Kentucky History Revisited at Children’s History Camp

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Children ages 6-12 years old gathered Wednesday morning at the Welcome Center in Shelbyville, to participate in a reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the process of Kentucky becoming the 15^th state of the union.

Local community leaders, dressed in attire resembling those from the late 1700’s, represented historical political figures as they led the group in an interactive timeline of events leading up to Kentucky’s statehood.  Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger was a convincing Governor Isaac Shelby, Kerry Megan portrayed General Harrison, Hobie Henniger was the important Judge Tood, and Bill Stewart represented the Judge Todd’s son.

Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger stated, “I am glad to be a part of this inaugural event; it is essential that we continue to expose our children to memorable events in history that helped shape and form this county and state.”

This historical reenactment activity is only one of the many children will experience during their three days at History Camp. Other events have included making biscuits, necklaces, hats, writing with quill pens, and dressing in era-appropriate costumes.

History Camp was offered to residents of Shelby County free of charge beginning June 24^th – June 26^th, from 9am – 2pm.  The program is directed by Sharon Hackworth and Sherry Jelsman from the Shelby County Historical Society.  With the help of adult volunteers and middle school and high school members of the Kentucky Junior Historical Society, children are given the opportunity to learn about Shelby County and Kentucky’s history in an educational but equally fun environment.

Kentucky Junior Historical Society Member Samantha Johnson claims, “Helping with history camp has been a lot of fun, and I’m always learning something new.”

This was the first time Summer History Camp has been offered.  Due to its overwhelming positive response and success, History Camp is in the process of becoming an annual event.

Ron Lewis delivers federal dollars to Shelby Co.

WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Rep Ron Lewis secured $232,640 in funding for Shelby County projects as part of the Fiscal Year 2008 Omnibus Appropriations bill signed into law last week by President Bush. MORE.

Road Dept. adds new vehicle to ice and snow removal fleet

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Road Department Supervisor Carl Henry announced the arrival of a new vehicle capable of quick response and increased productivity in ice and snow removal throughout urban areas.

The Chevrolet 3500, 4-wheel-drive truck, equipped with salt spreader and front mounted blade, was put to quick use recently as Shelby County experienced its second snowfall of the winter season.

Henry stated, “The new truck will require 50 percent less maintenance than our current subdivision salt trucks, and it can hold twice as much salt on the bed of the truck.  This will save road crews time, enabling us to more quickly and effectively eliminate any snow and ice on subdivision roads.”

County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger said, “In addition to increasing the Road Department’s salt removal efficiency and success, the truck will also serve as an excellent quick-response vehicle during events that may occur.”

The vehicle came fully equipped with the snow package and was purchased at a price of $49,500.  The county Road Department remains on the cutting edge of snow removal, ensuring that the citizens in the community can travel safely during winter weather conditions.

Best, Flowers re-appointed to county Cooperative Extension Board

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger nominated both Judy Best and Tom Flowers to be re-appointed to the Shelby County Extension Board.  Fiscal Court approved the nominations at their Dec. 18, 2007 regularly scheduled meeting.

“Judy is a very valuable resource and has served in the capacity for many years since the inception of the taxing district. She was very instrumental in serving as chairman when it was decided to construct a new facility on Frankfort Rd.”

“Tom has done an excellent job throughout his previous term as treasurer of the Cooperative Extension Board. His knowledge and experience are truly an asset to the board’s continued advancement and success,” Rothenburger said.

Both new terms of service will run from Jan. 1, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2010.

Animal Shelter receives state grant for equipment

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the Shelby County Animal Shelter will receive a $1,000 grant for equipment from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Department of Agriculture, Animal Control Advisory Board.

“We are very please to have been selected to receive the grant that will be utilized to purchase a multi-use cage, live animal trap, and 11 kennel decks for dogs at our shelter,” Rothenburger said.

The Animal Equipment Grant Program was created by the Kentucky General Assembly to assist in the care and control of animals throughout the commonwealth.

In 2006, the Shelby County Animal Shelter took in 1,366 dogs and 791 cats with over 1,100 of the animals either being adopted or returned to their rightful owners.

EMS's Berry promoted to sergeant

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Paramedic Brandon Berry has been promoted to the position of Sergeant with the Shelby County Emergency Medical Services.

“Brandon has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and has the vision to promote EMS throughout Shelby County,” Rothenburger said.

