AGP Executive Report

Triple Crown Shake-Up: Churchill Downs and NYRA unveiled a new $5M championship series that notably leaves out the Preakness, while Maryland moved the Preakness to Sunday, May 23, 2027—adding pressure on the sport’s schedule and exposing deep divisions over the Triple Crown’s future. Kentucky Energy Governance: AG Russell Coleman announced nominations for the Energy Planning and Inventory Committee, including Tony Campbell (East Kentucky Power Cooperative) and Matt Ricketts (Crounse Corporation), pending State Senate confirmation. Nuclear Investment in Western KY: Gov. Andy Beshear and others marked progress on General Matter’s $1.5B uranium enrichment facility in McCracken County, with officials citing 140+ jobs and major regional investment; Jake Paul attended. Data Center Pushback: Kentucky’s Beshear issued an executive order aimed at protecting communities and ratepayers from “harmful impacts,” as local governments weigh moratoriums and landowners resist large AI data center deals. Food Safety Watch: National outbreaks tied to recalled lettuce (cyclospora) and jalapeños (salmonella) continue to spread across many states, driving more recalls and renewed consumer caution. Kentucky Politics & Oversight: Commentary and reporting highlighted the confirmation fight around Todd Blanche for attorney general, alongside Kentucky’s broader political churn. Local Business Spotlight: Boone County Distilling Co. in Northern Kentucky earned national recognition as a top small business travel stop.

Data Centers Policy Push: Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order setting new criteria for future data centers in Kentucky, requiring developers to show they won’t raise electric bills for ratepayers and to submit energy plans to the Energy and Environment Cabinet, with the Public Service Commission directed to block utility rate hikes tied to data-center costs. Local Water Tensions: In Fontaine Road, residents and city leaders are clashing with Kentucky Water over delays and a limited work schedule, with the utility declining a requested public meeting. Local Governance: A Georgetown-Scott County Planning Commission vote rejected a zone change that would have allowed a 152-unit apartment complex at Blossom Park Drive, citing traffic and quality-of-life impacts. Senate Health Update: Sen. Mitch McConnell was discharged from a rehabilitation center and will continue recovery at home, while signaling he plans to stay engaged with Senate business. Business & Logistics: Helmsman Imports struck a deal with Ankaa Global Logistics to add dedicated beverage-alcohol storage and logistics capacity in Shepherdsville. Community & Talent Pipeline: The NKY Chamber named 44 students for its 33rd Regional Youth Leadership class, a seven-month program focused on leadership and regional economic development.

Data Centers Oversight: Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order aimed at limiting harmful impacts from new data centers, requiring developers to submit energy plans proving they won’t raise utility costs, blocking utility rate hikes meant to cover data-center expenses, denying permits tied to air and water harm, and pushing more public engagement and tax “fair share” commitments. Senate Health & Politics: U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell said he was discharged from a rehabilitation center and will continue recovery at home, but offered no return timeline as Republicans weigh how his absence affects key votes. Housing Supply: Covington installed the first two of 15 planned modular workforce homes on Pleasant Street, targeting a regional shortfall that leaves many residents priced out. Air Service Growth: United will launch a daily nonstop flight from CVG to San Francisco starting Oct. 25, projecting $36.4 million in economic impact for the Cincinnati region. Entrepreneurship Pipeline: Kentucky’s Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs wrapped up with 147 students pitching business ideas after a hands-on summer program at UK. Consumer Safety: Louisville Ladder recalled about 1.77 million attic stairway ladders after reports bolts can break during use, creating a serious fall hazard.

