The Kentucky League of Cities recently presented Rep. DJ Johnson (R-Owensboro) with a 2021 “Friend of Kentucky Cities” award. Johnson sponsored House Bill 238, a KLC initiative that helps cities find the most knowledgeable and skilled people to serve on utility commissions.
The Kentucky League of Cities presents the “Friend of Kentucky Cities” award to legislators who perform outstanding work advocating for issues that impact cities across the state. KLC Executive Director/CEO J.D. Chaney and Director of Public Affairs Bryanna L. Carroll bestowed the award at Owensboro City Hall.
“Our utility commissions must have the most qualified people serving,” Chaney said. “Representative Johnson understands that need. His leadership helped garner overwhelming support for House Bill 238.”
Johnson said KLC is a prime example of a positive partnership between state and local stakeholders.
“Because of this, I am honored to be a ‘Friend of Kentucky Cities’ award recipient, and I am grateful for their support during the 2021 Regular Session as we passed House Bill 238,” he said. “This measure ensures that local utility leadership better represents the community it serves by removing residency limitations for board members. I look forward to continuing our partnership in the future as we fight for good, common-sense legislation.”
Carroll thanked Representative Johnson for his continued support of legislation that positively impacts cities.
“House Bill 238 is an example of how home rule is strongest when the brightest local leaders are allowed to take part in the process,” she said. “We appreciate Representative Johnson’s leadership on this bill and look forward to working with him again in the upcoming session.”
KLC Executive Director/CEO J.D. Chaney, Director of Public Affairs Bryanna L. Carroll, Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson, Commissioner Mark Castlen, and Owensboro City Manager Nate Pagan present Representative DJ Johnson (R-Owensboro) with a 2021 “Friend of Kentucky Cities” award.
