document and the preservation value for many, many years to come and to create the best possible digitized images for the public's viewing in person and via internet. During this grant process that Dara Shipp and I have worked on since January of this year, We have partnered with Fayette County Clerk's Office and been able to enhance our program by being able to utilize their existing partnership with the University of Kentucky which has resulted in us being able to have a graduate student intern work with us. During this process there was a proud moment that I would like to share. One of the advisory members of the Kentucky Department of Library and Archives stated this project is worthy of a documentary due to the concentration of the slavery aspect and all the black history discovered in our county. Additionally, this digital access program will make it possible for anyone to access the conveyance of land records that records and illustrates how Woodford County originated from the division of the first three counties that originally formed the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Lastly, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the retirement of Dara Shipp, our deed room supervisor. The bittersweet moment, bitter, very bittersweet moment of her departure from us is celebrated with all of our love and best wishes for her to enjoy the life to the very fullest. She's been such a valuable part of my office in so many ways for close to 16 years. Her expertise, her wit, her sheer determination to complete a project such as what we have just completed here, just to begin, but the completion for us to begin, and her dear friendship will be missed tremendously. At this time, Dara, do you have anything that you would like to say?

Madam Clerk, if I may, if I may say a few things.

Yes, please.

So one of the joys and privileges and blessings, really, of being a county elected official is to get to work with such amazing professionals. And Dara Shipp has been a tremendous Woodford County employee. And so on behalf of the fiscal court, we recognize her 16 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Woodford County. Throughout her career, Dara has faithfully served in the deed room, the motor vehicle department, as an integral member of the Woodford County's election team. And she's helped ensure that vital public services and elections were carried out with professionalism, accuracy, and integrity. Dara has earned the respect of her colleagues, the citizens of Woodford County, this entire courthouse through her unwavering reliability, her strong work ethic, and her quiet leadership, consistently demonstrating a commitment to public service. the standard of excellence by which all Woodford Countians hold our community and our clerk's office. And Dara has lived up to that each day in service to Woodford County. So on behalf of a grateful community and this fiscal court, we thank you and honor you tonight in your retirement. And I know it is bittersweet, Madam Clerk. I imagine you'll probably take one more shot, try to keep her for just a little bit longer.

I have, I have.

But today we honor Dara. Derriship for her service to Woodford County.

We will be having a celebration too next Tuesday here in the courthouse.

Thank you, Madam Clerk. Thank you, Dara. We appreciate you bringing Wendell back to the courthouse. Wendell, great to have you. I would not ask you to remain. You are more than welcome to be excused, but you can also enjoy the rest of this meeting as you wish. Yeah. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Madam Treasurer, your report, please.

Tonight's balance is $12,952,856.46.

Thank you, Madam Treasurer. Does anybody have any questions for the Treasurer? Seeing none. Thank you. Let's see. Emergency Management. Director Chandler.

Judge, the only thing I had for the court tonight, well, two things. Today we received the draft contract from Jackson Construction for the logistics facility. Clearly we hadn't had enough time between receiving that to give it to you tonight and be able to talk about it in form. So we will proceed the email method that was approved at the prior meeting. uh second to that i just wanted to let the court know that we do have some late invoices that will be on an additional bill list and i'm told that the deadline for me to turn those in is tomorrow so i just wanted to let you know that it's it's not a hang up on the second floor it's us trying to move some things along from the basement thank you director chandler and if i may we we do have an email approval to all right uh

the ability to approve the contract via email, but I would entertain a motion, since you've received that now, to allow us to approve that electronically if we need to. Is there a motion?

Motion.

Motion by Squire Blackford, second by Squire Barner. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. And Director Chandler, you have the cybersecurity grant modification?

Yes. Thank you, Judge. The Kentucky Office of Homeland Security is the state administrative agency. We had previously received this grant award and we had a disaster last year that put several things behind as far as getting that grant executed before the period of performance closed. which happens on June the 30th. So this would merely extend the period of performance that would allow us to get reimbursed through the end of September. Is that what it was? Yeah, so it just gives us a little more time to close out the grant.

So I would entertain a motion to approve the modified contract between the Department of Homeland Security and the Fiscal Court for fiscal year 2022 cybersecurity grant with a new term set to expire November 30, 2026.

Motion.

Motion by Squire Downey, second by Squire Gill.

Are there any questions or comments thereon? Judge, would that motion allow you to sign and execute that document?

Is that your motion, Squire Downey?

Sure it is. I knew it would be.

Let the record so reflect. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. Unless there's anything else, Judge, thank you. No, thank you, and you are more than welcome to be excused if you would like, Director Chandler. That's a common occurrence tonight. Maybe folks just don't want to watch it on Facebook. They want to see it live. All right, we have an exciting update from our maintenance department. Director Wade.

