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1 week ago

Ashland schedules FY27 budget work session; commissioners debate accelerating waterline replacements The commission set a one-day budget work session April 16 and discussed a proposal to accelerate $10 million in waterline replacements over 15 years, water loss reduction efforts and possible equipment and staffing needs to speed repairs.

Ashland's city commissioners are gearing up for a crucial budget work session, aiming to tackle aging water infrastructure and a staggering 44% water loss—can they turn the tide on this pressing issue?

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #WaterConservation #InfrastructureImprovement

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1 week ago

Ashland commission approves a slate of utility contracts and procurement ordinances The City of Ashland approved multiple second-reading ordinances covering pump station repairs, sewer change orders and chemical supply contracts. Votes were taken by voice; commissioners requested additional budget and project accounting on several items.

The Ashland commission just greenlit crucial contracts for major water and wastewater projects, paving the way for significant upgrades and budget discussions!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #AshlandUtilities #WastewaterTreatment #CitizenPortal #WaterManagement #PublicAccountability

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1 month ago

Ashland commission approves 180‑day moratorium on data center applications to allow planning review The commission approved a 180-day temporary moratorium on the acceptance, processing and approval of data‑center applications to give staff and the Planning Commission time to review zoning and community impacts.

Ashland's City Commissioners have voted for a 180-day pause on data center applications, aiming to evaluate their potential impact on the community.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CommunityImpact #CitizenPortal #AshlandDataCenters #UrbanPlanning #ZoningRegulations

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2 months ago

Visit Ashland seeks support as event funding shrinks; InfinityCon proposed as revenue-generating draw Visit Ashland staff reported a $150,000 drop in ARPA-related event funds and lower sponsorships, and proposed InfinityCon (a $75,000 video-game 'immersive' event) that staff say can be ticketed to recoup costs and attract out-of-region visitors. Commissioners asked for clearer reimbursement policies for police and for Visit Ashland to return with a detailed budget.

Visit Ashland faces a $150,000 funding shortfall for community events, but a proposed immersive video-game convention, InfinityCon, could turn the tide and attract visitors from afar.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #AshlandEvents #CitizenPortal #CommunityFunding #EventPlanning

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2 months ago

Ashland economic development staff says recruitment advancing; $2 million earmark is restricted fund balance Economic development staff updated the commission on hotel recruitment, business retention and industrial site remediation; staff clarified the previously cited $2,000,000 economic development designation is a restricted fund-balance item, not cash on hand, and Copeland property remediation is moving from EPA oversight to state review.

Ashland's economic development is on the rise, with new business guides and a $2 million fund set for future growth, but questions remain about cash availability and site remediation progress.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #BusinessRetention

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2 months ago

City staff outline $10 million bond option to accelerate water and sewer projects; wastewater plant budgeted at ~$99.8M Utilities staff reviewed ongoing water-loss work, meter replacements and major capital projects; they proposed bonding to accelerate pipe replacement (example figure $10M) funded by water-loss savings and grants, and provided status on ARPA-funded sewer-lining work and the wastewater resource recovery facility project (~$99.78M).

City staff are proposing a $10 million bond to fast-track critical water and sewer projects, potentially saving millions while transforming infrastructure for the future.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CivicAccountability #AshlandUtilities #CitizenPortal #WaterInfrastructure

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3 months ago

Ashland commissioners approve series of ordinances, grant agreements and an appointment At its Dec. 12 recess meeting, the Ashland Board of City Commissioners approved multiple second-read ordinances — including grant agreements and contracts funded by CDBG and a DOT grant amendment — and confirmed an appointment to the tourism board; a brief executive session produced no action.

The Ashland Board of City Commissioners just made history by repealing an outdated ban on fortune telling and approving crucial funding for community projects!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CommunityDevelopment #PublicSafety #AshlandCommunity #CitizenPortal #CivicAccountability

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4 months ago

Ashland commissioners approve utility contracts, discuss wastewater expansion and reservoir solids removal The commission approved multiple utility‑related ordinances and contracts, including a Strand Associates amendment for wastewater‑treatment plant engineering, a $502,170 contract for Logtown water tank rehabilitation, and a change order to remove reservoir solids with plans for beneficial reuse rather than landfill disposal.

