May 11, 2026

    7:00 P.M.

1. Pledge & Invocation
2. Roll Call
3. Municipal Road Aid Fund Hearing
4. Adoption of the Amended Agenda
5. Approval of April 13, 2026, Meeting Minutes
6. Citizens Addressing Council
7. Mayor’s Report
8. City Attorney Report
   • a) Ordinance No. 04-2026 2^nd reading amending Chapter 52, Article I of the Lakeside Park, KY Code of Ordinances to add littering, and establishing penalties for the violation thereof.
   • b) Ordinance No. 05-2026 1^st reading to adopt the Annual Budget for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2026to June 30, 2027, by estimating revenue and resources and appropriating funds for the operation of the City Government for the City of Lakeside Park, Kentucky.
   • c) Municipal Order 04-2026 Authorizing an application to the Kenton County Planning Commission to Amend the Current Lakeside Park Zoning Code and Zoning regarding changes to free standing existing garages.
9. City Clerk/Treasurer’s Report
10. Committee Reports:
    • i. Fire & EMS
    • ii. Public Works/City Engineer
    • iii. Police Authority
    • iv. Planning & Development Services
    • v. Finance
    • vi. Municipal Government League of Northern Kentucky
    • vii. Recreation
11. Old Business
12. New Business
13. Comments from Council
14. Adjournment

Next Ordinance No.: 06-2026                Next Executive Order No.: 01-2026

Next Municipal Order No.: 04-2026      Next Resolution No.: 02-2026

 Next Meeting:   June 8, 2026

 In the event of Executive Session:

KRS 61.810 – (B) Deliberations on the future acquisition or sale of real property by a public agency, but only when publicity would be likely to affect the value of a specific piece of property to be acquired for public use or sold by a public agency. (C) Discussions of proposed or pending litigation against or on behalf of the public agency. (F) Discussions or hearings which might lead to the appointment, discipline, or dismissal of an individual employee, member, or student without restricting that employee’s, member’s, or student’s right to a public hearing if requested. This exception shall not be interpreted to permit discussion of general personnel matters in secret.

If you would like an official copy of these minutes, please contact the city office.  

Minutes of Meeting on 4/13/26

CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Markgraf called to order the regular meeting of Lakeside Park City Council at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, April 13, 2026, in the Lakeside Park City Building located at 9 Buttermilk Pike. Those in attendance were Mayor Markgraf, City Clerk Teresa Bruck and City Attorney Greg Voss. The council members present included Tom Bernheimer, Dennis Landwehr, George Best, and Dave Wolfer. Absent from the meeting were Council members Mary Ann Thaman and Brian Waite.

AGENDA:

With no changes or corrections to the Agenda, Mr. Wolfer made the motion to adopt the Agenda of April 13, 2026, as presented, and Mr. Landwehr seconded the motion. Voice vote was taken.  4 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

MINUTES:

With no corrections or changes, Mr. Bernheimer made a motion to adopt the minutes of March 9, 2026, and Mr. Best seconded the motion. Voice vote was taken. 4 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

CITIZENS ADDRESSING COUNCIL

Attorney Paul Darpel present with his clients, Mr. & Mrs. Rizzo of 207 Applewood Drive. He advised he had been in front of council before, but this time brought a video of children playing in the yard behind Mr. Rizzo’s property. He also provided additional letters from the church and neighbors in favor of the privacy fence abutting institutional use.

He stated this text amendment change was for safety concerns as well as privacy concerns only, and he had no issues with the church. Mr. Best asked for clarification that only the back fence would be privacy and Mr. Darpel advised that was correct. Pam Taylor from 207 Applewood Drive expressed that she lives next to Mr. Rizzo and is in favor of the fence.

MAYORS REPORT:

