Wilder Kentucky

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Podcast of Wilder Kentucky Government Meetings

Oct 6

Wilder Board of Adjustment: 10/5/26

The Wilder Board of Adjustment met October 5, 2026, for a public hearing and regular meeting. The board approved its previous minutes from July 10, 2023, which was the last Board of Adjustment meeting. Members then elected Herb Kennedy as chairman and Douglas as vice chairman for 2026. The primary matter was a public hearing concerning a conditional use permit requested by the Ion Center for Violence Prevention for property at 530 Licking Pike, adjacent to the Wilder firehouse. The Ion Center plans to purchase the city-owned property and develop a facility combining administrative offices with congregate housing for victims of domestic violence and other forms of violence. The offices are permitted in the Town Center zoning district, while the congregate housing requires the conditional use approval. Ion Center representatives explained that the organization serves 13 counties and provides shelter, crisis response, advocacy, counseling and other services. The proposed facility would consolidate its Northern Kentucky operations and provide individual rooms and bathrooms, administrative offices, counseling and meeting rooms, a commercial kitchen and dining area, laundry facilities and other support services. Architect Emma Atkinson presented preliminary plans for a roughly 40,000-square-foot, three-story building on approximately 1.3 acres of the 2.42-acre property. The building would be less than 40 feet tall and would include approximately 65 parking spaces, sidewalks and outdoor space. The preliminary layout places parking toward Licking Pike and the building farther back on the property. Ion Center representatives emphasized security, including controlled entrances, cameras, 24-hour staffing and the possibility of an on-site security guard. They also described partnerships with local police, fire and health-care providers. The organization said the project could bring approximately $2.7 million in annual payroll and related tax support and about 40 professional employees to Wilder. During public comment, one speaker expressed support for the project, citing the importance of providing safe housing and services to domestic-violence victims. Mayor Irene Bowling also spoke in favor, explaining that the city had been trying for years to find an appropriate use for the long-vacant property. She said the Ion Center's proposal was a strong fit for the site and would provide significant community and economic benefits. The public hearing was then closed. The board discussed the conditional use requirements and determined that the project would still have to comply with all applicable building, housing, Planning and Zoning and site-plan requirements. No specific ongoing conditions were imposed. The board did, however, discuss allowing 15 months for the conditional use to be exercised because the project will require additional planning and relocation of a storm sewer before construction can begin. Members expressed support for the project, noting its proximity to the city's police and fire departments and the services it would provide. The board unanimously approved the conditional use permit after finding that the proposed use was necessary or desirable for the well-being of the community and would not be detrimental to health, safety or welfare or injurious to nearby property. The Ion Center's next step is to submit a full site plan for Planning Commission review. The meeting then adjourned. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement or action taken during the meeting.
Oct 6