With the America 250, the judge and I were in discussion of what we could do for the county, the decision to make a time capsule. And he said, Rick, take care of this. And so, as my wife says, I kind of go overboard sometimes. But I wanted to show everybody what we have. I have some samplings of some items that we've come up with. I would ask you to write your reflections to your children, to your grandchildren, and maybe to me, I don't think I'll be around at 116 years of age, but if you think I'm just an old country boy dummy, go ahead and write that and we'll put it in here. It will be read or unread, you can have it, and we'll get it to your children or grandchildren somehow in 50 years. We'll figure that out in some way. It may be somebody other than me, but I'm also calling upon our editor Scott White of the Woodford Sun to please put a huge story And I've requested some newspaper from 1976 and anything older. I do have some papers that we found in April of 76 that are 50 years old now. So I'm looking to really get this underway and have it sealed up by July 4th. that will be at the end of our parade. And then we will store this in the courthouse in the old civil defense area that I guess was bomb capable at the time when they built this building. If you have any questions, give me a holler. We'll be receiving your documents. Please seal them up. We will vacuum seal them. I have some items here from the corner drug, their menu. We have a nice written article from Henry Lamb of the closing of of a walk and go, have some money, some roll coins, pennies that are no longer going to be available. But, you know, please take a look at it and come up with your ideas too. So we're having a time capsule for America 300. Thank you.

Well, thank you, Director Wade. I think this is a wonderful way to create a memorial and let folks know what was going on and Woodford County during America 250. Anybody who wishes to participate or be involved in this in any way, you are more than welcome. I will request an order of this court that upon the date of July 4th, when the time capsule is complete, that it be fully sealed, that no one be permitted to open that until 50 years from the date of July 4th, 2026. Is there a motion for saying? Motion. Motion by Squire Carl. Second by Squire Downey. Is there any discussion? I would just thank you, Director Wade, for this great idea and for implementing it. And all those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. And the capsule is hereby ordered to be closed and sealed. until America 300. Thank you. Thank you all. Let's see. As another report, I know, Madam Treasurer, we have the contract for the vehicle for the Woodford County Road Department. You all have that before us. I need a motion to approve that and authorize me to sign and execute that document. Is there a motion? Motion. Motion to square Carl.

Second.

Second by Squire Taylor. Are there any questions or comments? So basically what's happened here is the original invoice a little bit has changed. Madam Treasurer, would you please explain?

The original invoice that we had that was dated July of 2025, if you look under the body equipment pricing option, the total amount should have been $86,678, which is reflected under the price breakdown. But the one that we signed said forty three thousand nine seventy three. So when it got to the company for the body part of it, it the invoice that they sent us did not match. So the total cost matches what we budgeted matches. But the quote itself just so this is just to update that so that we have a clean paper trail for this.

Thank you, Madam Treasurer. We also have our road supervisor here with us. Are there any questions thereon? It's essentially assuring that our invoice reflects what we're paying for. Yes. We do have a motion on the table to approve, same. Since you all have now had the opportunity to review that, are we prepared for a vote? All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed, nay. That motion carries unanimously. Thank you. Yes, please.

You all should have received quarter end transfers for both appropriations and for receipts. We will need a vote to approve those with the caveat that there may be an email vote to come later in the week or early next week, because depending on what happens between now and then, if an invoice comes in that has to be paid, that could change those numbers. We have to have everything done by June 30th. So there could be an additional list coming, but this is the main one for now.

