Fiscal court approves first reading of updated Bracken County comprehensive-plan goals, adds broadband and health care

The Bracken County Fiscal Court on a first reading accepted updated goals and objectives for the county comprehensive plan that add broadband and health care as explicit priorities.

Jamieson French of Buffalo Trace Area Development explained the update is the five-year refresh of a guiding plan established under KRS Statutes 100 and said: "The plan is updated every 5 years, and that's all we've done this time is just the update, and it just brings information current." He told the court the changes are recommendations intended to guide future development and applications rather than impose new zoning authority.

Commissioners asked how health care is represented; French said it is listed under "public services and community facilities." Several members asked whether the plan would override deed restrictions or homeowners association rules; the presenter and staff clarified the comprehensive plan provides advisory guidance and does not supersede private deed restrictions.

Magistrate Craig Miller moved to accept the goals and objectives on first reading; Debbie Mayfield seconded and the court approved the motion on a roll-call vote. The presenter noted municipalities across Bracken County will separately review and approve the plan as required; Augusta already acted at its council meeting, and other towns have hearings scheduled.

Next steps: staff and Buffalo Trace will collect edits and feedback from commissioners and the public and return the ordinance for a second reading and additional revisions before final adoption.