Daviess County is fortunate to have strong public institutions that support families, strengthen education, and protect public well-being across our community.
Under Kentucky law, several local taxing districts, including public libraries, extension offices, and health departments, are overseen by boards whose members are appointed, not elected. This structure has existed for many years and has served its purpose. The appointment system places responsibility for selecting these board members with Fiscal Court, influenced in part by the County Judge-Executive. These agencies are staffed by dedicated professionals and guided by board members who volunteer their time because they care deeply about the future of our county.
At its core, this issue is straightforward: when an entity has the authority to tax the public, its governing board should be elected by the people.
Good governance requires us to periodically re-examine long-standing systems to ensure they continue to reflect our shared values of transparency, accountability, and public trust. These agencies help shape the quality of life in our community, and how they govern matters.
This is not a criticism of those currently serving, nor is it about politics. It is about principle.
Taxation is one of the most serious responsibilities of government. When citizens contribute their hard-earned dollars, they deserve clear accountability. Elected boards, particularly when structured as nonpartisan with staggered terms and reasonable qualifications, provide that accountability.
As an example, the largest taxing authorities in Daviess County are the Owensboro and Daviess County public school systems. Their board members are elected by voters, demonstrating that accountability does not require partisanship.
A community-wide discussion about whether boards that levy taxes in Daviess County should be elected going forward is needed.
Whether the outcome is reform, refinement, or reaffirmation of the current system, that decision should come from informed and open dialogue, not tradition alone.
I believe our community is capable of having that conversation with respect, civility, and a shared commitment to good government.
Written by
Larry Conder