Wilder City Council: 10/5/26

The Wilder City Council met October 5, 2026, following a public hearing on the 2026 property tax rate. Council approved lowering the real property rate to 0.224, representing the compensating rate plus 4%, while the tangible personal property rate was set at 0.476. The public hearing had been properly advertised, and no public comments were received. Council then approved the September 8 meeting minutes and proceeded with its regular agenda. Council approved Ordinance 26-0901 on second reading, updating police policies for license plate readers and adding Golden Alert, Green Alert and Amber Alert policies. Ordinance 26-0902 was also approved, establishing the 2026 property tax rates, including a 1.48 motor vehicle tax rate that officials said has remained unchanged for decades. Ordinance 26-0903 added Montford and Grovewood Streets in the Overlook at Sun Rock development to the city's publicly maintained street system and established related speed limits, stop signs and parking restrictions. Officials noted that the development includes condominiums and new single-family homes, some of which are approximately 4,500 square feet. Ordinance 26-0904 was approved to finance the Bentwood Hills Drive culvert project through a $1.15 million, 10-year lease with JP Morgan Chase at a 4.61% interest rate. Officials said the rate was lower than projected and the financing was necessary to avoid using most of the city's capital funds for the culvert. A first reading was also given to Ordinance 26-1001, which would close and convey two previously dedicated but unused public streets beneath a new building being constructed by Bobby Mackey. The city plans to execute quitclaim deeds for the vacated property. Public Works reported that the Bentwood Hills culvert project was approximately 90% complete. A base coat of asphalt was expected later in the week or early the following week, after which the road could reopen while utility work, sidewalks, curbs, streetlights and other finishing work continued. Guardrails will also be installed near the creek because the completed project provides public access to an area with a significant drop. Vine Street paving was complete, Country Drive was expected to begin the following week, and work was also discussed at the future Iron Center housing site, where a conditional use permit had been approved and a storm sewer relocation will be required. The Treasurer reported that the city's fiscal year 2026 audit would begin the following week. Council approved the August financial report and payment of bills. Upcoming events include the city's first Halloween house decorating contest, Trunk or Treat on October 24 from 1–3 p.m., and a card-making class November 7. Police Chief Chad Martin reported on the successful Touch a Truck event and announced the department's annual physical test. He also said Officer Tookie had resigned and the department was hiring to fill the position. Fire Chief Nyman reminded residents about the November 20 turkey raffle and reported recent fire-extinguisher training. The mayor provided updates on development and community activities, including new single-family homes beginning construction in Sun Rock, a successful Coffee and Talk event, the High Profile ribbon cutting and continued work on Bobby Mackey's project. The city is also collecting winter coats, gloves, scarves and blankets through its seasonal donation drive. Council members praised city staff and the strong turnout at the senior picnic and Touch a Truck event. The meeting adjourned with the next council meeting scheduled for November 2. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement or action taken during the meeting.
Sep 9

Wilder City Council: 9/8/26

The Wilder City Council met September 8, 2026, approving the previous meeting minutes and hearing from Joshua Baker, a candidate for Kentucky State Senate District 24, and Lucas Glaser, a candidate for Wilder City Council. Council also promoted Jacob Nichols to firefighter paramedic and welcomed back Micky Collins, who was sworn in as a Wilder police officer. Council approved Ordinance 26-0901, updating police department policies for license plate readers and establishing standalone procedures for Golden, Green and Amber Alerts. The license plate reader policy was revised to require audits every 30 days, while the Green Alert applies to veterans considered at risk. A major discussion focused on the city’s 2026 property tax rates. Officials explained that increased property assessments and approximately $84 million in new growth affected the calculations. Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 26-0902 using the compensating rate plus 4% for real and tangible property, with one council member voting against the measure. Officials said the higher rate would generate approximately $35,000 more than the compensating rate and help the city meet its budget needs and maintain competitive employee compensation. Because the rate exceeds the compensating rate, a public hearing and second reading were scheduled for a special meeting September 28, with the public hearing beginning at 6:15 p.m. Council also gave first-reading approval to Ordinance 26-0903, adding Montford Street and Grovewood Street in the Overlook at Sunrise/Fisher development to the city’s street system and establishing speed limits, stop signs and parking restrictions. The streets include condominium buildings and single-family homes and will be maintained by the city. Officials reported that construction on single-family homes in the Fisher development is expected to begin soon. Council gave first-reading approval to Ordinance 26-0904, authorizing financing of up to $1.15 million for the emergency replacement of the failed culvert beneath Bentwood Hills Drive. The project began after the city discovered in April that the existing culvert had rusted through and collapsed. The replacement uses large precast concrete sections, with some weighing up to 50,000 pounds. Officials estimated the work was 80–90% complete and expected final construction, utility work and paving to take another four to five weeks. The city expects $100,000 in assistance from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and approximately $300,000 in additional general-fund carryover, while the remaining costs will be financed over up to 10 years with no prepayment penalty. Council also proclaimed September 17–23 as Constitution Week and received an update that the city is pursuing delinquent property taxes, with payment arrangements already made in at least one case. Department updates included plans for interior work at the future coffee shop, upcoming improvements to Country Drive, and efforts to clean up the large dirt pile near Johns Hill Road and Licking Pike. The Iron Center has applied for a conditional use permit for congregate housing at 530 Licking Pike. Police Chief Chad Martin reported the department passed its four-year reaccreditation, which helps maintain a lower liability insurance rating, and announced that the Northern Kentucky Peer Support Team received a $5,000 Kentucky Attorney General award. Upcoming events include the September 13 flag-raising ceremony, September 18–20 citywide yard sale, September 26 Touch a Truck, September 30 senior picnic and Medicare seminar, and an October 24 Trunk or Treat. Mayor Valerie Jones also announced that High Profile, the city’s medical marijuana facility, plans a ribbon cutting September 25. The meeting concluded with adjournment. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement or action taken during the meeting.
Aug 25