The mayor advised the American flags were put up on the poles last week along Dixie Highway and additional flags were added along Buttermilk and Turkeyfoot. Normally we do not put them up this early, but public works needed to rent a bucket truck to repair and replace street signs and to conserve costs, both things were done at once. This coming Wednesday is Tax Day. Many people may not be aware there are postal regulation changes and now the post marks are not added until mail reaches the sorting facility. If you need something post marked, you must go into the teller and have it done there instead of dropping in the mailbox. The mayor advised he and the council members have been contacting our State Representatives as well as the State Senators about some of the legislative changes being proposed. Such as Senate Bill No. 9, which addressed some regulations on housing. The House made substantial changes to Senate Bill No. 9 basically prohibiting any local jurisdiction having the ability to regulate short-term rentals for 30 days or less and our city currently does not allow short-term rentals at all. Air BNB organization are pushing to get this passed. If passed this would ban our rental registry list and make us use theirs that would cost money to use. It also restricts any action against a rental unless you have had more than 3 violations within a calendar year. We feel this should be controlled locally and not by the State. Another local issue is AI produced open records requests, causing us to shut down our city until they are answered. The mayor advised House Bill 567 for Open Records Act change would allow the clerks to obtain a valid ID to validate it truly is a person making the request. We planned to advise the House that we are in favor of this bill. Last month at the mayor’s group was held at the City of Fort Wirght. A couple of the items discussed included the effects and closures relating to the suspension bridge project as well as Walmart deliveries by drone service. Our PDS is looking into air restrictions issues because of the new drone service being offered.  The mayor welcomed Ms. Hart, the Recreation Director, who is here tonight to provide the Recreation report, and she has been working hard these last couple of month networking. The mayor hopes our residents participate in these events, as she has been doing a great job.  

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT:

Mr. Voss conducted the second reading of Ordinance No. 03-2026, amending the Lakeside Park Zoning ordinance, adopted as Ordinance 01-2024, regarding fencing surrounding swimming pools adjacent to institutional use properties.

Mr. Wolfer made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 03-2026, and Mr. Best seconded the motion.

Mr. Bernheimer said the accusation of the fence being for children’s protection is misleading as it is always required that you put up a fence around an inground pool for protection. It’s more that Mr. Rizzo did what he pleased and asked for forgiveness later, and that is not how we want to run our city. If we do vote on this amendment, he suggested to remove the section asking for the neighbor’s permission as he does not want his neighbor telling him what they think is appropriate for his property.  

Mr. Bernheimer made a motion to amend Ordinance No. 03-2026 to remove from Zoning Table 7.3 (j.) (iii.) The property owner has provided written consent from adjacent property owners for the fence to be less than fifty percent (50%) open, and Mr. Wolfer seconded the motion. No discussion on the amendment only. Voice vote for the amendment was taken. 4 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

There was continued discussion by the Councilmembers, Mr. Rizzo and his attorney Mr. Darpel that addressed concerns that if this text amendment was adopted then this could change for other locations within the city abutting an institutional use and may make the landscaping of our neighbors’ properties unpleasant to look at.

Mr. Wolfer made a motion to adopt Ordinance No. 03-2026, and Mr. Best seconded the motion. Roll Call was taken as follows:

Tom Bernheimer No       George Best Yes

Dennis Landwehr No       Dave Wolfer Yes

This Ordinance No. 03-2026 did not pass as a result of a tie. 

Mr. Voss conducted the 1st reading of Ordinance No. 04-2026 Amending Chapter 52, Article I of the Lakeside Park, Kentucky code of ordinances to add littering, and establishing penalties for the violation thereof. 

Mr. Voss conducted the reading of Municipal Order No. 03-2026 approving the appointment of John Neinaber to the Lakeside Park Ethics Committee.

With no discussion, Mr. Bernheimer made a motion to adopt Municipal Order 03-2026, and Mr. Wolfer seconded the motion. Voice vote was taken. 4 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

CITY CLERK/TREASURER

Ms. Bruck advised that she missed reporting last month we now have collected all outstanding property tax bills and there are no 2025 Property Tax bills unpaid. However, she reported there are still 3 sidewalk invoices that have not paid, and those invoices were sent to the city attorney. She received a scholarship for the Master Clerks Academy in the fall. She then advised she had to set up a few utility bills on the electronic payment method because of the postal delivery of the statements have been received on or shortly after the due date of the bills and thus making them past due by the time she issues a check. Lastly, she advised they are now helping to work on the new Fiscal Year budget.

Mr. Landwehr asked for the names of the residents that have outstanding sidewalk payments, and Ms. Bruck advised she will get that information to him.

FIRE/EMS: 

Assistant Fire Chief Jansing provided a summary of the fire department report. He advised there was an error on the report and Lakeside Park only had 9 runs in total last month. He stated 6 runs were for emergency medical service, only 1 for public service of a tree down and 2 non-emergencies. 

Mr. Wolfer asked if there were any contributing factors to the drop in calls on the report from 2024 to 2026, and Chief Jansing advised it may be due to the fire prevention programs.

