State Urges Conservation Amid Latest Crisis

Lake George's waterline is receding daily

Marion city officials are continuing to work with state leaders and agencies as the water crisis persists and levels at Lake George continue to decline

Mayor D’Anna Browning had a conference call Friday with representatives from the state government, Kentucky Emergency Management and the Division of Water. Those agencies are closely monitoring the situation and remain in contact with the National Weather Service for both short- and long-term forecasts.

Officials said the state has an action plan developed in case there is no measurable rainfall over the next couple of weeks or so. Officials are holding out hope for rain this weekend, but only modest chances exist.  

Meanwhile, Kentucky Emergency Management continues to emphasize the importance of conservation, Mayor D'Anna Browning said, as residents and businesses adjust to reduced water supplies.

What's cooking on East College Street?

Something big is stirring on East Carlisle Street, and it could change the look and feel of one of Marion’s oldest business blocks. 

The Blue-Nunn Building, a century-old landmark most recently home to Coach’s Cleaners, is being cleared and reimagined. Renovation crews are already at work, and the project promises to breathe new life into a piece of downtown history.

What exactly is coming? You’ll have to read this week’s issue of The Crittenden Press to find out. Or you can also listen to Thursday's podcast to hear from the developer himself. 

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Copyright 2025 

Tax Bills Hold Steady, But Changes Worth Noting

Final decisions are in on local tax rates for 2025, and taxpayers can now see what that means for their bills. While some individual rates changed, the overall effective rate stays about the same as last year for most.

In this week’s Crittenden Press, we break it all down, including a chart that lets you calculate your own tax bill based on the value of your property.

The Press is your trusted source for this kind of detailed local information you won’t get anywhere else. This newspaper is supported by advertising and subscribers. Go here to subscribe. 

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Boil Water Order in Crittenden County

Crittenden Livingston Water District has issued a boil water order along KY 855 South from the intersection of US 60 to the bottom of Amos hill toward Frances. 

This is in the southwest quadrant of Crittenden County.

Back to the Future | Community journalism

10am Saturday at CCPL

MARION, Ky. — Four of Crittenden County’s most recognizable names in community journalism will share stories from more than a half-century of local news during a special program at Crittenden County Public Library.

The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, and will feature author and former Crittenden Press reporter Tim Farmer, former editor Daryl Tabor, current Press editor and publisher Chris Evans, and John Lucas, who began his career at the Press before becoming a columnist and reporter for the Evansville Courier & Press.

Farmer will also sign copies of his new book, This Ain’t The New York Times, during the program.

Library officials said the forum offers a rare glimpse into the stories behind the headlines that have shaped Crittenden County for generations.

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Interview today with Todd Riley

about the Carlisle Street development

Former school board chairman Keith Hart dies

Former school board chairman and retired local businessman Richard “Keith” Hart, 71, of Marion died Sept. 16, 2025. 

A 1971 Union County High graduate and Murray State alumnus, he co-owned Marion Feed Mill for more than 40 years and was active in local civic and school leadership. 

Visitation is 4–8 p.m. Sat., Sept. 20, at Gilbert Funeral Home, with services at 2 p.m. Sun., Sept. 21, and burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to the Vince Clark Foundation of Crittenden County Schools. 

The full obituary will appear in next week’s Crittenden Press.

Glendale Area Rd. closed until late October

CRITTENDEN COUNTY – Highway KY 2123 in rural Crittenden County is closing Wednesday, Sept. 17, at mile point 1.63 for a bridge replacement project, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced.

The closure, just south of Glendale Church Road over Caney Fork Creek, is between KY 297 and KY 1668. Work is expected to be finished by the end of October.

Traffic counts show about 68 vehicles use this section of roadway daily.

Last Chance to Read this One

From the Sept 11 edition of The Crittenden Press

MARION, Ky. – A rural Crittenden County couple has claimed the 2025 St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway. Timothy and Hope Hodge, who live near Frances on a 45-acre farm, were watching WPSD-TV last Friday when Timothy’s name was announced as the winning ticket holder.

The prize is a newly built, 2,700-square-foot house in Paducah’s Westwood Hills, valued at about $665,000. It was the grand prize in a fundraiser that generated more than $923,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The Hodges, both in their 60s, said the win is life-changing, though they are uncertain whether to move into the home or sell it. They purchased their ticket the old-fashioned way, mailing in a check rather than buying online.