Thank you, Madam Treasurer. I would also like to add, as part of the road report, there is paving going on on Paddock Drive, Normandy, Woodburn Hall, and Huntertown Road, and that that paving could be completed as early as next week. So if anybody has any questions or comments, please let us know, but please use caution in those areas. I know that when paving happens, it's not always convenient, but... We need it. We need it to get done. So thank you all. Any other questions for the road department on anything? Seeing none, I'll move to the report of committees. The fiscal court met prior here, too, in a special meeting for the Committee of the Whole. And the Committee of the Whole took up the property acquisition for 105 Industry Drive. Pursuant to the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Versailles, the EDA, and the Fiscal Court, the Fiscal Court is required to approve the closing statement for the purchase of 105 Industry Drive. And there are actually two closings that happen. It's the closing on the bonds and the financing with First Security and Stan Kramer, and then the real estate property closing of the actual deed transfer. And so we had a recommendation to approve the closing statement, the financing documents, and to authorize the payment to the city of Versailles in the amount of $216,176.37. The city of Versailles has invoiced us for that amount. We will issue payment to the city for that, and then the city will pay that as part of the down payment for the bonds. And then that amount will be fully reimbursed to both the city and the county through the KPDI grant, which we will receive after we have the closing. The closing on the bonds is tomorrow, June 24th, and the projected closing date for the real estate transaction for Yokohama Building 105 Industry Drive is June 30th. I will note that the original down payment amount was almost half a million dollars each to the city and the county, and the deal has shaped up to be nearly half of that. So that's a good deal for us for both the city and the county. Those three motions were approved by the Committee of the Whole in our meeting prior here too, but I would entertain a motion upon the recommendation of those three motions to approve the closing statement, to approve the financing, and to approve the down payment amount. I need a motion to approve that by the full Fiscal Court. Motion. Motion by Squire Gentry, second by Squire Downey. Are there any questions or comments thereon? The one thing that I would say is that Woodford County, our fiscal court, the city of Versailles, and the EDA are working on keeping jobs and opportunities in our community. We've seen the threats from data centers. We've seen buildings like our Sylvania Lead Vance building be underutilized and not provide opportunities like jobs and wages. And so our goal is to recruit a good community partner, a business to come in there that will bring jobs. And as I mentioned in the Committee of the Whole prior, Yokohama will still have employees in part of the building. Those employees, we will still receive our occupational taxes on that. And we also receive a higher leaseback amount, which cuts down on the overall total purchase price for the city and the county. But with the $2 million grant, with the $100,000 opportunity grant, with all of the work that's been done, the Yokohama Property 105 Industry Drive is a great opportunity for our community to grow jobs and undertake smart strategic economic development. And for those that live in the Stonegate neighborhood who are most impacted by by this facility, they can know and rest assured that we will not just let anything come in there, whether it is a data center, whether it is a battery storage center connected to a data center, or a loud, noisy, or polluting business. We're not going to allow those type of things to come in because we want something that fits the neighborhood, something that provides generational jobs and opportunities, generational jobs and opportunities like Yokohama provided for so many employees for over 33 years. And when you're talking about the history of buildings and community partners, you're talking about Texas Instruments, Kuhlman Electric, Rand McNally, Leadvent, Sylvania. Those are folks who have come in and advanced manufacturing provided jobs and opportunities to our citizens. And they have been great community partners and helped us fund and the city fund the services that our citizens demand. So we're very, very hopeful and optimistic that we have some really good leads on bringing in a good community partner. So the motion is on the table. Let me ask, are there any questions or comments regarding the approval of the motions set forth in the Committee of the Whole? Seeing none, all those in favor of the motion on the table, please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed, nay.

Nay.