Louisville Safety & Design: A University of Louisville Urban Design Studio analysis of Kentucky crash data flags several intersections as especially collision-prone, arguing that street design—not just driver behavior—drives risk, with one hotspot at Broadway and 22nd St. and other high-ranking sites tied to features like one-way layouts and missing median barriers. Food & Health: The CDC says the iceberg lettuce-linked cyclospora outbreak has expanded to 15 states, including Kentucky, with thousands of confirmed cases and hospitalizations; investigators point to lettuce tied to Taylor Farms. Housing Affordability: Kentucky still isn’t building enough homes to close its supply gap, especially for lower-income renters, according to Kentucky Housing Corporation officials, who warn affordability pressures will worsen without faster construction. Data Centers & Power: TeraWulf told investors it may double the size of its Eastern Kentucky Muskie Data Campus to as much as 2 gigawatts, as residents and local officials continue to debate impacts from major power demand. Public Health Policy: A Kentucky business owner urges lawmakers to watch Tennessee’s FAIR Rx Act, warning pharmacy benefit rules could force closures and reduce access in rural communities. Local Business/Industry: Arhaus reported second-quarter results, while MGP Ingredients said Kentucky distilleries idled in May as it posted steep sales declines.

Horse Racing Business: Churchill Downs and NYRA unveiled a new season-long Thoroughbred Championship Series starting with the Kentucky Derby in 2027, using a six-race, five-month points format across Churchill Downs, Belmont Park and Saratoga to crown a 3-year-old champion. Triple Crown Calendar Shakeup: Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club announced the Preakness will move to the fourth Sunday in May—three weeks and a day after the Derby—for the first Sunday running in Triple Crown history, with NBC Sports/Peacock extending coverage through 2032. Public Health & Food Supply: The CDC said cyclospora linked to iceberg lettuce has spread to 15 states, with investigators focusing on lettuce tied to Taylor Farms after earlier leads. Local Utility Tension: Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton pressed Kentucky American Water after the utility declined a public forum on the delayed Fontaine Road project, with neighbors questioning timelines and traffic impacts. Jobs & Corporate Restructuring: Procter & Gamble cut 4,300 jobs globally as part of a restructuring plan, raising questions about how many impacts could land in the Cincinnati area. Regional Growth: Amazon Air Hub in Hebron marked five years, touting about $20B in economic impact for Northern Kentucky. Health System Oversight: HHS is moving to shut down Louisville-based Network for Hope, citing safety concerns in organ procurement.

Attorney General Confirmation: Acting AG Todd Blanche cleared a key Senate Judiciary hurdle, with the committee voting 12-10 to advance his nomination for a full-floor consideration after a deal with GOP holdouts over a Trump-IRS settlement and confirmation that no $1.8 billion “fund” would be pursued. Contempt Showdown: A Senate panel led by Rand Paul is set to vote Thursday on holding Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt after he invoked the Fifth Amendment more than 100 times, teeing up a legal fight over whether a pardon blocks self-incrimination protections. Kentucky Medicaid: Kentucky’s Medicaid “fix” may avert near-term reimbursement cuts, but experts warn it could simply push a bigger funding crisis into 2028. Tariff Pressure on Kentucky: Kentucky joined a 25-state coalition suing the Trump administration over new Section 301 forced-labor tariffs, arguing the move is an illegal tax hike on families and businesses. Food Safety & Local Impact: The Cyclospora outbreak keeps expanding, with Kentucky among affected states and officials pointing to produce supply-chain concerns as cases top 10,000 nationwide. Data Centers & Jobs: Kentucky’s data-center debate continues as Louisville advances a moratorium and utilities sign onto a federal “ratepayer protection” pledge, while critics question whether it truly shields customers. Local Economy: Bowling Green advanced plans for up to $42.5 million for a new City Hall and Fire Station No. 9, while Lyon County used grant funding to upgrade Lee S. Jones Park with recycled crumb rubber picnic tables.

