Meade County Fiscal Court Unveils 2026-2027 Budget and Tackles Zoning Debates
Meade County Fiscal Court Unveils 2026-2027 Budget and Tackles Zoning Debates
BRANDENBURG, KY – In a session marked by significant fiscal planning and spirited community dialogue, the Meade County Fiscal Court met on May 12, 2026, to chart the county’s course for the upcoming year. Presided over by Judge Executive Troy Coca, the meeting’s centerpiece was the first reading of a multi-million dollar budget and the rededication of the county under a "One Nation Under God" proclamation.
The court presented the first reading of Ordinance 2026-02, proposing a total county budget of $40,854,150. The appropriations are spread across several vital funds to ensure the continued growth and safety of the region:
General Fund: $20,560,150
Solid Waste Fund: $9,699,000
Road Fund: $4,175,000
Jail Fund: $3,134,000
The budget reflects a commitment to infrastructure and public services, underscored by the approval of the County Road Aid agreement. This agreement secures over $1.2 million in state gas tax funding, strictly earmarked for the maintenance and improvement of county thoroughfares.
The Road Department received the green light for an estimate on Ditto Lane, totaling $17,230 for rock, signage, and culverts to bring the road up to county specifications.
Magistrates also shared encouraging updates on major construction projects. The new Animal Control Shelter is reportedly moving ahead of schedule, with the building already under roof. Additionally, a recent groundbreaking ceremony for the Road Department's new facility signaled the start of a major upgrade for county maintenance operations.
The most active portion of the meeting involved several rezoning requests, highlighting the tension between Meade County’s industrial expansion and its residential roots.
The court approved the second reading of a map amendment for a property on Brown Road, changing its status from R4 (Residential) to B2 (Commercial). Despite emotional testimony from neighbors concerned about heavy truck traffic and the permanence of commercial "tags" on land, the court moved forward with the change, citing strict conditions that the site only be used for vehicle maintenance rather than a full-scale commercial hub.
In a move for further due diligence, the court remanded a rezoning request for Goodwin Properties LLC back to the Planning and Zoning Commission. This decision came after it was discovered that the initial conditions regarding density and building types might face legal or constitutional challenges.
In a moment of civic unity, Magistrate Gary Chapman presented a proclamation rededicating Meade County as "One Nation Under God." The proclamation, signed by Judge Executive Coca, emphasizes the county’s gratitude for faith, family, and freedom as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.
The Fiscal Court announced a Town Hall meeting for Monday, May 18th, at 6:00 PM at the Meade County Extension Office. This will provide citizens another forum to discuss the proposed budget and county developments before the final budget adoption, scheduled for the next regular meeting on June 9, 2026.