City Council

Florence City Council Business Meeting Tuesday, April 22, 2025 6:00 p.m. MINUTES The City Council of the City of Florence, Kentucky, met in regular session on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Florence Government Center, 8100 Ewing Boulevard, Florence, Kentucky, with Mayor Julie M. Aubuchon presiding as chair. CALL TO ORDER & WELCOME: Mayor Julie M. Aubuchon called the regular meeting to order and declared the regular session open for the presentation of all city business. INVOCATION & PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Aubuchon and Members of City Council recited the invocation. All attendees recited the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL: The roll was called, and the following six (6) members of council were registered present: Angie Cable, Lesley Chambers, David M. Schneider, Diane E. Whalen (Vice Mayor), Patricia Wingo, and Gary Winn. Staff members present were: City Attorney, Thomas R. Nienaber; Finance Director, Jason Lewis; Fire/EMS Chief, Rodney Wren; Chief of Police, Jeff Mallery; Director of Administration/City Administrator, Joshua J. Hunt; City Engineer, Bill Viox; City Clerk, Melissa Kramer; Videographer, Perry Weber; and Police Officer, Mike Stanaland. The following were also present in the audience: Director of Community Development, Todd Morgan; Battalion Chief of EMS, Danielle Stiner; Assistant Fire/EMS Chief, Chris Miller; Fire/EMS Commander, Dave Dannemiller; Fire Marshal, Randy Childress; Fire/EMS Captain, Chris Fuhrmann; Fire/EMS Paramedic, Sami Corbin; Firefighter/EMT, Josh Abdon; Vice President of Public Affairs for Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, Seth Cutter; CEO of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, Larry Krauter; Members of the Florence Fire/EMS Department; St. Elizabeth EMS Outreach Coordinators, Josh Cox and Tony Schaben; St. Elizabeth Representative, Betty McGee; Resident of Florence, Thomas Judd; Resident of Florence, James Leach; Vice President of Moreton Capital Markets, Daniel Schafer; Resident of Florence, Robert Sergeant; NKY Tribune Reporter, Trisha Scheyer; and Keating Muething & Klekamp Attorney, James Parsons. Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve the minutes of the April 8, 2025, business meeting. Councilmember Whalen motioned to approve the minutes with a second from Councilmember Schneider. All councilmembers present voted aye. PRESENTATION – CINCINNATI/NORTHERN KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (CVG): Mayor Aubuchon introduced Seth Cutter, Vice President of Public Affairs Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Mr. Cutter introduced Larry Krauter as the new CEO of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), following the retirement of long-time CEO Candace McGraw. Mr. Krauter, who has 37 years of experience as an airport executive, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and praised Ms. McGraw’s legacy. He noted the Florence Community Guide, shared with him by Mayor Aubuchon, inspired him, especially the phrase “Honoring our Past and Shaping our Future,” to which he said he would add the word “Together” to reflect the regions strong emphasis on partnership. Mr. Krauter stated that CVG employs approximately 16,000 badged workers and has a regional economic impact of $10.5 billion, supporting about 55,000 jobs. Mayor Aubuchon acknowledged the airport's essential role in both convenience and economic development for the region. Mr. Cutter provided a presentation on an update of CVG, highlighting 2023 as a strong year with 9.2 million passengers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. He explained CVG ranks as the 7th largest cargo airport in North America, driven by significant investments from DHL and Amazon. Of the 16,000 airport employees, roughly 1,340 are Florence residents. He explained passenger services have expanded with British Airways and Breeze Airways joining, leading to more competition and affordable fares. CVG now offers two direct transatlantic flights to London and Paris boosting business and tourism. Over $1 billion in capital improvements are planned over the next five years, including the Elevate CVG terminal modernization project, and development of the Global Logistics Park and Hangar Row aimed at attracting aircraft maintenance and cargo diversification businesses. Addressing community concerns, Mr. Cutter acknowledged that noise remains an issue, especially due to round the clock cargo operations. While CVG was unable to restrict flight paths due to federal regulations, CVG works with the FAA to minimize residential impact. Recent runway repairs temporarily increased noise in areas such as Florence, but overall complaints have decreased. Mr. Cutter stated that the airport has improved outreach, offering real-time flight tracking and a noise exposure guide on its website along with a portal for lodging complaints. Councilmember Whalen thanked Mr. Cutter expressing regret at his departure and appreciation for his contributions wishing him luck in his future endeavors. 