By JIM BROOKS
Nelson County Gazette / WBRT Radio
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 — The Bardstown City Council took time at the start of the meeting Tuesday night to honor Bardstown Firefighter Capt. Trevor Mattingly.
Mattingly, following his served as a city firefighter, is retiring. Mayor Dick Heaton read a proclamation honoring Mattingly for his dedication to keeping the city safe and being a leader among the fire department members.
HAMILTON HONORED. Heaton also took time to honor Bardstown resident Stephen Hamilton who has served on the Bardstown Housing Authority board for more than 25 years.
Heaton noted that Stephen Hamilton was the third member of his family who had devoted their time and energy to help the City of Bardstown. Hamilton’s father, John Hamilton, served as a member of the city council’; Hamilton’s brother, Larry Hamilton, worked for the city as engineer.
MISS KENTUCKY’S TEEN 2026. Heaton also honored Laken Blanford of Bardstown, a teen who was crowned Miss Kentucky’s Teen in June. Blanford expressed her appreciation to the large number of businesses and community members who supported her in her journey.
DONATION REQUESTS. Four groups applied for financial grants from the City of Bardstown to assist them in the service to the community.
The Nelson County Community Clinic was approved to receive a $10,000 grant.
The Bardstown-Nelson County African-American History Museum received $3,000 to assist with work at the museum as it grows in popularity.
The council approved a $9,000 donation to the Old Bardstown Village to help with maintenance and mowing of the site.
CASA of Lincoln Trail was approved for a $5,000 grant. Formerly known as NELCASA, the group is working to recruit more volunteers.
In other business, the council:
— approved street closures on Thanksgiving Day for the New Life Center’s annual 5k walk/run event.
NEXT UP. The Bardstown City Council next meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026.
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