Newport public meetings in 2025

_Board of Commissioners

The Board is considering several orders to finalize a $994,000 CDBG contract for the construction of five single-family homes. Additionally, the Board will review two requests for property tax assessment moratoriums for residential and commercial renovations.

• Newport Homeownership Development Project: construction of five homes at 111 W 9th St, 516 W 9th St, 208 W 12th St, 429 Hodge St, and 1036 Hamlet St
• CDBG contract totaling $994,000
• Property assessment moratorium request for 733 Maple Ave ($125K renovation value)
• Property assessment moratorium request for 500-502 Monmouth Street ($200K renovation value)
• Delegation of signature authority to the Vice Mayor for CDBG documents due to Mayor's recusal

The Board approved a Residential Anti‑Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan for the 2024 Newport Homeownership Development Project. It also adopted procurement standards, revolving‑fund guidelines, and authorized a grant agreement for the same project. Property‑assessment moratoriums were granted for 733 Maple Avenue and 500 Monmouth Avenue, and the November 17, 2025 minutes were approved before adjournment.

• Adopted Residential Anti‑Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan (Order No. R‑2025‑87)
• Adopted Procurement Standards and Code of Conduct for the 2024 Homeownership Project (Order No. R‑2025‑88)
• Approved Revolving Fund Guidelines for program income from the 2024 Homeownership Project (Order No. R‑2025‑89)
• Authorized Vice Mayor Julie Smith‑Morrow to execute grant agreement with Commonwealth of Kentucky (Order No. R‑2025‑91; approved by roll call)
• Granted property‑assessment moratorium to 733 Maple, LLC for 733 Maple Avenue (Order No. R‑2025‑83; approved by roll call)
• Granted property‑assessment moratorium to Park Properties for 500 Monmouth Avenue (Order No. R‑2025‑84; approved by roll call)
• Approved regular minutes of November 17, 2025 (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:19 p.m. (motion carried)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will hold public hearings to decide on the removal of four trees. Three requests were submitted by the City Arborist and one by a private citizen.

• Case NTB-25-37: Request by Thomas Huegel to remove a tree at 716 Overton Street
• Case NTB-25-38: Request by City Arborist to remove a callery pear at 114 W 11th Street
• Case NTB-25-39: Request by City Arborist to remove a silver maple at 224 Main Street
• Case NTB-25-40: Request by City Arborist to remove three hawthorns at 401 Riverboat Row

Historic Preservation Commission

The special call meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025, has been canceled. A new notice and agenda will be issued for the rescheduled meeting.

• Painting of unpainted masonry at 707 Washington Ave.
• Door overhangs at 729 Weingartner Place
• Window replacements at 328 E. 6th St. and 914 Central Ave.
• Demolition of a rear addition at 816 Ann St.
• Demolition and new construction at 27 W 12th St. and new construction at 29 W 12th St.

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will approve several orders appointing and promoting city officials. The orders promote Christopher Schack and Albert Hopple to engineer/medic positions in the Fire/EMS Department. The board also ratifies the mayor’s appointment of Garett Reinhart to the Tree Board and appoints Vice Mayor Julie Smith-Morrow as the city’s representative and Mayor Thomas L. Guidugli Jr. as an alternate to the Ohio‑Kentucky‑Indiana Regional Council of Governments. Minutes from prior meetings will be approved and a public forum will be held.

• Promotion of Christopher Schack to engineer/medic, Fire/EMS (effective Oct. 29, 2025)
• Promotion of Albert Hopple to engineer/medic, Fire/EMS (effective Nov. 2, 2025)
• Ratification of Garett Reinhart’s appointment to the Tree Board
• Appointment of Vice Mayor Julie Smith-Morrow as representative to the regional council
• Appointment of Mayor Thomas L. Guidugli Jr. as alternate to the regional council

The Board approved Commissioners Orders R-2025-78, R-2025-79 and R-2025-80 unanimously. It appointed Vice Mayor Julie Smith‑Morrow as the city’s representative to the Ohio‑Kentucky‑Indiana Regional Council of Governments (4‑1 vote) and Mayor Thomas L. Guidugli Jr. as the alternate (4‑1 vote). The Board also approved the October 20 and November 3 meeting minutes and then adjourned the session.

• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-78 (5‑0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-79 (5‑0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-80 (5‑0)
• Appointed Vice Mayor Julie Smith‑Morrow to regional council (4‑1, Mayor recused)
• Appointed Mayor Thomas L. Guidugli Jr. as alternate to regional council (4‑1, Mayor recused)
• Approved October 20 and November 3 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will hear requests to remove trees at multiple addresses and review a tree pruning contract for Zones 7 and 10. The board will also approve the October 9, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for tree removal requests at 813 Park Ave, 1006 Patterson St, 523 Overton St, 636 Oak St, 420 Monmouth St, 601 Columbia St, and 601 E 2nd Street Ave
• Review of tree maintenance schedule for Zones 7 and 10
• