Nearly two dozen businesses in Hopkinsville saw a large increase in business license fees and they are not happy. Agriculture leaders and related industries addressed Hopkinsville City Council about the issue Tuesday night.
H&R Agri-Power Owner, Wayne Hunt says he was surprised by the bill, which covers his operations across six states.
click to download audioFarmer and Business owner, Philip Garnett says he and others work hard to invest in the community and the 22 businesses on the list are having sticker shock.
click to download audioThe city removed the $10,000 cap on the occupational license tax, which is based on the net profits of a business, as of January of 2023. A change reflected on the most recent tax bills sent out by the city.
Krusteaz Plant Manager, Kevin Maynard says they also say an increase – of 1,400% – which comes at an inopportune time for the larger company.
click to download audioFarmer, Brandon Garnett says the Christian County Agriculture Committee conducted a study several years ago to look at agriculture in the county and, even though it did not include things like produce sales, it was a large impact.
click to download audioKY Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell joined the group and encouarged the City to look at the impact as well as the quality and commitment of the agriculture community.
click to download audioCity Councilman, Travis Martin moved to form a committee, including those to address council, to discuss a solution. Councilman Steve Keel amended the motion to include small business commission members. After a discussion about including all 22 businesses affected by the cap removal, the issue was added to the business list.
