Even now, the memory of former Kentucky governor Edward “Ned” Breathitt stirs and breathes in his native Hopkinsville and Christian County.
So it seemed fitting Tuesday morning at Christian County Fiscal Court that it came down to a passionate discussion about the use of taxpayer funds and honoring his legacy — before magistrates voted 5-3 in favor of allotting $12,500 of the county’s general fund to the long-running bronze statue project.
Speaking on behalf of the family, former County Attorney Mike Foster illustrated the need for Breathitt’s honor by noting there’s no great piece of public art for the late and beloved legislator — who during his one term from 1963-67 not only helped bolster Christian County and its cities, but also pushed civil rights in the Commonwealth.
Breathitt’s legacy was never questioned Tuesday. Even in dissent, his history and efforts were lauded by magistrates Jerry Gilliam, Phillip Peterson and Magaline Ferguson — all of which voted against the measure.
Gilliam commended the family and its arms of support for raising the funds to this point, and even noted he’d personally donate money to the cause. However, he found the move to be unwise for the county, due to timing of inflation and rising gasoline prices alongside the stewardship of taxes.
Peterson agreed that Breathitt’s history needed to be more permanent in Christian County, and structurally visible, but said county officials were responsible for infrastructure and public safety — not art.
Ferguson said her constituents were also concerned about timing and cost.
Strongly in favor, Magistrate Rich Leibe noted it wasn’t unusual for public/private partnerships such as these, and that the cost of the project unfortunately surged during its two-year hiatus through a pandemic. He also believes Breathitt’s personal story should be something the county helps promote, and that as a taxpayer himself, he’s fine with a small portion of taxes going to this cause.
Magistrate Mark Wells said the county was blessed with its strong budget because of the Pennyrile Parkway, something Breathitt played a large part in procuring.
Judge-Executive Steve Tribble didn’t end up having to cast a tie-breaking vote, but did recommend it on the basis not just because of Breathitt’s memory, but also because of recent fiscal court precedent. He compared this decision to the one made two months ago regarding Revolutionary War veteran plots being preserved forever with county funds.
The discussion of municipal funds being used for this statue has been a hot topic in recent weeks. Last Thursday, a motion failed to leave the floor from the Committee of the Whole for Hopkinsville City Council — in what potentially would’ve been another $12,500 for the project.
The Breathitt family and its supporters have already raised more than $120,000 in public and private funds for the $170,000 design — which will be crafted by Breathitt’s accomplished son and artisan, Edward T. III, and installed near the Christian County Courthouse and historic Alhambra Theatre.