Berry completed a 2-year paramedic program and was named the 2007 Shelby County Fiscal Court Employee of the Year at the county’s recent awards banquet.

Berry’s new duties will include supervision of other paramedics and EMT’s assigned to his shift, as well as providing basic and advanced life support to the sick and injured.

Road Dept. employees receive accreditation

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger announced that nine employees from the Road Department have received accreditation from the University of Kentucky’s Transportation Center for completing the Roads Scholar / Road Masters program. 

Rothenburger said, “The courses provide local and state government employees with the information and knowledge on how to effectively maintain local streets and roads through normal and inclement weather conditions.”

Road Department employees Lawrence Blackaby and John Melton completed the Road Masters Program.  Dave Allen, Leon Brunner, David Clemmons, Kerry Harp, Keith Long, Eddie Hughes and Lynn Whisman all completed the Road Scholars program.  The road crew members were recognized for their accomplishments during a luncheon held in their honor at Receptions Inc., in Erlanger on December 13, 2007.

Carl Henry, Shelby County Road Supervisor, said that, “It’s great that the guys are willing to attend these classes to further their education.  It makes me feel good to see them graduate, knowing that it was them that wanted to better themselves.  I appreciate the knowledge that they are gaining, it not only helps them with their jobs, but it helps our entire program and the county.”

Talon Winery hopes for new vineyard in Shelby County

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Owners of the award-winning Talon Winery have big plans for opening a vineyard in Shelby County.  The original Lexington-based vineyard has proven to be successful, and owners Charlie Tackett and Harriett Allen are excited about the possibility of opening a second.  They have already purchased 17 acres on Gordon Lane south of I-64, across from Brighton Industrial Park.

“I believe Talon Winery would be a fantastic addition to the community. It has the potential to strengthen both tourism and economic development in Shelby County,” Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger said.

Tackett and Allen are now waiting for the approval to proceed with plans. In order for the winery to be located in community, a special election will be held on December 11^th, 2007 for registered voters in the A102 precinct.  The election will be held at Shelby County Fire Station 2, 1000 Taylorsville Road, from 6 A.M. to 6 P.M.  Upon receiving a winning number of votes, both owners are ready to get to work, hoping to have the winery running by the end of February.

The Shelby County Talon Winery & Vineyards would include a house to be used as the tasting room, a walking trail around an existing three-acre lake, plans for five acres of grapes, a local art gallery, and endless possibilities to host weddings, receptions and various social events.

Thanksgiving fun: Judge issues pardon for Tom Turkey

Rockbridge Road improvements scheduled

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger announced that a one-mile section of Rockbridge Road will soon be widened and resurfaced.

Shelby County Fiscal Court accepted a bid from Mac Construction Company at a price of $46 per ton to resurface a section of Rockbridge Road from Mt. Eden Road to Bluegrass Drive.

“This roadway widening and improvement project addresses the traffic and safety concerns associated with a growing community,” Rothenburger said.

The cost of the resurfacing portion of the project is estimated to be $53,000 and is scheduled to be completed by early December 2007.

Water Line Installation on Bob Rogers Spur Road

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Bob Rogers Spur Road residents have been waiting eagerly for many years, and the wait has paid off as North Shelby Water Company has started installing water lines along the 4,752- foot-long section of roadway. The 6-inch line that is being installed will serve approximately 14 households at a cost of $50,000. Funding for the project was secured through the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority (KIA) in the 2006-08 Kentucky State Budget.

We are very pleased to have secured funding for the project and the patience shown by the residents and property owners along Bob Rogers Spur Road, stated Shelby County Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger.

Bob Rogers Road is located in the eastern section of Shelby County, north of Hansborough Road.

Jeptha Knob Road to be resurfaced

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Shelby County Fiscal Court has accepted the low bid from Shelbyville Asphalt Company for the resurfacing of Jeptha Knob Road located in Clay Village.

Rothenburger said that Shelbyville Asphalt Company submitted the lowest bid in the amount of $48.50 per ton for bituminous material that will be used for resurfacing the roadway.

“We are very pleased to be able to complete this project before bad weather sets in for the winter season,” stated Rothenburger. Jeptha Knob Road is the access point for many residences and emergency communication towers that are located in the elevated regions of the Knobs.

Total cost for the resurfacing is estimated at $28,000 and is expected to be complete by early December of this year. 

Judge issues Farm-City Week proclamation

Please click here to view the proclamation in a PDF file in a new window. 

