Community leaders oppose subdivision plan citing stormwater impacts on Currys Fork and Floyd's Fork

In the heart of Oldham County, a pivotal planning commission meeting unfolded on April 22, 2025, where concerns over a proposed subdivision plan took center stage. As the evening light filtered through the windows of the county hall, voices rose in a blend of apprehension and determination, reflecting the community's deep-rooted connection to their land.

Representatives from the local community, including attorney Clay Barclay, voiced strong opposition to the development plan, emphasizing its potential violations of zoning ordinances and subdivision regulations. The proposed subdivision, characterized by lots significantly smaller than the existing five-acre minimum, sparked fears among residents about its impact on the surrounding environment, particularly the sensitive watersheds of Currys Fork and Floyd's Fork.

Barclay highlighted the critical issue of stormwater runoff, warning that the development could exacerbate drainage problems and lead to increased sedimentation and pollution in these vital watersheds. “The discretion to approve or deny this application lies with you,” he urged the commission, reminding them of their authority to protect the community’s interests.

The attorney pointed out specific sections of the zoning ordinances that the development allegedly failed to comply with, particularly regarding the handling of surface water drainage. He noted that the current plan lacked adequate provisions for managing stormwater, raising alarms about the potential consequences for neighboring properties and the environment.

As the discussion progressed, it became clear that the community's concerns were not merely about property lines but about preserving the character of their rural landscape. The proposed development, they argued, was out of sync with the existing agricultural zoning, which aims to minimize urban-type developments in these areas.

The meeting concluded with a call for more comprehensive studies on stormwater management to be presented before any decisions are made. Residents left the hall with a mix of hope and anxiety, knowing that the future of their neighborhood hangs in the balance, resting on the commission's decision in the weeks to come. The outcome of this meeting could shape not only the landscape of Oldham County but also the very essence of its community.