Written by Verona resident, Cecilia Tombelli
Boone County in Northern Kentucky has attracted many of us because it is a wonderful place to live. Rolling hills, pleasant weather, a peaceful community, plentiful jobs, schools and lakes. But growth since the 90’s has brought challenges in infrastructure, housing, traffic, and development.
Those growing pains require leadership focused on a reasonable, verifiable and systematic plan for the future. That’s why I’m supporting Chet Hand for Boone County Judge Executive.
Chet currently serves as a county commissioner, and during his time on the Fiscal Court he has shown a willingness to ask tough questions and challenge the status quo. Too often in government we see officials simply go along with whatever proposal is put in front of them. Chet has been one of the few voices consistently pushing for accountability, transparency, and careful consideration of how decisions affect residents, with special consideration to infrastructural planning. Many residents have voiced concerns that elected officials need to hold harmless Boone County neighborhoods, schools, rural areas, farms and family property as we grow.Â
For example, a 377-unit development is being proposed by Drees homes that would consist of single family homes, townhomes, amenities and 69 acres of green space between Blue Yacht Lane and Rice Pike, across the street from the Scotts Lawn. Residents believe the local school, New Haven, is already at maximum capacity, with traffic being dangerous, and that a forward thinking infrastructural plan for this massive development has not happened. Sadly, there have been far too many accidents, including fatalities on that stretch of US 42. Residents getting out of the driveway take a risk backing out!
Chet understands that Boone County’s future depends on responsible long-term planning. Our community is growing quickly, and without thoughtful leadership that growth can easily lead to congestion, infrastructure strain, and poor development decisions. Chet has been pushing for stronger planning with measurable goals so that Boone County can manage growth while protecting the quality of life that brought so many of us here.
Another reason I support Chet is his focus on fiscal responsibility. At a time when government spending continues to grow almost everywhere, Chet has been clear about his commitment to keeping taxes as low as possible while making sure taxpayer dollars are used wisely. Perhaps most importantly, Chet Hand isn’t a career politician. He comes from a background in public safety and the private sector, and he understands both service and accountability. That perspective matters.
Boone County has a bright future ahead. But that future will depend on the leadership we choose today. I believe Chet Hand offers the fresh vision and principled leadership our county needs.