A meeting of the Russell Springs City Council on August 13, 2026. Mayor Eddie Thomas presiding

Russell Springs Council Backs Walkability Plan, Tax Breaks, and Major Infrastructure Upgrades

Quick 10-Second Takeaway

  • Pedestrian Plan Approved: The council unanimously accepted the non-binding Jamestown and Russell Springs Active Living Walk and Bike Master Plan to boost community health and walking safety.
  • Smart Tax Relief: Under a proposed tax ordinance on first reading, the city will waive property tax bills of less than $10 because processing costs exceed the bill values, impacting approximately 126 local property owners.
  • $10M Utility Project on Track: The CDBG gas and asbestos line replacement project is 39% complete, with grant funding expected to expand work to a previously excluded area behind Jack’s.
  • Surplus Equipment Auction: To reduce storage and maintenance expenses, several surplus city-owned vehicles (including Tahoes and pickups) and commercial mowers will be auctioned online via GovDeals.

RUSSELL SPRINGS, KY — The Russell Springs City Council met for a regular session on August 13, 2026, advancing several measures aimed at improving local infrastructure, expanding community recreation, and streamlining administrative costs.

A key highlight of the meeting was the unanimous acceptance of Resolution 2026-11, adopting the 2026 Jamestown and Russell Springs Active Living Walk and Bike Master Plan. Developed in partnership with the Kentucky Department for Public Health, the plan outlines recommendations to enhance walking and cycling safety, connectivity, and public health. Council members noted the plan acts as a non-binding guide with no immediate cost to the city, preserving their authority to review and approve future projects individually.

In addition, the council held the first reading of Ordinance 2026-04, which proposes annual ad valorem tax levies on real and personal property. Notably, the ordinance introduces a cost-saving measure: the city will waive tax bills under $10, as administrative manpower and postage exceed the value of the tax. This provision will apply to approximately 126 local tax bills while optimizing city resources.

Council also approved Resolution 2026-12, declaring several outdated city vehicles—including two Chevrolet Tahoes, two pickup trucks, and commercial zero-turn mowers—as surplus property to be sold at public online auction via GovDeals.

Infrastructure updates featured prominently during the mayor’s report. The city’s massive $10 million CDBG gas and line replacement project is running on schedule and is 39% complete. Officials reported sufficient grant funding to include the “Alternate 2” section behind Jack’s restaurant, which was originally excluded due to initial funding estimates. Meanwhile, work continues on the new par-three golf course at City Park, with utility hookups for the new restrooms scheduled for next week before construction shifts to the pro shop.

The session concluded with a report from Pool Manager Scott, who highlighted a strong summer season featuring extended splash pad hours and high turnout for night swims. To celebrate, the city will host a free public appreciation night swim on Tuesday, September 8, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM to wrap up the pool season.