City Council

Florence City Council Business Meeting Tuesday, May 13, 2025 6:00 p.m. MINUTES The City Council of the City of Florence, Kentucky, met in regular session on Tuesday, May 13, 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 four (4) members of council were registered present: Lesley Chambers, David M. Schneider, Patricia Wingo, and Gary Winn. Councilmembers Angie Cable and Diane E. Whalen were absent. Staff members present were: Assistant City Attorney, Dale T. Wilson; Finance Director, Jason Lewis; Fire/EMS Chief, Rodney Wren; Chief of Police, Jeff Mallery; Public Services Director, Eric Hall; Director of Administration/City Administrator, Joshua J. Hunt; City Engineer, Bill Viox; City Clerk, Melissa Kramer; Videographer, Perry Weber; and Police Lieutenant, Jason Reed. The following were also present in the audience: Police Sergeant Erik Daniels; Police Captain Nathan Rettig; Police Officer, Mike Stanaland; Police Officer, Aubrey Carter; Police Officer, Blake Burkhardt; Florence Police Department new police officer, Dakota Brady; Florence Police Department new police officer, John Martini; Florence Police Department new police officer, Aaron Spencer; Family and Friends of the new Florence Police Department Employee, Dakota Brady; Family and Friends of the new Florence Police Department Employee, John Martini; Family and Friends of the new Florence Police Department Employee, Aaron Spencer; Executive Director of the Honor Run Half Marathon, Scott Spicher; Honor Run Half Marathon Board Member, Laura Spicher; Honor Run Half Marathon Board Member, Bruce Koehler; Representatives of Honor Flight Tri-State including Mickey Hoffman, Kathy Hoffman, Karen Unger and Treasurer, Mike Wolber; Resident of Florence, Robert Sergeant; Resident of Florence, James Leach; Resident of Florence, Thomas Judd; Resident of Florence, Naomi Liebson; NKY Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 Tribune Reporter, Trisha Scheyer; Executive Director, Boone County Planning Commission, Kevin P. Costello; Representatives of Brew Team KY, LLC; and Representatives of Bluegrass Cannacare, LLC. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve the minutes of the April 22, 2025 business meeting. Councilmember Winn motioned to approve the minutes with a second from Councilmember Schneider. All councilmembers present voted aye. Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve the minutes of the May 7, 2025 special meeting. Councilmember Wingo motioned to approve the minutes with a second from Councilmember Winn. All councilmembers present voted aye. PRESENTATION – HONOR RUN HALF MARATHON CHECK PRESENTATION: Mayor Aubuchon called upon Scott Spicher, Executive Director of the Honor Run Half Marathon. Mr. Spicher announced that this would be his final official act as Executive Director of the Honor Run Foundation and introduced Bruce Koehler, a founding board member, as his successor. While awaiting the arrival of representatives from St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Honor Flight Tri-State, Mr. Spicher took a moment to express his thanks to the City of Florence including the Mayor, Councilmembers, Fire/EMS, Police, Public Services, and residents for their support and cooperation over the past ten years, especially on race days when roads are closed. He reflected on how the Honor Run began as a “pipe dream” initially turned down but gained momentum thanks to the openness of then Mayor Diane E. Whalen. A decade later, the event had grown into a tremendous success, raising $430,000 and enabling over 800 veterans to participate in Honor Flight Tri-State to visit the memorials built in their honor. Mr. Spicher credited council’s willingness to take a chance on an idea that started with his wife during a car ride. He concluded by asking to delay the planned check presentation until all representatives were present. OATHS OF OFFICE: Chief of Police, Jeff Mallery, introduced the newest members of the Florence Police Department Dakota Brady, John Martini, and Aaron Spencer. Chief Mallery introduced Dakota, John, and Aaron and stated they were excited to be adding them to the department. Mayor Aubuchon administered the oaths of office and Chief Mallery presented them with their badges. PROCLAMATION: Mayor Aubuchon issued a Proclamation acknowledging May 11, 2025 – May 17, 2025 as Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, 2025 in the City of Florence reading the following Proclamation into record: 2|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 WHEREAS, National Police Week, observed May 11 through May 17, 2025, serves to honor the dedication, professionalism, and service of law enforcement officers across the nation; and WHEREAS, May 15th is designated as Peace Officers Memorial Day, a time to solemnly remember and pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty; and WHEREAS, the men and women of the Florence Police Department exemplify the highest standards of