Jan. 24, 2025

Taking over and taking away?

What counties should know about potential changes to occupational license fee collection and vehicle property tax

The General Assembly is currently in recess for the 2025 legislative session, but two issues of concern to counties appear to be gaining momentum: the centralized collection of occupational license fees and a repeal of the state’s ad valorem tax for motor vehicles.

2025 County Officials Legislative Reception: hotel deadlines approaching

County officials and legislators are invited to join us as we honor the members of the 2025 General Assembly at KACo headquarters in Frankfort on Feb. 12, 2025, from 4:30-7 p.m. EST.

A block of rooms has been reserved for the nights of Tuesday, Feb. 11 and Wednesday, Feb. 12 at several Frankfort hotels, but cut off dates are approaching.

Kentucky Department of Revenue announces launch of new tax portal and operational pause

The Kentucky Department of Revenue is transitioning to a new integrated tax system and launching a new business tax portal called MyTaxes. Beginning Feb. 26, 2025, there will be a two-week operations pause to prepare for these transitions.

Business tax filers cannot file returns or receive refund payments in the old system, OneStop, or the new system, MyTaxes, from Feb. 26 to March 14.

Individual income tax filers can continue to submit their tax returns through standard methods during the transition period; however, refunds will not be processed from Feb. 26 to March 14. To avoid delays, the department recommends that individuals expecting a refund file their returns as early as possible after the department begins accepting returns on Jan. 27, 2025.

Strategies to address housing concerns in NKY revealed in new report

The final version of a set of strategies developed by regional leaders aimed at addressing housing problems in Northern Kentucky is now available for public review.

The study suggests that the region needs to build 6,650 housing units to support economic development in the next five years, which equates to 1,330 units per year.

NACo Membership Series: First 100 Days

NACo is launching a new membership series to provide timely updates and analysis on key developments during the first 100 days of the Trump Administration. These calls will focus on policies and actions that directly impact counties, including federal funding, regulations and intergovernmental partnerships.

The next briefing will take place via Zoom on Jan. 29 at 2:30 p.m. ET.

FEMA posts public notice for 34 Kentucky counties impacted by hurricane Helene

FEMA is required to announce its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities under its Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant programs after the Nov. 26, 2024, major disaster declaration for Kentucky remnants of Hurricane Helene.

The disaster declaration authorizes FEMA to provide reimbursement or direct federal assistance for emergency and permanent work in designated counties. 

Check out the latest headlines from across Kentucky

Hardin County has a new website, Harrison County takes a step forward in a new recreation center project, a profile of the longest serving circuit court clerk in Kentucky and more.

This week's roundup of local news includes stories from Barren, Bell, Hardin, Harrison and Nelson counties.

Training Opportunities

Opioid Solutions Monthly Webinar Series

Throughout 2025, KACo will host a series of webinars about the use of opioid settlement funds, including examples of innovative county programs and best practices.

Currently, webinars are scheduled for 11 a.m. - noon, ET on the following dates in 2025: Feb. 13, March 13, April 10, May 8.

WRAP VR Train the Trainer class

Registration for the 2025 WRAP VR Train the Trainer class is now open. The course is available for sheriffs and jailers. Any department requesting to utilize the WRAP system must send at least one trainer to a training class.

Training is available on Feb. 26, Feb. 27, March 5 and March 6.

This week in pictures

Oldham County Sheriff's Deputies Julie Cobaugh and Dave Peters were among hundreds of law enforcement officers from across the country providing security during the presidential inauguration.

Harlan County Judge/Executive and KACo President Dan Mosley and his son Sabby at the inauguration of President Donald Trump.

Barren County Judge/Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd and her husband Daniel enjoyed inauguration events in Washington.

Members of the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office attended the 28th annual MLK Unity Breakfast in Lexington. 

The Montgomery County Fiscal Court honored Gail Wright for her service with the Gateway Area Development District and the Industrial Authority Board.

Woodford County Clerk Sandy Jones gave local students a tour of her office and spoke to them in the deed room.

County officials were in attendance at the Kentuckians for Better Transportation conference this week.

Warren County is recognizing former sheriff Jerry "Peanuts" Gaines by naming a new training room in his honor. Gaines served as sheriff for 36 years and was KACo President in 2014. He's pictured with current Sheriff Brett Hightower.

Muhlenberg County Judge/Executive Mack McGehee signed a proclamation declaring Feb. 2-8 as SkillsUSA Week. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce.