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By: Casey Roberts

Contributing Writer

The Stanford City Council met Thursday, June 12, to cover a packed agenda ranging from tornado siren repairs and sidewalk projects to annexation and summer community events.

The meeting opened with an invocation and roll call, with all council members present. The council quickly approved minutes from the May 8 meeting before hearing from local residents. One resident expressed concern about uncollected brush near the elementary school, while another inquired about unfamiliar survey markers in a residential area. City officials confirmed that cleanup was on the city’s list and clarified that the black and white squares are part of an aerial survey project.

Tornado siren system under repair

Stanford Police Chief Zach Middleton provided updates regarding the city’s tornado siren system. Currently, one of the two sirens—located near Stanford Elementary and the high school—is inoperative due to a failed computer board. Judge Adams has signed a purchase order for repairs, and technicians are expected soon.

Middleton stressed that while outdoor sirens serve as one warning method, residents should sign up for “Hyper-Reach,” a mobile phone emergency alert system. “A lot of people are getting away from relying solely on sirens,” he said. “Technology is allowing us to reach people directly now.”

Water and sewer budget passed

The council unanimously approved the second reading of the water and sewer department budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025. Total revenue is estimated at $1.5 million, with projected expenses just over $1.4 million. The ordinance will take effect on July 1, 2025, following publication on June 19.

Property annexation approved

Ordinance 110.14, a measure to annex a 0.43-acre property at 835 U.S. 27 South, passed unanimously. The property, adjacent to the Five Star gas station and formerly home to a marketplace and smoke shop, is now officially within city limits.

Reappointments and new board members

Several board appointments and reappointments were approved in a single motion. Notable changes included:

• Reappointing Jordan Dick and appointing Danny Bartram to the Industrial Board.

• Thomas Hill was appointed to replace Bruce Bastin on the code enforcement board.

• Billy Hasty was reappointed to a new three-year term on the code enforcement board.

Mayor Dalton Miller noted that several additional board terms will expire later this year and will be addressed in future meetings.

Sidewalk project payment authorized

The council approved reimbursing Lincoln County $47,515.63 for Stanford’s share of the Foster Lane sidewalk project. The project, which has been in the works for several years, includes sidewalk installation and drainage improvements along Fox Den and Turkey Foot roads.

Councilman Jerry Wilkinson noted, “It’s easy to forget how much work was needed out there. This wasn’t just cosmetic—it solved real flooding issues.”

Police camera system expanded

Chief Middleton also announced that all four city surveillance cameras are now fully operational, including a mobile camera unit. Stanford’s camera system has helped law enforcement track vehicle movement and solve cases by identifying license plates and vehicle characteristics.

“We can see where a car has been over the last 90 days, which is incredible for investigations,” said Middleton. “We’re also working with Garrard County to expand shared camera access.”

Recognitions and community announcements

Mayor Miller recognized several athletic achievements:

• Elijah Roberts won the high school state championship in the 400-meter dash.
• Germani Crosby earned her fourth straight shot put state title and has aspirations for the Olympics.

• The Lincoln County Middle School girls soccer team went undefeated and won the Salt River Conference championship.

“These young athletes deserve to be celebrated. They’ve brought pride to our city,” Miller said.

In upcoming events, the Wilderness Road Music Fest will return June 20 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. downtown, featuring live music, food trucks, and a classic car show. The city also reminded residents of a Drug Take-Back Day scheduled for June 27 at the Lincoln County Health Department from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rental rates at the L&N Depot have been increased to $150 per full day with a $50 refundable deposit. Miller noted the city continues to lose money on furniture and maintenance costs. “We’re still the most affordable venue around,” he said.

Road paving completed under budget

Mayor Miller closed the meeting by noting that all blacktop paving projects were completed under budget—at $124,000, compared to an estimated $134,000. Only Adams Street remains unfinished due to ongoing gas utility work.

The meeting adjourned with reminders to attend Saturday’s motorcycle show downtown, which supports Detective Tim Morris’s shop with a cop program.

The next regular council meeting is scheduled for July 10.