PUBLIC WORKS:

Mr. Bernheimer reported on the public works projects that included: the Crestview Hills Dixie Highway project still being a work in progress, Bellemonte Ave Resurfacing and Curb Replacement is in development stages, 5-year street plan is being reviewed for budget approval, the conclusion of the 2025 Joint & Crack Seal Program is delayed due to weather. Additional notes from the Public Works Director, Mr. Greer, included the flag replacement and adding additional flags have been hung, the street signs have been replaced and the honeysuckle on West Lakeside has been cleared. He also said there was a significant increase in snow removal expenses this year. Mr. Bernheimer said there had been requests for leaf pick up but he and the public works committee thought it would be too costly for the city to absorb the steep cost of $100,000 a year. Mr. Greer provided that the dog fountain is open and running at the city park. Last, the radar sign will be moved to Carran Drive by the end of the week.

The mayor added an update that the crack sealing did start today and is expected to take several days.  

POLICE AUTHORITY

Mayor Markgraf provided the police report and advised that they met on March 16^th. He then provided a summary of the report submitted by LPCHPD that included Ptl. Wilson attended the in-person portion of his Basic Training Academy; Taijon Span accepted his conditional offer of employment, Ptl. Boyers completed Crisis Intervention training through Department of Criminal Justice Training Center, the committee reviewed finances and paid bills. He concluded with saying they are considering purchasing more vehicles.  

PDS: No report this month.

FINANCE:

Mr. Wolfer highlighted for the month of March that we had revenue of a little over $102,000; expenses were normal for the month and included our quarterly payment to the police, those expense total of $255,000, leaving us with a deficit for the month. He advised this is common for this time of the year. He reviewed all the reports, and everything looked properly recorded. He also reviewed the credit card statements, and all looked to be appropriate city charges.

The mayor advised there would be an amended budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 due to increases in some expenses such as the snow removal, but he would advise council if there will need to be any Special Meeting.  

MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT LEAGUE OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY (MGLNK):

Mr. Landwehr discussed the first meeting, that was March 20^th. He said Mr. Best attended this meeting with him. They had round table discussions about several things and were also presented with several of the House Bill details. He said only some House Bills affect our city, but it was interesting to hear about all House Bills. Mr. Best added that he appreciated meeting everyone and had a better understanding of what this group provides to the legislative members. 

RECREATION:

The Recreation Director, Tracy Hart provided the Recreation report this month. She said the 2 recent events hosted include a Game Night and a Garden Club with good attendance. She has been reviewing past events and talking to residents about new event ideas. She then provided information about upcoming events that included another Garden Club, Walking Club, Senior Luncheon, Book Swap, Yard Sale, Shred Event, Large Item Pick Up, Senior Bingo, Arts and Crafts with the Kenton County Library. She has been meeting with community partners and other recreation directors. She also attended the State Recreation district meetings. She concluded by asking the members for ideas for the 4^th of July.

OLD BUSINESS: No old business.

NEW BUSINESS: No new business.

COMMENTS FROM COUNCIL:

The mayor advised the city office will be closed this Friday to have the carpets cleaned, but we do have a drop box if you need to drop something off to the city or you can still leave a voice message and he will be in and out of the office if someone needs something done.

Mr. Landwehr commented that he thought the newsletter was well done and his neighbors liked having a hard copy to read as they found multiple things in the paper informative.  

ADJOURNMENT:

At 8:22PM Mr. Wolfer made the motion to adjourn the meeting, and Mr. Landwehr seconded the motion. Voice vote taken 4 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

**For an official copy of these minutes, please contact City office.

                                        ORDINANCE NO. 04-2026

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKESIDE PARK, KENTUCKY AMENDING

CHAPTER 52, ARTICLE I OF THE LAKESIDE PARK, KENTUCKY CODE OF

ORDINANCES TO ADD LITTERING, AND ESTABLISHING PENALTIES FOR THE

VIOLATION THEREOF.

WHEREAS, the City of Lakeside Park, Kentucky and its residents have been inundated with unsolicited litter; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to impose an anti-littering ordinance and provide for the penalties thereof;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY OF LAKESIDE PARK, KENTUCKY, AS FOLLOWS:

 Section 52.005            CRIMINAL LITTERING

(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.

(1)     LITTERING – The offense of littering as defined by KRS 512.070

(2)     A person is guilty of criminal littering when he:

(a)Drops or permits to drop on a highway or street any destructive or injurious material and does not immediately remove it; or

(b)Knowingly places or throws litter on any public or private property, including but not limited to unsolicited advertising flyers without permission; or

(c)Knowingly places or throws litter on any public or private water without permission; or

(d)Negligently places or throws glass or other dangerous pointed or edged substances on or adjacent to water to which the public has access for swimming or wading or on or within fifty feet of a public highway; or

(e)Discharges sewage, minerals, oil products or litter into public waters or lakes within the city.

(f)The unauthorized placement of any placards, signs posters or similar items attached to telephone poles, light poles, street signs, trees and fences. 

Section 52.999            PENALTY

(D)       A violation of  52.005 of this chapter shall be a Class A misdemeanor for which any person convicted thereof in a court of competent jurisdiction shall be sentenced to pay a criminal fine not to exceed the maximum amount of $500, as set forth in KRS 534.040(2)(a), or a term of imprisonment not to exceed the maximum period of 12 months, as set forth in KRS 532.090(1), or both for a first offence; and to pay a criminal fine of not less than $250 but not to exceed $500 for a second or greater offence, and a term of imprisonment of not less than two days, but not to exceed the maximum period of 12 months, as set forth in KRS 532.090(1). Any corporation convicted of a violation of    52.005 of this chapter shall be fined not more than $10,000, as set forth in KRS 534.050(|)(b), for a first offence, and to pay a fine of at least $3,000, but not more than $10,000, for a second or greater offence. 

 FIRST READING: April 13, 2026         

SECOND READING:  May11, 2026             

AYES: 4

NAYS: 0

ABSTAIN: 0

**For official Ordinance, please contact City office.

Regular Meeting – March 16, 2026

CALL TO ORDER:  The regular meeting of the Lakeside Park-Crestview Hills Police Authority Board was called to order at 17:29 hours by Chairman Bill Dorsey.

ATTENDANCE:  Board Members in attendance were Bill Dorsey, Paul Markgraf and Brian Waite. Also present were: Chief Degenhardt, Sergeant Tignor and Clerk Markus.

MINUTES:  Mr. Markgraf made a motion to accept the March minutes. Mr. Waite seconded. Motion passed unanimously.

FINANCIAL:  The February financial statement was reviewed along with the February reconciliations. After a review of the bills, Mr. Waite made a motion to pay the bills. Mr. Markgraf seconded. Motion passed unanimously.

CHIEF’S REPORT:  

• Ptl. Wilson is now attending the in-person portion of his Basic Training Academy.
• Applicant Taijon Span accepted his conditional offer of employment
• Ptl. Boyers completed a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training through Department of Criminal Justice Training.

COUNCIL REPORTS: 

Crestview Hills – Mr. Dorsey reported that the regular meeting was on March 12^th. He stated the Police Authority Annual report was presented by Chief Degenhardt and they also passed Order/Resolution 2026-03-01 -Authorizing Text Amendment Application to KCPC to allow window signage in the Institutional (INT) Zone.

Lakeside Park – Mr. Markgraf reported that the regular meeting was on March 9th. He stated the Police Authority Annual report was presented by Chief Degenhardt. They had the 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 01-2026 setting the compensation for Mayor, 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 02-2026 amending the Lakeside Park Zoning Ordinance (adopted as Ordinance 01-2004) regarding Manufactured Homes and Related Zoning Issues, and the 1st reading of Ordinance No. 03-2026 approving zoning amendment regulations regarding fences.

OLD BUSINESS:

Chief Degenhardt reported that he spoke with Crestview Hills City Administrator Alex Mattingly regarding Chapter 53, Fiscal Management Policy, and the updates he would like to implement.

Mr. Mattingly provided an alternate Kentucky Revised Statutes chapter containing language that mirrors the proposed revisions. Chief Degenhardt subsequently updated the policy draft and forwarded the revised version to the attorney for review.

NEW BUSINESS:

 A.  Resolution 2026-01 Kentucky Office of Homeland Security Project

Chief Degenhardt presented Resolution 2026-01, authorizing the department to enter into agreement with the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security (KOHS), to execute any documents which are deemed necessary by KOHS to facilitate and administer the project and to act as the authorized correspondent for this project. He stated this is a requirement for the grant application the department is submitting for replacement backup weapons.

