The Ashland City Commissioners Meeting held on May 22, 2025, addressed several community concerns and initiatives, focusing on local parking issues and community service efforts.

The meeting began with a discussion about parking challenges faced by downtown businesses, particularly a restaurant owner who highlighted difficulties caused by vehicles occupying parking spots for extended periods. The owner expressed concern for older patrons who struggle to find parking, emphasizing the need for a solution. City officials acknowledged the ongoing nature of the problem and committed to exploring options, including the establishment of a loading zone to alleviate enforcement issues for police.

Following this, Kara Hedrick Shockley, the director of sales at the Delta Hotel, provided an update on the hotel’s community engagement initiatives. She shared that the hotel conducts monthly community service projects, including recent donations of sports equipment to local youth and ongoing efforts to support the Hoops Family Children's Hospital in Huntington. Shockley also announced plans for a future project aimed at supporting local first responders by preparing snack bags for them.

City officials expressed gratitude for the hotel’s contributions to the community, reinforcing the importance of local businesses in fostering community spirit and support.

The meeting concluded with a call for further public input, inviting additional community members to share their concerns or suggestions. Overall, the session highlighted the city’s commitment to addressing local issues while fostering community involvement through collaborative efforts.