How We Got Here

In March 2024, a quiet murmur began to spread across northern Madison County. A public notice had appeared on a property in the heart of our agricultural zone, less than five miles from the Kentucky River. As neighbors started talking and sharing information, it became clear that this notice was for a conditional use permit—one that would allow a large-scale bourbon distillery to be built on farmland.

To the surprise of many, land-use regulations had changed, permitting a distillery of any size on agriculturally zoned property through a conditional use permit. This particular proposal was not a small operation—it was a full-scale bourbon distillery with the capacity to produce over 100,000 barrels annually and store up to 630,000 barrels on-site. For an area with insufficient infrastructure and whiskey fungus-free landscapes, this project raised serious concerns for local residents.

Determined to protect our community, concerned neighbors took action. We gathered information, organized support, and made our voices heard at the March 2024 Board of Adjustment Meeting. Despite overwhelming evidence against the project, the permit was approved by the Board of Adjustment. We knew one public hearing wasn’t enough—we had to take action. Neighbors became allies, forming Preserve Madison County, a registered 501(c)(4) nonprofit, to protect our land, homes, and way of life.

 We are currently following the legal avenues available to us, continuing the fight against the proposed distillery. But, we've realized this is bigger than a distillery. By 2040, Madison County is projected to be among the top three Kentucky counties losing the most farmland to development. It is also the state's second-largest cattle producer. 

We support smart, responsible development that prioritizes infill and revitalization over destructive sprawl. Growth should strengthen communities without sacrificing farmland and natural resources. Preserve Madison County is raising awareness, challenging reckless development, and advocating for a better path forward—one that protects our land while fostering sustainable progress.