Opinions clash at Warren County magistrate town hall; candidates debate hot topics – traffic, zoning and more

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Candidates Ron Cummings, Kelcey Rock and Shawn Helbig spent a couple hours this evening answering district 6’s hottest questions about zoning and traffic.

Controversial opinions flew right away, with the traffic concerns that kicked off the meeting.

While Cummings says traffic is not that big an issue in Warren County besides two specific periods of the day, his contenders, especially Helbig say the problem is real, and that growth in the north and road expansion are the keys to change.

Rock says the real solution lies in planning to a tee before construction.

Cummings was immediately met with blame from his contenders about the way growth has changed the area.

Next, the candidates answered zoning concerns – a hot button topic for many gathered there at Chaney’s. 

Former Warren County magistrate Robert Donoho said, “I’d just like to see a little more policing in the development that’s going on, especially for the county. Our roads are not adequate. Our county roads are not adequate to keep up with development. You’ve got the cart before the horse so to speak.” 

Opinions couldn’t differ more here, when Helbig said the county should lock in the Future Land Usage Map, or FLUM, regulating proposed changes to designated times. 

Rock disagreed, saying the FLUM shouldn’t be restricted. Instead, he believes additions must meet this criteria: Does it add value to surroundings, does it fit with its surroundings and does make sense?

Cummings said the public should trust planning and zoning with these matters. 

Tensions mounted when candidates talked about relationships between the public and the magistrates – each one insisting that their connection can affect more change for good.

The challengers also accused fiscal court of not being transparent enough with residents, publishing their agendas at the last minute and holding their meetings in the mornings when it’s hard for people to attend. 

This is all far from over, though. News 40 will keep you updated on the road to Warren County’s next magistrate.