Let the record reflect that there are two nay votes, but the motion carries. All right. So the second small item that we took up in the Committee of the Whole was the second reading of the fiscal year 26-27 budget. It is an over $70 million budget, the largest budget in county history. And I want to talk a little bit about that because it's extremely important that folks understand. Yes, we just entered into a deal to purchase the Yokohama plant. But even with that amount of debt, Woodford County has the lowest amount of debt our county has ever had. We are in a strong financial position due to conservative budgeting and responsible fiscal management. Again, we just received another clean audit. That's seven years in a row of clean audits. No comments, no findings. Our auditors continually praise our internal audit team and our proactive financial management, recognizing that we're doing a good job stewarding taxpayer dollars. The fiscal court has consistently maintained a bank balance of over $12 million. And in this budget, we propose significantly cutting property taxes significantly. for our citizens. And we know that for many families in Woodford County, that cost of living is not just a term. It's a reality. It's a daily calculation, whether it's at the kitchen table, at Kroger, Save-A-Lot, at the gas pump. Every purchase right now is squeezing Woodford County families. And this fiscal court has recognized that we need to do our part to lower the property tax rate by a significant amount so that folks can deal with this inflation. They can deal with the large increases in property assessments that have made their tax amount go up. We are also encouraging our other taxing districts to look at their tax rate to provide relief to Woodford County citizens. But what I think is most important is that we will lower the property tax rate and we will have a significant budget surplus. We will also break records in many areas of government, including the highest investment, the largest investment in law enforcement in Woodford County's history, whether that's the Versailles Police Department budget or the Sheriff's Office budget. And there is no coincidence that Versailles and Woodford County is the safest community in Kentucky. That's because we have the best law enforcement officers and we invest in them. We also recognize that we moved to a skills-based pay model for the Woodford County Road Department. And we fully fund that road department reorganization in this budget without going into any debt and by lowering taxes. We continue to fund Woodford County EMS at a level that makes sure our paramedics and our EMTs are competitive and they are some of the best paid in Kentucky because they're out there saving lives for us each and every day. We have public safety initiatives that include combating the opioid epidemic, funding net recovery devices, funding a substance abuse disorder support specialist, say that ten times fast, We're funding new dry hydrants with Woodford County Fire District. We're building an $8.5 million sewer project in Millville, a $1.3 million water project to bring city water for the first time to Germany, Shore Acres, Four Acres, and Watts Ferry. We are working on a critical courthouse annex HVAC project and rebuilding the Paines Depot Bridge at a cost of $1.1 million, which is all funded through grants. We also fund great programs like Woodford Wheels, CASA, our Senior Citizens Center, Indigent Burial Program, Community Action, Woodford Foundation, and in this budget, we fund a Woodford County Housing Affordability Plan. The first tenet of that plan is to keep people in their homes, help people bridge the gap to avoid utility shutoffs and emergency arrearages that could cause them to go into fault, to be evicted, or to be foreclosed upon. The second is if they do risk losing their home, we provide a legal defense fund, a pilot program to help people defend their homes. And then third, we want to work with our cities to form a joint city and county land trust to build affordable housing together. That's the only way it can be done, and this budget funds that. We also renew our commitment to funding the flood rebuilding that we have worked so hard on. We do some other big investments in our quality of life as well. Mayor, I'm glad you're here to talk about how we have fully funded our parks program, our parks project. The turf fields and the big spring park revitalization are incredible programs that are already being well received in our community and the fiscal court paid for those in cash. We will also rebuild the Clifton boat ramp with a grant from the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. We're doing major sidewalk connectivity projects like the Big Sink sidewalk, the sidewalk near our high school and the county park. Appreciate the mayor's leadership on that project for sure. And we're funding neighborhood sidewalk improvement projects. and other connectability projects. We continue to modernize county government. We still have a business one-stop that people are using more and more often. We have advanced cybersecurity. That is a big emerging need for county governments, and I want to thank Emergency Management Director Drew Chandler for his focus on that. Madam Clerk, we continue to fund our elections to make sure that they are the most safe and integral elections that we can have. We're going to Finish the Crittenden Cabin, Squire Taylor. We're going to continue to fund the Rural Land Board, and we're going to continue to protect and preserve rural farmland, including funding for the Property Development Rights Program, something that has always been a wish list in this community, and we've decided to put our money where our work is. We also will continue our investment in trying to plant 30,000 trees in this community by 2030 and doing many, many more things. So that is the fiscal year budget that was passed in the Committee of the Whole prior here to unanimously by this fiscal court, a budget I'm very proud of. And again, I want to thank Madam Treasurer and all of the second floor team for working hard on that budget. Are there any questions or comments on the budget as passed? Seeing none, thank you for your indulgence. The general orders and unfinished business are before you. I only have one board appointment, and that is to appoint Mr. Jim Mansfield to the Rural Land Board for a two-year term set to expire June 30, 2028. Is there a motion for saying aye? Motion by Squire Gentry. Second by Squire Taylor. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. The claims, the bills to be paid are before you. Are there any questions or comments on any of the bills to be paid? Seeing none. Are there any objections to any of the bills to be paid? Also seeing none, I'll approve the bills to be paid without objection. I need to ratify the June 16th email approval of claims from Stockyard Bank and PNC Bank as presented. Motion by Squire Blackford. Second by Squire Downey. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. We also need to approve the claim from Galls in the amount of $264 for the Sheriff's Office using asset forfeiture funds. Motion by Squire Carl. Second by Squire Taylor. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. We also need to allow for email approvals of any necessary claims that need to be paid before the end of the fiscal year. Is there a motion to authorize same?

Motion.

Motion by Squire Carl. Second by Squire Downey. All those in favor please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed nay. That motion carries. Is there a motion to approve the transfers and the quarter end receipt and expenditure transfers as presented? Motion by Esquire Varner, second by Esquire Blackford. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed, nay. And that motion carries as well. We do have a young and new farmer grant program update. There were no new applicants to conditionally approve at this time. The applicants that were conditionally approved at the June 9th meeting are on this bill list tonight for approval. I do need a motion to ratify the June 11th, 2026 email approval authorizing the parent guardian applications for those under the age of 18 and to sign that grant agreement for said young and new farmers. Motion by Squire Varner. Second by Squire Gentry. Seeing no discussion, all those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye.

Aye.

All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. The Big Sink Sidewalk Project update. There's a meeting with the Highway Department and AECOM Wednesday, June 24th to discuss the new requirement of appraisals for the right-of-way phase. Unfortunately, that's probably going to delay the project somewhat because we'll have to have additional appraisal requirements but we'll make sure to keep everybody updated on that madam clerk did you have anything to add on that thank you we approved the second reading of the budget and county attorney red saying let the record reflect in in the committee of the whole um Diligent work and discussion continues on the Castle and Key IRB. I would recommend that we reschedule the second reading for a potential vote at our next meeting, which is July 14th. Is there a motion to reschedule same to publish and notice that? Motion by Squire Downey, second by Squire Carl. Are there any questions thereon? Seeing none, all those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay.

Nay.

