WEST RESPONDS TO BLUEGRASS STATION EXPANSION PROPOSAL
FRANKFORT, KY (Feb. 27, 2024) — The following is a statement issued by Sen. Steve West, R-Paris, regarding the Bluegrass Station project:
“The recent developments surrounding the Bluegrass Station project have ignited a firestorm of concern within our community. As the senator from the 27th District, I stand as a staunch advocate for the interests of Bourbon County residents, and want to make my position crystal clear: I oppose the Bluegrass Station expansion and will not support its inclusion or funding in the Senate's version of the budget.
“Transparency and communication have been glaringly absent throughout this entire process. Like many of you, I became aware of this proposal only when it was disclosed in the Governor’s executive budget. Given the significant impact attached to this project, it's alarming that I hadn’t been provided with sufficient information regarding the allocation of funds or a comprehensive implementation plan.
“The lack of communication and local involvement on crucial matters such as eminent domain and the potential impact on affected property owners is simply unacceptable. The recent decision to abandon the project, as announced by Stephen Collins, director of Bluegrass Station for Kentucky’s Department of Military Affairs, is a direct reflection of the valid concerns raised by Citizens for Bourbon County, affected landowners, and the broader community.
“I will continue to champion transparency, accountability, and community involvement in all discussions and decisions related to the Bluegrass Station expansion.”
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Sen. Steve West, R-Paris, represents the 27th Senate District, including Bourbon, Fleming, Harrison, Mason, Nicholas, Robertson, and Rowan Counties and part of northern Fayette County. He serves as chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Education. West also services as chairman of the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee. Additionally, he is a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture and the Budget Review Subcommittee on Education.