KENTUCKY COUNCIL OF

AREA DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS

From the Executive Director's Desk


After sine die on April 15, the KCADD Legislative Committee and I felt a collective sigh of relief. The dedication of the committee members was instrumental to our success this year. I sincerely appreciate their commitment to frequent trips to Frankfort to meet with me, ADD executive directors and staff, legislators, and others throughout the session. I'm pleased to report significant progress in achieving our legislative priorities for the 2024 session. We secured vital funding and policy advancements that align with our mission to drive community-based solutions.

This progress would not have been possible without the unwavering support and teamwork of everyone involved. Members of the Legislative Committee worked diligently, promoting open communication and building solid partnerships. Their strategic efforts ensured that we secured $3,984,000 for the Joint Funding Administration, fully funded in the biennial budget, while also obtaining an additional $800,000 for KIA to help restore our contract levels to previous years. We successfully obtained the entire $10 million requested for aging services, and the $10,050,300 sought for the ombudsman program was allocated in full. A significant $20 million was also granted for workforce development.

This collective achievement demonstrates the power of teamwork and reinforces our dedication to championing community needs through effective legislative advocacy.

Moving forward, my team and I will partner with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to help ensure the success of House Bill 723, known as the Government Resources Accelerating Needed Transformation (GRANT) Program of 2024. With $200 million allocated to the program, local governments and nonprofits seeking essential federal funding can have confidence knowing that matching funds are available to provide support. 

On April 26, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the East Kentucky Leadership Conference. Alongside Karen Fabiano from ARC, Colby Hall from SOAR, Sandi Curd from Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation, and Peter Hille from Mountain Association, we participated in the Rapid Response Luncheon. Our discussion primarily focused on the GRANT Program, and you can expect further updates in the coming days.

While celebrating our legislative successes, we're excited to announce Lance Hanshaw's appointment as Executive Director of the FIVCO ADD. A Rowan County native and former FIVCO Chief Financial Officer, Lance most recently served as Director of Administration for the Northern Kentucky ADD. He brings invaluable knowledge and expertise to this new role, and I'm sure you'll join me in congratulating him and welcoming him to this position.

On April 17, Molly and I traveled to Elizabethtown for the 56th Annual Meeting of the Lincoln Trail ADD (LTADD) Board of Directors. During the event, Marion County Judge/Executive and KCADD Board Member David Daughtery received the Palmer A. "Pete" Peterson Memorial Award, given each year to an LTADD Board of Directors member who exemplifies regional spirit and public service dedication. Congratulations to David on this well-deserved achievement!

As we move into the summer months, our work doesn't slow down. In fact, we're energized to continue advancing our goals and initiatives. We're focusing on expanding our community outreach and strengthening our partnerships to create an even greater impact. Your ongoing support and dedication remain vital as we navigate this busy and productive season together.


Casey Ellis

Executive Director

Kentucky Council of Area Development Districts

Kentucky Association of District Directors

Hanshaw named executive director of FIVCO

Set to assume duties May 13


The FIVCO Area Development District is proud to announce the appointment of Lance Hanshaw as its new Executive Director. Born in Rowan County and raised in Olive Hill in Carter County, Hanshaw brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the region as he steps into this pivotal leadership role.

Hanshaw, a graduate of Morehead State University with a bachelor's degree and Liberty University with a master's degree, has been a key figure in the Area Development Districts for nearly a decade. He began his tenure as FIVCO's Chief Financial Officer before moving to the Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD), where he served as Director of Administration. His unwavering dedication to fostering sustainable economic growth at both organizations has equipped him with the skills to excel in his new role.

"Lance has worked his way up through the ranks of the Area Development District system," said interim FIVCO Executive Director Sherry McDavid. "His expertise in finance and administration at both FIVCO and NKADD has given him the skill set necessary to be a positive, effective executive director. I expect FIVCO to continue to grow and flourish under Lance's leadership. We welcome him back home to northeast Kentucky where he will be able to use his knowledge to enhance the quality of life in our region."

"Lance has been a key member of the NKADD senior leadership team during his time here, serving as a trusted advisor on financial and administrative matters," said Tara Johnson-Noem, NKADD Executive Director. "While we will miss his contributions locally, I am encouraged that he will now be in a leadership role in his home region and also supporting our statewide network of ADDs through the Kentucky Association of District Directors."

With Hanshaw's appointment as Executive Director, the FIVCO Area Development District is poised to continue its mission of delivering meaningful, community-driven results through strategic planning, collaboration, and advocacy.

"I am honored to have been chosen to lead the FIVCO Area Development District," Hanshaw said. "Having grown up here, I am deeply invested in our communities and the people who call this region home. I look forward to building on our shared vision for sustainable growth and working together to unlock the full potential of the FIVCO region."

Hanshaw will officially assume the executive director duties May 13.

ADDs in the News

Governor cuts ribbon at Pikeville Senior Center


From the Appalachian News-Express


Gov. Andy Beshear traveled to Pike County to participate in a formal ribbon cutting ceremony for the Pikeville Senior Citizens Center April 9. 

Big Sandy Area Development District Executive Director Eric Ratliff wrote and administered the $1.5 million CDBG grant for the project, which accounted for most of the project total of around $2.2 million. Continue reading.

BRADD meets for annual discussion of legislative session


From WNKY


Every year after the legislative session in Frankfort, local legislators get together and give a presentation of what the session looked like.

