HOPKINS CO., KY (WFIE) -
Companies looking for timber in Hopkins County may soon have to register with the county.
The fiscal court has approved the first reading of a new logging ordinance.
Since the ice storm swept through Hopkins County about three years ago, residents are still dealing with damaged or diseased trees, making their property a hot commodity for logging companies.
"If they do not have their timber logged, then they're losing money," said Public Works Director Jeff Browning.
But Browning says often times these trucks carrying heavy timber are from outside the county, leaving their roads damaged on their way in and out.
"Cost the county a lot of money, and by the time we got caught up with them, they were loaded up and gone," Browning said.
Now the county has put together an ordinance to keep companies accountable for any damage.
"Basically, all we're asking is register where we know where you're at, how long you're going to be there and then maybe let us help you with a route to have less damage on county roads which will help in the long run for all the taxpayers," Browning said.
There are penalties for anyone who doesn't comply. 1st time offenders will face a $100 fine, $500 for the second time, and finally, a one year suspension of logging privileges for a third offense.
"We're trying to walk a thin line between business friendly and save our roads," said Browning.
Browning says if passed, they plan to make the registration process easy for everyone.
"We're going to put it on our website. We're going to have it easily accessible where they can register then we'll meet with them and discuss the best routes and best options for them and the county," Browning said.
A final vote is expected on the ordinance on August 21. If passed, officials say it will take effect immediately.
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Now the county has put together an ordinance to keep companies accountable for any damage.