Hope, 71, has battled COPD, and Timothy, 65, retired from the City of Marion in 2022 after more than 40 years in maintenance.

“It ain’t hit yet,” Hope said of the win. “It’s the most I ever won in my life and Timothy, too.”

For the rest of this article grab last week's newspaper. It will be on newsstands until around noon Wednesday, or stop by our office for a copy anytime. 

Sheriff's Activity in Lyon County

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF REPORT

On Monday, September 8, 2025, at 1:45pm, Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrested Tawny M. Clinton (36) of Eddyville, and served her with a Lyon Circuit Court bench warrant for Failure to Appear in court as it pertained to a felony drug case. Clinton was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, around 1:25pm, SRO Deputy Cory Jessup charged a 16-year-old high school student with Possession of Marijuana after receiving a complaint of a student using Marijuana inside a classroom. The contraband was recovered, and the child was suspended from school before being released to the custody of a parent. 

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, around 8:15am, Chief Deputy Sam Adams served a Lyon District Court bench warrant on Randelle Stone (48) of East Point, GA, charging him with Contempt of Court. Stone later posted bond and was released from custody.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, around 8:30am, Captain Dennis Beckett arrested Tremont L. Flowers (28) of Benton, and served him with a Lyon District Court bench warrant for Failure to Appear in court as it pertained to a traffic case. Flowers later posted bond and was released from custody.

Saturday Book Signing at CCPL

 

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Cecil Croft Road Closed 2 Days this Week

Cecil Croft Road in rural eastern Crittenden County will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 17-18, about 3,200 feet southeast of the Hooten Road intersection for major repairs to a base failure. 

Officials are asking motorists to adjust travel plans and avoid the area during the closure. 

Crews will work to complete the project as quickly as possible to minimize the impact on local travel.

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Mayor Sounds Alarm | Low lake level, looming weather

File photo of Lake George in June

MARION, Ky. — Marion Mayor D’Anna Browning is warning that the city’s water supply is again nearing a crisis point, as drought conditions and hot weather threaten to push Lake George close to emergency levels.

In a message to regional leaders Thursday, Browning said the city is working with Reveal Leak Detection to replace a valve at Crittenden Community Hospital. But she expressed concern that the Crittenden-Livingston Water District is not in a position to provide backup supply if the hospital needs it.

Browning said state officials had initially approved but later denied a request for outside bottled drinking water distribution, ruling that the situation is not yet considered an emergency. She questioned how low Lake George, Marion’s primary water source, must fall before state officials declare one.

Lake George on Sept 14, 2025

“We are close to the 2022 level after the breach, which prompted water to be pumped in and bottled water to be distributed,” Browning said.

That earlier crisis began in April 2022, when a leak in the lake’s levee promoted responders to drain Lake George to protect the dam’s integrity. With the reservoir partially lost, Marion has been left without a reliable raw water source, particularly when rainfall is in short supply.

For weeks in 2022, Kentucky Emergency Management trucked in thousands of gallons of water daily, pumping from the Tradewater River and other sources to the treatment plant. National Guard troops also helped distribute bottled water to residents, who were limited to strict conservation measures. 

The Kentucky Division of Water later declared Marion’s situation one of the most serious municipal water supply crises in the state’s history. Lake George eventually recovered a bit, but the incident highlighted the vulnerability of a community dependent on a closed reservoir.

Browning said cooler temperatures the last several days have temporarily kept manganese levels in the water under control. But with a return of hot, dry weather this week, she warned water quality could decline rapidly.

“Please understand my concern that we could very well run out of quality raw water soon,” Browning wrote. “I am not a fan of brinkmanship when it comes to supplying our people with potable water.”

Browning copied various local, regional and state leaders on yesterday’s email to ensure information to others as the city monitors the reservoir.

CLWD boil order LIFTED

Crittenden-Livingston Water District has lifted a boil water order that was issued Tuesday after a main line break on U.S. 60 just west of Marion.

The advisory had affected customers from the intersection of KY 1668 (Crittenden Springs Road) to Country Club Drive. 

Repairs were completed earlier this week, and testing confirmed the water is now safe for consumption. The order was lifted just before noon on Thursday.

Remember 9-11 | The Crittenden Press

  

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- Published 2001 following 9/11 attacks -

FOUNDERS DAY | Eddyville Events

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Eddyville is gearing up for its 2025 Founder’s Day celebration with more than two weeks of events leading up to the big day on Saturday, Sept. 20.