And the motion carries. New business. We have a facility use request. The Whitford County Rodeo is back in town. We need to approve the Whitford County Fairgrounds facility use request for the Whitford County Rodeo August 14th and 15th. Motion by Squire Varner. Second by Squire Downey. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. And that motion carries. You also have the EDA consulting agreement before you. I need a motion to approve the consulting agreement between MWM Consulting, Woodford County Fiscal Court, City of Versailles, City of Midway for a two-year term set to expire June 30, 2028 as presented and to authorize the judge executive to sign any and all documents related thereto.

Motion.

Motion by Squire Taylor. Second. Second by Squire Blackford. I would open up the floor for any discussions or questions thereon. Squire Gill, you're recognized.

Thank you. It just pretty much says that they're going to do consulting, but it doesn't say what kind of consulting. I was just wondering, you know, we've heard a lot of discussion about lead vans and that only a fraction of the building is being used and there are 60 acres outside of that. And I just wonder if it's part of the EDA's uh a part of this contract to to approach existing businesses and property owners and business owners to see if there's anything that we can do to partner with them to make it mutually beneficial for them and for the county and i don't see any kind of it seems like what's going on with the eda is more buying and selling instead i've just wondered if there's something we can do to help to approach existing businesses and say, you know, what can we do? What can we do to keep you here?

Absolutely. Well, I want to first of all say that I am well aware of Lucas Witt's discussions and offers of assistance to Phoenix Investors, the ownership group, the private equity ownership group that owns Leadvance. We've had many, many discussions with them, including assisting with the steel cemetery when the fence was falling down, talking to them about the walk pathway issue. that is on their land that we have an easement for and offers of assistance from them to help. And so I know that that has happened regularly. I also know that the EDA's job really, the buying and selling has not been a majority part of their contract in the whole life of the contract with MWM Consulting. It's just here recently since we had the Yokohama building. The one thing that they also worked on was a grant through the Blue Grass Ad to help people find jobs that had lost jobs from the Yokohama partial closure. But if you look at Industry Day, where we take our high school students, and they're going to include middle school students next year, I believe, but we take those to all the industries. We hold an economic development roundtable, which includes all the leaders of the local businesses. Our last one was at Ruggles Sign Company, which is an amazing local business that does international renowned work. So I know that Lucas Witt and his firm are doing all that for us, including securing grants, working on other projects. In my opinion, I think they're doing a tremendous job. But I do think it's always an opportunity for the fiscal court to talk with Lucas directly, ask him questions about what he's doing. And if you would like he or his firm to engage in additional levels of discussion or update you on other things that are going on, I feel very confident that he'd be willing to work with you. In fact, I know that he's always open to discussing his work and the work of the EDA with any elected official. Yes, ma'am.

I'm not saying he doesn't do a great job. I'm just trying to, I would like to see it included in the contract that there will be regular meetings or regular contact with existing businesses. That's all. Not that I want to request it specifically. I would like the fiscal court to request as part of this contract that they make regular contact with the existing businesses to see if there's anything we can do.

And that's all.

All right. Squire Downey, you're up next.

Just to address Squire Gill's point, just in the line of the contract said NWM will assist community in identification, evaluation, acquisition, and disposition of industrial property, whether currently owned under contract or under consideration. So, I mean, I think that would fall, if it's currently owned, that that would be by like current owners, correct?

Well, I think the point I'm trying to make is that it hasn't been done consistently, and that's what I would like to see. Because Lead Bands has been there for a long time and empty, and I'm glad that they've reached out to the Phoenix Group finally, but we've had that there for quite a while. And I don't know. It's just recently that that's happened. So I just think if it was a regular quarterly thing or something that they could reach out to them and say, you know, is there anything we can do to help you? And that's all.

Thank you. Thank you, Squire Gill. I would just reiterate that in my communications with MWM Consulting and the communications with the mayor for sales, I wish she was here, because from as far back as when John Sober left and Lucas Witt took over for MWM Consulting, we have been regularly in communication with the Phoenix Investment Group. Again, we've talked about the fence at Steele Cemetery. We've talked about the walking path that is an easement on their property. we communicate with them regularly as ways to assist. And I don't know if folks know this, but private equity groups are not the easiest to communicate with, but Lucas Witt has kept an open line of communication consistently for the beginning of his term until now. So I believe that he is doing that, but I think we can always encourage him to update us on that more regularly so everybody has an understanding of that. I would also say that... If there's anything else specific, I've seen nothing but willingness to do whatever the fiscal court and individual members have asked of MWM Consulting. So I think the current contract contemplates the request. If that is not something that you all agree with, then I welcome you to share that now. Squire Varner.

Yes, sir. One question. On the performance fee on Exhibit B, there's a KPDI grant. Is that included in these fees right here?

