The Park Hills Financial Oversight Committee is pursuing more research and data for a new permanent city building.
Currently, the council rents space from The Garden’s of Park Hills to hold their monthly meetings. This costs up to $200 per session, frequently two sessions per month. It is up to the members to set up chairs and tables and audio-video presentations when necessary.
Occasionally, meetings are held on the second floor of the Amsterdam Road city building. There isn’t an elevator for the public and it has a low occupancy capacity. Securing a building that is up to Americans with Disabilities Act and other regulatory standards is one desired aspect for a permanent space.
The council wants a space to call home that citizens know will be the consistent spot for meetings, and having a permanent building may also attract larger public interest in meetings and events, officials said.
Council members suggested retaining high quality police staff and other professionals is important for Park Hills. In a national climate where competition for better jobs is high, making a city as attractive as possible is a priority to them.
Neighboring cities, such as Lakeside Park and Fort Mitchell, have official buildings with city council chambers. Such a place would be an investment in a long-term vision for Park Hills to stand out.
There isn’t a rush to find a building for the council. Members will examine all options and run the ideas through the mill of cost-benefit analysis and oversight rigor.
The ideal spot would have enough parking, be capable of hosting larger crowds and equipped with audio-video and internet capability, officials said.
It could also house the Park Hills Police Department, creating a singular location for city business. The fire department and city clerk could stay housed on Amsterdam Road.
The council plans to keep discussing options and whether proceeding is a fit for the city at this time. Previous discussions from the council indicate they want to revisit the topic in February.
Find Park Hills City Council meetings at parkhillsky.net.