Mr. Markgraf made the motion to accept the Resolution. Mr. Waite seconded. Motion passed unanimously.

GOOD OF THE ORDER:

 There was discussion regarding the Fiscal Year 2024 financial audit and the possibility of issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for upcoming audit services. The Board requested Chief Degenhardt contact Karen Goodin of Rankin, Rankin & Company to request that the 2024 audit be presented at the April meeting. The Board agreed to table the decision regarding issuing an RFP until a future meeting.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mr. Waite made a motion to adjourn at 17:43 hours. Mr. Dorsey seconded. Motion passed unanimously.

1) Pledge & Invocation
2) Roll Call
3) Adoption of the Agenda
4) Approval of August 18, 2025, Meeting Minutes
5) Citizens Addressing Council
6) Mayor’s Report
7) City Attorney Report
    a)  Ordinance # 08-2025 – 2^nd reading to adopt the property tax rates for 2025-2026   
    b)  Resolution No. 8-2025 Accepting the bid of Riegler Blacktop for the 2025 Joint and Crack Seal Program
8) City Clerk/Treasurer’s Report
9) Committee Reports:
    i. Fire & EMS
    ii. Public Works/City Engineer
    iii. Police Authority
    iv. Planning & Development Services
     v. Finance
    vi. Municipal Government League of Northern Kentucky
    vii. Recreation
10) Old Business
11) Comments from Council
12) Executive Session (if necessary)
13) Adjournment

Next Ordinance: #09-2025      Next Executive Order: #07-2025   Next Municipal Order: #06-2025      Next Resolution: #09-2025

Next Meeting: October 13, 2025

In the event of Executive Session:
KRS 61.810 – (B) Deliberations on the future acquisition or sale of real property by a public agency, but only when publicity would be likely to affect the value of a specific piece of property to be acquired for public use or sold by a public agency. (C) Discussions of proposed or pending litigation against or on behalf of the public agency.  (F) Discussions or hearings which might lead to the appointment, discipline, or dismissal of an individual employee, member, or student without restricting that employee’s, member’s, or student’s right to a public hearing if requested. This exception shall not be interpreted to permit discussion of general personnel matters in secret.

1) Pledge & Invocation
2) Roll Call
3) Adoption of the Agenda
4) Approval of September 8, 2025, Meeting Minutes
5) Citizens Addressing Council
6) Mayor’s Report
7) City Attorney Report
    a) Municipal Order No. 6-2025 Increase in Hourly Rate of Pay for City Attorney
    b) Municipal Order No. 7-2025 Application to KCPC to amend current Lakeside Park Zoning Code and Zoning.
    c) Resolution No. 9-2025 Declaring October to be City Government Month in Lakeside Park, Kentucky
8) City Clerk/Treasurer’s Report
9) Committee Reports:
    i. Fire & EMS
    ii. Public Works/City Engineer
    iii. Police Authority
    iv. Planning & Development Services
     v. Finance
    vi. Municipal Government League of Northern Kentucky
    vii. Recreation
10) Old Business
11) Comments from Council
12) Executive Session (if necessary)
13) Adjournment

Next Ordinance: #09-2025      Next Executive Order: #07-2025   Next Municipal Order: #08-2025      Next Resolution: #10-2025

Next Meeting: November 11, 2025

In the event of Executive Session:
KRS 61.810 – (B) Deliberations on the future acquisition or sale of real property by a public agency, but only when publicity would be likely to affect the value of a specific piece of property to be acquired for public use or sold by a public agency. (C) Discussions of proposed or pending litigation against or on behalf of the public agency.  (F) Discussions or hearings which might lead to the appointment, discipline, or dismissal of an individual employee, member, or student without restricting that employee’s, member’s, or student’s right to a public hearing if requested. This exception shall not be interpreted to permit discussion of general personnel matters in secret.

December 8, 2025, 7:00 P.M.

