In July 31 - Aug. 6 issue
By Kim Graham
Times Journal Reporter

LILY CREEK RESORT - “We need y'all to be citizens of Jamestown,” said Jamestown Mayor Brooks Bates at a meeting with Lily Creek Homeowners Association.

“Business Week recognized us as an outstanding town in Kentucky. We have a lot to offer.”

The meeting, held Saturday at the clubhouse at the Links at Lily Creek, was an initial discussion regarding the possible annexation of Lily Creek subdivision by the City of Jamestown.

Mayor Bates and city attorney Kevin Shearer presented proposed city property tax rates of $16.90 per $1,000 of property value.

“I don’t have a problem with paying (increased taxes) but I want to see something put back into our community,” said Brian Cooper, President Lily Creek Homeowners Association.

Cooper says there are serious problems with upkeep of the roads in the subdivision.
“We’ve been told (paving) would be done and it has not,” said Cooper. “Time is dwindling to get blacktop done.”

Mayor Bates said the city will do everything possible to support the community. He said with annexation of Lily Creek, the city would put up street lights throughout the neighborhood.

Lily Creek property owners would gain fire and police protection from the city with annexation and avoid possible fees for those services in the future.

“We’re going to have to look at charging a subscription for fire protection (outside the city limits),” said Mayor Bates. “With the price of diesel fuel and equipment it’s becoming harder all the time.”

Homeowners would also benefit from lower fees for water and sanitation services.

The additional tax revenue on an estimated $10 million total property value in Lily Creek subdivision stands to bring a substantial increase to city coffers.

Mayor Bates said planning for city annexation of property is in initial stages but he is confident of the benefits.

 “I think it would be a positive for the community,” Mayor Bates said.