County receives grant for Finchville Park recreational trails

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Governor Ernie Fletcher awarded Shelby County a $36,310 grant to establish recreational trails in the Finchville Park. 

The planned 8-foot-wide asphalt trail will be approximately one mile long and will trace the perimeter of the park. The grant also includes creating an asphalt parking area capable of handling 30 vehicles to accommodate walkers and bicycle enthusiasts. 

“Health and fitness is paramount to our community, and we hope that with the addition of the walking and biking trail, everyone will take advantage of this or any of the walking trails offered by the Shelby County Parks and Recreation Department,” said Rothenburger.

Parks and Recreational Director Clay Cottongim, anticipates that the project could begin as early as this fall with completion in the first part of 2008, just in time for walkers and bikers to enjoy the arrival of spring.

Main parking lot of Family Activity Center to be repaved

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Fiscal Court has awarded a resurfacing contract to the Shelbyville Asphalt Company in the amount of $46 per ton to repave the parking lot in front of the Family Activity Center.

“A total expected cost of approximately $27,000 will be expended to shore up our parking area before the harsh winter weather arrives this year” said Rothenburger.

Shelby County Fiscal Court allocates approximately $200,000 each year in its annual budget to maintain and repair county-owned facilities.

Dale Road repaved in Hill-N-Dale subdivision

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced the completion of repaving Dale Road in Hill-n-Dale Subdivision.

Shelbyville Asphalt Company received the contract for the low bid of $41.38 per ton, with 630 tons expected to be laid on Dale Road. A total amount of $26,069 was paid out for the job.

“Residents of Hill-n-Dale Subdivision should be very pleased with the work performed. Once again, Shelbyville Asphalt Company has exhibited excellent workmanship and job performance in their most recent endeavor” said Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger.

Hill-n-Dale Subdivision is located west of KY 55 South, near Shelby Supply Tractor Dealership.

Rothenburger declares "state of emergency" for Shelby County agriculture

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger has requested that Governor Ernie Fletcher declare Shelby County’s Agricultural Industry to be in a “state of emergency.”

“Our agricultural community has seen a barrage of weather-related activity that has devastated this year's agricultural production. First, the late freeze, followed by early drought and lastly, the severe wind and hail storm that left a wide-spread path of destruction throughout Shelby County have all but crippled agricultural crop potential this year for many farmers," stated Rothenburger.

If declared a federal disaster, Shelby County farmers would be eligible for emergency loans, easing the economic losses from the weather.

Judge Executive Rothenburger proclaims June as Homeownership Month

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger has proclaimed June as National Homeownership month in Shelby County.

We are very pleased to once again team with the staff and personnel of the local USDA Rural Development Office to actively engage homeownership opportunities for the people of Shelby County, stated Rothenburger.

The USDA Rural Development Homeownership program helps strengthens families while stabilizing neighborhoods and building communities by partnering with public, private and non-profit organizations.

Tower Heights, Fieldstone Acres subdivisions to be repaved

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced announced that Tower Heights and Fieldstone Acres subdivisions, located on Frankfort Road just east of Shelby County High School, will be repaved.

The Shelby County Fiscal Court continues to address needs relating to our road system and takes the proactive approach to roadway maintenance, stated Rothenburger.

the Shelby County Fiscal Court awarded the repaving contract in the amount of $92,000/$40.85 per ton to Shelbyville Asphalt Company for the repaving of Tower Heights and Fieldstone Acres subdivisions. The project is expected to be complete by the end of June 2007.

Burks Branch Road contract awarded for Phase A

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Shelby County Fiscal Court accepted the low bid from Shelbyville Asphalt Company to pave Phase A of the Burks Branch Road improvement project.

Once the road widening and improvements are complete, motorists using Burks Branch Road will see a significant difference in roadway safety and in accessibility to the future Shelbyville by-pass and to Clear Creek Park, Rothenburger said.

The total amount of paving of Phase A is estimated at $73,908, approximately one-third of the total road improvement project, and should be completed by summer's end.

Monies for the roadway improvements are being provided by the Commonwealth of Kentucky's Bond Revenue Program. The Shelby County Road Department will widen the roadway.

Bellview Road repaving project awarded

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Bellview Road, located in northern Shelby County, will be repaved from Clear Creek to Mulberry Road. Work will begin in the latter part of May and should be completed by mid-June of this year.

We are very pleased that the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recognizes the importance of maintaining rural connector roads in the counties throughout the state stated Rothenburger.

