Candidate spotlight
Candidate for: Fort Thomas City Council
Status: Challenger
Steve Arey is a lifelong Fort Thomas resident and a 1993 graduate of Highlands High School.
He said he and his wife, Melissa, chose to raise their daughters, Lanie and Lexie, in the same community that he said helped shape his life and values.
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Arey faces a Fort Thomas City Council primary on May 19 against: Allison Alessandro, Ken Bowman, Adam Blau, Mary Anne Brown, Brad Fennell, Frances Hoffman, Brandon Long, Lauren McIntosh, Ben Pendery, Huey Pergrem, Brandon Roller, Hunter Schlosser, Eric Strange and Ashley Sullivan.
Arey has spent his career in the financial industry, where he currently serves as a compliance manager. His work focuses on financial oversight, regulatory compliance and ensuring organizations operate with transparency and accountability. That experience, he said, has given him a strong understanding of budgeting, responsible planning and the importance of checks and balances in decision making.
He said he believes those same principles are essential in local government and wants to help ensure city processes remain efficient, transparent and focused on the long-term interests of residents.
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Beyond his professional experience, Arey said he has been actively involved in the Fort Thomas community. Residents may know him through his volunteer work and involvement with local youth and schools.
These experiences, he said, reflect his belief that strong communities are built when neighbors step up to support one another.
As Fort Thomas continues to grow and evolve, Arey said he believes the city’s success depends on thoughtful planning, responsible financial management and open communication with residents.
“I am running to help ensure the city preserves the character of Fort Thomas while preparing responsibly for the future,” he said. “I hope to bring his financial oversight experience and long-standing community involvement to service on the Fort Thomas City Council.”