Highlights include a community yard sale Sept. 13, the Country Ham Breakfast Sept. 15, the Citizen of the Year Dinner Sept. 16, and a car show and live music on Sept. 19. Founder’s Day itself will feature a parade at 11 a.m., a pancake breakfast, pet show, 3-on-3 basketball tourney, children’s games, barnyard animals, bingo, and carriage rides. Music runs throughout the weekend, capped with a Saturday night performance by Soul Dog and a fireworks show over the riverport.

See the accompanying image for the full schedule of events.

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School board raises taxes by 4%

Crittenden County Board of Education on Tuesday night adopted its new tax rate for 2025, opting to take a 4 percent increase in revenue, which raises the rate only fractionally from last year.

Still, the increase is the highest the school district could take without being subject to recall. The property tax rate was set at 51.6 cents per $100 of assessed value, up from last year’s 51.4. The personal property tax rate was set at 52.1 cents, up from 51.9 on 2024 tax bills.

The school district says the new rates, plus exonerations, will generate about $2.34 million in real property tax revenue, up from $2.33 million a year ago, and $419,000 in personal property levies, up from $417,000 in 2024. The combined increase will mean about $102,000 in new tax revenue for the district.

In next week's full edition of The Press, we will break down every new tax rate set by local agencies so you can determine your effective overall rate. Tax bills will be mailed in a few weeks. 

Livingston County imposed burn ban

 On Tuesday, Livingston County Judge-Executive Michael Williams imposed a countywide burn ban, joining a chorus of other counties across the region and state, including Crittenden, to prohibit outdoors burning in light of dry and volatile conditions. 

CLWD boil water order US 60W

A boil water order has been issued for a section of the Crittenden-Livingston Water District following a main line break on U.S. 60 just west of Marion. The order affects customers from the intersection of KY 1668 (Crittenden Springs Road) to Country Club Drive.

Residents in that area likely experienced little or no water pressure Tuesday afternoon. Crews expect to complete repairs soon, but the boil order will remain in place until lifted by the district. If no further complications are encountered, that should be sometime Thursday.

Burn Ban Issued for Crittenden County

Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom issued a countywide burn ban Monday, citing dry conditions, low humidity and an increased risk of wildfires.

The executive order, effective Sept. 8, prohibits all outdoor burning under authority of KRS 149.401. That statute allows counties to restrict open burning during periods of extraordinary wildfire hazard and provides for misdemeanor penalties if violated.

The ban means residents and visitors must refrain from burning yard debris, household waste, campfires, bonfires or other outdoor fires. Even open-pit cooking or grilling could fall under the restriction. The order will remain in effect until lifted by public notice.

Newcom urged compliance for the safety and protection of property and natural resources. A similar ban was issued almost to the day last year, underscoring the recurring fire danger during late-summer dry spells.

Lyon County Sheriff Activity

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF’S WEEKLY REPORT

On Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025, just before 3 p.m., Sheriff Brent White was patrolling in Kuttawa when he observed a 2010 Volkswagen Jetta with unique characteristics that had previously been reported as a suspicious vehicle in the same area. Sheriff White followed the vehicle until it stopped at the end of Old Kuttawa Road.

Upon contact with the driver, she was identified as Amanda D. Hammons, 42, of Princeton. It was determined she was in possession of marijuana. A search of her vehicle revealed methamphetamine, more marijuana, pills and drug paraphernalia. Hammons was also the subject of two outstanding warrants for her arrest. She was arrested and charged with the following offenses:

• Possession of Marijuana

• Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Methamphetamine)

• Drug Paraphernalia – Possession

• Possession of Controlled Substance, 2nd Degree – Drug Unspecified

• Contempt of Court – Arrest Warrant – Hopkins County

• Failure to Appear – Bench Warrant – Shelby County

Hammons was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, at 2:15 p.m., Hannah L. Knight, 25, of Eddyville, came to the Sheriff’s Office to have her vehicle inspected. During the inspection process, a deputy noticed the overwhelming smell of marijuana in the vehicle. Numerous marijuana cigarettes were observed inside. Knight was charged with possession of marijuana by Chief Deputy Sam Adams.

On Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, around 12:45 p.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams served a Lyon District Court bench warrant for failure to appear in a DUI-related case upon Justice M. Cordova, 31, of Salem. Cordova remains lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, around 8:45 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams served a Lyon District Court bench warrant on Jennifer Duff, 46, of Marion. Duff failed to appear in court to satisfy a traffic citation. She was also served with a criminal summons from Crittenden District Court for theft by deception. Duff later posted a cash bond and was released from custody.

