HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The City of Hopkinsville is forging ahead with acquiring new land to expand industry and economic growth in the area. During the Dec. 3 city council meeting, several steps were taken to expand, and councilmembers voted on the first water rate increase in 14 years.

In an ordinance presented to the council, approximately four acres of property would be annexed into the city of Hopkinsville. The parcel of land is referred to as Newcomb Oil Co. LLC, and is adjacent to the city’s current boundaries on the southeast side of the city near the intersection of Bill Bryan Boulevard and Highway 41.

This newly acquired land will be used for future developments, the beginning phases of construction have already been initiated. Mayor J.R. Knight specified there will be a convenience store and additional buildings on this property. The first reading of the ordinance approving the annexation unanimously passed by present councilmembers.

Water rate increase

After thorough discussion at a previous committee of the whole meeting, a municipal order passing new water rates for the city was approved by the council. This marks the first increase for the city in 14 years.

This rate increase came from a recommendation from the Hopkinsville Water Environment Authority. The municipal order says rates will come into effect for all water purchased by Christian County Water District on July 1, 2025, and the phase two rates shall become effective on July 1, 2026.

RELATED STORY: Hopkinsville Water plans to increase rates for Christian County, first time in 14 years

The meter charge will be $30 per month, per meter for both phases. The rate of the first phase will be $5.80 per 1,000 gallons (under 45,000 gals), which would be a $1.85 rate increase. The rate of phase two will be $3.39 per 1,000 gallons (over 45,000 gals), for an $0.87 rate increase.

New purchase agreement

The city council moved ahead with a municipal order that would authorize the mayor to execute a purchase agreement with the Hopkinsville Industrial Foundation to purchase 6.48 acres of real estate. The property in question will be used to further develop Commerce Park II in the city to facilitate additional industry.

The cost of the property is $259,200, which will be entirely reimbursed. Melissa Clayton, city CFO, clarified to the council that they previously received at $7 million grant from the state for infrastructure costs. Since there are unanticipated left-over funds from the grant, they are able to utilize it for this purchase.  While the city will be making the initial purchase, the money will be reimbursed by the state, or by the Industrial Foundation.

DON’T MISS A STORY: Click here to sign up for our free weekly email newsletter