UPDATE: Rob Richardson has officially announced his candidacy for a second term on the Frankfort Board of Commissioners. Just two years into his first term, Richardson believes he has only scratched the surface of his potential impact on the community.
“I have discovered that serving as an elected official has given me better insight into the scope of all city operations,” Richardson stated during his announcement earlier today. He emphasized his commitment to improving the lives of residents through a common-sense approach to governance.
Richardson proudly highlighted the city’s financial achievements during his tenure, noting that the government is operating within budget and generating a surplus through responsible fiscal management. “This was a big priority of mine, given the challenges of finding new revenue,” he remarked, referencing the city’s recent acquisition of OpenGov to enhance financial efficiency.
The commissioner is particularly excited about the ongoing construction of the Frankfort Fire Department Station 1 on West Second Street, which he believes will significantly improve emergency services. “This project will provide state-of-the-art technology and training for first responders,” he said, showcasing the tangible benefits for local residents.
Richardson is also focused on long-term infrastructure needs, especially concerning The Paddocks development in West Frankfort. “This development will increase revenues as it grows over the years,” he added, indicating his vision for sustainable economic growth.
Reflecting on his learning experience over the past two years, Richardson recalled the advice he received about the time commitment required for the role. He has established a weekly meeting with the city manager to discuss operations and growth strategies, demonstrating his dedication to transparency and efficiency.
With a background in law enforcement, Richardson retired from the Frankfort Police Department in 2017 after a distinguished career that began in 1994. Now serving as a law enforcement liaison with the Kentucky Association Chiefs of Police, he has gained insights into community challenges across the state, which he plans to leverage for Frankfort’s benefit.
Looking ahead, Richardson has set ambitious priorities for his next term. Expanding the city sewer system is at the top of his list, which he believes will spur economic development and housing growth. He also aims to enhance public safety by providing first responders with essential resources and training, while maintaining budgetary discipline.
“Although there has been concern with the budget, strategic planning has ensured that resources are allocated effectively,” Richardson stated, underscoring the city’s financial health amid challenges.
One of his personal projects is the development of a downtown convention and meeting center. “This will bring economic growth to the entire community,” he noted, linking it to ongoing discussions about renovating the Capital Plaza Hotel.
Housing remains a critical issue, with Richardson pointing out the significant shortage of residential options in the city. “With the increase in employment opportunities, people will need somewhere to live,” he asserted, advocating for the development of residentially zoned properties in West Frankfort.
Additionally, he is a strong proponent of riverfront development, aiming to capitalize on tourism and potentially create a community recreation center.
As Richardson campaigns for re-election, he expressed gratitude for his role on the city commission. “I love hearing from the citizens of Frankfort about their needs and concerns,” he said. “I look forward to continuing to serve and sincerely hope to be elected for a second term.”
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in Frankfort’s local governance, with Richardson poised to continue shaping the city’s future. Stay tuned for updates as the election approaches, and follow Richardson’s campaign for further developments.
