By Becky Killian, Staff Writer

County officials heard about an incident involving law enforcement at the Hardinsburg ballpark last week. The discussion was held during the Tuesday, May 7, meeting of the Washington County Board of Commissioners.

Kristy Pavey, a parent of a ballplayer, said the scheduled game was cancelled shortly before its start due to predicted inclement weather and the gate to the field was locked. The opposing team had already arrived when the decision was made to cancel the game. Since the players were present, they held a practice. Pavey said at some point, the gate was unlocked, but she didn’t know who unlocked it. The practice ended when deputies arrived to remove the players and parents from the ballpark.

Commissioner Todd Ewen told Pavey the locks are needed to prevent vandals on four-wheelers from accessing and damaging the field. Pavey said she understands the need to lock the gate used for vehicle access; however, she believes the ballpark’s pedestrian access should remain open.

Pavey said parents of the players have been “shut out” from interacting with the board responsible for the ballpark. When parents express interest in participating with the appointed board, they are ignored.

Commission President Phillip Marshall said the commissioners have been advised by their attorney to develop rules concerning access to the ballpark. He said the county is responsible for the park – as well as for paying to repair any damage from vandals. He assured Pavey that commissioners are working on a solution.

Other matters discussed during the meeting included:
*Anthony Green, of Livonia, complained that the town’s Council refused to allow him to establish a medical taxi business out of his house. He said the Council overlooks the business conducted at his neighbor’s house. Commissioners said they have no jurisdiction over the town and advised him to hire an attorney.
*County Highway Superintendent Jason Clodfelter said his department has started mowing and expects to begin paving in early June.
*Commissioners approved a payment of up to $5,100 to have a company update the county’s ordinance book.
*Commissioners approved amending the county’s budget to accept a $97,958 Community Development Block Grant.