CITY COUNCIL: City Park reopening May 27; 2nd reading of insurance tax rate drop approved

Fri, 03/03/2023 - 10:04am — John Embry

Council members Dustin Embry, Dionne Merritt, and Mayor Billy Phelps

With discussion ranging from emus in city limits to fluoride in the water, along with several topics in between, the Morgantown City Council met on Thursday, March 2, at city hall. Four members were in attendance - Dustin Embry, Dionne Merritt, Bryan Locke, and Amy Deweese - along with Mayor Billy Phelps and several department heads.

One of the most anticipated announcements was made by Mayor Phelps as he stated that the grand reopening of the Charles Black City Park is set for May 27. The park has been undergoing a major renovation, which began in 2021. A formal grand reopening ceremony is planned and specific events will be announced soon.

Mayor Billy Phelps

Mayor Phelps also announced that the application process for summer jobs with the city for youths is beginning.

"For any 16-year old wanting a job, we'll be happy to put you to work," said Phelps.

Mayor Phelps praised City Clerk Tristan Klein's work in helping to secure a $69,000 land and water grant for a walking trail project (and bathrooms) at the river. Previously, the city received a $40,000 grant for the boat dock project at the river, as well. The city, according to the mayor, will match those funds in support of the overall project.

Mark Alford

Under unfinished business, the council unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance that will lower the city insurance premium tax (health, life, casualty) from 8 percent to 2 percent, a 25 percent decrease, or approximately $100,000 in tax revenue. The measure passed on a 4-0 vote.

Mark Alford presented a report for the utilities board. Their last meeting was February 9. Alford informed the council that the department recently received the highest audit opinion possible. He is also monitoring bills currently being considered by the Kentucky General Assembly. Two bills of note (HB 74 & SB 127) involve the fluoridation of drinking water. Current state requirements stipulate that utilities must add a certain amount of fluoride to the water. The city adds about 12 pounds per day but Alford said that he doesn't feel like that requirement is really needed today based on his research into dental health and the possibility that added fluoride may be harmful to newborns. The bill would eliminate the fluoride requirement. Alford said not adding fluoride will save the city money. Alford said he was also monitoring House Bill 197, which impacts the amount of "PFAS" chemicals permitted in water.

Bob McKee (center, blue shirt)

Bob McKee spoke briefly about code enforcement in the city. He said four new cases have been opened, three resolved, and that ten cases are currently open. McKee said he was also approached with a question whether or not emus are allowed in the city. To answer the question, McKee had to first determine if it was considered poultry or livestock. After making the determination that emus are considered poultry, McKee indicated that current city code states that, among other things, poultry cannot be within 100 feet of churches or schools. McKee noted that the flightless birds can have quirky personality traits.

"Just when you think you've heard everything ... ," joked Mayor Phelps.