Ashland commissioners just approved over $100 million for the largest wastewater treatment expansion in the city's history, with plans to turn reservoir solids into agricultural gold!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #SustainabilityInitiatives #WaterManagement

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4 months ago

Ashland seeks outside manager for Paramount Arts Center; final approval delayed after community questions The commission gave first reading to a five‑year operational agreement with AP3 and Venue Works to manage the Paramount Arts Center, with startup funding drawn from interest on a $25 million state appropriation; commissioners and Paramount representatives asked for contractual assurances on community events and volunteer involvement, and the board delayed second reading to allow additional review.

Ashland's Paramount Arts Center is set for a major management shift, raising concerns about the future of beloved community events and volunteer roles.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #VolunteerInvolvement #CitizenPortal #ArtsManagement #AshlandCommunity #CommunityEvents

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4 months ago

Ashland details housing‑voucher push, staff to propose higher payment standard to retain landlords City staff told commissioners the assisted‑housing program aims to return to 500 Housing Choice Vouchers by 2026 after recent staffing and server problems; staff reported issuing 44 vouchers Nov. 4 and said the commission can ask staff to raise HUD payment standards (up to 110%) to remain competitive with neighboring providers.

Ashland is pushing to provide 500 Housing Choice Vouchers for families by 2026, but to succeed, they'll need to raise payment standards and compete with neighboring agencies!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #LocalGovernance #CommunitySupport #AshlandHousing

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5 months ago

Ashland approves $99.78 million contract for wastewater treatment plant expansion The Ashland Board of Commissioners gave final approval Oct. 23 to a $99,782,000 contract with Judy Construction Company for the Ashland Water Resource Recovery Facility expansion and approved related access, property and engineering steps to move the project forward.

The City of Ashland has just greenlit a groundbreaking $99.78 million contract to expand its wastewater treatment facility, marking a vital step in enhancing local infrastructure.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #WaterResourceManagement #LocalGovernmentAccountability

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6 months ago

Mayor and Fire Chief Announce Fire Prevention Events for October in Ashland Ashland plans fire prevention demonstrations and smoke detector blitz for community safety in October.

Ashland is gearing up for a spectacular First Friday event focused on fire prevention, complete with thrilling demonstrations and a critical smoke detector blitz to boost community safety!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #AshlandCommunity #CommunityEngagement

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6 months ago

Ashland City Council Approves $150K for Mayo Plaza Improvements and New Homeless Committee City Council adopts municipal orders for Mayo Plaza project and homelessness initiatives.

A concerned Ashland mother is raising alarms about the dangers of introducing psychic services in the community, warning of their potential impact on vulnerable youth and mental health.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #YouthWellbeing #AshlandCommunity #MentalHealth

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8 months ago

Ashland City Council Approves Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Ordinance Council approves amendments for wastewater treatment plant and fire department SOPs.

Ashland is on the fast track to better infrastructure and public safety with new ordinances for wastewater management and fire department upgrades!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #WastewaterManagement #CommunityImprovement #AshlandPublicSafety

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8 months ago

Mayor Proclaims July 10 Ashland 10 U All Star Softball Day After Championship Win Mayor Charles honors Ashland 10 U All Star Softball team for their state championship success.

Ashland is celebrating its young champions and gearing up for community events that foster unity and safety—find out how your city is making a difference!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #LocalEvents #AshlandCommunity #CommunitySafety #YouthSports

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8 months ago

Ashland City Commission Finalizes Winchester Avenue Streetscape Funding Agreements Commission adopts funding agreements for Winchester Avenue Streetscape project in Ashland.

The Ashland City Commission celebrated local champions and secured vital funding for the Winchester Avenue Streetscape project, showcasing the community's dedication to progress.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicParticipation #AshlandCommission

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8 months ago

Ashland City Council Tables Items G and H While Approving Funding Applications Council tables items G and H, approves water loss funding and port security grant applications.

Ashland's city commissioners are taking bold steps to secure $2 million for vital water infrastructure improvements while enhancing employee benefits—what's next for this proactive community?

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #WorkforceWelfare

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8 months ago

Ashland Fire Department Welcomes New Firefighters and Promotes Engineer Positions Five new firefighters join Ashland Fire Department, with promotions to engineer announced.

The Ashland Fire Department is bolstering its ranks with new firefighters and exciting promotions, showcasing a commitment to serve the community with courage and integrity.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #CommunityService #AshlandFireDepartment

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8 months ago

Ashland City Council Approves Demolition Contracts Worth $22,900 for Three Properties Council approves contracts for demolition at three locations totaling $22,900 from general fund.