No, sir.

So the firm will not be on that percentage?

That's correct. So he did that for us under the current existing contract, and we really appreciate that.

Yes, sir.

Other questions or comments? Seeing none, there's a motion on the table. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. And that motion carries unanimously. Thank you all. We do have to approve the salary list for fiscal year 26-27. Is there a motion for saying?

Motion.

Motion by Squire Carl. Second by Squire Gentry. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. And the motion carries. Squire Taylor, if you could recuse, we're going to discuss the WISA lease. Thank you, sir. I need a motion to approve the proposed lease agreement between the Fiscal Court and the Woodford County Youth Soccer Association for a one-year term as presented and to authorize the judge executive to sign any and all documents related thereto. Motion by Squire Gentry. Second by Squire Varner. Are there any questions or comments thereon? Let the record reflect that Squire Taylor has recused and abstained from said vote. All those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. And that motion carries unanimously. All right, Squire Taylor, you can rejoin. All right. The next item is an emergency water needs resolution. So at our last meeting, we discussed some of the issues that were going on in the South Woodford Water District. And what I'd like to just express is that this fiscal court and the prior fiscal court has supported and helped fund improvements in the South Woodford Water District and in our other water districts as well. But one thing that I think the fiscal court can and should do is be there when emergencies and crises arise. And so the resolution 2026 would allocate $50,000 of general fund monies to support emergency water needs assistance and infrastructure support. So the first thing that we heard from our citizens was that they were concerned that either individually or as businesses and specifically our farmers could have issues with livestock, animal, and horse needs during water outages. So this fund could be used to ensure delivery of available water to individuals or businesses with verifiable urgent needs for health and human safety, business livelihood, which would include emergency support for animals, livestock, and horses. The Woodford County Emergency Management Agency would be directed to coordinate with the fire departments, the road department, and any other agencies to help offset the cost with emergency water delivery and support, something that we just recently did with the issues in the South Woodford Water District. We would also provide rural water district emergency aid, which would support our rural water districts with contract-related services connected to emergency water restoration. You all know that during times of crisis, the fiscal court employs contractors. Most of the time, if not all of the time, those are local contractors that help us with emergency debris removal, flood response, and most recently with the ice storm response. And so what I saw was the need to potentially use emergency contractors in these water districts to support their efforts to restore water in issues of an emergency. The third process would be utility coordination and line location assistance for our water districts. We've noticed the issue with locating water lines to support infrastructure projects and utility projects. It's not only the fiber optic installation all points broadband project that we're talking about, There is also Star Construction's AT&T fiber installation project going on in the district, both the South Woodford Water District and other water systems. So we want to make sure that these water districts have the ability to adequately locate their water lines. So we've met with rural water, the Kentucky Rural Water Association, and talked about ground penetrating radar, which will give us an absolute certainty of the location of water lines and other infrastructure that could potentially be impacted by other utility projects like fiber optic installation. And then finally, system diagnostics and crisis management. Having the ability to use fiscal court funding to identify and resolve critical issues related to water service. That means when folks have extremely low water pressure, what can we do in an emergency to fix that? To develop backup water resources and to address other urgent needs that our local water systems routinely face in times of crisis. So... I had the opportunity to work with our water districts, again, the Kentucky Rural Water Association, and so it would be my recommendation that the fiscal court adopt Resolution 2026-08 to provide emergency water needs assistance and infrastructure support. Is there a motion for saying?

Motion.

Motion, Ms. Squire Taylor. Second, Ms. Squire Blackford. I would open up the floor for any discussion thereon.

Yes, and we should also urge the folks to utilize the conservation district's programs because they can also get water tanks and some help that way too to have some water storage. And also if they have a stream, they can have a tank put in and have a pump to do that too. I know that we have... utilize fencing out our stream some, and I know that on some farms that we have, we use those programs. So I urge folks to really check into the Conservation District on the programs for this water.

That's an excellent point, Squire Varner, and you're absolutely right. I think folks that are unilaterally depending solely on water services for livestock and animals and horses, we do have resources at the Conservation District that can really help with that. Thank you, sir. Other questions or comments?

Yeah, Director Chandler, you're recognized. Not that it relates to the vote. I did want to inform the court. The county is part of a statewide mutual aid agreement. A few meetings ago, the city of Versailles joined that. And we've sought guidance from the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management related to these other jurisdictions that aren't cities and counties being party to that as well. So uh most people think of mutual aid agreements as related to public safety but that's not necessarily the case we've seen across kentucky where we're sending not us but jurisdictions that have garbage trucks will send garbage trucks or i think there's a wood chipper in mason county today from the city of ashland as a result of the storms last week so We're looking into potentially having these other districts sign that mutual aid agreement that would expedite and lay a foundation for expectations of sharing resources during exigent circumstances.