• Pledge & Invocation
• Roll Call
• Adoption of the Agenda
• Approval of October 13, 2025 Meeting Minutes
• Citizens Addressing Council
• Mayor’s Report
• City Attorney Report
  1. Executive Order No. 7-2025 Re-appointment to Kenton County Planning Commission.
  2. Executive Order No. 8-2025 Re-appointment to Kenton County Joint Code Enforcement Board.
  3. Municipal Order No. 8-2025 Approving Expenditure of Funds to Partially Fund a School Resource Officer for Blessed Sacrament School through the City of Fort Mitchell, Kentucky
  4. Municipal Order No. 9-2025 Approving a Year-End Wage Adjustment to Each Regular and Part-Time Employee of the City as of December 1, 2025
• City Clerk/Treasurer’s Report
• Committee Reports:
  • Fire & EMS
  • Public Works/City Engineer
  • Police Authority
  • Planning & Development Services
  • Finance
  • Municipal Government League of Northern Kentucky
  • Recreation

• Old Business
• Comments from Council
• Adjournment

Next Ordinance No.: 09-2025                Next Executive Order No.: 09-2025

Next Municipal Order No.: 10-2025      Next Resolution No.: 11-2025

 Next Meeting:   January 12, 2025

In the event of Executive Session: KRS 61.810 – (B) Deliberations on the future acquisition or sale of real property by a public agency, but only when publicity would be likely to affect the value of a specific piece of property to be acquired for public use or sold by a public agency. (C) Discussions of proposed or pending litigation against or on behalf of the public agency. (F) Discussions or hearings which might lead to the appointment, discipline, or dismissal of an individual employee, member, or student without restricting that employee’s, member’s, or student’s right to a public hearing if requested. This exception shall not be interpreted to permit discussion of general personnel matters in secret.

Minutes of Regular Meeting on 1/13/2025

CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Markgraf called to order the regularly scheduled meeting of Lakeside Park City Council at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, January 13, 2025, in the Lakeside Park City Building located at 9 Buttermilk Pike. Those in attendance were Mayor Markgraf, City Clerk Teresa Bruck and City Attorney Greg Voss. The council members present were Tom Bernheimer, Dennis Landwehr, Cassi Schabell, Mary Ann Thaman, Brian Waite and Dave Wolfer.

AGENDA – There were no changes to the agenda; Mr. Landwehr made the motion to adopt the agenda, and Ms. Thaman seconded the motion. Voice vote was taken.  6 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

MEETING MINUTES – No corrections, additions or deletions were requested for December 9, 2024, minutes. Ms. Thaman made the motion to adopt the minutes. Mr. Bernheimer seconded the motion. Voice vote was taken. 6 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.

CITIZENS ADDRESSING COUNCIL:  Harry Hellings, 21 Arcadia, inquired about leaf pick up. He was advised that street sweeping occurs, but there has been no leaf pickup for years due to scheduling and contract issues.  Street sweeping occurs to keep sewer catch basins clear of debris, not to pick up leaves.  Mr. Hellings inquired if sidewalks had been paid for by the city in the past.  He was told that sidewalks were replaced when street reconstruction damaged the sidewalks.  When he asked if he had been misinformed, the answer was affirmative.

Ms. Schabell attempted to clarify her discussion about sidewalks and rolled curbs on North Ashbrook that were the reason for those sidewalk replacements, added that it was not fair to the people on Arcadia and that the ordinance was not being applied equally.

Craig Carlson, 2649 Shaker Rd, asked who determines committee assignment and questioned why the top vote-getter received only one committee assignment.  The mayor replied that committee assignments are the prerogative of the mayor.  Mr. Carlson complimented Ms. Schabell and criticized the other council members for not campaigning.  Mr. Carlson referred to an incident concerning trespassers at his residence and was informed that the Police Chief was present at the meeting as well as three members of the Police Authority Board.

The mayor explained the reason for committee assignments as opposed to one large committee, referencing Kentucky Open Meetings laws. 

Mr. Carlson commented that the mayor didn’t really win the last election because no one ran against him and asked if the city had any debt.  The mayor replied that the city has no debt.  He also asked about KLC training for council members and was informed that council members were invited to attend free training held locally for new council members.

Adam Perkins, 84 Arcadia Avenue, stated that he felt the city was in good hands, but seconded Mr. Carlson’s comments.  He questioned committee assignments and requested the mayor to reconsider the assignments because it appeared to look like a good old boy network.

Jeff Schabell, 41 Arcadia Avenue, asked who paid for the sidewalks on North Ashbrook Drive and was informed that the city paid for them as part of a total street reconstruction.  Mr. Schabell read section 41.100 and stated that there was no language concerning ease of construction.  He stated that the city paid to replace the sidewalks on North Ashbrook, but not Arcadia and this created an equality issue.  He then read section 41.004 of the city code, claiming mismanagement of city funds and calling for an investigation.  The mayor advised that there was no mismanagement of funds.

