Hopkinsville City Council during Tuesday night’s virtual meeting heard how the COVID-19 pandemic will affect the city’s payroll tax and budget, and approved the appointment of a presiding officer.
City Financial Officer Robert Martin presented the monthly financial statement and said the city would see a reduction in payroll taxes on the May financial report from when businesses shut down in March due to the virus.
In new business, the Council approved the appointment of Paul Henson as presiding officer over council meetings in the mayor’s absence.
Council also approved a resolution to apply for a $25 million federal BUILD Grant in partnership with Christian County Fiscal Court. Former mayor and current South Western Kentucky EDC Director Carter Hendricks said this is the second year to apply for the grant from the Federal Highway Administration. He explained the funding would be used for the I-24 industrial connector route that would extend from Exit 89 along Highway 115 toward Pembroke with a new connector into Industrial Commerce Park #2.
He added the project is about safety and transportation, but also economic development and unlocking the potential of thousands of jobs.
And council approved applying for a $250,000 Recreation Trails Grant with a 20% match from the city. Community And Development Services Director Steve Bourne explained the funding will be used for continuing development at Pardue Lane Park.
The Hopkinsville Committee of the Whole will meet virtually Thursday night at 6:00 with the next regular City Council meeting scheduled on Tuesday evening, May 12, at 6:00.