Thank you, Director Chandler. We appreciate that. Squire Gentry. Did you have something, sir?

Yeah, I just wanted to make sure where Millville is on Frankfurt Water, would they still be able to use those funds?

Yes.

Okay.

Other questions or comments? Squire Taylor.

Thank you, Judge. I just want to emphasize that line three on that utility coordination and line location, hopefully with some significant investment in that and work towards that, that we could really have much less of a need for any of the others going forward. And I really appreciate everybody's willingness to work together on that going forward. But I think the technology necessary to to do so to find these lines are potentially expensive and require manpower for that additional manpower beyond what their current capacities are. And I think it could go a long way for folks and obviously that's important in the long run in the future as well because it wouldn't be just current projects. It would be future projects that would need to have those lines located and to have those done properly is very valuable for any other use in the future.

Absolutely. Any other questions or comments on the adoption of the resolution? Seeing none, all those in favor please vote and signify by saying aye. All those opposed nay. That motion carries unanimously. All right, we'll move to our next item. Squire Taylor, you want to go ahead and lead off with a motion, sir?

Yes, Judge. I have a couple motions. The first is to direct and authorize the county attorney to coordinate with the city of Midway to draft legislation prohibiting the development and operation of data centers within the unincorporated areas of Woodford County for the fiscal court's review and consideration at the July 14, 2026 meeting as presented.

There's a motion. Second by Squire Gentry. Now I'd like to open up the floor for any discussion thereon. The one thing that we have seen as a top priority of this fiscal court is farmland preservation. Our farmland is precious, it's finite, and there is pressure for it to be developed for commercial, retail, and industrial uses. That's why the Yokohama purchase is so critical, because we need jobs, but we do not need to develop farmland in order to provide industrial opportunities. And we know that there are industrial opportunities. We know that there are data centers and battery storage centers that are looking at central Kentucky communities. In fact, we understand that the Midway area in northern Woodford County is an area that could potentially hold the capacity for a data center. So in coordination with the mayor of the city of Midway and the Midway City Council, we're working together to prohibit the development and operation of data centers. And I appreciate Squire Lyle Taylor's work on this. We've been working with Director Steve Hunter and the Planning Commission for some time, and this discussion has been happening in our community. In fact, the city of Versailles instituted a moratorium last week. And so we're now looking at working with the city of Midway to do something a little bit different, but to be direct in prohibiting the development and operation of data centers. So are there any discussions or questions thereon? Squire Gill, you're recognized.

Thank you. I'd just like to point out that the Planning and Zoning Commission's advisory committee is meeting this Thursday at 4.30 to discuss drafting an ordinance prohibiting data centers. If anybody's interested.

Thank you. Other questions or comments? Seeing none, all those in favor on the motion to direct and authorize the county attorney to draft legislation? In coordination with the City of Midway, as presented, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. That motion carries unanimously. Squire Taylor, sir.

Judge, I have an additional motion to formally request the BraSales Midway Woodford County Planning Commission to review and consider zoning and land use regulations to prohibit data centers as presented.

There's a motion.

Second. Second.

There's a second by Squire Carl. I'd open up the floor for any discussion.

I spoke with Steve Hunter. They're working on that now, aren't they? I mean, that's happening right now. We really don't need a motion on that, but we can. Hold on, Squire Taylor. They're working on it pretty thoroughly right now when I spoke with him yesterday. So that's just a comment.

Thank you. Thank you for your comment. I would note that my understanding, and talking with Director Steve Hunter yesterday, is that the Planning Commission and the Advisory Committee are looking for direction from the legislative bodies, not unlike they did for the in-family conveyance and text amendments. Also, my understanding is that their current direction is to propose restrictive measures regulations that would limit what types and how uses can be done. Squire Taylor specifically said in his motion to prohibit data centers. This is a direction from the fiscal court that is clear, and it's one that I believe that is appropriate to make, just as we did with the text amendments. Squire Taylor, you're recognized.

Judge, I was just going to make that same point that a prohibition is distinctly different than the regulations that we have received. I'm not sure if everybody on the court has been able to review some of the proposed language that the advisory committee is looking at that they shared with us. I think us offering a more explicit recommendation as opposed to what is currently being discussed could be helpful in a timeline and not slow us down by having something that is a back and forth. If we have this position and feelings, it would be valuable for us to go ahead and express that position to the Planning Commission.

Thank you, Squire Taylor. Other questions or comments?

No, absolutely. I just want to say I agree with Lyle on that. Make it a definite.

Mr. County Attorney, sir.

