Frankfort · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Frankfort public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Flock automated license plate reader cameras
A resident urged the board to stop expanding, decline renewals, and remove the city's Flock surveillance cameras, citing privacy concerns and documented misuse elsewhere in Kentucky.
New aerial ladder truck for fire protection
The city's new aerial ladder truck arrived at Station 3 after nearly two years, replacing a truck downtown, at a final cost of about $504,721 fully paid.
E-911 dispatch service agreement with Franklin County
The city and county are rewriting the 1991 agreement that governs shared 911 dispatch, with a proposed joint oversight board to give both sides an equal voice before the county's budget season.
Flock license plate reader contract
The city will not renew its Flock camera contract after privacy concerns from residents. Commissioners said they'd reconsider if state or federal parameters are adopted.
Neglected and abandoned properties program
Code enforcement ran 756 active cases this year — most started proactively, not by complaint — and three foreclosures are underway under the neglected property program.
Fire Engine 22 refurbishment
Rather than wait 2-5 years and spend up to $1 million on a new fire engine, the city is refurbishing its 2001 Engine 22 for about $499,000 — roughly half the cost of new.
Flock license plate reader cameras
The city's 19 Flock cameras generated 24 million plate reads in six months, and residents packed the chamber demanding the contract end over privacy and Fourth Amendment concerns. The board couldn't agree — a termination motion failed 2-3 — but the contract expires January 17, 2027, and a Flock rep may be invited before any renewal decision.
Fire Station 1 construction update
The new fire station is on track to finish the last week of December, $249,000 under budget, with a January ribbon-cutting and community event.
Pedestrian occupancy ordinance on arterial roads
A new ordinance would bar pedestrian occupancy on arterials and state rights-of-way, with $20-$100 fines. The sponsor says it's about safety on narrow medians, not outlawing panhandling, and wants a grace period.
Flock camera contract renewal
The city's Flock license-plate camera contract is up for renewal and must come back for a vote. A former commissioner defended the program's crime-solving record and funding, while commissioners say public input will be taken before the vote.
Police repeaters and E-911 agreement with county
Dispatch radio repeaters still need funding, and the city manager is working with the county judge on a renewed E-911 agreement that would also cover capital costs and fix the 75/25 split. A new quote and work session update are coming.
Second Street School pedestrian safety
Kids walking and biking to Second Street School have had close calls due to the lack of a private driveway; a meeting is being set up to make it safer.