Wilder Planning & Zoning: 8/25/26

The Wilder Planning & Zoning Commission met August 24, 2026, approving the minutes from the June 22 meeting before considering a temporary-use request from Straight Edge Concrete. The proposal involves operating a concrete-crushing and recycling facility on a property along Kentucky 9 that has been used for years as a fill and waste site. The property contains large quantities of concrete that were accumulated by a previous owner, and Straight Edge plans to crush the existing material and haul the resulting gravel off-site rather than bring additional concrete onto the property. The applicant said the operation is intended to last no more than five years, with the long-term goal of cleaning up the property and preparing it for a future permitted use, potentially involving construction-material sales, contractor storage or another use allowed under the property's zoning. Much of the discussion focused on potential impacts to nearby residents, hotels and businesses, particularly noise, dust and truck traffic. The applicant said the crusher would operate in the lower portion of the property to provide some separation from Kentucky 9 and surrounding development. A water system and sprinkler equipment will be used to control dust, and officials said the company has an air-quality permit from the Kentucky Division for Air Quality. The applicant estimated that an average day could involve roughly 10 to 30 truckloads of recycled gravel leaving the site, with most trucks expected to travel directly to I-275 rather than through surrounding residential areas. Commissioners also discussed keeping mud and debris off Kentucky 9 and requiring appropriate cleanup if trucks track material onto the roadway. Commissioners questioned the proposed operating schedule because the original plan contemplated activity beginning as early as 6 a.m. due to preparation and equipment maintenance. Concern was expressed about noise affecting nearby hotels and residents, particularly early in the morning. The commission ultimately approved the temporary use with conditions that crushing could not begin before 8 a.m., while the proposed operating window remained 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and no Sunday operations. The approval also incorporates the applicant's proposal limiting the operation to a maximum of five years. The motion passed unanimously. During additional discussion, officials provided updates on efforts to address an unsightly area near the property, including plans for a culvert and grading work. The commission was also told that Wilder is working toward an agreement under which Campbell County Planning and Zoning would provide planning services while Wilder retains its own Planning Commission. Officials discussed progress on the future coffee shop project, including site preparation, foundation work and traffic considerations, as well as updates involving Bobby Mackey's. Commissioners were reminded about GIS training available for required annual planning and zoning education hours. The meeting then adjourned. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement or action taken during the meeting.
Jul 7

