Budget & Finance Committee Meeting

Summary

Meeting Overview

The Urban County Council - Budget & Finance Committee met on November 25, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. in the Urban County Council Chambers, with Dr. Stevens presiding. The committee addressed three agenda items during the session, hearing two informational presentations and deferring one matter for future consideration. Five members of the public provided comments during the meeting. No votes were taken during this session.

Attendance

The following individuals were present at the meeting on October 28, 2008:

• Dr. Stevens
• Linda Gorton
• Chuck Ellinger
• Jay McCord
• Ed Lane
• Kevin Stinnett
• George Myers
• Andrea James
• Don Blevins

No absences or late arrivals were recorded.

Public Comment

The meeting included comments from council members and program representatives addressing agricultural preservation, economic development, and community engagement.

PDR Program and Funding

Mr. Billy Van Pelt provided a detailed update on the Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program 53:09, discussing funding levels, acreage protected, and application trends. He emphasized the program's cost-effectiveness and its role in preserving Fayette County's agricultural identity.

Council Member Jay McCord 1:00:09 addressed the PDR program during challenging economic times, advocating for creative funding approaches and suggesting a focus on donations. He also proposed a strategic meeting with Commerce Lexington, UK, and state legislators to address sales tax inequities affecting horse farms.

Economic Impact and Industry Data

Dr. Allison Davis presented economic data on the equine industry in Fayette County 1:19:00, including employment figures, value-added contributions, and multiplier effects. Her presentation highlighted the industry's significant contribution to local wealth creation and job generation.

Community Engagement and Branding

Council Member Andrea James 1:36:30 urged the committee to develop public education efforts connecting urban residents to the equine industry. She recommended highlighting historical ties, including the legacy of African-American horse trainers and the story of Big Lex.

Council Member Linda Gorton 1:45:58 proposed branding initiatives using "Big Lex" on wayfinding signs, bus shelters, and city materials. She also recommended evaluating the PDR program's long-term goals and potential to ensure alignment with the community's vision.

Equine Task Force Study: Economic Impact and Recommendations

3:04

The committee reviewed findings from the Equine Task Force, which examined the economic significance of the equine industry in Fayette County. The presentation was informational in nature and featured multiple speakers with expertise in different aspects of the equine sector.

Key Speakers and Topics

The following speakers presented findings:

• Dr. Stewart Brown
• Dr. Duncan Peters
• Dr. Nancy Cox
• Dr. Lori Garkovich
• Dr. Allison Davis

Presentation Focus Areas

The presentations covered three main areas:

• Veterinary services within the equine industry
• Economic clusters related to equine activity
• The University of Kentucky's role in supporting the equine industry

Outcome

The agenda item concluded as an informational presentation, with no formal action or recommendations requiring a vote at this time.

PDR Program Update

Billy Van Pelt provided a comprehensive update on the Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program 53:09. The presentation covered the program's funding status, acreage protected, application trends, and long-term goals.

Key Topics Presented

The update highlighted the PDR program's success in preserving farmland and supporting the equine industry. Van Pelt discussed current funding levels and the total acreage that has been protected through the program to date. The presentation also included information on application trends, indicating the level of interest and participation from landowners seeking to preserve their properties.

Speakers

Billy Van Pelt led the presentation, with Tom Thornberry also participating in the discussion.

Outcome

This agenda item was informational in nature, providing the board or committee with current data and progress on the PDR program's operations and achievements.

Equine Industry Economic Development Priorities

The committee discussed key priorities for advancing the equine industry during this agenda item 1:39:46. Dr. Stevens and Bob Quick led the discussion on strategies to support economic development within the sector.

The committee identified several core priorities for the equine industry:

• Establishing a dedicated economic development role to coordinate industry advancement efforts
• Nurturing the equine cluster to strengthen interconnected businesses and services
• Developing a unified public policy position in coordination with state partners

The discussion focused on how these initiatives could work together to create a more cohesive approach to equine industry growth and support.

Outcome

The committee deferred action on this agenda item, indicating that further discussion, information gathering, or deliberation will be needed before making decisions or commitments regarding these economic development priorities.