Later that same day, around 2 p.m., the assistant manager of a business off KY 293 reported a suspicious vehicle driving around the property and later pulling up behind a building, which was not normal. The vehicle’s registration plate number was documented, and the Sheriff’s Office was notified. Chief Deputy Adams was dispatched to investigate and identified the driver as Emily Tucker, 52, of Princeton.

During the investigation, it was determined Tucker had been to the property on two previous occasions when it was closed and stole scrap metal, which she later sold. Tucker was charged with criminal trespassing, 3rd degree, and theft by unlawful taking ($500 to less than $1,000).

On Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, just before 9:30 p.m., Deputy Shannon Oliver served a Lyon Circuit Court bench warrant on James Martin, 35, formerly of Kuttawa. The warrant charged Martin with a probation violation for a felony offense. He was extradited from New Hampshire back to Kentucky. His original conviction was for wanton endangerment, 1st degree. Martin was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

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Ethics & Elections groups meet separately Tuesday

The newly organized Marion-Crittenden County Code of Ethics Board will meet at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 at the County Office Complex. 

On the agenda will be election of officers, approval of financial disclosure forms and setting of 2026 meeting dates. 

The joint city-county board consist of appointees Susan Yarbrough, Dan Wood and Mickey Alexander.

Separately, Crittenden County Board of Elections will hold a special meeting at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9 at the County Office Complex. The primary purpose of the meeting is to consider a precinct boundary change. Also on the agenda will be approval of previous meeting minutes and discussion of the sheriff’s 2026 appointee and upcoming election calendar dates.

Customer appreciation deal starts today

These deals and more at
EarlyBirdKy.com

For more than just great furniture and appliances, Johnson’s has built its reputation on trust and long-lasting relationships with its customers. To say “thank you” for that loyalty, the store is rolling out a special sale designed exclusively for its returning customers.

From Sept. 5-13, Johnson’s Furniture & Appliances will host its Loyalty Customer Sale, giving current customers an extra reason to shop local. During this weeklong event, Johnson’s is covering the sales tax, which means shoppers receive a 6% discount on any purchase throughout the store.

Whether you’re looking to update your living room with a new sofa, replace an outdated refrigerator, or find the perfect finishing touches for your home, the savings apply across the showroom floor.

“Johnson’s has always been about community and family,” the business said. “This sale is one way we can give back to the customers who continue to choose us for their homes year after year.”

Customers are encouraged to shop early for the best selection during the Sept. 5-13 sale. More information is available at johnsonsfurn.com.

Hidden in Plain Sight | Energy-Producing Landmark

CONNECTING THE DOTS

Smithland Dam has been generating hydroelectric power for less than a decade, but its legacy has shaped our region for generations. From Marion’s fire department, built largely with proceeds from the city’s stake in the project, to Riverview Park, created after Dam 50’s removal to make way for Smithland Dam, the dam’s reach extends deep into Crittenden and Livingston counties. Today, its influence continues through recreation, jobs, tax revenue, and local infrastructure. A group of area leaders toured the hydro-electric portion of the dam last week and The Press went along. Read the full story in the Sept. 4 edition of The Crittenden Press.

Furnish Your Home Now | Pay As You Go

These deals and more at
EarlyBirdKy.com

Whether you’re moving into a new place or simply freshening up your living space, National Home Furnishings has affordable options to help you get started right away. With weekly payment plans and no credit hassles, it’s never been easier to create the home you’ve been dreaming of.

Bedroom suites start at just $29.99 per week, offering stylish, durable furniture to transform your retreat into a restful escape. Living room suites begin at only $19.99 per week, giving your family the comfort and style they deserve without breaking the bank. And for life’s daily essentials, washer and dryer sets are also available starting at $19.99 per week — practical solutions that fit any household budget.

National Home Furnishings offers financing through Snap! Finance, making it simple for customers with no credit or bad credit to get approved. That means more flexibility and less stress when it comes to big purchases.

As winter approaches, the store also helps customers prepare for the road ahead. New tires in several brands and price ranges are in stock now, ensuring safer travel and peace of mind for the season.

Visit National Home Furnishings at 405 Hwy. 62 West in Princeton or 1111 S. Main St. in Madisonville. For details, call (270) 365-7632 or (270) 821-8434. With flexible terms and affordable payments, comfort, convenience and quality are all within reach.

