City Council's Decision Threatens Food Pantry Operations

In a recent government meeting, the Woodford County Fiscal Court discussed several key issues, including a proposed tax rate adjustment and the future of the local food pantry.

The Woodford County Agricultural Extension District has recommended lowering its tax rate from 1.8 to 1.7. The motion to accept this new tax rate was passed unanimously by the court members present.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Woodford County Food Pantry, which is facing operational challenges. Following the approval of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by the fiscal court, the Food Pantry Board convened a special meeting to discuss the administration of the pantry's executive director position. The fiscal court, in collaboration with the cities of Vercel and Midway, has budgeted $75,000 for the first year to support this essential service.

The Food Pantry Board expressed gratitude for the county's support, emphasizing that without funding for an executive director, the pantry's ability to serve the community could be jeopardized. The board unanimously adopted the MOA, indicating strong support for the initiative.

During the meeting, it was proposed to hire the current executive director, Sharon Hardin, as an interim director. This recommendation came from the pantry's volunteers, who felt it would be unfair for Hardin to be excluded from consideration for the position while she continues to serve in her current role. However, the city council's decision to table the MOA has created uncertainty, preventing the fiscal court from entering into an independent contract to compensate Hardin for her work.

The mayor and other officials expressed disappointment over the city council's actions, which they believe stemmed from misunderstandings about the food pantry's operations and the trustworthiness of its board. The mayor noted that the city council was scheduled to meet later that evening to address these concerns.

The discussions highlighted the critical role of the food pantry in the community and the ongoing efforts to ensure its sustainability amid financial and administrative challenges.