Shelby County Fiscal Court awarded the Bellview Road paving contract to Shelbyville Asphalt Company in the amount of $42.68 per ton. The total estimated cost of the project, based on 1950 tons would be $83,226. Funding for the project is from the Commonwealth of Kentucky's Revenue Discretionary Bond Fund.

Fiscal Court announces improvement project for Rockbridge Road

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-executive Rob Rothenburger recently announced that Shelby County Fiscal Court has been awarded $168,000 in road revenue bond monies by the Commonwealth of Kentucky for improvements on Rockbridge Road.

Survey crews have started marking county property road easements, the first step in widening a mile-long area of Rockbridge Road, beginning at the intersection of Ky. 53 and ending east of Bluegrass Drive. The construction process is scheduled to begin late this summer.

Fiscal Court approves zone change for Kentucky Street

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Fiscal Court approved a zone change on Kentucky Street of 9.74 acres to light industrial. The applicant, Berrall, Inc., proposes to build a 22,950 square foot building that will be designed as a small warehouse. The building will likely target for small trades or businesses, such as plumbing or electrical contractors, according to the findings of fact submitted to the Fiscal Court.

The property is located adjacent to the already established Allied Ready Mix Concrete Plant in the 500 block of Kentucky Street and will compliment the other businesses in the area, said Rothenburger.

Dick Miller appointed to Shelby Co. Fire Protection Board of Trustees

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger recently appointed Dick Duvall Miller to the Shelby County Fire Protection District Board of Trustees, to complete the term of the late Michael Hatchett.

Dick Miller, of Shelbyville, has diligently served more than 25 years as a Volunteer Fire Fighter.  His involvement with the department dates back to 1965 when Dick and his friend Mike Hatchett were just kids hanging around the station. 

“Dick is a dedicated member of the fire department. He brings a lot of positive attributes and heart to the organization,” said suburban Fire Chief Bobby Cowherd.

In 1991 Dick accepted his current position as President for the Volunteer Fire Department after his life-long friend Mike Hatchett stepped down.  It seems appropriate that Dick Miller be appointed to the S.C. Fire Protection District Board of Trustees to complete Hatchett’s term, which would have ended in June 2008.

“With his experience and dedication he [Miller] will do an excellent job,” said  Rothenburger.

Long Run Road widening project completed

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the Shelby County Road Dept., in cooperation with the KY Transportation Cabinet - Rural Secondary Division, recently completed a major road widening and improvement project on Long Run Road in western Shelby County.

Long Run Road, located in western Shelby County, is one of the busiest thoroughfares in the county, carrying approximately 600-800 vehicles daily.

“We are very pleased to have completed this project and improved safety for those individuals residing in the Long Run Road area,” Rothenburger said.

The completion marked the end of a year-long project that included significant widening of the road and adjacent driveways.  The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Rural Secondary Program supplied approximately $200,000 in roadway assistance funds for the project.

Girls youth softball field to get lighting

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- At its last regular scheduled meeting for 2006, the Shelby County Fiscal Court approved bids from W.T. Electric City and M.D. Electric to provide equipment and labor for the installation of lighting for the Girls Youth Softball Field at Clear Creek Park.

The estimated cost for the project is $76,000, with 50 percent funding from grant monies and the remaining from Shelby County Fiscal Court. The Federal Land Water Conservation Fund provided the grant.

The Shelby County Fiscal Court is pleased to have received the Federal grant to make this possible. One of the long-term goals for the Shelby County Parks was to develop "field 3," as many softball enthusiasts have come to call it, and this is the last step in this process, stated County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger. Rothenburger further lauded the efforts of Parks and Recreation Director Clay Cottongim for his efforts in completing the grant application and making this endeavor possible.

The Girls Youth Softball Field is the last remaining softball field requiring lighting for night games. The LWCF program provides matching grants to states and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities.

Rockbridge Road project completed for safer travel

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger recently announced the completion of the county Road Department's improvement project on Rockbridge Road, making yet another county roadway safer to travel. Rothenburger said that the improvement is the first part of a road widening project slated for Rockbridge Road that should be completed by the summer of 2007. County Road Supervisor Carl Henry stated that the culvert replacement and improvement would greatly improve water flow in the area, thus eliminating road closures previously caused by heavy rains.

