At the Bourbon County Commission meeting on September 30, 2024, urgent discussions centered around the opening of a new emergency room and the ongoing negotiations for a building purchase by Canada's Renewal Institute (KRI). TJ Denning, representing KRI, expressed significant concerns regarding the status of essential equipment and the timeline for the facility's readiness.
Denning highlighted that the lack of updates on donated equipment is hindering progress, stating, "We still don't have an update on the equipment that was donated to you guys as a county." He emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that he has already signed service agreements and needs clarity to move forward. The commission responded by appointing a member to liaise with Legacy, the organization involved in the building negotiations, to expedite the process.
In a related discussion, concerns were raised about the potential impact of industrial solar projects in the area. A member of the Bourbon County Industrial Committee, who previously voted against a proposed setback for solar arrays, argued for a more substantial setback of 1,500 feet from residential areas. He cited safety risks associated with battery energy storage systems, including the potential for fires and water contamination. "Until the solar companies can present a comprehensive plan to mitigate fire and prevent contaminated water from entering our water systems, I believe this is the most prudent course of action," he stated.
The meeting concluded with a call for community engagement on these pressing issues, urging residents to educate themselves and participate in discussions about the future of Bourbon County. The commission aims to address these concerns promptly, with Denning stressing the importance of timely information to ensure the success of KRI's initiatives in the community.