Bourbon County officials are gearing up for the 2027 budget, with discussions highlighting urgent needs for equipment and facility upgrades. During a special commission meeting on September 26, 2025, leaders emphasized the critical state of the county's maintenance department, particularly the dire condition of their machinery.

Commissioners revealed that the county is down to just one operational tractor out of six, raising concerns about the maintenance capabilities for essential services. "We only got one tractor. Repairable?" one commissioner noted, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The lack of reliable equipment is compounded by a shortage of qualified mechanics, with discussions pointing to the need for better facilities to attract skilled workers.

The current maintenance facility, described as a "rat nest," is not only inadequate but potentially unsafe, failing to meet basic standards. "We can't ask rank and file employees to work in an unsafe environment," one commissioner stated, highlighting the pressing need for improvements.

In addition to equipment concerns, the meeting touched on potential tax abatements to encourage investment in the county's infrastructure. The dialogue also included plans to engage local educational institutions, such as a nearby community college, to foster training programs for heavy equipment mechanics.

As Bourbon County prepares for its budget discussions, the focus remains on addressing these critical infrastructure and staffing challenges to ensure the county can effectively serve its residents. The commission's commitment to tackling these issues signals a proactive approach to improving county operations and facilities.