Development News for Somerset, Kentucky

Spectrum Mid-America LLC Awarded 10-Year Communications Franchise

The council approved Resolution 2607, awarding a non-exclusive 10-year franchise for a communication system to Spectrum Mid-America LLC, also known as Charter. This award follows a bidding process initiated by Ordinance 2605. The franchise agreement will be signed by the mayor and is subject to the terms in Ordinance 2605 and the resolution. The city will receive 5% of the gross revenue from Spectrum. Council members discussed the potential loss of local access channels and the company's agreement to address dangling wires and improve the condition of their infrastructure. Another bid for a different communication provider, primarily for phone service, is expected in about a month.

Mayor Highlights Upcoming PBR Event, Successful Concerts, and Farmers Market Opening

The Mayor highlighted several positive community events and developments. He mentioned the successful 'big band' concert at the Virginia Theater, which was sold out and featured local talent, noting the buzz in downtown. He announced that the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event is now official and coming to Somerset, describing it as a significant event with global attention. The Farmers Market will open on Saturdays, with expectations for a very productive and fruitful season. He also shared personal notes about his daughters' birthdays.

Graffiti on Signs, Kunda Square Project Costs High, Housing Plans Discussed

Ms. Lawson reported on issues with graffiti and anti-Semitic stickers on downtown street signs. She noted that replacing each sign costs $80, but Mr. Hargis has found a way to clean the graffiti. She also inquired about the status of the Kunda Square project, noting that bids came in higher than expected. The city is in discussions with the top three contractors to find cost-saving measures. The goal of pickleball courts remains, but the focus is on finding a more effective and efficient way to proceed. There are plans for housing, apartments, and townhouses, but not as part of the current bid; an RFP for private investors is suggested for the remaining nine acres. The original goal was mixed-use housing, and the city owns about seven buildable acres after the pickleball courts.

First Reading of Ordinance to Rezone Property on South Highway 27 to B2

The council conducted the first reading of Ordinance number 2608, which amends the city's zoning ordinance (Ordinance 0018) and alters the zoning map. The ordinance rezones undeveloped property off South Highway 27, a portion of PVA parcel 062-1-0-65, from 'not zoned' to B2. This change is based on the findings and recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Board. The City Clerk is authorized to update the zoning map.