Paducah approves lease renewal, renovation plan for WC Young Community Center

The Paducah Board of Commissioners voted to approve a municipal order renewing the lease for the WC Young Community Center, authorizing a three‑year agreement with a two‑year renewal option to provide stability for both the city and the nonprofit center.

Michelle Smolin, who presented the lease terms, said, "The proposed agreement is a 3 year lease with a 2 year renewal option." She described shared maintenance responsibilities and said the lease maintains maintenance terms consistent with other city partnerships. Public works director Chris Yarber laid out planned upgrades and an estimated renovation cost: "We anticipate spending in the neighborhood around 125 to a $130,000," he said, and added that city maintenance staff will act as the general contractor to reduce costs. The work outlined includes full kitchen replacement (cabinets, countertops, appliances), bathroom remodels, new lighting, ceiling and floor repairs, and floor leveling in an addition.

Erica Hudson, identified as the WC Young community board chair in the presentation, and other center representatives emphasized the partnership. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about maintenance responsibilities; staff explained the city covers major mechanical systems and structural repairs while lessees handle routine landscaping and smaller items. The commission called roll and approved the municipal order by unanimous vote. The contract authorizes the mayor to execute the lease and allows renovations to proceed under the terms discussed.