McCracken fiscal court backs drafting of up-to-$200,000 agreement for Paducah Cooperative Ministries shelter

The McCracken County Fiscal Court voted to adopt a resolution expressing support — not an immediate obligation — for up to $200,000 to help Paducah Cooperative Ministries (PCM) finish a remodel to provide emergency shelter, restroom, shower and laundry services to unhoused people in the county.

The measure began as a motion from Speaker 2 to allocate $199,248 and authorize a five-year contract with PCM; after extensive questioning about fundraising, operating costs and how the shelter would prioritize McCracken County residents, the court instead approved a resolution directing the county judge, county attorney and PCM to draft a contract for consideration at the next fiscal court meeting. "I believe we are at a magic moment in which we can use public dollars and get a bigger bang because we're partnering with a nonprofit who already has a proven track record," Speaker 2 said during debate. Speaker 8, who identified PCM's experience and operations, gave the court occupancy and funding figures and said demand is acute: "We get…