Representative Amy Neighbors receives 2026 ‘Friend of Kentucky Cities’ Award

Mallory Baker

Government Affairs Communications Manager

 

EDMONTON, KY – The Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) presented Representative Amy Neighbors (R-Edmonton) with a 2026 Friend of Kentucky Cities Award in recognition of her leadership and support for Kentucky’s cities during the 2026 Regular Session of the General Assembly. KLC Director of Government Affairs Gracie Kelly, KLC Government Affairs Associate Emma Wilson, Mayor of Columbia Pamela Hoots, Mayor of Edmonton Doug Smith, and members of the Edmonton city council presented the award.

“Representative Neighbors is a dedicated advocate for the communities she represents and a valued partner to Kentucky cities,” said KLC Executive Director/CEO J.D. Chaney. “Her willingness to work with local leaders and champion issues important to cities reflects her commitment to strong communities across the Commonwealth.”

During the 2026 session, Representative Neighbors carried Senate Bill 20 in the House. The KLC initiative gives cities greater flexibility to administer voluntary training incentive programs for city officials by removing statutory minimum and maximum base incentive amounts and allowing cities to set appropriate amounts by ordinance. The legislation allows cities to tailor their programs to local needs, resources, and priorities.

“Senate Bill 20 recognizes that cities should have the flexibility to structure these programs in a way that works best for their communities,” said KLC Director of Government Affairs Gracie Kelly. “Giving local officials the ability to set incentive amounts by ordinance provides cities with greater flexibility while continuing to encourage valuable training and education.”

KLC bestows the “Friend of Kentucky Cities” award on legislators who perform outstanding work in the legislature, advocating for issues that impact cities across the state.