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Martin County water woes: A cry for help unanswered by Kentucky legislators (CORRECTION)
Last week, the Mountain Citizen erroneously stated in the editorial space that State Representative Bobby McCool chose to “abstain from voting” on Gov. Andy Beshear’s $12 million budget allocation for water projects in Martin County. The following article corrects the use of the terms “abstain” and “abstention” by stating Representative McCool was “absent from the…
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Kentucky Press Association: HB 509 would turn public records upside down
For nearly 50 years, Kentucky has been a national leader in allowing its citizens to access government records. That legacy is due in large part to the broad—and prescient—definition of “public records” that has appeared in Kentucky’s Open Records Act since its inception. In one fell swoop, HB 509 would eviscerate that legacy and leave…
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Homelessness is not a crime and does not belong in KY HB 5
BY GINNY RAMSEY The Lexington Street Voice Council hosted a luncheon at the Capitol Annex for the Kentucky legislators on Feb. 7 to give the lawmakers the opportunity to see them as the people they are, to hear their stories and understand the reasons they are experiencing homelessness. Over 65 Kentucky legislators shared a meal…
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A call to action for Martin County
As Martin County grapples with a water crisis that has left residents facing unreliable access to clean, safe water, the importance of targeted infrastructure investment has never been clearer. Gov. Andy Beshear proposes a $12 million allocation specifically for Martin County water projects in his budget. However, getting it into the final state budget hinges…
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Kermit’s unjust settlement: A call for fairness
Kermit, tabbed the epicenter of the opioid crisis, recently received its first installment of settlement funds from the state’s massive legal agreements with opioid manufacturers, distributors and prescribers. The sum, a mere $20,000, is half of a 15-year settlement plan totaling $40,000. This amount, broken down to an annual sum of $1,200 for the next…
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New hope for Martin County
As 2024 begins, Martin County stands on the cusp of a new era marked by progress and optimism. The recent announcement by Craig Miller, Alliance Water Resources manager, regarding significant funding in Gov. Andy Beshear’s proposed state budget for Martin County’s water issues represents a turning point that deserves celebration. For nearly a quarter of…
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Embrace the New Year with renewed community spirit
As the clock strikes midnight and fireworks light up the sky, we welcome a new year and a new chapter full of possibilities and opportunities. Here in our area, this transition is not just about changing calendars; it is a time to reflect on our journey and envision a future where we grow together, stronger…
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Celebrating the true essence of Christmas in our community
As the festive lights adorn our streets and homes, our community is embraced by the warmth of the Christmas spirit. This special season, rooted in the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, reminds us of love, hope and the beauty of giving. In our close-knit community, Christmas means more than just decorations and gifts.…
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We urge legislators to act upon critical need
BY LARRY JAMES SUPERINTENDENT MARTIN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT At a time when education shapes the future, Martin County School District emerges as a pivotal force in advocating for an increase in state SEEK (Support Education Excellence in Kentucky) funding. Driven by the insights from the “Back on Track” report, this campaign transcends a mere request…
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Judge Lafferty: Unity defines community
In a ceremony at the All-Sports Hall of Fame induction, Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty, a longtime Inez doctor, summed up the spirit of Martin County in his welcoming remarks. The judge’s speech celebrated the achievements of sports luminaries and portrayed an image of a community united by shared values and strengths in the face of adversity.…
Category: Editorial
