Wilder Kentucky

Campbell Media

Podcast of Wilder Kentucky Government Meetings

Episodes

  1. MAY 6

    Wilder City Council: 5/4/26

    The Wilder City Council meeting on May 4, 2026, opened with an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of the April 6 meeting minutes. A major focus of the meeting was a presentation from city engineers regarding a recent culvert failure near Bentwood Drive, which caused a sinkhole and prompted emergency response efforts. Engineers walked council and residents through the timeline of the incident, causes, and next steps for repair, while city officials emphasized the rapid response from public works, police, and fire personnel and ongoing communication with affected residents.  Council then addressed several personnel-related executive orders, including renewing one-year contracts for police officers, appointing a new public works laborer, and swearing in a new full-time patrol officer. Financially, the city reported approximately 4.9% year-over-year revenue growth, outpacing inflation, and continued work toward finalizing the upcoming budget. Department updates highlighted recent community events, including a successful 5K race and DEA drug take-back initiative, as well as progress toward restoring full staffing in the police department.  Additional discussion included economic development updates, such as ongoing plans for a new coffee shop and continued efforts related to the redevelopment of the former Bobby Mackey’s site, though timelines remain uncertain due to permitting and contractor availability. The council also addressed public concerns regarding Flock license plate reader cameras, explaining their purpose, data handling, and role in law enforcement, while acknowledging resident questions about privacy and communication. The meeting concluded with community announcements, including upcoming events, cleanup opportunities, and budget timelines, followed by public comments and adjournment. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI based on the provided transcript and may not capture every detail of the meeting.

    1h 21m
  2. APR 7

    Wilder City Council: 4/6/26

    The Wilder City Council meeting on April 6, 2026 began with approval of prior meeting minutes and a guest introduction from Andy Schabell, candidate for Campbell County Judge Executive, who discussed regional growth challenges, infrastructure concerns, and the need for stronger county partnerships . A major highlight of the meeting was a formal commendation ceremony recognizing police officers and emergency personnel for their decisive response to a medical emergency involving a brain tumor, where their quick judgment and professionalism were credited with saving a life. Council then approved an ordinance amendment related to public nuisance noise regulations following a second reading, with minor concern raised about the enforcement time. Department reports covered multiple infrastructure and operational updates, including approval of road resurfacing contracts for Interstate Access Road and Vine Street, completion of a sewer project funded by a $400,000 grant reimbursement, installation of traffic-monitoring cameras, and ongoing sidewalk and splash pad repairs. Additional discussions included the planned removal of an emergency siren in favor of mobile alert systems, pre-approval to purchase a new dump truck due to aging equipment, and continued hiring efforts for public works and police positions. Financial updates noted reduced delinquent property taxes, while community initiatives included a successful Easter event, an upcoming hazardous waste collection, and city-supported events like a 5K run and fundraising activities. The meeting concluded with council comments, further recognition of city staff and volunteers, updates on local projects such as road closures and signage improvements, and adjournment. This summary was generated using AI based on the provided meeting transcript.

    50 min
  3. MAR 3

    Wilder City Council: 3/2/26

    At its March 2, 2026 meeting, the Wilder City Council opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before approving the February 2 meeting minutes. The city’s independent auditor presented the audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, issuing two unmodified “clean” opinions on the city’s financial statements and internal controls, with no material weaknesses, fraud findings, or management letter comments. He highlighted steady growth in the city’s net position over the past four years, decreasing bond and fire truck lease liabilities, and a widening gap between revenues and expenses in both the overall budget and the general fund, indicating strong financial health. During the public comment portion, resident Tina Eichmann urged council to further restrict construction hours due to quality-of-life concerns related to ongoing development noise. In response, council held an extensive discussion before approving the first reading of Ordinance 26-06301 amending the nuisance ordinance: heavy excavation and similar construction equipment will now be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays, with no work permitted on Sundays or legal holidays, while general noise restrictions remain unchanged at 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Council also approved Ordinance 26-0201 adding City Center Park to the municipal code and updating park regulations and fees, and Ordinance 26-0202 modifying stop sign locations and adding a stop sign and speed limit for Sunrock Boulevard. A resolution was passed authorizing the police department to apply for Kentucky Office of Homeland Security Law Enforcement Protection Program grant funds to purchase up to 12 rifles and other equipment at no cost to the city. Department reports included updates on upcoming street repairs, installation of additional city cameras and license plate readers, replacement of the city’s computer server, approximately $45,000 in delinquent property taxes, the March 28 Easter egg hunt at the Landing, recruitment efforts within police, fire, and public works, and Fire Chief Nieman’s appointment as District 6 Vice President of the Kentucky Fire Chiefs Association representing 12 counties. The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing projects including the Bobby Mackey’s redevelopment, UDF reconstruction plans, and continued discussions regarding a proposed coffee shop property, before adjourning. This summary was generated using AI based on the provided transcript.