integrity, courage, and commitment as they work each day to protect the residents and visitors of the City of Florence; and WHEREAS, the members of the Florence Police Department serve tirelessly to uphold the law, respond in times of crisis, build positive relationships within the community, ensuring the continued safety and security of our city; and WHEREAS, during National Police Week, we take time to recognize and express our deepest gratitude to the Florence Police Department and all law enforcement officers for their tireless commitment to duty, their courage in the face of danger, and their dedication to the principles of justice, equality, and service; and WHEREAS, we also pause in remembrance of the officers who have given their lives in service, heroes who will never be forgotten, and whose legacy lives on in the communities they swore to protect. 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 the week of May 11-17, 2025, as Police Week and May 15, 2025 as Peace Officer Memorial Day in the City of Florence and call upon all residents to join me in honoring and thanking the Florence Police Department for their outstanding service, sacrifice and commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Florence, Kentucky, to be affixed hereto, this 13th day of May 2025. Chief Mallery thanked Mayor Aubuchon for the Proclamation and explained that this began in 1962 when President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial day and that week be Police Week. He thanked the city for the support shown to the officers every day but it seemed like people were more apt to say thank you and appreciate officers more during this week. He explained that officers from around the nation and world would go to Washington D.C. for Police Week and have a vigil for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund which recognized the fallen officers that will be etched into the wall in D.C. There are over 24,000 names currently engraved in that memorial. PROCLAMATION: Mayor Aubuchon issued a Proclamation acknowledging May 18, 2025 – May 24, 2025 as Public Works Week reading the following Proclamation into the record: WHEREAS, public works professionals are the backbone of infrastructure, facilities, and essential services that are critical to the health, safety, sustainability, and resilience of our communities, and directly impact the high quality of life and well-being of the residents of Florence; and WHEREAS, the Florence Public Services Department exemplifies excellence in public service, consistently demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to maintaining and enhancing the city’s infrastructure, public spaces, and natural environment; and 3|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 WHEREAS, the Florence Public Services Department has shown extraordinary dedication in responding to emergencies, maintaining public cleanliness, supporting sustainability efforts, and delivering essential services that enhance the daily lives of residents, businesses, and visitors; and WHEREAS, the 2025 National Public Works Week theme, “People, Purpose, Presence,” honors the devoted individuals who serve with purpose and pride, and whose presence ensures that our city remains safe, functional, and prepared for the future; and WHEREAS, the year 2025 marks the 65th annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association. 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 the week May 18-24, 2025 as National Public Works Week in the City of Florence and urge all citizens to recognize and celebrate the contributions of our Public Services Department and the dedicated individuals whose service advances the quality of life for all. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Florence, Kentucky, to be affixed hereto, this 13th day of May 2025. Mayor Aubuchon invited everyone to celebrate National Public Works Week at Public Works Night Out and invited Public Services Director, Eric Hall, to provide additional information. Mr. Hall informed everyone that the Public Works Night Out would be held on Tuesday, May 20 at the Florence Mall in Macy’s Parking lot. There would be stations set up that reflect each division within the department, big trucks and heavy equipment kids could climb on, and food provided by local businesses. SECOND 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 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 second 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 Schneider, yes. Roll call recognized four yes votes approving Ordinance O-9-2025 by unanimous vote. 4|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 SECOND 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 second reading of Ordinance O-10-2025. Councilmember Schneider motioned to approve, with a second from Councilmember Wingo. Mayor Aubuchon requested a Roll Call Vote. Councilmember Wingo, yes; Councilmember Chambers, yes; Councilmember Winn, yes; Councilmember Schneider, yes. Roll call recognized four yes votes approving Ordinance O-10-2025 by unanimous vote. DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION MUNICIPAL ORDER MO-3-2025: Mayor Aubuchon read Municipal Order MO-3-2025. A Municipal Order authorizing the sale of personal property deemed to be surplus, outdated, or otherwise of no use to the city. Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve Municipal Order MO-3-2025. Councilmember Winn motioned to approve, with a second from Councilmember Schneider. Mayor Aubuchon informed everyone the items would be placed on govdeals.com. Public Services Director, Eric Hall, confirmed the website and stated the auction would go live on May 19. Councilmember Chambers inquired if the lounge chairs from the Aquatic Center could be purchased individually. Mr. Hall believed the lounge chairs were a package deal. 5|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 No further discussion was necessitated and based on the motion to approve Municipal Order MO- 3-2025 by Councilmember Winn, with a second from Councilmember Schneider, Mayor Aubuchon requested a Roll Call Vote. Councilmember Wingo, yes; Councilmember Chambers, yes; Councilmember Winn, yes; Councilmember Schneider, yes. Roll call recognized four yes votes approving Municipal Order MO-3-2025 by unanimous vote. DISCUSSION & POSSIBLE ACTION RESOLUTION R-4-2025: Mayor Aubuchon read Resolution R-4-2025. A Resolution authorizing an agreement between the Commonwealth of Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Department of Highways and the City of Florence, Kentucky for the installation and maintenance of landscaping located at 8535-8551 Evergreen Drive. Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to approve Resolution R-4-2025. Councilmember Wingo motioned to approve, with a second from Councilmember Winn. Mr. Hall explained that the Public Services Department is proposing to plant sixteen Norway Spruces and nine Arborvitae directly across from the jug handle on Weaver Road. He noted that the Resolution before council would authorize the Mayor to sign an agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), allowing the city to maintain this landscaping. He added that similar agreements have been successfully established in other areas of the city in the past. No further discussion was necessitated and based on the motion to approve Resolution R-4-2025 by Councilmember Wingo, with a second from Councilmember Winn, Mayor Aubuchon requested a Roll Call Vote. Councilmember Wingo, yes; Councilmember Chambers, yes; Councilmember Winn, yes; Councilmember Schneider, yes. Roll call recognized four yes votes approving Resolution R-4-2025 by unanimous vote. PRESENTATION – HONOR RUN HALF MARATHON CHECK PRESENTATION: Mayor Aubuchon called upon Scott Spicher for the check presentation. Mr. Spicher introduced Cary Graham from St. Elizabeth Healthcare, longtime presenting and title sponsor of the Honor Run, along with representatives from Honor Flight Tri-State. He also introduced his wife, Laura Spicher, noting her retirement from the board. Mr. Spicher credited Laura as the originator and driving force behind the Honor Run Foundation, while the broader team helped bring the vision to life. He reintroduced Bruce Koehler as the incoming Executive Director and explained that while he was stepping down from day to day operations, he would remain involved and continue supporting the event locally. Mr. Spicher reflected on the Foundation’s beginnings and his decade long friendship with Cheryl and Tom Popp of Honor Flight Tri-State, which started with a phone call announcing the event’s purpose. He also shared that former Councilmember David A. Osborne participated in an Honor Flight, praising the organization for honoring veterans with the welcome home they never received. He concluded by presenting a $33,000 check to Honor Flight Tri-State. 6|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 Mayor Aubuchon followed with remarks, stating her hope that Florence would be recognized as a city that embraces and honors veterans through events like the Honor Run, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and the work of the Veterans Commission. As the daughter of a Korean War veteran, she emphasized how deeply veterans matter to the community and to her personally. Mike Wolber, Treasurer of Honor Flight Tri-State and a 29-year Navy submarine veteran, shared how his experience as a guardian on a flight nine years ago changed his life. He invited everyone to witness the next flight departure or welcome home, promising it would be unforgettable, and expressed gratitude to the Mayor and Honor Run team for their ongoing support. PRESENTATION BY KEVIN P. COSTELLO, AICP – BOONE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION: Mayor Aubuchon called upon Kevin P. Costello, Executive Director of the Boone County Planning Commission, to discuss the Budget