The construction of the span was performed by Hornback Construction at a cost of $19,500 with the total cost of the project being approximately $36,000. Rockbridge Road is a connector road for Mt. Eden Road and Hempridge Road in southeastern Shelby County.

County Road Department employees receive honors

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that five members of the county Road Department received their Road Scholar and/or Road Master certificates in 2006.  Lawrence Blackaby, John Melton, Scott Satterly, Jackie Smitha, and Gayle Wiley were presented their certificates by Kentucky Transportation Secretary Bill Nighbert in a ceremony recognizing the accomplishments of these individuals.  The ceremony was held in Erlanger, Kentucky, on December 12^th.

The Road Scholars Masters Program is a training series conducted by the University of Kentucky Transportation Center designed to provide local and state government employees with basic information on maintaining local streets and roads.

Rothenburger re-elected chair of Kentucky Board of EMS

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger was unanimously re-elected as chairman of the Kentucky Board of Emergency Medical Services during the September Board meeting in Frankfort. Elected Vice-Chairman of the State Board of EMS was Michael Gribbins from Lexington Fire Department.

"I am very honored and proud to be able to once again serve as the chairman of the Kentucky Board of EMS" Rothenburger stated. "Serving on the Board of EMS as a member and then chairman over the past three years, we have been able to accomplish and resolve many issues facing the emergency medical services throughout the Commonwealth, and I look forward to the upcoming year in which we can continue the mission of the KBEMS and strive for excellence in the field of emergency medical care," Rothenburger added.

Rothenburger is the first County Judge-Executive and state-certified paramedic to hold this position with the KBEMS.

Prior to becoming County-Judge Executive, Rothenburger worked as a paramedic for both Shelby County and Jefferson County EMS services.

Rocket Lane sidewalk dedication

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger, Magistrate Betty Curtsinger and Road Supervisor Carl Henry joined State Representative Brad Montell, Shelby County School Superintendent Elaine Farris, Kentucky Transportation Chief District Engineer Barry Sanders, State Road Supervisor Jerome Ingram and the students of the two 3rd Grade classes of Wright Elementary to cut the ribbon marking the official opening off the Rocket Lane Sidewalks.

"A pathway to learning", Rothenburger stated referring to the Rocket Lane sidewalks that connect all four schools that are located on Rocket Lane. "A multitude of students and citizens walk from facility to facility each day and their safety is paramount to this community." Rothenburger added that this project was a great example of the different government bodies and agencies working together for a common cause to benefit an entire community.

Funding for the sidewalks was provided by the Kentucky Transportation Rural Secondary Fund and the Shelby County Fiscal Court.

Long Run Road widening project bid accepted

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the Shelby County Fiscal Court has awarded a bid in the amount of $105,705 to Gra-Kat Construction for roadway widening improvements on Long Run Run in western Shelby County. The project, which is scheduled to begin soon, will make improvements necessary to prepare for the repaving project slated for this fall.

We are very excited about making the improvements that will enhance traffic safety and roadway accessibility, said Rothenburger. This is the second phase of a larger project. In the first phase, obstructions, including trees, were removed earlier in the year to allow a smooth transition into the second stage, increasing the width and constructing shoulders for the roadway. The second phase of the project is scheduled for completion by November 30th of this year.

The roadway project is being funded by Rural Secondary monies allocated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky Department of Transportation, Intergovernmental Programs.

Augusta and Sequoyah drives to be repaved

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the Fiscal Court had accepted the low bid of $48.73 per ton from Commercial Pavers to resurface Augusta and Sequoyah drives in Shelbyville. The work is scheduled to begin the second week of September and be completed the following week.

This resurfacing project indicates a strong working relationship between the city and county governments, and we look forward many more projects that will benefit our community, said Rothenburger.

Fiscal Court to set property tax rate, hold public hearing

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive announced that on September 5, 2006, at 6:30 P.M., the Fiscal Court will take public comments at a special hearing relating to the proposed 2006-07 real property tax rate. The current real property tax rate is 11.2 cents and the proposed real property tax rate for 2006-07 is 11.1 cents.

"A strong, thriving economy in Shelby County over the past twelve months has made it possible for the Shelby County Fiscal Court to propose a reduction in its real property tax rate for the 2006-07 fiscal year. Even though this is a small decrease in property tax rate, it speaks large for progressive, quality growth throughout our community," Rothenburger said.

The public hearing will be held at the Stratton Community Center followed by the Fiscal Court's regular scheduled meeting at 7 P.M.

