Development News for Paris, Kentucky

Minutes Approved, Extended Employee Benefits Program for Direct Care Services Approved

The commission approved the minutes for two previous meetings: a regular meeting on May 12th, 2026, and a budget workshop on May 20th, 2026. They also discussed and approved the continuation of an extended benefit program for city employees, which includes direct care services at a cost of $45 per employee per month. This program offers unlimited appointments with Dr. Sweeney, no copays, and telemedicine services, covering services like EKGs, spirometry, pre-employment drug screens, random urine drug screens, firefighter physicals, and DOT physicals. A motion to approve this extended benefit was made by Commissioner Brooks and seconded by Commissioner Gray.

City Approves Intent to Apply for CDBG Grant for Divine Spirits Expansion, Amends Wastewater Surcharges

The commission approved Resolution 2026-7-7, indicating intent to apply for a CDBG Economic Development Grant to assist Divine Spirits with their proposed expansion. The grant funds are intended to help finance a water tank necessary for fire suppression systems, which is a requirement for their industry. The City of Paris will be the sponsoring applicant for the grant, and will own the water tank at the end of the project. This expansion is expected to create approximately 50 jobs within the first two years. The commission also approved an ordinance amending wastewater surcharge rates, specifically addressing pH regulations.

City Commission Approves New Hires and Fire Department Restructure

The commission approved the hiring of Heath Harney as Director of Communications for 911 and a new Fire Captain position within the fire department. The 911 Director position will oversee daily operations, administrative, and legal aspects of the task force, and will be funded through a grant. The Fire Captain role is intended to streamline team command and provide an additional layer of leadership within the fire department, with three lieutenants being promoted to captain. Additionally, approval was given to order a new pump for the Houston Oaks lift station, which has been down for some time.

Community Development Initiatives Highlighted: Festivals, Art Projects, Downtown Revitalization, and Transfer Station Demolition

The commission heard updates on several community development initiatives. Allison, from the Chamber of Commerce, reported on new members, successful events like the golf tournament and leadership orientation, and upcoming 'Festival on Fifth' events which will include live entertainment, food trucks, a kids' corner, and street closures on Fifth Street from Main to Pleasant. Betty provided updates on reactivating the downtown merchants group, Fox 56 choosing Paris for their summer series, a community art project ('Many Stories One Community' mural), and revitalizing Third Street into a pop-up park with benches, picnic tables, and lighting. The Paris Westside Neighborhood Association launched a website and announced an upcoming Juneteenth event. Additionally, plans are underway for the demolition of a building at the old transfer station.