2|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 Mr. Cutter thanked everyone for their partnership, especially for the support of Florence's public safety teams and expressed confidence in Mr. Krauter's leadership to carry forward the airport’s strong legacy of partnership. RECOGNITION: Mayor Aubuchon called upon Fire/EMS Chief, Rodney Wren to recognize Fire/EMS personnel Paramedic, Sami Corbin and Firefighter/EMT, Josh Abdon. Chief Wren introduced Josh Cox and Tony Schaben, EMS Coordinators with St. Elizabeth Healthcare, along with Betty McGee from St. Elizabeth’s Education Department. Ms. McGee recognized Paramedic Sami Corbin and Firefighter/EMT Josh Abdon for their exceptional response during a stroke emergency transport in February of 2025. She explained their swift response resulted in the fastest “door-to-needle” time for administering t-PA across the entire St. Elizabeth Healthcare system. She explained that this effort was part of a national American Heart Association initiative, launched in 2010, to improve stroke care by reducing time to treatment. Now in its third phase, the program focuses on seamless coordination across the healthcare continuum, including EMS, for better patient outcomes. Ms. McGee commended them for their critical role presenting them with certificates and "brain pins" in recognition of their outstanding service. PROCLAMATION: Mayor Aubuchon issued a Proclamation acknowledging May 4, 2025, as International Firefighters’ Day and the week of May 18-24, 2025, as Emergency Medical Services Week in the City of Florence reading the following Proclamation into record: WHEREAS, the safety and well-being of the residents of Florence, Kentucky, is of the utmost importance to the City of Florence and its leadership; and WHEREAS, International Firefighters’ Day, observed on May 4, is a time to honor and remember the sacrifices made by firefighters around the world and to recognize their commitment to protecting life, property, and the environment; and WHEREAS, the dedicated members of the Florence Fire/EMS Department, who serve as both firefighters and emergency medical providers, exemplify courage, compassion, and professionalism, responding to emergencies with skill and selflessness; and WHEREAS, National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, observed this year from May 18 through May 24, provides an opportunity to recognize the paramedics and EMTs within our Florence Fire/EMS Department who deliver lifesaving medical care in times of crisis; and WHEREAS, the dual-role firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics of the Florence Fire/EMS Department are vital to our community’s public safety system, and their commitment to excellence reflects the highest standards of service; and 3|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 WHEREAS, the City of Florence expresses its deepest gratitude for the men and women who stand ready every day to protect and serve with courage, strength, and dedication; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED THAT, I, Julie M. Aubuchon, Mayor of the City of Florence, Kentucky, and on behalf of the members of Florence City Council, do hereby proclaim May 4, 2025 as Firefighters’ Day and the week of May 18-24, 2025 as Emergency Medical Services Week and further extend appreciation to members of our City of Florence Fire/EMS Department. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Florence, Kentucky, to be affixed hereto, this 22nd day of April 2025. PRESENTATION – MORETON CAPITAL MARKETS: Mayor Aubuchon called upon Jason Lewis, Finance Director, to introduce Daniel Schafer, Vice President of Moreton Capital Markets for a presentation regarding investments, market trends and interest rates. With the upcoming budget workshop, Mr. Lewis believed it was a timely discussion. He shared that he met Mr. Schafer at the Government Finance Officers Association Conference and praised his expertise in assisting local governments in Kentucky and Tennessee to build intelligent financial portfolios. Mr. Schafer provided an overview of his background and the services provided by Moreton Capital Markets. He began with a broader economic update, highlighting the impact of tariff uncertainty, inflation pressures, and global market volatility. He discussed the Federal Reserve’s current monetary policy, noting the federal funds rate currently between 4.25% and 4.5%, with potential rate cuts expected soon. He also explained the significance of the inverted yield curve, where short- term rates exceed long-term rates, a signal often associated with economic uncertainty. Mr. Schafer complimented the City of Florence’s current investment approach and recommended the city begin planning for rate declines by exploring more diversified investment strategies. He emphasized that Moreton Capital charges no management