Wilder City Council: 7/6/26

At its July 6, 2026 meeting, the Wilder City Council approved the minutes from its June 15 meeting and received updates on several ongoing infrastructure, public safety, and community development initiatives. City officials reported continued progress on the Brentwood Hills Drive culvert replacement project, noting that utility coordination, engineering work, and procurement remain on schedule as the city works toward restoring the roadway following the spring collapse. Council also received updates on routine public works activities, including street maintenance, landscaping, park improvements, and preparations for upcoming community events. Staff highlighted the success of recent summer programs and promoted future events such as Party in the Park, Concert in the Park, and other recreational activities. Council approved routine financial and administrative business, including payment of claims and personnel-related matters, while also reviewing updates on several economic development projects. Officials discussed continued progress on the proposed coffee shop redevelopment, ongoing planning efforts for the Bobby Mackey’s redevelopment projectfollowing its Planning and Zoning approval, and coordination with developers and utility providers as projects advance. City leaders also reviewed updates related to transportation improvements, including the future Northern Kentucky University access road project, and discussed how current and future developments will affect traffic patterns and public infrastructure. Police and fire department reports highlighted continued staffing stability, training activities, and public safety initiatives. Police officials provided updates on the department’s recently implemented Flock license plate reader system, community policing efforts, and officer development, while the fire department reported on emergency response activities, equipment maintenance, and seasonal safety reminders. Council also discussed ongoing code enforcement efforts, neighborhood maintenance issues, and resident concerns regarding property upkeep. The meeting concluded with announcements regarding upcoming city meetings and community events, along with council comments recognizing the work of city staff, volunteers, and local organizations in supporting Wilder’s continued growth and quality of life. Officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining infrastructure, supporting responsible development, and investing in public services while managing the city's long-term financial and operational priorities. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.
Jun 23

Wilder Planning & Zoning: 6/22/26

At its June 22, 2026 meeting, the Wilder Planning and Zoning Commission approved the minutes from its previous meeting and focused almost entirely on review of the Stage One and Stage Two Development Plan for the redevelopment of the former Bobby Mackey’s site along Licking Pike. Representatives for the project, including civil engineering staff, presented plans for the new facility and answered questions regarding site access, parking layout, drainage, emergency access, building design, and utility coordination. Commissioners discussed how roadway changes and right-of-way adjustments associated with nearby infrastructure projects affected the property layout and reviewed plans to use a single primary entrance and exit from Queen City Avenue, with separate north and south parking areas intended to support customers, employees, deliveries, and event operations. Much of the discussion centered on safety and site functionality. Commissioners asked about emergency vehicle access, stormwater management, traffic flow during large events, sidewalk placement, building setbacks from Route 9, and coordination with SD1 and Northern Kentucky Water District regarding permitting and infrastructure requirements. Project representatives explained that the new building will sit lower than roadway grade and farther from the highway than the original structure, include fire suppression sprinklers, provide improved pedestrian separation from traffic, and incorporate stormwater treatment measures before runoff reaches the nearby water system. Additional discussion addressed access behind the building using the existing railroad service road, future signage placement, lighting, and preserving features associated with the venue’s history, including the well feature inside the facility. Following discussion, the commission approved the Stage One and Stage Two Development Plan for the Bobby Mackey’s redevelopment project, subject to completion of remaining permitting and agency approvals as required. Commissioners noted that additional engineering documentation and final approvals from outside agencies would still be needed as the project moves forward. Following project business, the commission conducted its annual officer elections and voted to retain current leadership, re-electing Maurice Melnick as Chair and electing Greg Kirk as Vice Chair. The meeting concluded with brief discussion of future development activity in the area before adjournment. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.
Jun 16