Workforce & Education: Campbellsville University created a new vice president for innovation and workforce role and named CU alum Andy Woods to lead institutional innovation, strategic growth, and employer-linked workforce development. Supply Chain & Manufacturing: GE Appliances says its new Louisville laundry plant will use U.S.-made Texas Instruments computer chips starting in 2027, securing about 20 million domestic semiconductors to boost connectivity and efficiency. Public Health: The CDC expanded the cyclosporiasis outbreak to 15 states, with new reports tied to shredded iceberg lettuce and the first U.S. deaths confirmed in Michigan. Local Governance & Data Centers: Louisville Metro Council advanced a data center moratorium toward a full vote, reflecting ongoing local pushback over development and public input. Food Insecurity: Feeding America data shows Kentucky’s hunger rate rose to 18.2% in 2024, affecting more than 837,000 people, as costs and federal aid cuts strain households. Legal & Consumer Protection: A multistate lawsuit targets the Trump administration’s plan to share low-income families’ personal data, while Kentucky’s broader business climate also faces uncertainty from new tariff challenges filed by 25 states. Health Care & Antitrust: A coalition of attorneys general announced a $469 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic drug price-fixing and competition limits. Transportation Policy: Boone County governments began exploring e-bike and e-scooter regulations to address safety and enforcement concerns.

Tariff Fight in Court: A coalition of 25 states, including Kentucky, sued the Trump administration in the U.S. Court of International Trade over new forced-labor tariffs on imports from the EU and nearly 60 countries, arguing the move is an unlawful attempt to recreate duties the Supreme Court struck down and to block the tariffs, declare them illegal, and seek refunds. School Choice Rollout: Thirty-one states have opted into the federal Education Freedom Scholarship Program ahead of a January 2027 deadline, a move supporters say gives families more control while critics warn about oversight and accountability. Kentucky Data Center Debate: A new Kentucky legislative push to attract data centers via tax incentives is colliding with public concerns about who pays for power and how costs are allocated, with lawmakers previously trying—and failing—to add stronger guardrails. Medicaid Fraud Enforcement: Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway joined a push for federal legislation to expand states’ authority to investigate and prosecute Medicaid fraud by beneficiaries and recipients, not just providers. Local Business & Growth: Georgetown, Kentucky, agreed to a repayment plan after an internal review found a contractor was overpaid about $24,000 tied to documentation gaps in code enforcement nuisance abatement work. Sports Betting Expansion: Circa Sports won approval to enter Arizona’s regulated market through a tribal partnership, becoming the 15th licensed operator in the state and adding to its existing Kentucky presence. Public Health Watch: Michigan reported its first two deaths tied to a cyclosporiasis outbreak, underscoring the risk for travelers and shoppers after widespread lettuce-related illnesses.

Tariff Fight: A coalition of 25 states, including Kentucky, sued the Trump administration to block new 10%–12.5% tariffs on goods from 60 trading partners, arguing the move is a pretext to replace earlier taxes struck down by the Supreme Court. State Policy & Schools: Logan County school officials approved ballot language for a proposed “nickel tax” (5.9 cents per $100 assessed value) to fund safe, up-to-date school buildings, with voters deciding in November. Public Health: Federal and state agencies are investigating a multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce, with Michigan reporting thousands of cases and additional deaths. Food Safety: Publix issued a recall of GreenWise frozen organic blueberries and mixed berries after E. coli concerns, including distribution to Kentucky. Energy & Power: AEP reached agreements to acquire the Longview Power Plant and a nearby gas project site in West Virginia, signaling continued investment in dispatchable generation. Local Business: House of Marigold’s new NuLu restaurant in Louisville is about 80% complete and targets a late-September opening. Sports Business: Murray State Athletics hired Derek Doolittle, Rose Bowl general manager, as COO for Racer Athletics.