THE SHOW | Produced Weekly at RocketsFootball.com

Rocket Football Coach’s Show is brought to you by local partners and The Crittenden Press. Join Coach Gaige Courtney, host Chris Evans, guest co-host Ethan Dossett and players Gary Hall and Trae Taylor this week to get insight and information about Crittenden County High School Football. For further details, including stats, photos, articles, history, team records and more see RocketsFootball.com.

WHITETAIL PROPERTIES

Mark Williams Land Team

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Curnel Ag

Farmers Bank and Trust Co

Riley Tool and Machine

First United Bank

USA Mortgage, Darrick Myers

Johnson’s Furniture and Appliance

Full Body Fitness Studio Serena Dickerson trainer 

YTG Insurance, Tanner Tabor agent

Frazer Law, Bart Frazer, Cobie Evans

Hodge’s Sports and Apparel

C-Plant Federal Credit Union 

Livingston Hospital | Deaconess

H&H Home and Hardware

Par 4 Plastics

Deer Lakes Golf Course

Beavers Heating and Air

Gilbert Funeral Home

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Loyalty sale at Johnson's Sept. 5-13

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Now's the time to save at Johnson's Furniture & Appliances.

Between Sept. 5-Sept. 13, Johnson's is paying the tax 

on purchases during its Loyalty Customer Sale.

Stop by Johnson's or visit JohnsonsFurn.com for more information.

Firemen on scene of large wildfire

Firefighters from Marion, Salem, Crittenden County’s volunteer departments and Fredonia battled a large field fire Wednesday afternoon on the east side of U.S. 641 near Lilly Dale Road.

The blaze, which started shortly after 4 p.m., quickly spread across grassland and into a cornfield, intensifying the flames. By 5 p.m., crews were still working to bring it under control.

Dry conditions have contributed to the risk, with 34 Kentucky counties currently under burn bans. Officials expect more restrictions to be announced soon.

NESBITT'S | Get ready for hunting season

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Hunting season is just around the corner, and Nesbitt’s Pawn Shop in Marion has everything you need to be ready before opening day. With more than 250 guns in stock, Nesbitt’s offers one of the area’s largest selections of shotguns and rifles, including both new and preowned models.

Fresh arrivals include Charles Daly and Escort semi-automatic shotguns in camo and black, available in 20 gauge and .410. Hunters can also choose from a wide variety of pump and semi-auto shotguns from trusted brands like Remington, Browning, Winchester, Mossberg and Tri Star.

For rifle hunters, Nesbitt’s carries an array of preowned semi-automatic and bolt-action models from names such as Savage, Ruger, Howa, Marlin, Browning, Henry and Diamondback.

In addition to firearms, Nesbitt’s also stocks ammunition and offers layaway plans, so you don’t have to wait until the last minute and settle for less. The shop has been buying, selling and trading since 1986, and remains a trusted local source for hunters gearing up for the season.

Stop by Nesbitt’s Pawn Shop at 200 Sturgis Road in Marion, across from the Ideal convenience store, or visit online at nesbittspawnshop.com.

Chamber Leadership Breakfast Wednesday

Leadership Breakfast will be at 7 a.m., on Wednesday, Sept. 3. Guest speaker will be Supreme Court Justice Shea Nickell, and Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom will provide an update on the new courthouse project. Cost is $15 for breakfast. The event will be at Rocket Arena conference room. RSVP to crittendencountychamber@gmail.com.

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Lyon County Sheriff's Activity

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF’S WEEKLY REPORT

On Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, around 5 a.m., Sheriff Brent White investigated a reported collision in Kuttawa. His investigation revealed a 2020 Volvo VNL driven by Yuvraj Saluja, 22, of Ontario, Canada, sideswiped a parked and unoccupied 2026 Volvo owned by DRD Express of Bartlett, Ill. There were no injuries in the collision.

On Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, around 11:30 a.m., deputies served a Madison District Court bench warrant on Sookie Shreve, 60, of Irvine. She was charged with failure to appear in court and awaits extradition back to Madison County.

On Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, around 1:10 p.m., Sheriff White met with Katharine R. Stacy, 38, of Eddyville, after she drove to the sheriff’s office regarding an unrelated matter being investigated by a deputy who was not on duty at the time. As Sheriff White spoke with Stacy, he suspected she was under the influence of alcohol. After completing her business regarding the unrelated investigation, it was confirmed by surveillance video that Stacy was the sole occupant of her vehicle and had driven to the courthouse. She was administered field sobriety tests and subsequently arrested. Sheriff White charged Stacy with DUI, second offense (aggravating circumstance). She was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, around 5:50 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler responded to a two-vehicle collision on Center Ridge Road. His investigation determined a 2013 Cadillac SRX, driven by Frank N. Daniel, 86, of Madisonville, was westbound on Center Ridge when he met an eastbound 1995 Chevrolet driven by Timothy D. Johnson, 67, of Eddyville. Daniel failed to maintain his lane, resulting in a sideswipe collision. No injuries were reported.

On Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, just after 9 p.m., Deputy Beeler responded to a single-vehicle collision on U.S. 62 West in Kuttawa. His investigation revealed a 2024 Kawasaki EX500 motorcycle driven by Leslie Combs Waide, 56, of Almo, was westbound on U.S. 62 when she collided with a deer. Combs Waide was transported by Lyon County EMS to Baptist Health Paducah for injuries sustained in the collision.

On Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025, just after 9 a.m., Deputy Beeler responded to a single-vehicle collision on Ky. 293 at I-24, Exit 45. His investigation revealed a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Anthony E. Foster, 30, of Brooksville, Fla., exited the eastbound off-ramp and was attempting to cross Ky. 293 and re-enter I-

Security Tighter for Tonight's Football Game

Crittenden County High School announced Friday afternoon that all its students will be admitted free to tonight’s football home opener against Union County, thanks to sponsorship from First United Bank.

The district also detailed new safety measures, including Open Gate security towers at both entrances. Similar to those used at concerts and pro sporting events, the walk-through detectors will be staffed by school personnel, the school resource officer and local law enforcement. Spectators should remove metal objects such as keys and cellphones before entering.

Large bags, sports equipment and unsupervised entry by younger students are prohibited. Elementary students must sit with a parent or guardian, and middle school students must be accompanied by an adult.

Officials noted that security screening may slow entry but emphasized that safety remains the district’s top priority. Sports programs across the region have been exercising greater security since a shooting occurred last Friday night in the parking lot of a high school football game at Mayfield. 

Jailer responds to fiscal court's call to resign

JAILER HAYES'

RESPONSE TO 

FISCAL COURT REQUEST

FOR HER RESIGNATION

To the citizens of Crittenden County, all local and interested parties: Aug. 25, 2025:

I have been advised that without notice to me, the members of the Crittenden County Fiscal Court, specifically Magistrates, Matt Grimes, Chad Thomas, David Belt, Scott Belt, Travis Perryman, Robert Kirby and with the support of Judge Executive Perry Newcom voted to request my resignation as Crittenden County Jailer. I actually attended the August 21, 2025, Fiscal Court meeting and gave my monthly Jailers Report and answered numerous questions. After my report I had obligations that required me to depart from the meeting at 9:30am. I was given no notice of any intention to discuss or vote on a request to ask me to resign, or I would have stayed to address it at that time. I have still not received a written reason for the vote, only a call from the Judge Executive notifying me of the request for my resignation which I respectfully declined.

See the Aug. 28, 2025 edition of 
The Crittenden Press for more details

I was elected by the citizens of Crittenden County in a fair election. I have worked diligently to perform my job to the best of my ability the entire time I have been in office. I can only be removed by an act of the Kentucky General Assembly, and I have no plans to step down.

The atmosphere that Kentucky’s jails operate in today is much different than it was 4 to 5 years ago. The number of State Inmates has dropped dramatically while operational costs have risen at an unprecedented rate. Crittenden County Detention Center is also fighting the water crisis that Marion, Kentucky is currently addressing, ironically starting the week, I won the primary election.  This adds another layer to the financial strain the Detention Center now faces.

The Crittenden County Detention Center was built in 2007. The structure and equipment such as HVAC, locks, fire suppression systems, hot water heaters, kitchen equipment, etc. are aging, therefore causing maintenance costs to rise along with efficiency problems. The water crisis has added to those woes, by putting a strain on the plumbing and other operational systems due to debris in the water.

During the time that I have been Jailer, the jail has been run efficiently, with as little cost to the county as possible. The Jail provides a service that is required by statute, and we are bound to safely and securely incarcerate inmates in a manner that is moral and ethical while providing all life sustaining services. The Crittenden County Detention Center is a leader in the field of Corrections. The fact that you don’t hear much about the jail is a sign of efficiency and cost-effective operation.