On April 29, magistrates, mayors and city commissioners got together with legislators for updates on the recent 60-day session. 

This year, a top priority for south-central Kentucky was a mental health facility, and legislators brought home $20 million for capital construction. Continue reading.

Pennyrile to hold annual dinner in June


From the Kentucky New Era


The Pennyrile Area Development District will hold its 5th Annual Dinner Meeting at the Bruce Convention Center on Monday, June 10. The reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner and meeting will begin at 6 p.m. This year’s theme is “A Journey Through the Pennyrile,” where guests will explore the activities and ongoing advancements in the region. Continue reading.


Task force hopes to provide child care solutions for area workers


From The News-Enterprise


It’s a decades-long, complex problem without an easy solution but regional leaders are attempting to help families have access to affordable child care in area communities.

Following the completion of a Childcare Economic Impact Study, the Lincoln Trail Area Development District shared its results with local stakeholders to include industry leaders, government officials and others and formed a task force for its next steps in tackling the issue.

“We brought together folks to talk about this problem and we had local businesses, large companies step up and say, ‘Hey, this is a big problem for us. We will help fund this study,’ ” LTADD Executive Director Daniel London said of the $46,000 study. “They all contributed because this is a real problem and they want to see a real solution.” Continue reading.

Buffalo Trace ADD encourages internet survey participation in Lewis County


From The Lewis County Herald


Buffalo Trace Area Development District, in partnership with Lewis County Fiscal Court, is conducting a survey of Lewis County residents to help identify what barriers prevent people from accessing and/or using the internet. 

Funds have been made possible by Connect Humanity to conduct this study. Information collected will be useful in determining what actions can be taken to assist residents with accessing and using the internet. Continue reading.

GADD senior center sites to distribute farmers’ market vouchers


Gateway Area Development District’s (GADD) Bath, Menifee, Morgan, and Rowan County senior sites are gearing up to begin distribution of Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition (SFMNP) vouchers on June 3, 2024. 

To be eligible for the farmers’ market voucher card, you must reside in the county in which you are applying in (proof must be presented), be 60 years of age or older (proof must be presented) and meet specified income limits. Additional information can be found on the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s website. Those who qualify will receive a voucher card totaling $50. Continue reading.

What's Happening in Your Area Development District?

NKADD partners with local governments for launch of NKY Works


In partnership with Be NKY Growth Partnership, Boone County Government, Campbell County Government, and Kenton County Government, the Northern Kentucky Area Development District recently announced NKY Works. NKY Works is a collective impact initiative, is dedicated to cultivating a workforce that is enthusiastic, prepared, and capable of filling and retaining quality jobs across all sectors of Northern Kentucky’s economy. 

Lake Cumberland ADD hosts Judges Roundtable


The Lake Cumberland Area Development District hosted the Spring Judges Roundtable Tuesday, April 30, with great participation. State Rep. Shane Baker served as guest speaker. 

City of Paris marks significant milestone with assistance from BGADD


The City of Paris marked a significant milestone April 29, with the hosting of a groundbreaking ceremony for its upcoming Waste Transfer Station. The event featured speeches by various dignitaries, including local officials, Gov. Andy Beshear, and EPA Region 4 Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. Funding for the project is sourced from a $2 million CDBG, a $1.5 million allocation from the General Assembly, and local contributions. Bob Casher of the Bluegrass Area Development District authored Paris’s CDBG, with Logan Hart overseeing its administration. 


GRADD celebrates groundbreaking for Habitat for Humanity neighborhood


Gov. Andy Beshear was in Daviess County on April 8, for the groundbreaking of a new ten-home Habitat for Humanity Neighborhood. The Daviess County Fiscal Court and Habitat for Humanity were awarded a $1 million CDBG to fund the construction of infrastructure for the neighborhood. Green River Area Development District staff wrote the CDBG grant application for the project. 

CVADD talks federally-funded projects with Kentucky Heritage Council Site Protection team


Representatives from the Cumberland Valley Area Development District recently met with Kentucky Heritage Council Site Protection team members to discuss ways to streamline the review process for federally-funded projects throughout the Commonwealth. (Photo courtesy of the Kentucky Heritage Council)

KRADD hosts Senior Games


The Kentucky River Area Development District hosted the Senior Games pool, putt-putt, and horseshoe tournament May 2, for area senior citizens. 


Recap: SouthEast Regional Directors Institute

Executive directors and staff members from Kentucky's Area Development Districts attended the 2024 SouthEast Regional Directors Institute (SERDI) Annual Professional Development Conference and New Directors Training in Bentonville, Arkansas, April 21-24.

Joanna Shake, Executive Director of Green River Area Development District and SERDI Council of Peers member, facilitated a breakout session for "New Executive Directors."

Tara Johnson-Noem, Executive Director of Northern Kentucky Area Development District, presented during a panel on "Partnering with Philanthropy…Moving Regional Solutions Forward" and spoke at a presentation titled "Housing Has Become the Regional Issue…What Roles Are Regional Councils Playing to Address?"

Eric Sexton, Executive Director of Barren River Area Development District and SERDI Treasurer, participated in a rotating table discussion on "A Social Life and Professional Life…So Different…Relationship with Board Members…Changing Dynamics of Society/Workplace."

SERDI is a professional development association for regional council executive directors and, where appropriate, their councils and state associations in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

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