OAK GROVE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – During the Oak Grove Committee of the Whole Meeting on Thursday, committee members deliberated on regulations concerning the Oak Grove Community Center and the potential allowance of medical cannabis dispensaries within city limits.

At the meeting, members talked about making clear rules for renting the community center and charging fees for private events. They all agreed that it’s OK to rent it out for small gatherings like birthdays or baby showers, but they don’t want to allow big events like weddings.

“We don’t want any wild or late night parties,” said committee member John Campbell. Many members agreed that renting should only be available during regular business hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Currently, the center has several regularly scheduled events including a Zumba class, 50 Plus Young at Heart group, and holds basketball practice for many groups. Member Jean Leavell explained that these community groups are different from private events and they shouldn’t have to pay for future rentals.

“Only private events would be charged,” said committee member Janet Edwards.

Members further discussed city employees using the community center after hours, which some members did not agree with this. City employees are given code access to the center, and director Melissa Lynch shared many first responders use the gym after their shift.

“In today’s economy, if we can provide our city employees with something that is beneficial to them, then we should,” said Campbell. “It also is a good benefit to share when hiring.”

After split discussion, the topic was postponed to a future City Council meeting.

Cannabis dispensaries

The committee also talked about cannabis, with many agreeing to permit dispensaries but with a cap on their number in the city.

Janet Edwards shared an article highlighting the benefits of dispensaries to neighborhoods, emphasizing their professional regulation and cleanliness.

Members agreed to conduct research beforehand, keeping in mind Oak Grove’s aim to encourage business growth. They scheduled a special meeting on June 27 at 6 p.m. to delve further into the topic of medical cannabis.

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Trucks in neighborhoods

Towards the end of the meeting, members addressed concerns regarding an ordinance aimed at preserving the residential character of the community. Specifically, they discussed the presence of large commercial vehicles parked outside homes.

Committee member John Campbell stepped away from the stand to voice his opinion as a community member of the trucking industry, advocating for individuals with take-home commercial vehicles to be permitted to park them at their residences. “I just think the ordinance is very limiting,” Campbell said.

Janet Edwards suggested imposing a time limit on vehicle parking, and committee member Edward Cook suggested prohibiting them from being parked on the street or in front yards of homes.

As the discussion ended Cook said he would like to hear from the citizens of Oak Grove before making any decisions.