Sen. Deneen and Rep. Bratcher Present at March Facility Managers Meeting 

The Elizabethtown-Hardin County Industrial Foundation (EHCIF) thanks Kentucky State Senator Matt Deneen and Kentucky State Representative Steve Bratcher for speaking at our March Facility Managers’ Meeting. During the luncheon, our guests covered a range of topics impacting local industry, workforce development, and legislative initiatives.

EHCIF President & COO Andy Games kicked off the meeting by sharing information about upcoming Facility Managers meetings and acknowledging the hard work of city officials and local businesses in maintaining infrastructure and ensuring community safety. Lisa Slaven, Transition Facilitator at Hardin County Schools also shared information about their annual senior career fair – emphasizing the importance of connecting graduating seniors with local employers. This event aims to provide employment opportunities for students who plan to stay in the region post-graduation. Businesses can participate for free, helping to strengthen the local workforce pipeline.

Legislative Updates & Infrastructure Investments
During his time presenting, Senator Matt Deneen discussed the importance of continued growth in Central Kentucky, noting the region’s high ranking in economic development. He also highlighted key legislative efforts, including:

• Infrastructure Investments: A $30 million allocation for sewer and water line expansions, crucial for business development and housing projects.
• Roadway Improvements: Over $84 million allocated in a two-year road plan, with $401 million earmarked for the next six years to accommodate population and industrial growth.
• Workforce Shortages: Bills aimed at expanding workforce training and addressing critical labor gaps in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
• Economic Development Initiatives: Establishing a Kentucky Film Office to attract movie productions and enhance tourism, along with Senate Bill 28, which supports agricultural and manufacturing growth.

Support for Skilled Trades & Housing Initiatives
Representative Steve Bratcher also reinforced Congresses’ commitment to bridging workforce gaps, particularly in healthcare and technical fields. Key takeaways from his discussion included:

• Military Transition Programs: Efforts to streamline certification processes for military medics and technicians transitioning to civilian careers.
• Career & Technical Education Expansion: Enhancements to vocational training, dual-credit programs, and financial incentives like KEES scholarships being made available for technical education for a period of up to five years post-graduation.
• Affordable Housing Initiatives: Proposed increases to the First-Time Homebuyers Trust Fund to address the region’s housing crisis.

Both Sen. Deneen and Rep. Bratcher concluded their remarks by thanking those in attendance, sharing their contact information, and reiterating the importance of constituent feedback and collaboration.

The next Facility Managers Meeting is set for April 17. For more information, or if interested in attending, please contact the Elizabethtown-Hardin County Industrial Foundation at 270-737-0300.