LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Urban County Council moved quickly through its work session on September 15, approving a suite of operational upgrades and new initiatives ranging from a $16,951 background check system for the police department to a $350,000 environmental marketing contract.

The council approved authorization for the Lexington Police Department to purchase the eSOPH Background Checks System from NEOGOV, a sole source provider. The system will streamline the background hiring process for the police department's Background and Polygraph Units. The contract runs from August 30, 2026, through August 29, 2027.

In a separate action, the council authorized an amendment to the city's existing contract with Accela to add ePerm Hub software. The software is designed to improve tracking, notifications, and automated submission checks for municipal permits. The cost for the 2027 fiscal year is $167,750.

The council also approved a contract with Mackey Group LLC dba Wiser Strategies for mass marketing advertisements supporting environmental and public health messaging. The $350,000 contract includes messaging about water quality, recycling, waste disposal and safe streets. The contract includes options for two additional one-year renewals, contingent upon funding.

Additional agenda items approved included a $102,000 federal grant application for the Family Care Center to participate in the USDA's Child Care Food Program, a $254,000 state grant for road resurfacing outside the urban service boundary, and a $14,500 change order with ATS Construction for sidewalk and fence work at Deer Haven Park.

The council also authorized standard form rental contracts with the Board of Education of Fayette County for use of park facilities for school-related events through fiscal year 2027 at no cost to the urban county government.

The council placed three additional items on the docket for the September 17 meeting, including a zone map amendment for approximately 2.59 acres near 525 as well as additional resolutions.