This week, in NKY local government meetings, the Alexandria planning and zoning commission will discuss a new Drees subdivision, while Newport will continue conversations on scrapping its decades-old bar ID requirement.
Keep reading to find out what happened in local government over the past week and what you need to know for this week.
What happened last week in NKY government?
Kenton County to help maintain over 53 miles of rural state roads
Kenton County will continue its partnership with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to maintain over 53 miles of state-managed rural roads through June 2026, under a $228,900 contract approved by the Fiscal Court on June 10. The agreement, which the county has upheld for several years, covers routine maintenance—such as pothole patching, ditch clearing, and small bridge repairs—on nearly 39 miles of Rural Secondary roads and over 3 miles of State Secondary routes. More extensive tasks like resurfacing and mowing will remain KYTC’s responsibility. A separate $501,955 contract, also approved, covers snow and ice removal on 11 additional miles of state roads that align with the county’s winter response plans.
Read more about the road maintenance here.
Covington alters small business incentives for next fiscal year
Covington has voted to update its small business incentive programs for the new fiscal year starting July 1, introducing several reforms to better align with current economic conditions and federal guidelines. Changes include increasing award caps for facade and sign improvement programs, revising eligibility and monitoring rules for rent subsidies, and adjusting application requirements across all programs. Notably, the city removed special consideration for women, minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and first responders from judging criteria to comply with federal funding requirements. The three programs—rent incentives, facade improvement loans, and historic sign restoration—are aimed at attracting and retaining entrepreneurs in Covington.
Read more about the small business incentives here.
Covington to vote on budget amid federal job cuts, other unknowns
Covington’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 is conservative and focused on maintaining current services as the city braces for economic uncertainty, including the potential loss of federal jobs. With no projected revenue increases and a lingering $4 million shortfall in the general fund—largely stemming from decreased payroll tax revenue due to remote work policies—the city will rely heavily on its remaining COVID-19 relief funds, which are expected to last about another year and a half. City leaders emphasized a cautious approach, declining to fund new departmental requests in the first quarter and withholding cost-of-living raises for non-union employees. While small increases in net profits and payroll taxes are anticipated, declines are projected in property tax revenue and franchise fees. The final budget vote is scheduled in two weeks, and officials said amendments could be made throughout the year.
Read more about the budget here.
NKU to give 3% raises as it launches ‘people-centered’ strategic plan
Northern Kentucky University has unveiled a new three-year strategic plan, Forward Together: Led by Purpose, Driven by People, which prioritizes students, employees, and community partnerships, with an emphasis on improving morale, access, and regional impact. Beginning with 3% raises and one-time bonuses for lower-paid full-time faculty and staff, the plan seeks to address salary equity, professional development, and career advancement. For students, it focuses on improving access, affordability, career readiness, and coordinated support services. The community portion aims to align academic programs with workforce needs, strengthen partnerships, and promote civic engagement. Set to launch fully in fall 2025, the plan will begin implementing benchmarks and metrics this summer.
Read more about the strategic plan here.
Walton reverses take-home vehicle ban: what you need to know
After backlash from public works employees, the City of Walton has reversed its plan to eliminate all take-home vehicles, instead passing a compromise ordinance allowing current employees to continue the practice while prohibiting it for future hires. The policy shift follows concerns raised at a previous council meeting about emergency response delays, personal vehicle wear, and added fuel costs. The original proposal stemmed from the city’s noncompliance with IRS regulations regarding take-home vehicles and potential liability. Additionally, the city appointed Bobby McDonald as a new Code Enforcement Officer and Mike Wood to the board of adjustment, filling recent vacancies in local administration.
Read more about the ban here.
Two years after $24M deficit, NKU reaches balanced budget
Northern Kentucky University expects to end fiscal year 2025 with positive cash flow for the first time in five years, marking a major turnaround after past deficits as large as $24 million. The NKU Board of Regents passed a balanced $221 million budget, projecting a modest surplus of $71,000. University leaders credited tough financial decisions, tuition increases, and strong net tuition revenue—boosted in part by the “Three States, One Rate” program—for stabilizing finances. However, a surprise policy shift by the Kentucky Department of Revenue, which halted its collection assistance for unpaid tuition, led to a one-time $6.8 million accounting loss. While the cash flow remains positive, future budgets are expected to face deficits due to the costly implementation of new ERP software, with red ink projected through 2028 before surpluses are anticipated to return in 2029.
Read more about the budget here.
Southgate passes budget, adds part-time city administrator
The City of Southgate will hire its first-ever city administrator this fall as part of its newly approved 2025-2026 budget, aiming to provide additional support for city services amid ongoing growth. The part-time role will assist with day-to-day operations, grant applications, and coordination with regional agencies and developers, helping implement the city’s vision plan while maintaining continuity through future leadership changes. The budget also includes funding for three other new positions—a full-time police officer, a part-time records clerk, and a full-time public works employee—as well as park improvements, street repaving, and a leased city vehicle. With total expected revenues of nearly $7 million and expenses of just over $5.1 million, the city anticipates carrying forward a fund balance of about $1.8 million.
Read more about the budget and new city position here.
Fort Wright to raise salaries for 2027 mayor and council
At its June 4 meeting, the Fort Wright City Council passed an ordinance to raise the salaries of the next mayor and council members, with the increase set to take effect in 2027 when the newly elected officials take office. The raise, prompted by a proposal from council member Jason Collins, is intended to reflect the significant time and effort current officials dedicate to their roles. Council members noted that while the pay increase won’t benefit the current officeholders, it serves as recognition of their ongoing contributions.
Read more about the mayor and council salaries here.
What’s happening this week in NKY government?
Newport Board of Commissioners: Monday, June 16
The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at 998 Monmouth St.
What you need to know: Newport will continue discussing getting rid of its Bar ID for state-backed alcohol training. The city will also discuss the new fiscal year’s budget.
The agenda can be found here.
Union City Commission caucus meeting: Monday, June 16
The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Union City Building at 1843 Mt Zion Rd.
The agenda can be found here.
Fort Thomas City Council: Monday, June 17
The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at 130 N Ft Thomas Ave.
The agenda can be found here.
Alexandria planning commission to discuss new Drees subdivision
Alexandria Planning and Zoning Commission: Tuesday, June 17
The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at8236 West Main St.
What you need to know: The Alexandria planning and zoning commission will discuss a new 78-unit Drees subdivision proposed for Riley Road, north of Apple Blossom Lane.
The agenda can be found here when it is published.
Boone County Fiscal Court: Tuesday, June 17
The meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. at 2950 Washington St.
The agenda can be found here when it is published.
Covington Board of Commission caucus meeting: Tuesday, June 17
The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at Covington City Hall at 20 W Pike St.
The agenda can be found here.
Florence City Council caucus meeting: Tuesday, June 17
The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at 8100 Ewing Blvd.
The meeting agenda can be found here when it is published.
Edgewood City Council meeting: Tuesday, June 17
The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Edgewood City Building at 385 Dudley Road.
The agenda can be found here when it is published.
Campbell County Fiscal Court: Wednesday, June 18
The meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. at 1098 Monmouth St.
The agenda can be found here when it is published.
Fort Wright City Council caucus meeting: Wednesday, June 18
The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at 409 Kyles Lane.
The agenda can be found here when it is published.
Southgate City Council: Wednesday, June 18
The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at 122 Electric Ave.
Villa Hills City Council: Wednesday, June 18
The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. at 719 Rogers Road.
Alexandria City Council: Thursday, June 19
The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at 8236 West Main St. The agenda can be found here when it is published.
