3/11/2025—The Hardinsburg City Council heard an update of a water rate study at their regular meeting Tuesday evening. The study was conducted by Bob Miller, with the Kentucky Rural Water Association. Miller said he was tasked to simplify the city’s water rates. Currently, the city has nearly thirty different rates. Miller proposed the city have two rates-one for customers who pay city taxes(in town) and one for those who do not pay city taxes(out-of-town). He also said the city should have an annual consumer price index(CPI) percentage increase. The Council took no action, but an ordinance dealing with water rates will be prepared for the next regular meeting.
In a related matter, the Council approved a motion to prepare a Municipal Order stating customers will begin paying the minimum water rate when the water meter is installed.
The Council approved an amendment to the Irvington Water Purchase Agreement. The minimum purchase will increase from three million gallons to five million gallons per month, and the quantity of water purchased is not to exceed ten million gallons per month, an increase from 5 million gallons per month.
The Council accepted the audit for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2022. The audit, presented by Dan Drane, said the city has total assets of $42,683,821, and total liabilities of $21,047,377.
The Council declared electric motors from the Flood Road Pump Station and an influent generator as surplus property.
The Council approved a motion to expand the salt storage building. Funds for the expansion will be taken from the streets budget.
Veolia project manager Brett Mingus said the Union Star water hauling station project is complete. He said this completes the Highway 333 water line expansion project.
The Police Department received 203 calls for service in February. They worked two thefts; three drug and alcohol offenses; issued ten citations and six city citations. They worked two injury and eight non-injury accidents. Officer Justin Hansford has completed the breath test operator certification. Chief Terry Laslie recognized the retirement of Sergeant Rick Mehlbauer, effective February 24, 2025.
The Fire Department made 64 runs in February. Members of the department have received the Green Cross award from Hurst Jaws of Life. The annual Battle of the Badges is scheduled for May 10.
Austin Weedman said the city issued five building permits in February.
After a brief executive session, the Council approved a motion to purchase a 2017 Durango Police Cruiser from the City of Irvington.
Before adjourning, Councilman Quentin Brown said he is concerned with pedestrians crossing Old Highway 60. He said a traffic light is needed at the Fairgrounds Road intersection, as well as crosswalks by the Dollar Tree store and Tower Street.
Councilwoman Nettie Parker chaired the meeting in the absence of Mayor Wayne Macy.