    1h 9m
  4. FEB 3

    Wilder City Council: 2/2/26

    The Wilder City Council met on February 2, 2026, opening with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of the minutes from the January 5 meeting and payment of claims. A major focus of the meeting was discussion and action related to the Ascension Apartments development, including approval of bond-related items associated with the project. Council heard an explanation that the city is serving as a conduit issuer for the bonds, with no financial liability to the city, and that the action involved refunding and reissuing Series 2025 bonds tied to the development, which had already received zoning approval. Council members asked questions regarding the scope of the project, excavation impacts, and financing structure before voting to approve the related resolutions. Council also conducted a first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 72 of the municipal code, which included updates to park regulations and the formal addition of City Center Park to the city’s code. It was noted that this was the initial reading and that further consideration would occur at a future meeting. Additional agenda items included routine departmental updates, with city staff reporting on ongoing public works and operational matters, and confirmation that projects and expenditures remained on track. Multiple items required roll-call votes, all of which passed with council approval. The meeting concluded after council comments and confirmation of next steps for ordinances scheduled for future readings. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using artificial intelligence based on a meeting transcript and is intended for informational purposes only.

    1h 3m
  5. JAN 6

    Wilder City: 1/5/26

    The Wilder City Council convened on January 5, 2026, opening with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of prior meeting minutes. A significant portion of the meeting focused on citizen comments regarding construction noise and extended construction hours, particularly related to large-scale development projects along Three Mile Road. Council members and city staff discussed the challenges of balancing resident quality of life with citywide ordinances, enforcement limitations, and ongoing development, agreeing to review possible revisions to construction and heavy-equipment operating hours for future consideration. The council also approved the appointment of Lauren Parnell to the Planning and Zoning Commission, formally swearing her in and noting her community involvement. Administrative actions included approving the sale of a surplus police vehicle, awarding a parking lot paving contract to Cincinnati Asphalt at a substantially lower bid than expected, and authorizing the use of remaining funds for upgraded parking lot lighting through Duke Energy. Additional updates covered potential boundary adjustments tied to upcoming road projects, property tax collections, Christmas decorating contest winners, park shelter rental fee changes, police staffing updates, and Fire and Police Department activities. The meeting highlighted ongoing infrastructure planning, fiscal oversight, and community concerns related to growth and development within the city. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using artificial intelligence based on a meeting transcript and is intended for informational purposes only.

    1h 14m
  6. 12/02/2025

    Wilder City: 12/1/25

    The Wilder City Council opened its December meeting with the Lord’s Prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before officially swearing in newly appointed Councilman Andy Williams. After reciting the constitutional oath, Williams joined the roll call and was welcomed back by the council. Minutes from the November 3rd meeting were approved without discussion. The meeting served as the city’s annual holiday gathering and featured a shortened agenda. No citizens or invited guests spoke. Department updates were brief: Public Works had no report; administrative staff wished residents a Merry Christmas and reviewed the October financials, which were approved unanimously. Police Chief Chad Martin announced that two new officers—Kelly and Reimer—had graduated and begun field training, marking four new recruits for the year. Fire Chief Doug McMillan reported a successful turkey raffle and reminded the public about the upcoming Breakfast with Santa event. Mayor Smith provided a series of updates, noting that security camera installations at city buildings were now fully complete at the municipal building, with Frederick’s Landing and Public Works next in line. Issues remain with Kentucky Transportation restricting camera placement on state right-of-ways, requiring alternative installation plans. The mayor also described progress with Flock license plate readers, upcoming planning and zoning items, and recent approvals for a new UDF rebuild on Licking Pike as well as a proposed medical cannabis dispensary on Country Drive—both projects still requiring additional logistical and utility coordination. He also addressed ongoing delays in the elevator modernization project due to a tariff-related change order and pending contractor clarification. The mayor announced that no mid-month update would be sent in December due to the holiday schedule and upcoming vacation. He also previewed January’s agenda, which will include discussion of a nuisance ordinance issue raised by a resident regarding construction hours. Additionally, he notified council of his plan to appoint Lauren Purnell to Planning and Zoning in January. The city thanked Maxam for donating Cheryl’s Cookies for the tree lighting event and reminded everyone of the upcoming historic society tree lighting and post-event social with hot chocolate. Council members concluded the meeting with holiday wishes, praise for city staff, and congratulations to Councilman Williams. The meeting adjourned in record time, with the next scheduled meeting set for January 5th. This summary was generated using AI.