I have obtained a grant for new washers and dryers for the facility. I have reached out to the KY DOC to receive surplus inmate uniforms and equipment that has saved the county thousands of dollars. I have obtained a grant for video equipment and software that has allowed for the virtual court appearances of prisoners here and across the state which has saved countless tax dollars on transport costs, while enhancing the security of the court proceedings.  I have also reduced the number of staff at the Detention Center cutting as much as possible to payroll without jeopardizing safety and service.  Staff have taken on additional duties with very little complaint as they are aware of the need to reduce costs.

 I have increased the number of work sites for inmate labor to include the City of Marion, The Marion Water Department, Marion Convenience Center, Victory Garden, Mowing Crew and litter abatement. I have also started the Crittenden Cares Program that has helped with multiple non-profit, city, and county projects that can be completed during the fall and winter months which has helped those agencies save resources that they would have had to spend on labor.

I am an active member of the Kentucky Jailers Association and have been elected by my peers, for the past 2 years, to serve on the KJA Board of Directors. I believe it is important to be at the table discussing the best interests of all Kentucky Jails and representing Crittenden County on a State level while learning from other Jailers and building relationships that I can call on during times of need.

I have repaired the relationship with local law enforcement and the Circuit Clerks Office which was badly damaged when I took office. I have worked as a team player assisting as many agencies as possible every time they call.

We have a great Jail that this county should be proud of. We have a Jail that enriches the community by more than financial gain. We help to change the lives of inmates and their families through effective incarceration.

I don’t work for the County Judge Executive or the Fiscal Court. I work for the people of Crittenden County who elected me to this office. I stand by my record and believe I have effectively done the job the people have elected me to do and that will continue.

I will not be intimidated by political attacks, especially those that are unfounded. I have done and will continue to do the job I was elected to do and distractions such as this will not deter my effective discharge of my legal and Constitutional office. I would suggest that the Fiscal Court and County Judge Executive focus on making life better for our citizens, instead of wasting time playing politics.

I am willing to answer any question any citizen, or the media asks. My door is always open as it has been the entire time that I have been your Crittenden County Jailer.

I want to give my most sincere thanks to everyone who has reached out to support me and to encourage me to stand up to the attempt at intimidation. The community response has been humbling and so appreciated. The support that has been extended to me from the Kentucky Jailers Association and the many Jailers across the State has been amazing.

In closing I want to say that being elected as Crittenden County Jailer has been one of the highlights of my life. It is not an easy job. It is a calling. I am proud of the job I do, and I will continue to do it for as long as the Citizens of Crittenden County will have me.

Sincerely, Athena Hayes, Jailer

Plan your special event at Fohs Hall

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Planning a bridal shower, class reunion or special 

event? Consider holding that event at Fohs Hall.

Fohs Hall, a beautiful 100-year-old cultural arts 

center, is the area's premier special events venue. 

For rental information, contact Elliot West.

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City Council will propse tax rates Wednesday

Marion City Council will hold a special called meeting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at city hall.

On the agenda is first reading of Ordinance 25-15, which sets the city’s 2025 tax levy.

Livingston leaders will discuss solar setbacks

SMITHLAND, Ky. — Solar setbacks will be on the agenda when Livingston County Fiscal Court meets at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26 at the courthouse in Smithland.

Magistrates are expected to give second reading to a solar farm ordinance and discuss earthquake insurance under old business.

The solar ordinance has gained a good bit of attention. Setbacks were originally proposed well beyond the normal scope for such projects. The court will make the final determination of those setbacks during Tuesday’s meeting. A company is exploring a solar farm between Carrsville and Hampton in the northern part of Livingston County.

New business includes the treasurer’s report, annual settlement and $30,000 in EMS claims. The court will also hear committee and department reports on EMS, county transfer stations, the sheriff’s department and the road department, which is considering hiring two Livingston County High School co-op students.

Parks and recreation matters are also on the agenda, including repairs at Roy Ringstaff Ball Field and alterations to the Lady Cardinals’ dugout. Other items for consideration include Octoberfest T-shirt sponsorships, a health board appointment, a Hazmat-1 contract, 2025 tax rates, a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet 80/20 resolution and pressure washing the county office and library building.

A closed session is scheduled under KRS 61.810(1)(f) to discuss personnel matters.