At its June 1, 2026 meeting, the Wilder City Council approved previous meeting minutes, welcomed newly hired firefighter-paramedic Kevin Smith, and formally swore him into office. City officials noted that Smith joins the department after serving with Campbell Fire Rescue and fills a position the city had been working to staff for an extended period. Council then received the first reading of Ordinance 26-0601, adopting the city’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026–27 budget. Mayor and staff outlined a balanced budget that includes transferring projected surplus funds to capital accounts, separating Fisher development PILOT revenues for improved transparency, funding street improvements, recreational projects, employee retention programs, merit pay, and a new public works dump truck/snowplow. The budget also includes a 3% cost-of-living increase for employees and elected officials, along with additional salary adjustments funded through retirement contribution savings, while maintaining the city’s policy of covering 100% of employee and family health insurance premiums. A major focus of the meeting was the ongoing Brentwood Hills Drive culvert collapse project. Council approved Resolution 26-0601, authorizing an agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for a $100,000 state grant to assist with culvert replacement and roadway restoration. Officials also issued an emergency declaration related to the April 30 collapse, allowing the city to expedite permitting and procurement processes. Staff reported that the project has grown significantly beyond the original scope, requiring full replacement of the culvert, utility relocations, specialized crane work, and financing that could approach $900,000 after grant assistance. The city discussed potential financing options and praised efforts to secure outside funding, including contributions from the state, Sanitation District No. 1, and private partners that could substantially reduce project costs. Department and staff updates included reports on the successful opening of the city splash pad, growing participation in the Active Aging fitness program, upcoming community events such as First Friday, Movie Night, and Party in the Park, and continued progress on the proposed coffee shop redevelopment project. Officials discussed traffic considerations and site improvements associated with the development, as well as maintenance concerns at city parks and public spaces. Public works staff reported efforts to address landscaping and weed complaints, while city leaders also informed residents that Three Mile Road will be closed from June 15 through June 29 for SD1 sewer work, requiring detours for area residents. Council members additionally recognized local businesses, celebrated recent economic development activities, and expressed appreciation for city staff and volunteers contributing to ongoing projects and community programs. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.
