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Bowling Green’s BRADD Appoints New Leadership

Community members gather to discuss the new mental health facility initiative led by BRADD's new leadership.

News Summary

The Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) has elected new leadership, with Joe Choate as the new board chair and Billy Phelps as vice chairman. Their vision includes initiating a mental health drop-in facility to address urgent community needs, inspired by successful models from other cities. This initiative aims to improve mental health services and collaboration among the ten counties in south-central Kentucky. The leadership, committed to positive community improvements, seeks funding for a project projected at $20 million.

Bowling Green Welcomes New Leadership as BRADD Takes Bold Steps Forward

The Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) is buzzing with excitement following the recent election of new leadership to the Board of Directors. The chosen officials are set to serve a two-year term, and they are ready to make waves in the south-central Kentucky area, which includes ten vibrant counties: Warren, Butler, Barren, Hart, Edmonson, Logan, Simpson, Allen, Metcalfe, and Monroe.

Joe Choate Takes the Helm

In a significant move, Joe Choate, the judge-executive of Hart County, has been elected as the new board chair. This is a noteworthy moment as he is only the third individual hailing from Hart County to hold this important position. Since taking office in 2019, Choate has been a staunch advocate for the Area Development District concept and was recognized for his involvement on a statewide board just this year.

Choate has expressed his honor in stepping up as chairman, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among communities and the profound impacts BRADD has made over the years. His predecessors from Hart County include the late Elroy Larimore (1975-77) and Vince Lang (1993-95), both of whom paved the way for leadership in the region.

Growth Under New Leadership

Alongside Choate, Billy Phelps, the mayor of Morgantown, has stepped into the role of vice chairman. He brings a passion for strengthening community ties and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region. The tandem of Choate and Phelps is expected to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to BRADD’s initiatives.

A Legacy Remembered

BRADD’s new leadership comes at a poignant time as they remember the late Gary Dillard, the former chairman who unfortunately passed away last month. Dillard was a figurehead for economic development in Bowling Green and Warren County, dedicated to improving local life through various initiatives. His legacy is set to influence the new board as they navigate future challenges and opportunities.

Mental Health Facility: A Community Game-Changer

This new leadership isn’t just about positions; it’s about action. The recently formed leadership committee of 32 dedicated individuals, including local government officials and law enforcement, has unveiled an ambitious plan for a new mental health drop-in facility in Bowling Green. This facility is designed to tackle urgent mental health crises and substance abuse issues, aiming to ease the pressures faced by law enforcement and the justice system.

In 2023 alone, the Bowling Green Police Department processed over 900 mental health crisis calls, with each call taking approximately 3.5 hours to handle. The forthcoming drop-in center is anticipated to cut response times drastically, improving efficiency and allowing officers to return to their patrols sooner than ever before.

Inspired by Successful Models

Interestingly, this proposed facility draws inspiration from successful models in cities like Nashville and Phoenix but takes it a step further by incorporating substance abuse services. The site for this much-needed facility has already been secured through a generous gift from LifeSkills and is conveniently located near existing medical facilities.

Funding and Support

With an estimated cost of around $20 million, the leadership is currently seeking funding through state legislative appropriations. The project has garnered the support of local and federal lawmakers, including prominent figures like Senators Mitch McConnell and Brett Guthrie. If all goes according to plan, the facility could be up and running within two years, serving the entire ten-county BRADD region.

A New Approach to Mental Health Care

Additionally, to further bolster mental health services, design firm Stengel Hill has been selected to assist in developing the Anchor Project, aimed at serving as an intake center for mental health and substance abuse crises. Funded by the Kentucky General Assembly, this project is expected to be a significant community resource, showcasing a collaborative and transformative approach to mental health care in south-central Kentucky.

Overall, the new leadership at BRADD is gearing up to make meaningful changes, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the lives of those within the community. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, the future looks bright for Bowling Green and the surrounding areas.