County Talk

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 14 - District 7 - Magistrate Brad Groce Dec 02, 2025

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District 7 Magistrate Brad Groce joins Judge Byrd to talk about solving drainage issues, replacing tiles, and repairing major structures like the Siddens Road Bridge. Brad also shares the impressive progress made at Jackie Browning Park—new parking, lighting, shade, handicap access, restroom upgrades, and a new 50%-grant-funded playground. They discuss improved snow-and-ice coverage through contractor partnerships and ongoing work at Red Cross fields. This episode highlights Brad’s focus on quality of life, neighborhood access, and community recreation.

Ep. 13 - District 6 - Magistrate Ronnie Stinson Dec 02, 2025

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District 6 Magistrate Ronnie Stinson sits down with Judge Byrd to explore the opportunities and challenges in Park City and Cave City—two communities positioned for major growth along I-65 and Mammoth Cave National Park. Ronnie discusses heavily traveled routes like Old Mumfordsville Road and Dripping Springs, as well as collaboration with city governments and state partners on infrastructure projects. The episode also details progress in emergency management, including acquiring a large facility for EM, dive team, and coroner operations. It’s an encouraging look at a district on the rise.

Ep. 12 - District 5 - Magistrate Marty Kinslow Dec 02, 2025

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Judge Byrd welcomes District 5 Magistrate Marty Kinslow for a deep dive into budgeting, road improvements, and employee investment. Marty shares how the first year was spent learning the system—and how the following years brought major strides in employee pay, health benefits, CDL incentives, and competitive retention. They talk about paving key connector roads like Young Road and Millstown, introducing chip seal to stretch the road budget further, and lowering the tax rate while nearly doubling road spending. This episode highlights thoughtful leadership and disciplined financial management.

Ep. 11 - District 4 - Magistrate Tim Coomer Dec 02, 2025

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In this episode, District 4 Magistrate Tim Coomer walks listeners through the transformation of the Barren County Road Department. Judge Byrd and Tim cover major facility upgrades, the addition of essential equipment like the pothole patcher and mower max, expanded salt storage, new fuel systems, and a refreshed vehicle fleet. They also discuss key bridge and road projects—Siddons Bridge, Matthews Mill Road, Davidson Road, Rick Road—and the introduction of chip seal resurfacing. This conversation shows how strategic planning and efficient equipment can dramatically improve service across the county.

Ep. 10 - District 3 - Magistrate Tim Durham Dec 02, 2025

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District 3 Magistrate Tim Durham joins the show to discuss one of the busiest, most water-impacted districts in Barron County.

He and Judge Byrd talk through major projects like Ritter’s Mill, Happy Holler Loop, and multiple culvert and storm-response repairs. Tim gives honest insight into navigating citizen expectations, understanding the scale of county infrastructure, and serving a district with 167 road miles.

The episode also highlights his hands-on work with the jail committee and the importance of learning from other counties. It’s a transparent look at both the challenges and the progress in District 3.

Ep. 9 - District 2 - Magistrate Derek Pedigo Dec 02, 2025

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District 2 Magistrate Derek Pedigo joins Judge Byrd to talk about the heavy infrastructure demands of one of Barren County’s largest districts.

Derek shares the story behind major road projects such as Beech Tree Lane, Matthews Mill, Peters Creek, and Bertram Road, as well as key flood-damaged areas now approved for FEMA repair. T

he conversation also highlights critical equipment upgrades—like the mower max, hot box, and total patcher—and the recent renovation of the county road department facility. If you’ve wondered what it takes to maintain miles of roadway and farmland routes, this episode gives you a clear, on-the-ground view.

Ep. 8 - District 1 - Magistrate Jeff Botts Dec 02, 2025

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In this episode Judge-Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd sits down with District 1 Magistrate Jeff Botts to discuss the major improvements happening across Barren County.

Jeff reflects on efforts to increase employee pay, strengthen retention, and modernize how raises and evaluations are handled. He also highlights the major upgrades to county buildings, including the coroner’s office, EMS/sheriff facility, and the Development Center. From improving road department operations to boosting employee morale, this episode offers an inside look at the foundational work that keeps our county moving forward.

Ep. 7 - Regional Indoor Sports Complex Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

Investing in Our Future: Why Barren County Needs a Regional Indoor Sports Complex

Barren County is on the verge of something game-changing—not just for our youth, but for our local economy, community, and region. In Episode 7 of County Talk, Judge Executive Jamie Byrd shares a passionate, in-depth look at the proposed indoor sports complex and the vision behind it.

This project isn’t just about building a gym. It’s about creating opportunity.

Youth across Barren County and neighboring counties lack access to adequate training and tournament spaces. From volleyball and archery to soccer, tennis, and pickleball, this multi-sport facility will provide high-quality, year-round spaces for development, competition, and community events.

Here’s why it matters:

Kids first – Our students deserve better. Many drive to Bowling Green just to play on a team or practice. This facility brings those opportunities home.
Local business boost – Tournaments drive tourism. Think hotels, restaurants, and retail—all seeing a lift.
A regional resource – Counties like Metcalfe, Monroe, and Green are already on board with their support. This is bigger than just Barren.
Economic development – A quality-of-life upgrade like this helps attract restaurants, housing developments, and yes—more jobs.
No local tax dollars (yet) – This phase is funded through state-allocated design money, not local taxes. The aim is to secure state funding and private partnerships, including naming rights and grants.

Jamie reminds us: “If we want our kids off the streets and onto courts, fields, and stages where they can grow, lead, and belong—this is how we do it.”

The future of Barren County could be shaped inside those walls.

Ep. 6 - Building Trust Through Transparency May 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of County Talk, Judge Executive Jamie Byrd provides an in-depth and transparent update on the recent state audit of Barren County. She shares behind-the-scenes challenges, improvements made since taking office, and how her team is working hard to build better systems, financial accountability, and trust.

In Episode 6 of County Talk, Judge Executive Jamie Byrd opens the books—literally—and shares the story behind Barren County’s most recent state audit. From a surprise staff transition just days into office to systemic issues inherited from previous administrations, this episode is a candid look at the challenges and victories in local government.

Judge Byrd outlines how her administration responded to audit findings with action: improving internal controls, updating reporting processes, educating staff, and restructuring budgets to ensure sustainability. She also addresses how public trust is earned through honest reflection and bold leadership.

This episode is more than numbers—it’s a blueprint for how local government can evolve and improve in real time.

Ep.5 - Parks and Rec Update May 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of County Talk, Judge Executive Jamie Byrd sits down with Parks and Rec Director Chris Jennings to talk about how Barren County is handling weather setbacks, protecting investments in local sports, and celebrating the exciting renovations at Jackie Browning Park. From field science to youth sports and community pride—this is an inside look at what it takes to keep kids on the field and in the game.

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