Beech Tree News Network

Butler County Farm Bureau, with the support of the community, hosted a delightful dinner at The Raft on the Green River for the elected officials on Monday, August 11th. The event, which saw the participation of all elected officials from the city, county, and state, was made even more special with a catfish dinner provided by The Farm Boy restaurant.  Greg Drake, a familiar face in our community, served as emcee for the event.

Morgantown City Councilman Russell Givens spoke about The Raft’s construction and the plans for Phase Two, which would include a walking track, sidewalks to the stoplights, and new bathrooms. The Raft is available for public events and can be rented by making a reservation at City Hall.  

Representative Suzanne Miles, representing Congressman Brett Guthrie, spoke about various ways that Congressman Guthrie and she can assist people in Butler County. She talked about water locations, flows, and boundaries. She stated she would be attending a meeting on Thursday morning regarding the Rochester Water Commission. “On behalf of Congressman Guthrie, we are going to advocate for different concerns brought to our attention.”

State Senator Steve Meredith spoke about preparing for a 60-day session, a $2 billion investment for Louisville Truck Lines, an additional $2.5 million for Harrisburg, and $1.5 million from President Trump that is being allocated to Kentucky. Meredith stated that tax cuts will include a further 0.5% reduction in January, affecting Kentucky families.  A significant concern of Meredith's was Medicaid, as it comprises 20% of the state's budget.  The budget has doubled from $10 billion in 2017 to $20 billion this year, with US Healthcare spending being $14,000 per capita.  High healthcare costs impact US international competitiveness, as Germany spends $850,000 and China less than $1,000.

Butler County Judge Executive Tim Flener also addressed the group.  The Flat Rock Road Project has been completed with rubber-modified asphalt.  He thanked Congressman Guthrie, Representative Miles, and Senator Meredith for their help in securing grants for the county.  He gave updated plans for the Judicial Center, as they are currently preparing contracts. Bidding is expected in December, and the project is projected to start in March 2026.

In closing, Greg Drake announced the Farm Bureau board meeting for August.  The annual meeting, scheduled for September 9th at the Extension Office, is a platform where our community's voice is heard. The board, with a focus on legislative priorities, including water management, watershed flooding, and a second agriculture teacher position at Butler County High School, reflects the concerns and aspirations of our community.