Ms. Schabell requested a special council meeting to discuss sidewalks and made a motion for this purpose.  Ms. Thamann seconded the motion.  After no discussion, the motion was approved with a voice vote.  6 Ayes were heard, 0 Nays; motion carried.

After further discussion, Ms. Schabell moved to amend her motion to remove the audience comment portion of her proposed agenda.  This amendment was adopted by voice vote.  6 Ayes were heard, 0 Nays; motion carried.

Mr. Waite asked Mr. Schabell for clarification of his comments about the city’s mismanagement of funds by the fact that sidewalks were included, he inquired about the position of the spending city money on Arcadia, how does he reconcile those two things? It seems a little backward.  Mr. Schabell is not asking to pay for Arcadia sidewalks, he is asking the council to look at the ordinance where the council clearly does not understand it and pays for funds that they shouldn’t have. He would like everyone on North Ashbrook to pay for his sidewalk. Mr. Waite said from what he heard that there is a missing link here in the fact that North Ashbrook sidewalks abutted the road base. Mr. Schabell started to argue the point and Mr. Waite advised we need to leave it up to the attorneys.  Mr. Schabell said the ordinance doesn’t mention means and methods.

MAYORS REPORT:  The mayor advised there was a snow emergency last Sunday and Monday, and he thanked everyone for removing their vehicles from the road. The new snowplow drivers did have some issues from the vehicles left on the roadways. He thanked Mr. Greer for working extra time during this event as well as Ms. Bruck for helping to post the snow emergency notice.

Our engineering firm CT Consultants is now known as Verdantas.

The mayor thanked the city staff for all their work during this busy holiday season and for all the time spent on consuming matters that had arisen. The mayor advised that we are a fully open and transparent administration. We have done whatever we can to make the city business is accessible to the public. We are always open to telephone calls and listening to concerns.

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT:  Mr. Voss advised there were no major issues for the month of December.

The mayor advised that he prepared and signed an Executive Order re-appointing Mr. Bernheimer to the TBNK board from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026. Mr. Bernheimer has been on this committee and TBNK requested he remain on this board.

The mayor has also prepared and will issue an Executive Order that Mr. Brian Waite remain the primary representative for the Kenton County Planning and Development Services Committee, and Mr. Dennis Landwehr as the alternate to this committee.

Ms. Schabell inquired about the nomination process for the appointments? The mayor advised the committees are of this city council and typically a council person has always served, but that he is not certain if someone else could serve. Ms. Schabell requested that the next time the positions open if it could be advertised to the community. Mr. Voss advised it does have to be someone on council.

CITY CLERK/TREASURER’S REPORT:

Mrs. Bruck advised 13 property tax bills remaining to be collected, and the amount of property taxes still due is a little over $11,000. Delinquent notices were sent out January 7^th. She indicated that they are now receiving the fourth quarter insurance premiums for 2024, and to date they have collected approximately $363, 000. She advised the Ethics Board members to be in tomorrow to review Financial Interest Statements. She planned to work on the annual Kentucky Retention schedule, but indicated there may be a delay. She indicated that the 2023-2024 Audit results are still pending but hope to have that presented at the next meeting.

FIRE/EMS: 

Chief Jansing advised 138 calls to the Fire Department, but only 20 of those calls were in Lakeside Park. All 20 calls were general EMS calls. There were two minor fire runs in Lakeside Park.  Mr. Wolfer asked if there were a lot of accidents caused by the snow, and the Chief responded the usual.  

Mr. Waite also asked about the fire hydrants. Chief Jansing advised it is helpful to keep the fire hydrants clear.

PUBLIC WORKS:

Tom Bernheimer the project status reports have been review and the sidewalk project is on track; 2024 spot repair completed; Dixie Highway with Crestview Hills project is still in planning stage; Bellemonte resurfacing and curb replacement is on hold pending of a determination of grant funding; crosswalk improvements project is on hold; no updates on the bench project; 2025 Street Program will involve Shaker, Marlo Way, and Penwood, and will go out for bids soon. Mr. Bernheimer also noted that it is important to have your cars off the road because the snow plows to clean the roadways. He advised the radar sign was on Applewood and now has been moved to Farmington to make people aware of their speed. On New Years Eve, someone ran into the bench at Dixie and E. Lakeside, breaking a leg. It is being repaired. Finally, he noted the street sweeping project was completed.