for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 of the Boone County Planning Commission. Mr. Costello identified the Boone County Planning Commission Preliminary FY 2025-2026 Budget provided. The packet provided information regarding projects that were addressed during this fiscal year and projects that were still being worked on, such as the comprehensive plan, and future projects. Mr. Costello reported that the request for Government Funding had increased by $8,222, a smaller increase compared to last year’s $11,700. He explained the modest rise reflects ongoing, though slower, population growth and continued development across the region. He also shared that he recently met the new airport director, who brings a planning background and a strong understanding of city and county planning processes. Mr. Costello provided an update on the Comprehensive Plan, originally adopted in 2019, which was now undergoing a major revision. Next week, updated elements and an analysis of existing conditions, excluding the land use section, would be released, followed by a committee meeting to review the proposed changes. The revised land use component, including both text and the traditional map, was set to be released in early July. Public workshops, both in-person and virtual, would be held at that time. The update will focus more heavily on detailed text, highlighting specific geographic areas, opportunities, constraints, and actionable steps. He emphasized that the new version of the plan would better connect goals, objectives, and plan elements, allowing measurable evaluation of progress. A schedule would be posted following the release of the chapters, with a public hearing planned for September and formal adoption targeted for October. He reminded everyone that while the Planning Commission adopts the full plan, individual cities and counties are responsible for adopting the goals and objectives. After adoption, the Commission will take a short break before moving on to review and update zoning regulations. 7|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 MAYOR’S REPORT: • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that the Community Photo Contest would run through May 15 and encouraged everyone to email their photos to photocontest@florence- ky.gov. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone that Public Works Night out would be held Tuesday, May 20 at the Florence Mall Parking lot. • Mayor Aubuchon reminded everyone about the Memorial Day Parade on May 26. The parade would 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. • Mayor Aubuchon announced that city offices would be closed on Monday, May 26 in observance of Memorial Day. • Mayor Aubuchon announced that the city proudly held the Ribbon Cutting and Dedication Ceremony for Fire/EMS Station #34 last Thursday and invited everyone in the community to attend the Open House on Sunday, June 8 from 12-4. • Mayor Aubuchon invited everyone to attend the Movies in the Park in June. Movies would be free and there would also be complimentary popcorn. RECOGNITION: Mayor Aubuchon asked if any of the following desired recognition: Members of City Council: Councilmember Winn announced that the Florence Y’alls would kick off their season on Friday, May 16, and encouraged everyone to come out and enjoy a game. He also shared the exciting news that a Y’alls pitcher had recently been signed by the Cincinnati Reds. Councilmember Chambers recognized Mr. Reed from Jones Middle School, who was honored at the Northern Kentucky Excellence in Education Celebration. She praised his dedication as a music teacher and expressed appreciation for his positive impact in both the school and the broader community. Mayor Aubuchon gave a special shoutout to Collins Elementary students who participated in the recent Girls on the Run Race. She noted that the City provided each participant with a card and a Florence city pin, which they proudly wore during the event to represent the community. 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. 8|Page Florence City Council Minutes: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 Finance Director, Jason Lewis: Mr. Lewis did not desire recognition. Public Services Director, Eric Hall: Mr. Hall 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 6:41 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. Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to come back into session after the Closed Session. Councilmember Chambers so moved, with a second from Councilmember Winn. All councilmembers present voted aye, the time being 7:03 p.m. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Aubuchon called for a motion to adjourn. Councilmember Winn so moved, with a second from Councilmember Wingo. Councilmembers present voted aye, the time being 7:04 p.m. APPROVED: /s/ Julie M. Aubuchon Julie M. Aubuchon, Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Melissa Kramer Melissa Kramer, City Clerk 9|Page