Campbell County District Court Judge Cameron Blau signed off on an agreement between Newport and River Metals Recycling, which includes RMR moving its shredding operations out of Northern Kentucky.
Per the agreement, RMR is given 12 months to move its shredding operations to the former Garden Street Iron & Metal based in Cincinnati and acquired in October 2023. A review for the case was set for Feb. 24, 2025, but should RMR comply with the agreement prior to 12 months, the case will go before Blau to drop the misdemeanor charges for violating the city’s noise ordinances.
“The city of Newport thanks Campbell District Judge Cameron Blau for today’s ruling approving the agreed settlement between the city and River Metals Recycling, RMR,” said Newport City Manager Tom Fromme in a statement. “I am satisfied with the resolution and appreciate the efforts of Newport resident Annette Kitchen, chair of the RMS Citizens Group, and City Commissioner Ken Rechtin for their dedication in resolving what has been a long-running ordeal.
“By agreeing to remove its shredding operations from the west side of Newport, RMR is significantly reducing its local footprint while adding additional safety equipment. The settlement between the city and RMR will significantly reduce noise and address other facets of their operation that have generated complaints from nearby residents. RMR will continue to operate as a collection, processing and transfer site.”
Read more about the agreement here.

