As Rowan County begins its new fiscal year on July 1, county officials say the new budget includes additional investments in emergency services, recreation, and community programs.
One of the biggest changes involves Rowan County's four volunteer fire departments. The Fiscal Court has allocated additional funding intended to help departments begin staffing certified firefighters during daytime hours when possible. Officials say the long-term goal is to provide consistent daytime coverage throughout the county, while also improving equipment readiness and response times. Residents interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact their local fire department.
County officials also announced they have applied for a $710,000 federal grant through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to replace two aging ambulances in the Rowan County EMS fleet. If awarded, the funding would help purchase two new ambulances to replace vehicles that have been in service since 2015.
The county is also reminding residents to sign up for its emergency notification system through Rowan County Emergency Management. Those who want limited alerts can text ROWANWEATHER or ROWANROADS to 888777 to receive weather and road notifications.
Work continues at the new Rowan County Senior Center, where crews are completing an outdoor walking trail and exercise area. Additional improvements, including benches, cornhole boards, a privacy fence, sidewalks, and a new senior transportation van, are also planned.
At the county park, installation of the new rubberized playground surface is nearing completion. Officials say a larger pavilion will be constructed later this summer to provide additional shade near the playground and basketball courts. A new wooded hiking trail has also opened, and the park's fishing pond has recently been stocked with additional catfish by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife.
Fiscal Court officials also highlighted recent community partnerships, including the distribution of donated food through local organizations and support for the Rowan County Cooperative Extension Service. More than 100 local children attended 4-H Camp this summer, with the Fiscal Court providing additional funding to help reduce participation costs for families.
County leaders say these investments reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety, improve recreational opportunities, and support programs that benefit Rowan County residents.