
(HARDIN, Ky.)-The Hardin City Council addressed several key issues during its July meeting, including potential regulations for special purpose vehicles and infrastructure improvements throughout the city.
Special Purpose Vehicle Ordinance Under Review
Council members discussed implementing an ordinance that would allow special purpose vehicles to operate on city roadways. The proposed measure follows recent Kentucky state legislation enabling local governments to authorize these vehicles within their jurisdictions.
Several neighboring municipalities have already adopted similar regulations, including Marshall County Fiscal Court and the cities of Benton and Calvert. However, Hardin officials chose to postpone their decision to allow City Attorney Mabry Green time to thoroughly review the state law and prepare a comprehensive presentation for the next meeting.
Mayor Hank Rogalinski noted that while the city currently lacks a formal ordinance, similar vehicles have been permitted on local roads in the past. He emphasized that the proposed measure would align Hardin’s policies with those of surrounding communities.
Infrastructure Projects and Funding
Mayor Rogalinski announced that the city has secured a $450,000 grant to replace a bridge on Fourth Street, though construction timing remains undetermined. Additionally, he reported ongoing efforts to obtain funding for continued work on the city’s wastewater treatment plant.
Water Tower Disposal Approved
The council unanimously approved the mayor’s recommendation to sell an unused water tower located near the former South Marshall Middle School. The tower will be listed on GovDeals for $15,000, with specific conditions requiring the purchaser to remove the structure within six months of full payment.
Property owners in the area had requested the tower’s removal, prompting the city’s decision to seek a buyer rather than handle demolition costs directly.
Park Maintenance Concerns
Council member Gary Freeman raised community concerns about the condition of the city park after receiving multiple resident complaints. Mayor Rogalinski acknowledged the issue, noting that the park had recently been mowed and confirming plans for additional maintenance, including weed removal, in the coming weeks.
The Hardin City Council will reconvene for its next meeting to continue discussions on the special purpose vehicle ordinance and other municipal business.