Fiscal Court January 21

All matters on the agenda were approved 4-0.

Item 5D: Solar Farms: Ground vs. Roof Mount
The preferred direction appears to be roof-mounted solar installations, particularly on warehouses and office buildings. Commissioner Flaig emphasized the importance of keeping the state green. The goal is not to restrict private ownership but rather to encourage industrial use. Duke Energy and Owen Electric are exempt from these regulations so long as they comply with federal law. Boone County has no jurisdiction over utility companies.

Item 5E: Regulation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations and Gasoline Filling Stations
It was clarified to the court that this matter is not related to EV charging stations or the federal grant that was voted down during the fiscal court meeting two sessions ago. Instead, this issue is focused on aligning with the 2024 state law regulating gasoline filling stations.

New Business
ENGAGE
With 50 participants, this year’s ENGAGE program has its largest class since 2018. The program is designed to educate citizens about Boone County and the role of local government. At tonight’s Fiscal Court meeting, 32 of the 50 participants were in attendance. As part of this annual program, participants had the opportunity to approach the podium and ask questions about Boone County. The majority of inquiries focused on how new construction is zoned and planned. Judge Moore explained that a long-term plan was established years ago and is continuously updated. In 2002, 61% of Boone County was zoned A1/A2; as of 2024, that figure remains largely unchanged at 59%.

TJ Roberts Submits House Joint Resolution for KY 18 Designation
TJ Roberts has submitted a House Joint Resolution to designate a portion of KY 18 as the Donald J. Trump Highway. This will be an honorary designation, meaning no residents will have an address change. During the meeting, one citizen inquired whether a road could be named after a living individual. In response, TJ Roberts provided examples of roads already named after individuals who are still alive. The resolution passed with full support from the court, 4-0.

Mount Zion at Richmond Exit: Lighting Issues
The court was informed that more than 60 lights along the interstate are either out or flickering. As this falls under state jurisdiction, these issues are typically addressed through the annual maintenance budget. Judge Moore requested that discussions be initiated with the state to explore potential project funding for necessary repairs and improvements. Boone County can advocate for this and help find a solution, as it is a safety issue.

Walton Exit Reconstruction/Traffic
Plans for rebuilding the Walton exit are currently in place, with the project expected to take place within the next 5 to 6 years.

Next meeting is February 4, 2025, at 8:30 a.m.