During Tuesday morning’s meeting, the Caldwell County Fiscal Court advanced plans for a $33 million judicial center project after approving a Memorandum of Understanding with the state.
Judge-Executive Kota Young thanked attendees for their participation in last Thursday’s public meeting and their feedback. He described the project as neither perfect nor terrible, but in a gray area, and noted the county’s efforts over the past year to clarify the matter and work toward an optimal solution.
He remarked that this project is likely to be the most closely watched judicial center project in the state.
Before the magistrates voted, District 2 Magistrate Jeff Boone highlighted a clause in the MOU stating that the Administrative Office of the Courts’ obligations are biennial appropriations by the General Assembly.
click to download audioDistrict 3 Magistrate Brent Stallins expressed his belief that county residents will, in the future, appreciate Judge Young’s efforts.
click to download audioJudge Young noted that the scope of discussions shifted when relocating the judicial branch to a private facility became an option.
District 4 Magistrate Jeff Simms recognized the fiscal court’s dedication, thoroughness, passion, and commitment to finding the most beneficial path forward for Caldwell County and its taxpayers.
click to download audioDistrict 1 Magistrate Elbert Bennett expressed his full support for a new judicial center, emphasizing that the county might not receive another opportunity from the state.
click to download audioAfter remarks from magistrates, the Memorandum of Understanding was unanimously approved.
Resident Jennifer Werstein, who spoke in favor of the new judicial center at the public meeting, thanked Judge Young and the magistrates for advancing the project, stating, “We, as a community, have always been better together.”
Sheriff Don Weedman expressed gratitude for the Fiscal Court’s diligence regarding the judicial center, and also addressed some misinformation from speakers at last week’s public meeting concerning security in the circuit courtroom.
click to download audioTo listen to the full discussion on the judicial center, click on the audio link.
WPKY’s News Edge will have more from the fiscal court meeting in the coming days.
