In the final meeting of 2022, Christian Fiscal Court on Tuesday morning approved measures to clear the way for renovations to the Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library and for widening of West Seventh Street.
Magistrates approved first reading of an ordinance to finance the library project through the Kentucky Association of Counties, though the bill will be paid with yearly revenue from a $750,000 grant. Library Executive Director DeeAnna Sova says they will not be adding onto the building, but they will be making more space usable for the public and the entirety of the children’s area will be on the second floor.
Meanwhile, fiscal court approved a resolution transferring right of way to properties owned or co-owned by the county along West Seventh in the area of the senior center and weather spotter center. Billy Sizemore with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet says they are in the very early stages and the project will eventually include much-needed sidewalk from North Drive to Princeton Road.
It was the final meeting for several magistrates, including Squire Darrel Gustafson, who says he’s proud of the work the court has done without increasing tax rates.
It was also the final meeting for longtime Magistrate Mark Cansler, District 2 Magistrate Mark Wells and District 8 Magistrate Terry Bowman. District 7 Magistrate Jerry Gilliam will be replaced by Russ Guffey as Gilliam was elected judge-executive.
In other action, magistrates approved several hires for the Christian County Jail, including the hiring of retired Hopkinsville Police Captain Kyle Spurlin to become chief deputy to incoming Jailer Adam Smith at a salary of $70,000.