Greater Hardin County Women’s Network and NAACP Hardin County Branch Vine Grove Mayor Candidate Foru

The Greater Hardin County Women’s Network and NAACP Hardin County Branch Vine Grove mayoral candidate forum, aired by HCEC-TV on October 1, 2026, featured incumbent Mayor Austin and challenger Selena Hudson discussing city priorities; no votes or procurement decisions were taken. Procurement- and budget-related discussion centered on capital projects: the incumbent cited about $1.6 million spent on road paving, $3 million in stormwater improvements, and nearly $2 million in recent grant funding for two bridges—approximately $760,000 for Creek Bell Bridge and $970,000 for Otter Creek Bridge. The city was preparing to open bids for the Creek Bell project, with work on Otter Creek to follow. The incumbent also described a fire department expansion and plans for Vine Grove’s first ambulance, as well as prior purchases of two fire trucks and a brush truck.

The candidates also discussed downtown revitalization, planned housing and commercial growth, fiscal responsibility and transparency, and public safety. Hudson called for clearer financial reporting and a proactive road-pavement management plan, and raised concerns about growth amid flooding and water-pressure issues. On Flock cameras, the candidates expressed differing positions and noted ongoing public and legislative debate; no contract action was announced. These were campaign statements rather than binding city actions.