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On April 15, 2026, the Leadership Bowling Green class stepped into the systems, partnerships, and leadership that keep our community running every day. Local Government & Agency Day offered a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at how city, county, and regional leaders collaborate to serve Bowling Green and Warren County.
The day began at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce with a welcome from Class Chair Kelsey Crowe, followed by a legislative impact discussion and Q&A that set the tone for the day. Moderated by Caleb Speck (Barren River Area Development District), the panel featured leaders representing federal and local perspectives:
- Mark Lord (U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie’s Office)
- Jeff Meisel (City of Bowling Green)
- Hunter Whitaker (U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell’s Office)
Together, they offered insight into how policy, administration, and regional collaboration shape decisions that impact daily life across South Central Kentucky.
Public Safety & Infrastructure in Action
The experience then shifted from policy to practice as the class traveled to the Bowling Green Fire Department’s Public Safety Training Center. Participants experienced firsthand the training, equipment, and leadership required to respond to emergencies. Demonstrations by on-duty crews, along with insights from Chief Justin Brooks (Bowling Green Fire Department), highlighted the coordination and preparedness behind public safety efforts.
The group then toured the Bowling Green Municipal Utilities Water Treatment Plant, gaining a deeper understanding of the infrastructure that supports essential services. Led by Mark Iverson (BGMU) and his team, the session emphasized the complexity and responsibility of delivering safe, reliable water to the community.
Building the Community We Live In
Following lunch sponsored by Rafferty’s, the class continued to Bowling Green Public Works, where they explored the daily operations and equipment that maintain the city’s infrastructure. A joint presentation from city and county leaders—including representatives from Planning & Zoning—demonstrated how growth, development, and environmental planning are carefully coordinated across agencies.
Leadership in Action
The day concluded at the Warren County Courthouse, where Judge-Executive Doug Gorman (Warren County Government) and Mayor Todd Alcott (City of Bowling Green) shared updates, answered questions, and reinforced the importance of strong local leadership.
Reflection & Connection
The experience wrapped up with a class reflection, followed by an after-hours gathering at Gerard’s, providing time to connect, reflect, and deepen relationships within the class.
Through immersive experiences and candid conversations, the Leadership Bowling Green Class of 2025–2026 gained a deeper appreciation for the people, processes, and partnerships that keep our community moving forward.
Thank You to Our Alumni Day Chairs
- Jennifer Breiwa Smith (WKU)
- Micheal Bean (Bowling Green Fire Department)
- Ron Cummings (Warren County Government)
- Deborah Jenkins (City of Bowling Green)
- Shelley Lowe (BGMU)
- Jacob Merriman (City-County Planning Commission)
- Caleb Speck (Barren River Area Development District)
Sponsors & Partners
- Lunch Sponsor: Rafferty’s
- Snacks & Drinks provided by: City-County Planning Commission, Bowling Green Fire Department, City of Bowling Green
- Class Travel Sponsor: Warren County Government (Historic Rail Park Trolley)
Champion Partner – Leadership BG Class of 2025–2026
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