Ditto Road-Beech Creek Crossing Replacement

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- For many years, the residents along Ditto Road have been plagued by flash flooding that has closed the roadway at Beech Creek and caused damage to the road surface and crossing structure.

Shelby County Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the Shelby County Fiscal Court unanimously approved authorization for County Road Supervisor Carl Henry to advertise for bids, construction of a structure (box culvert) that would mitigate the effects of flash flooding and address the costly long term roadway maintenance troubles associated with the localized disaster.

Once the bids are returned to Fiscal Court, the project will be awarded with construction to begin this fall. Shelby County Road Department will coordinate their efforts with the Shelby County Public School System so as not to disrupt school bus routing.

“We understand that there may be some slight inconveniences to the residents and property owners on Ditto Road, but it is the intent of county government to address a major concern that many residents have indicated for some time” Rothenburger said.

Harrisonville, Christiansburg Receive Outdoor Warning Sirens

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the communities of Harrisonville and Christiansburg have received emergency outdoor warning sirens. Rothenburger said that Fiscal Court continues to aggressively pursue the placement of outdoor warning sirens throughout the county in the most populous areas.

Since 2004, nine additional emergency outdoor warning sirens have been erected, bringing the total number of sirens to 25 in Shelby County. In 2003, the National Weather Service designated Shelby County a Storm Ready County for its efforts to promote severe weather preparedness. Rothenburger lauded the efforts of Shelby County Emergency Management Director Charlie Frazee and Deputy Director Paul Whitman for their efforts in reaching this distinctive achievement. As of Aug. 11, 2006, only 28 counties in Kentucky had achieved the designation.

Sheriff's Department Receives Grant for Body Armor

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the Sheriff's Department has been awarded a grant from the Kentucky Body Armor Program in the amount of $2,648. According to the grant agreement, the funds are to be used to purchase bullet-resistant vests for deputies of the Sheriff's Department.

Shelby County Sheriff Mike Armstrong said that the funds would be used to replace deputy's vests that were nearing their recommended replacement life.

The Kentucky Body Armor Program funds are provided by the sale of police confiscated firearms to licensed firearms dealers in collaboration with the Governor's Office of Local Development, Kentucky State Police and other state agencies.

Shelby Receives Grant from State Board of Elections

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that Shelby County Fiscal Court received a grant in the amount of $14,516 from Secretary of State Trey Grayson and the Kentucky State Board of Elections. The monies received were used for the purchase of V.5-M-1 audit capacity upgrades on the voting machines.

“We are very pleased that Secretary Grayson and the State Board of Elections helped make this available to Kentucky Counties in their efforts to comply with the Help America Vote Act [HAVA],” said Rothenburger.

The upgrades were necessary to create a paper trail from the voting machines to ensure accuracy in vote tabulation.

Soccer Parking Lot to Get New Surface

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Many parents and visitors to the Shelby County Park and Recreational Facility have witnessed the bumpy journey through the soccer parking lot. Weather and drainage issues played havoc on the parking area surface making it difficult at times to negotiate on foot or even in trying to park a vehicle.

Good news has arrived, the Shelby County Fiscal Court allocated funding to resurface the parking lot and to fix any drainage issues that would continue to cause damage.

 A contract in the amount of $37,000 was awarded to Shelbyville Asphalt Company to perform the work.

"Throughout the past two soccer seasons, visitors have expressed dissatisfaction over the condition of the soccer parking lot," said Rob Rothenburger, Shelby County Judge-Executive. "Soccer is one of the fastest growing sports throughout the United States and Shelby County, and we need to continue to support the endeavors of our youth," Rothenburger added.

Subdivision Repaved for First Time in 16 Years

SHELBYVILLE, Ky. -- Judge-Executive Rob Rothenburger announced that the streets and roadways in Spring Oaks Subdivision have been repaved for the first time in 16 years.

We are very proud to have been the first county government to create a road plan that surveys and inventories every road in Shelby County, Rothenburger said. The technology-based road plan enables road supervisory personnel quick retrieval of street information without omitting roadways that could have slipped through the system, as in the case of Spring Oaks Subdivision. To date, the road department has been able to identify several roads throughout the county that have been neglected for more than a decade, according to Rothenburger.

The streets and roadways in Spring Oaks Subdivision and along Colony Drive were resurfaced at a cost of approximately $93,000 dollars, of which approximately $42,000 dollars came from the Commonwealth of Kentucky's unincorporated funds.