Judge, as the court knows, a text amendment like this can initiate at the Planning Commission level as they're already doing with regard to the regulations and so forth. or as a result of the fiscal court directing and authorizing them to explore that so something can be sent back to the fiscal court for its consideration. They can do both. It may be that the city of Versailles wishes to approach it differently than an outright prohibition, as is your motion. And if it is done in this fashion, it would only relate to the unincorporated areas of Woodford County. Midway also would be free to pursue it, perhaps in the same fashion that the fiscal court might be, or perhaps in the fashion that the city of Versailles is. But to clarify, this won't change the direction of what they're already considering. It would give them another type ordinance to consider looking at and then sending up to the fiscal court for its consideration.

Thank you, Mr. County Attorney. And I would add that in my discussions with the mayor of Midway, Grayson Vandergrift, we are looking at doing the same thing. We're looking at jointly taking action. And so the fiscal court's request to receive something back from the Planning Commission would be for a prohibition on data centers, not that we would only allow certain types of data centers or battery storage facilities, but that we would prohibit any. And I believe And I will not speak for the city of Midway. I'll let them have their discussions and deliberations. But I believe that in my discussions and working with the mayor, that's the direction we're headed. And Squire Taylor represents the city of Midway in northern Woodford County, and I believe that's what he believes they are intending on doing as well. Squire Taylor?

No, yes, Judge, I would agree with that. I think understanding... the capacities of some of our utilities in the county. I think it's important to the community that we have these kind of protections and particularly in Midway. We're forward thinking communities, but we're also communities that care deeply about land use and how that impacts our quality of life. And so I really appreciate the mayor's collaborative discussions on that and I'm looking forward to what product comes out of it.

Thank you. Any other final comments or discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor of the motion on the table, please vote and signify by saying aye. All those opposed, nay. That motion carries unanimously. Thank you, Mr. County Attorney. Thank you, Squire Taylor. Thank you, members of the court. Move on to the memorandum of understanding regarding the turf fields. You all will recall that we passed a memorandum of agreement between all the parties to the Woodford County Community Stadium turf field. The city council of Versailles has made a decision to pay for the turf field in eight years instead of 15 years. The initial term would have been to pay it over the course of 15 years, and the city council decided that they would move that up and pay more per year. They'd be paying $20,000 per year. And they have that MOU, which has been sent to us from the city council. And it would be my recommendation that we adopt and approve that and execute same. Is there a motion? Second. Second, Ms. Squire-Blackford. I'd open up the floor for any discussion thereon. Seeing none, all those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. And the motion carries unanimously. Finally, the Woodford County Fair Association has requested an allocation in support of the county fair races, and they are requesting $5,000 from the fiscal court to approve to support the county fair races at High Bramble Park July 3rd and 4th. I would open up the floor for any discussion thereon. Byron, you're recognized, sir.

Yes, sir. Judge, could you explain why they need the $5,000?

So according to the fair, they have not allocated funding for the county fair races outside of the actual fair. And so they need that for preparation and putting on the county fair races. That's my understanding. And I would defer to the chair, Mary Lou Watkins, as to the request. But I'm inclined to support it. I think we need to support the county fair. We did that, and they would ask for additional support for the races. Thank you, Judge. Thank you, Squire Barner. Other questions or comments? Seeing none, all those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. That's a straw vote. I'd entertain a motion to approve the allocation as presented.

Motion.

Motion by Squire Taylor. Second. Second by Squire Downing. Now, all those in favor, please vote and signify by saying aye. Aye. All those opposed, nay. That motion carries. Madam Clerk, that's a big, long list of agenda items. Have we missed anything? Seeing none. All right. Squire Taylor, would you like to start off with announcements, sir?

Nothing, Josh. Thank you.

Thank you. Squire Varner. Excuse me. Squire Gentry. Nothing. Thank you. Squire Varner, sir. Nothing, Josh. Thanks. Squire Carl. Nothing. Squire Downing. Nothing. Squire Blackburn. Nothing. Squire Gill.

Nothing.

Thank you. We missed Squire Brown tonight. Mr. County Attorney, sir.

Other than since we won't be meeting again until July 14th, hope everyone has a safe and happy 250th 4th. Awesome.

Thank you, Mr. County Attorney. Mr. Woodford-Sun.

In response to Mr. George, we have nothing tonight.

All right. I would like to encourage everyone to participate in the 4th of July festivities. We have the parade here downtown at 1 o'clock on July 4th, and then festivities will start out at the Woodford County Park at 5 p.m. with fireworks including the evening. We have a big celebration of America 250. and we hope that everyone will participate. They are still looking for participants in the parade, so if you are interested or you know a business, community organization, or you yourself would like to participate in the parade in any way, please let us know. Otherwise, nothing else to come before this honorable court. I would like to first adjourn the Committee of the Whole that preceded us here too. And now we are adjourned from this fiscal court. Thank you. God bless you. And may God bless Woodford County.