    21 min
  7. 11/25/2025

    Wilder Planning & Zoning: 11/24/25

    The Wilder Planning & Zoning Commission met on November 24, 2025, and began by approving the minutes from the previous meeting. Staff provided an update on a prior zoning matter, noting that City Council postponed action due to new information from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet regarding the long-discussed connector road between NKU and Johns Hill Road. Construction on the road is now expected to begin in summer 2026, so Council will revisit the zoning request after the start of the new year. The first major item on the agenda was a redevelopment proposal from United Dairy Farmers (UDF). Representatives presented plans for a complete teardown and rebuild of the existing store at Mook Road and Licking Pike. The new layout will reorient the building, expand the interior space, and increase the number of fuel positions from six to twelve. Updated food service options and modernized site features are included, along with underground stormwater detention. A required traffic study is underway, and it is likely the Licking Pike access will be restricted to right-in/right-out. Although the project conflicts with several Town Center zoning standards—such as prohibitions on fuel dispensing, flat roofs, and limits on impervious surface—the commission determined these would be treated as allowable continuations of existing nonconforming conditions. After discussion, the commission approved the Stage 1 and 2 development plans with the necessary variances. The commission then reviewed the site plan for a proposed High Profile medical cannabis dispensary by C3 Industries on Country Drive. This project involves constructing a new 3,000-square-foot building with a drive-through pickup window for pre-ordered medical cannabis products. The applicant discussed coordination with utility providers, including plans to install a new six-inch water main and finalize stormwater routing options in cooperation with SD1. The site’s flat topography and existing drainage features will require careful grading and design adjustments. The business will operate under strict state medical cannabis regulations, with security measures, controlled access, and patient-only sales based on medical cards. Hours of operation are expected to be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. After discussion, the commission approved the Stage 1 and 2 plans with the condition that the project comply with all SD1 stormwater requirements. The meeting concluded with recognition of a long-serving member who was retiring after 57 years of service. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI.

    1h 16m
  8. 11/04/2025

    Wilder City Council: 11/3/25

    Wilder City Council Meeting Summary – November 3, 2025 The Wilder City Council met on November 3, 2025. The meeting began with a presentation from the Kentucky League of Cities, recognizing Mayor Valerie Jones for completing over 114 hours of training and earning the “Master of City Governance” certification. Mayor Jones then delivered the State of the City Address, highlighting Wilder’s strong financial standing, recent growth, and infrastructure improvements. She celebrated the city’s 90th anniversary and noted accomplishments such as new pickleball courts, public safety investments, and increased staff across departments. Jones emphasized the importance of teamwork, continued development, and maintaining a high quality of life for residents. Other business included updates from city staff on public safety, public works, and ongoing infrastructure upgrades, such as new security cameras, the elevator modernization project, and surplus equipment sales. The council accepted Councilwoman Kelly Mizer’s resignation and voted to appoint Andy Williams to fill her seat. Reports from the fire and police departments noted strong performance, with the fire department recently earning its best-ever ISO safety rating. Upcoming city events include the turkey raffle, breakfast with Santa, and the annual tree lighting on December 1. The meeting concluded with citizen comments and adjourned shortly after 8 p.m. This summary of the November 3, 2025 Wilder City Council meeting was generated using AI and may contain minor inaccuracies. For official records, please refer to the city’s approved minutes or meeting video.

    1h 33m
  9. 10/28/2025

    Wilder Planning & Zoning: 10/27/25

    The Wilder Planning and Zoning Commission met on October 27, 2025. The meeting opened with roll call, approval of minutes, and a review of new business items. The main agenda item was a site plan review for a proposed coffee shop and drive-thru at the corner of Moock Road and U.S. 27. Representatives for the developer presented updated renderings that included improved landscaping, traffic flow adjustments, and enhanced pedestrian access. City Engineer Mike Yeager confirmed that stormwater management and utility connections met city and state requirements. The commission discussed driveway spacing, sight distance, and traffic safety at the nearby intersection, ultimately approving the plan with conditions requiring final review of signage, lighting, and landscaping by staff before permits are issued. City Administrator Terry Vance provided updates on ongoing projects, including the Steiner Lane extension, which is progressing toward its final paving phase, and coordination with state officials on the U.S. 27 improvement project. He also noted that the city’s updated zoning map will soon be available online for public access. No public hearings were required during the meeting, and there were no citizen comments. The meeting adjourned after confirming the next regular session will be held in November. This summary of the October 27, 2025 Wilder Planning and Zoning Commission meeting was generated using AI and may contain minor inaccuracies. For official records, please refer to the city’s approved minutes or meeting video.

    1h 16m

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Podcast of Wilder Kentucky Government Meetings