Data Centers & Local Impact: Kentucky residents and officials are pushing back on fast-moving data center plans, including concerns that projects advanced without meaningful local input. Public Transit & Equity: Louisville’s TARC rolled out a new route network with fewer stops but more frequent service, leaving some riders scrambling on day one. State Politics: Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams says he won’t run for governor and instead backs Rep. James Comer, aiming to keep Republicans from a divisive primary. Media Business: E.W. Scripps completed its $15.8 million acquisition of WTVQ in Lexington, creating a duopoly with WLEX. Economic Development: Monroe County received $255,000 to prep a newly acquired industrial site for job-ready development under the Kentucky Product Development Initiative. Kentucky Bourbon & Tourism: The Kentucky State Fair returns Aug. 20-30 in Louisville with a $12 ticket and a major lineup, plus a 250th-birthday exhibit. Community & Safety: A new wave of scrutiny is hitting automated license plate reader cameras, with privacy concerns driving contract pauses and cancellations nationwide.

Defense & Manufacturing: Ford is pursuing a major U.S. Army bid for prototype tactical vehicles built on its Louisville-made F-Series Super Duty platform, competing with GM and a Utah off-road maker. Housing & Local Economy: A Franklin County fiscal court discussed a future affordable housing project targeting roughly 30 apartments, with rents pitched as more workable for single parents. Energy & Data Centers: The U.S. Department of Energy is moving ahead with a $100B AI data center complex at Kentucky’s Paducah uranium site, pairing computing with new natural gas and battery storage. Northern Kentucky Jobs: KOI Superior Walls opened a new Northern Kentucky manufacturing facility, adding 73 full-time jobs in Boone County. Healthcare & Fraud: Addiction Recovery Care and related companies agreed to a $16.2M civil judgment to settle allegations of Medicaid billing fraud in Eastern Kentucky. Business & Growth: Churchill Downs reported record Kentucky Derby Week performance and is considering selling some regional gaming properties. Public Safety: Nashville police identified a Bowling Green, Ky., driver in a deadly Broadway crash that killed one pedestrian and injured three others. Regulation Watch: Hopkinsville is weighing new rules after residents found a 15-megawatt bitcoin mining operation at an electric substation.

Data Center Backlash in Kentucky: Harrison County residents packed a forum to oppose AI data centers, with nearly every attendee raising a hand ahead of an Aug. 11 vote on a proposed moratorium. Energy & Water Pressure: A separate report highlights how data centers are straining water supplies and pushing communities to rethink local growth plans. Churchill Downs Asset Moves: Churchill Downs Inc. is exploring selling Presque Isle Downs and Casino and eight other gaming properties, as it reshapes its portfolio. Medicaid Fraud Settlement: Addiction Recovery Care (ARC) and affiliates agreed to a $16.2M civil judgment resolving allegations of defrauding Kentucky Medicaid. Local Business & Community: Louisville’s Stockyards Bank and Isaacs & Isaacs Law Firm handed out 1,000+ backpacks in a drive-through giveaway as families gear up for school. Sports & Policy Chaos: The NCAA’s new eligibility “5-for-5” rule is roiling college rosters, with Kentucky fans watching potential impacts on the Wildcats. Food Safety Watch: Kentucky-linked FDA/CDC updates continue to track cyclosporiasis and expanded frozen blueberry recalls.

Medicaid Fraud: Addiction Recovery Care (ARC) and affiliates agreed to a $16.2M civil judgment to settle allegations of defrauding Kentucky’s Medicaid program, with a federal fraud/money laundering trial for former ARC CEO Tim Robinson set to begin Aug. 10. Economic Development: Gov. Beshear and state leaders are weighing a massive $100B Paducah AI/data center push, while critics question whether utility pledges will truly protect customers. Local Growth: Oak Grove secured $2M through the KY WWATERS grant for a new water tank—aimed at supporting residents and retail plans including a planned Buc-ee’s travel center. Public Health: Publix expanded a frozen blueberry recall after E. coli O145 concerns, with Kentucky among affected states. Workforce & Community: Homewatch CareGivers of Northern Kentucky won Best of NKY and NKY Impact awards, and Lifepath Apostolic AGAPE House of Prayer received up to $100K in AmeriCorps grant funding for a regional volunteer corps. Agriculture: The United Soybean Board approved a $122.5M FY27 budget focused on research, promotion, and farmer value. Business & Policy: Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame announced its 2026 inductees, with the dinner set for Nov. 4 in Lexington. Consumer/Operations: A tractor-trailer fire destroyed 60 pallets of alcoholic seltzer in Madison, Wisconsin, with no injuries reported.

