Clay County commissioners voted on Nov. 10 to defer consideration of an honorary designation that would place a memorial sign for Charles James "Charlie" Kirk on College Drive, after a lengthy public comment period and discussion.

Public opposition dominated the first public-comment period. Several residents and community leaders, including Desiree Allen, pastor Samuel Lee and Ariana Theresa (public commenters recorded at SEG 1171, 1402 and 1851), told the board that Kirk is divisive and that there are local residents and civic leaders with deeper ties to Clay County who would be more appropriate honorees. "This is not a tribute to civility or Christian virtue," one speaker said of Kirk's public statements, urging the board to select a local figure instead.

Board members said they had received both supportive and opposing feedback. Commissioner (Speaker 11) moved to defer the resolution pending clarity from the state on proposed legislation that could impose restrictions or requirements for designating campus or college-adjacent roadways; the motion carried 3-2.

What was before the board was an honorary designation (a memorial sign) rather than an official renaming of College Drive; several commissioners and speakers clarified that the road’s official name would remain College Drive unless further action was taken. Commissioners who supported deferral cited the controversy generated in the public record and the pending state-level guidance on college-related street-designation rules.

Next steps: Staff will monitor the state legislative process and return the item when there is clearer guidance or when proponents and opponents provide additional information. The board did not adopt any memorial signage at this meeting.

Vote: Motion to defer pending state guidance carried 3-2.