fees, complied with state investment laws, and focuses on personalized, strategic guidance. Mayor Aubuchon noted that the city recently updated its investment policy to align with Kentucky statutes. She emphasized the importance of a conservative investment strategy to safeguard taxpayer funds and thanked Mr. Schafer for his presentation. FIRST READING ORDINANCE O-9-2025: Mayor Aubuchon read Ordinance O-9-2025. An Ordinance Adopting and Approving a Zoning Map Amendment from Commercial Two (C-2) to Commercial Services (C-3) and a Conditional Use Permit for an approximate 0.35 acre area located at 6809 Burlington Pike, Florence, Kentucky, To Allow the Existing Building to Be Occupied by a Medical Cannabis Dispensary Business. (Bluegrass Cannacare LLC) The effect of this Ordinance is to allow a Zoning Map Amendment from Commercial Two (C-2) to Commercial Services (C-3) and a Conditional Use Permit for an approximate 0.35 acre area 4|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 located at 6809 Burlington Pike, Florence, Kentucky, to allow the existing building to be occupied by a medical cannabis dispensary business, subject to conditions. The full text of Ordinance O-9-2025 including its exhibits, is available for examination in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Florence, Kentucky, in the Florence Government Center, 8100 Ewing Blvd., Florence, Kentucky, during regular office hours. Mayor Aubuchon requested any additional discussion or questions, hearing none, Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve the first reading of Ordinance O-9-2025. Councilmember Wingo motioned to approve, with a second from Councilmember Winn. Mayor Aubuchon requested a Roll Call Vote. Councilmember Wingo, yes; Councilmember Chambers, yes; Councilmember Winn, yes; Councilmember Whalen, yes; Councilmember Schneider, yes; Councilmember Cable, abstained. Mayor Aubuchon requested a reason for abstaining. Councilmember Cable stated she did not believe the business should be at the location. Attorney Nienaber informed Councilmember Cable that without a legitimate, lawful reason, abstention was considered a vote with the majority. Councilmember Cable changed her vote to no. Roll call recognized five yes votes and one no vote approving the first reading of Ordinance O-9-2025 by majority vote. FIRST READING ORDINANCE O-10-2025: Mayor Aubuchon read Ordinance O-10-2025. An Ordinance Adopting and Approving a Change of Concept Development Plan and Variances in a Commercial Services (C-3) District, for an approximate 0.56 acre area located at 7303 Turfway Road, Florence, Kentucky, to allow the development of a 543 Square Foot drive-through only coffee shop and a 277 square foot remote storage/cooler accessory structure and variances to: (1) reduce the front yard setback from fifty (50) feet to thirty seven (37) feet; and (2) reduce the buffer yard width from ten (10) feet to seven (7) feet along the West Property Line, Five (5) Feet Along The South Property Line, and Eight (8) Feet along the East Property Line. (Brew Team KY, LLC) The effect of this Ordinance is to allow a change of Concept Development Plan and Variances in a Commercial Services (C-3) district, for an approximate 0.56 acre area located at 7303 Turfway Road, Florence, Kentucky, to allow the development of a 543 square foot drive-through only coffee shop and a 277 square foot remote storage/cooler accessory structure and Variances to: (1) reduce the front yard setback from fifty (50) feet to thirty seven (37) feet; and (2) reduce the buffer yard width from ten (10) feet to seven (7) feet along the west property line, five (5) feet along the south property line, and eight (8) feet along the east property line. The full text of Ordinance O-10-2025 including its exhibits, is available for examination in the office of the City Clerk of the City of Florence, Kentucky, in the Florence Government Center, 8100 Ewing Blvd., Florence, Kentucky, during regular office hours. Mayor Aubuchon requested any additional discussion or questions, hearing none, Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve the first reading of Ordinance O-10-2025. Councilmember Wingo motioned to approve, with a second from Councilmember Schneider. Mayor Aubuchon requested a Roll Call Vote. Councilmember Wingo, yes; Councilmember 5|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 Chambers, yes; Councilmember Winn, yes; Councilmember Whalen, yes; Councilmember Schneider, yes; Councilmember Cable, no. Roll call recognized five yes votes and one no vote approving the first reading of Ordinance O-10-2025 by majority vote. DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION MUNICIPAL ORDER MO-2-2025: Mayor Aubuchon called up Chief of Police, Jeff Mallery, with regard to discussion and possible action of Municipal Order MO-2-2025. Chief Mallery reported that the department had recently purchased new cruisers, which were assigned to officers with older or high-mileage