Ashland City Commissioners just approved $22,900 in demolition contracts to revitalize neighborhoods and enhance safety—big changes are coming!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #AshlandCommunity #CommunityImprovement #UrbanDevelopment

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8 months ago

Ashland City Commission Discusses Meeting Agenda and Upcoming Independence Day Celebration Commissioners review agenda and prepare for America's 250th Independence Day celebration.

The Ashland City Commission is gearing up for a grand celebration of America's 250th Independence Day, with exciting community projects in the works!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #QualityOfLife #HistoricalCelebrations #AshlandCommunity #CommunityInvolvement

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8 months ago

Ashland City Commission Discusses Plans for America 250 Celebration and Small Business Support Commissioners outline activities for America 250 and support for local businesses at meeting.

Ashland is gearing up for a historic celebration and new initiatives to boost local tourism and support small businesses—big changes are on the horizon!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicInfrastructure #AshlandCommunity #LocalTourism #SmallBusinessSupport

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8 months ago

VisitAKY Executive Director Announces Exciting August Events in Ashland New VisitAKY director highlights upcoming maker's markets and movie night on riverfront.

Exciting community events are on the horizon in Ashland, including maker's markets and a thrilling movie night that invites everyone to join the fun!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #CommunityEngagement #AshlandEvents #LocalTourism #CulturalEvents

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8 months ago

City Opens Bids for $100M Water Treatment Plant Upgrades with Judy Construction Winning Bid City moves forward with water treatment plant upgrades, targeting completion by spring 2029.

Ashland is making waves with a $100 million upgrade to its wastewater treatment facility, ensuring cleaner water for all!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #AshlandWaterManagement #EnvironmentalCompliance #CleanWaterAccess #InfrastructureDevelopment

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8 months ago

Ashland City Council Approves $5,900 Demolition Contract and Community Assistance Programs Ashland City Council adopts contracts for demolition and approves multiple community assistance grants.

The Ashland City Council just approved critical contracts for demolition and launched new community assistance programs that aim to uplift residents in need!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #AshlandCommunity #CommunityDevelopment #FinancialManagement #ResidentAssistance

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8 months ago

City Council Approves Electronic Billboard Conversion at Greenup Avenue Council discusses property tax changes while approving billboard conversion plan.

Ashland City Commissioners just approved a 20% property tax reduction while planning a transition to a new occupational tax structure—what does this mean for residents?

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #AshlandCommunity #CommunityEngagement #FinancialStability

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8 months ago

Ashland City Council approves utility bill assistance program and garbage rate reductions Council implements $125 utility assistance for residents and decreases garbage fees by 20%

Ashland City is stepping up to ease financial pressures by introducing $125 utility bill assistance and slashing garbage rates by 20%!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #FinancialRelief #CommunitySupport #AshlandUtilityAssistance #OperationalEfficiency

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8 months ago

City Fire Department conducts extensive training using Century 21 building and Maguire's Towing support Fire department completes structural collapse and live fire training with 102 participants across departments.

Ashland's Fire Department just completed groundbreaking training exercises, uniting 102 first responders to enhance safety and teamwork in the community!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CommunityCollaboration #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #AshlandFireDepartment #EmergencyResponse

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8 months ago

Ashland City Council Approves $15K Grants for Local Organizations and Infrastructure Projects City of Ashland adopts multiple ordinances including community grants and infrastructure agreements.

Ashland City Commissioners just approved $15K grants for local organizations and crucial infrastructure projects, paving the way for a stronger community!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicInfrastructure #AshlandCommunity #CommunityDevelopment #EconomicSupport

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9 months ago

Ashland named Kentucky pilot for waterworks internship program Ashland leads in a new summer internship program for utilities in Kentucky.

Ashland City is making waves by launching a groundbreaking summer internship program that empowers students and strengthens the local workforce in the utilities sector!

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #CommunityEngagement #EducationOpportunities #WorkforceDevelopment

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9 months ago

Fire Department accelerates truck purchase following engine loss in South Ashen Fire Chief requests expedited truck purchase to maintain emergency response capacity after engine repair.

Ashland's fire department is racing against time to secure a new fire truck after losing an engine, raising urgent questions about emergency preparedness.

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#AshlandBoydCounty #KY #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #AshlandFireDepartment #EquipmentNeeded #EmergencyResponse