Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Local Government topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Franklin Commission approves minutes, appointments, hires and a rezoning; audio system upgrade approved with warranty condition
Summary
At its meeting the commission approved minutes, ratified a SAM administrator appointment, swore in a new police officer, passed a rezoning ordinance (2026007), approved an audio upgrade contingent on a one-year warranty, hired key staff and handled other administrative business.
The Franklin City Commission handled routine and substantive business, including minutes approval, personnel actions, a rezoning ordinance and equipment purchases.
Minutes: The commission approved the minutes of the March 23, 2026 regular meeting by roll call.
Recognition and personnel: Major John Thompson introduced new officer Ethan Ross, who was sworn in and will leave May 17 for 20 weeks of basic training in Richmond, Kentucky. After an executive session, the commission approved the contract for the pending new chief of police (John Thompson) and approved hiring Abby Paul as planning and zoning clerk; one commissioner recorded opposition to the Abby Paul hire. The commission also accepted the resignation of Ryan Fry.
SAM administrator: Staff explained the city must update its SAM (System for Award Management) registration to be eligible for federal grants; Carol requested appointment as the entity administrator and ratification of the mayor’s signature on a letter in the meeting packet. Commissioner Bush moved, Commissioner Stewart seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
Audio upgrade and procurement: Staff presented two vendor quotes to replace the failing community room audio system: a low bid of $29,055.90 and an alternate quote of $31,129.74. Commissioners discussed warranty and service options and approved the purchase contingent on obtaining a one-year parts-and-labor warranty and including the purchase in a fiscal-year amendment.
Ordinances and zoning: The commission approved, by second summary reading, Ordinance 2026007 rezoning property on South Main Street to B2 general business (unanimous). First summary readings were held for Ordinance 20260006 (zoning-text changes) and Ordinance 20260008 (flood damage prevention re-adoption); staff said full texts are available from the city clerk and online.
Reports and other business: Commissioners noted a Sumitomo expansion project (estimated $24 million and about 76 jobs) and discussed a request from Harristown Church of Christ regarding adjacent property they have maintained; staff will research ownership, liens and back taxes. A commissioner offered condolences on the death of local business leader Bonnie Sees, and the commission reported an ethics complaint against Carter was forwarded to the board and Carter was exonerated.
The commission adjourned after a motion by Commissioner Powell.