Mr. Wolfer inquired if we still use JPS concrete for the road work. It was advised that JPS Construction is no longer in business and that projects must be sent out for bids, and they look for the best company and not necessarily the lowest bid. Mr. Wolfer also inquired about what CT Consultants do in this process, and he was advised they prepare the specs for the bids, and guide the bid process.

POLICE AUTHORITY:

Mayor Markgraf advised this is the year Lakeside Park has three members instead of two serving on the Police Authority Board. Mr. Waite will continue, along with himself and as Mr. Landwehr previously served on this board, he will return as the third member. The Police Authority meeting minutes were in the council members’ packets for review. 29.6% of calls made in December were for Lakeside Park. They filled the open position with Officer Ethan Boyers. The department received Grants for ballistic vests and new vehicle locking systems for patrol rifles. Sgt. Jackson completed Criminal Justice Executive Development training. Next meeting moved because of the holiday to January 27^th at 5pm.  

PDS:

Mr. Waite said PDS did not meet last month, so no report is available.  Mr. Wolfer asked why the PDS report notes old cases and Mr. Waite advised because it may be from an ongoing process of appeals and get extended. Mr. Waite advised this would be something to discuss at the council’s next caucus meeting.

FINANCE:

Mr. Wolfer stated he came in last week with Brian Waite. The summary for the month showed total revenue of $641,000 with 80 % being from real estate taxes and waste fees. We had normal monthly expenses totaling $78,000, leaving a net income of $570,000 for the month. They reviewed the profit and loss details statement and found everything to be properly recorded. All bank reconciliations were to the penny. He restated that we have 13 outstanding property taxes still due. The balance sheet shows we are just shy of $4.9 million in checking and savings. Last, we reviewed the credit card charges and everything looks to be city related purchases.

The mayor made note that the budget works on a Fiscal Year calendar and what we received thus far will be used from now until the next fiscal year starting in July.

Ms. Schabell inquired about the city’s policy on overtime. The mayor advised overtime must be authorized, but most of the time the employees take comp time. Ms. Schabell inquired what is comp time. The mayor advised that comp time is personal time for the employee to use.

MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT LEAGUE OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY (MGLNK):  Mr. Landwehr said there was no report.

RECREATION:

Ms. Thaman advised last month we hosted Senior Bingo here at Lakeside Park, and she thanked the sponsors of that event, Audrey Staley with Senior Living Locater, and Shelley Welch with Home Instead. The next Bingo will be March 11^th at Fort Mitchell. The Holly Jolly days were well attended this year. We have tickets to the Greater Cincinnati Remodeling Expedition available. Next event will be Snow Tubing at Perfect North Slopes on February 2^nd that is currently full, but we are working on getting more spots. We considered having a play at Carnegie in Covington on February 15^th at 2pm or 7:30pm but look on the website for more details. The recreation committee will look at having a meeting to establish events for the year so we can get it on the website and in the newsletter. If anyone has ideas, please let us know.

Ms. Schabell advised she had just found out that she was added to this committee, and she inquired about bylaws or guidelines for this committee. The mayor advised there is no agenda, but that is the reason for the committee needs to meet. There was additional discussion about recreation program, but further discussion would be held at a later time.

PUBLIC RELATIONS:

The mayor advised that the newsletter was mailed out this time. If residents want it sent electronically, to contact the office. He stated that we are working on being able to text communications with residents.

Ms. Schabell advised she would be willing to join the Public Relations committee with Mary Ann Thaman.

OLD BUSINESS – No old business reported.

NEW BUSINESS – Ms. Schabell held signs up and asked the council if anyone would be willing to vacate a committee seat or allow her to work with them on another committee. Discussions on this subject between the mayor and other council members were held and Ms. Schabell left it that she is available if anyone needs her help.

The mayor advised the committee assignments were something he made the decisions on based on people’s experiences on the committees and their experience with the different facets of the city work. He stated they are open to change, but since she is at the beginning of her term the decision was made by him to start her on the recreation committee to see how things go with her starting there.

COMMENTS FROM COUNCIL:  No additional comments from council.

 ADJOURNMENT:  At 8:38 PM Mr. Waite made the motion to adjourn the meeting, and Mr. Bernheimer seconded the motion. Voice vote taken – 6 Ayes, 0 Nays; motion carried.