Paducah Data Center Push: Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear says he wasn’t briefed on the DOE’s July 29 plan to redevelop parts of the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant into a $100B+ data center campus, raising questions about power, environmental impact, jobs, and taxes. Aviation Innovation: CVG signed an agreement with Germany’s GATE Alliance to speed airport technology testing and supplier innovation, building a transatlantic pipeline for new aviation ideas. Solar Incentives: Kentucky approved state tax refunds for a $307M, 188-megawatt ACCIONA solar project in Fleming County, with board members pressing on power use and long-term decommissioning. School Safety Policy: Hardin County Schools will ban metal and glass water bottles, allowing only plastic bottles with plastic lids, after concerns about bottles being used as weapons. Local Business & Community: Frankfort approved an increase in quota retail alcohol licenses; Glasgow launched a “Pre-K for All” pilot for 4-year-olds; and Kentucky Career Center set a Paducah job fair for Aug. 4. Food Safety: Publix expanded recalls of GreenWise frozen blueberries and mixed berries after E. coli O145 concerns, including shipments to Kentucky.

Manufacturing & Jobs: Gov. Beshear says ADM will expand its Boone County facility with a $16M investment, adding 40-plus full-time jobs and more capacity for liquid and dry-blended color solutions. Public Safety & Community Support: Christian County Health Department is rolling out “Support Over Silence for Kids,” training bystanders to de-escalate tense public situations involving parents and children to help prevent child abuse. Local Development: Hopkinsville residents heard early plans for a West Seventh Street Corridor Master Plan, including wider sidewalks, landscaping, traffic calming, and possible a roundabout as the city seeks funding. Food & Health: The FDA says the U.S. food supply remains safe as cyclosporiasis cases top 11,000, while Publix expanded its recall of GreenWise frozen organic blueberries and mixed berries tied to E. coli hospitalizations. Kentucky Economy & Energy: Kentucky’s data-center push continues to draw scrutiny, including questions around a major Paducah AI campus announcement and what it means for jobs, taxes, and environmental impacts. Education & Digital Access: AT&T and Human-IT delivered 50 refurbished laptops to the Boys and Girls Club of Frankfort as part of a broader push to get 1,000 devices to families ahead of back-to-school. Business & Finance: Churchill Downs reported record Q2 revenue of $980M, boosted by Kentucky Derby week, and agreed to take full ownership of United Tote.

AI & Economic Development: Kentucky lawmakers are weighing the fallout from the U.S. Department of Energy’s $100B AI data center push at the DOE Paducah Site, with supporters calling it “generational” while Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman says she and Gov. Andy Beshear weren’t briefed and warns about a pattern of secrecy with data center projects. Workforce & Training: Murray-Calloway County Economic Development Corporation dedicated a new training facility in the Murray West Industrial Park, aiming to address skilled labor shortages and help recruit employers. Local Business & Hospitality: Jackson Purchase opened a new bourbon lounge inside the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, giving the fast-growing distillery a public-facing venue tied to arena events. Health & Consumer Safety: Publix expanded its recall of GreenWise frozen organic blueberries and mixed berries after an E. coli outbreak linked to the products, including distribution to Kentucky stores. State Government & Money: Kentucky Treasurer Mark Metcalf’s office returned unclaimed property in Marshall County through in-person “roadshows,” helping residents locate money, jewelry, and other assets. Medical Cannabis Rollout: Grass Roots Dispensary opened in Mayfield as Kentucky’s medical cannabis market continues expanding under state qualifying-ailment rules. Culture & Collectibles: Colonel Sanders’ handwritten personal planner sold for $30,000 at auction, alongside other Sanders-era memorabilia.