Fire chief reports two fatal crashes, five water rescues; mayor updates aquatic center plans

Fire Chief Todd Spalding told the Bardstown City Council on Feb. 25 that the department had responded to several vehicle accidents, including two that proved fatal, and that the Water Rescue Team performed five rescues following recent heavy rainfall. Spalding also said the department installed new fire hydrants on Sunset Drive and at the intersection of Hwy 245 and 3rd Street to improve response and help insurance ratings for nearby residents.

Police Chief Kim Kraeszig confirmed the Police Department assisted with the two fatality accidents noted by the fire chief.

Why it matters: The reports indicate heightened recent demand on emergency services and follow-up infrastructure improvements intended to reduce response times and support property insurance considerations for affected neighborhoods.

Mayor J. Richard Heaton provided an update on city projects, stating that construction drawings for the Bardstown Aquatic Sports Center are complete. He also said the city is addressing noise from the commissioning of boilers at the new Heaven Hill location and that the activity producing the noise will conclude soon.

The reports were informational; no formal motions tied to funding or new policy for the fire or police departments were recorded in the minutes. Staff and council members encouraged public participation in upcoming events, including City Day/City Night at the Capitol and an open house at the Bardstown School Polytechnic Center.

Next steps: Departments will continue to manage incident response and implement hydrant placement; project staff will proceed with next steps for finalizing aquatic center construction as appropriate.