Wilder City: 6/15/26

At its June 15, 2026 meeting, the Wilder City Council approved the minutes from the June 1 meeting and opened with community announcements highlighting upcoming summer programming and city events. Mayor Valerie Boggess welcomed residents and recognized community engagement, including introductions from prospective city council candidates Greg Adams and Craig Kirk, who addressed council regarding their interest in serving the city and supporting Wilder’s continued development and governance. Council’s primary legislative action was approval on second reading of Ordinance 26-0601, formally adopting the Fiscal Year 2026–27 city budget with no changes from the first reading. Officials described the budget as supporting ongoing operations, employee retention initiatives, and city priorities. Council also approved the first reading of Ordinance 26-0602, updating the city’s personnel policy and pay plan. City officials explained that annual review of salary ranges is required and that the amendments reflect current staffing levels, merit and retention adjustments, compensation compliance requirements, and revised position classifications. Discussion also touched on future administrative succession planning and noted that the city is currently fully staffed. Council additionally approved the first reading of Ordinance 26-0603, adopting a new license plate reader (LPR) policy for the police department based on a model policy recommended by the Kentucky League of Cities. Police officials explained that the policy governs use of the city’s newly installed Flock camera system, including data retention standards, user access controls, audit procedures, and case-file preservation requirements. Council discussed privacy concerns, data management practices, and how the system integrates with law enforcement investigations while emphasizing that the technology is intended as an investigative and public safety tool rather than continuous tracking. Department updates included a substantial progress report on the ongoing Brentwood Hills Drive culvert replacement project. Officials announced that the large precast concrete box culvert has been ordered with expected delivery in mid-to-late July and that excavation work will begin beforehand. Duke Energy’s required utility relocation work and associated costs were also discussed as part of the project’s growing scope and financing considerations. Staff clarified that the separate Three Mile Road closure relates to ongoing SD1 sewer work and does not impact emergency access planning. Additional updates included progress on the future NKU access road project, a scheduled Planning and Zoning meeting on June 22 to review the Bobby Mackey’s redevelopment site plan, and community event announcements including Party in the Park, Concert in the Park, and summer programming. Police reported that two newly hired officers had completed field training and that the department is now fully staffed, while fire officials reminded residents that seasonal burn restrictions remain in effect due to dry conditions. The meeting concluded with council comments, recognition of upcoming Father’s Day, discussion of future tax and waste collection rate considerations, and notice that council will return to a once-monthly meeting schedule beginning in July. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.
Jun 2

Wilder City Council: 6/1/26

At its June 1, 2026 meeting, the Wilder City Council approved previous meeting minutes, welcomed newly hired firefighter-paramedic Kevin Smith, and formally swore him into office. City officials noted that Smith joins the department after serving with Campbell Fire Rescue and fills a position the city had been working to staff for an extended period. Council then received the first reading of Ordinance 26-0601, adopting the city’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026–27 budget. Mayor and staff outlined a balanced budget that includes transferring projected surplus funds to capital accounts, separating Fisher development PILOT revenues for improved transparency, funding street improvements, recreational projects, employee retention programs, merit pay, and a new public works dump truck/snowplow. The budget also includes a 3% cost-of-living increase for employees and elected officials, along with additional salary adjustments funded through retirement contribution savings, while maintaining the city’s policy of covering 100% of employee and family health insurance premiums. A major focus of the meeting was the ongoing Brentwood Hills Drive culvert collapse project. Council approved Resolution 26-0601, authorizing an agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for a $100,000 state grant to assist with culvert replacement and roadway restoration. Officials also issued an emergency declaration related to the April 30 collapse, allowing the city to expedite permitting and procurement processes. Staff reported that the project has grown significantly beyond the original scope, requiring full replacement of the culvert, utility relocations, specialized crane work, and financing that could approach $900,000 after grant assistance. The city discussed potential financing options and praised efforts to secure outside funding, including contributions from the state, Sanitation District No. 1, and private partners that could substantially reduce project costs. Department and staff updates included reports on the successful opening of the city splash pad, growing participation in the Active Aging fitness program, upcoming community events such as First Friday, Movie Night, and Party in the Park, and continued progress on the proposed coffee shop redevelopment project. Officials discussed traffic considerations and site improvements associated with the development, as well as maintenance concerns at city parks and public spaces. Public works staff reported efforts to address landscaping and weed complaints, while city leaders also informed residents that Three Mile Road will be closed from June 15 through June 29 for SD1 sewer work, requiring detours for area residents. Council members additionally recognized local businesses, celebrated recent economic development activities, and expressed appreciation for city staff and volunteers contributing to ongoing projects and community programs. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.

Podcast of Wilder Kentucky Government Meetings

Creator

Campbell Media
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

18
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Campbell Media
Show Website

Wilder Kentucky