vehicles. The replaced cruisers were either added to the vehicle pool or declared surplus, with last year’s spares either auctioned or reassigned to other city departments. Chief Mallery stated that Rockcastle County Sheriff Shannon Franklin had reached out for assistance, citing a limited budget and an aging fleet. As the county's primary law enforcement agency covering over 316 square miles, serving more than 16,000 residents and increased summer travel to Lake Cumberland, Chief Mallery requested approval to donate a surplus 2017 Ford Interceptor to the Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Department to help support their operations. Mayor Aubuchon requested any discussion or questions, hearing none, Mayor Aubuchon read Municipal Order MO-2-2025. A Municipal Order declaring one Ford Interceptor Police Vehicle as surplus property, approving its transfer to the Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Department and authorizing the execution of a transfer agreement with respect thereto. Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve Municipal Order MO-2-2025. Councilmember Winn motioned to approve, with a second from Councilmember Whalen. Mayor Aubuchon requested a Roll Call Vote. Councilmember Wingo, yes; Councilmember Chambers, yes; Councilmember Winn, yes; Councilmember Whalen, yes; Councilmember Schneider, yes; Councilmember Cable, yes. Roll call recognized six yes votes approving Municipal Order MO- 2-2025 by unanimous vote. MAYOR’S REPORT: • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that Spring Clean Up week was underway at the Public Services Facility on Tanners Lane. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that the Florence Police Department was participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday, April 26. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that Florence Aquatic Center memberships were on sale for a special pre-season discount. If you prefer to buy in person, you can purchase memberships at the Florence Aquatic Center April 28–April 30 from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that applications were open for the second annual Florence Public Works Academy. Application deadline was May 9. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that the Community Photo Contest would run from May 1- May 15. Email your photos to photocontest@florence-ky.gov . 6|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that the City of Florence was accepting applications for participants in the upcoming Memorial Day Parade on May 26. The parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Boone County High School and will conclude at the Florence Government Center. Following the parade, a Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at the Boone County Veterans Memorial, located at the Florence Government Center. The deadline to register for parade entry was Friday, May 9. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that there would be no council meeting next Tuesday, April 29 as it was a 5th Tuesday. RECOGNITION: Mayor Aubuchon asked if any of the following desired recognition: Members of City Council: None desired recognition. Department Heads: Chief of Police, Jeff Mallery: Chief Mallery did not desire recognition. Director of Administration/City Administrator, Joshua J. Hunt: Mr. Hunt did not desire recognition. Fire/EMS Chief, Rodney Wren: Chief Wren did not desire recognition. Finance Director, Jason Lewis: Mr. Lewis did not desire recognition. Members of the Audience: No recognition requested from the audience. CLOSED SESSION: Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to go into Closed Session pursuant to KRS 61.810(1)(b) acquisition/sale of real property – where publicity would likely to affect the value of property to be acquired for public use or to be sold by the city; KRS 61.810(1)(c) litigation – proposed or pending against or on behalf of the city; and KRS 61.810(1)(g) discussion between the city and representatives of a business entity – where open discussion would jeopardize the sitting, retention, expansion, or upgrading of the business. Councilmember Winn so moved with a second from Councilmember Wingo. All councilmembers present voted aye, the time being 6:54 p.m. Mayor Aubuchon advised they would return to the room to adjourn and did not anticipate any further business taking place following Closed Session. 7|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to come back into session after the Closed Session. Councilmember Wingo so moved, with a second from Councilmember Schneider. All councilmembers present voted aye, the time being 7:52 p.m. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Wingo so moved, with a second from Councilmember Schneider. Councilmembers present voted aye, the time being 7:53 p.m. APPROVED: /s/ Julie M. Aubuchon Julie M. Aubuchon, Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Melissa Kramer Melissa Kramer, City Clerk 8|Page