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Maysville votes to support petition canceling Woodford County’s "Birthplace of Bourbon" trademark
Summary
The Board of Commissioners voted to sign on to a petition from Peter Poe seeking cancellation of a Woodford County trademark for the phrase “Birthplace of Bourbon,” citing concerns that a private trademark could limit local tourism messaging; commissioners approved supporting the petition by roll call.
The Maysville Board of Commissioners voted to support a petition to cancel Woodford County’s trademark for the phrase “Birthplace of Bourbon,” joining an effort led by Peter Poe and supported by other county tourism offices.
Tourism director Caitlin Bailey explained that Woodford County filed a trademark and that the phrase has long been used in local marketing across several communities. Bailey said Peter Poe had petitioned to cancel the trademark and that Scott County and Georgetown were tracking the matter as well. Kelly, speaking for staff, said, “We we don't think anyone should hold that trademark.”
Commissioners approved a motion to support the petition; the mayor called the roll and each commissioner voted yes. Bailey told the commission that if Peter’s petition succeeds the region’s tourist commissions plan to approach the Kentucky state tourism office to seek a statewide approach or mark that would allow communities to continue using historical language without being limited by a single local trademark.
The city will coordinate with Peter Poe and determine the formal steps needed for the city to sign on to the cancellation petition. Commissioners requested staff follow up on next steps and on whether other regional tourism offices will join.
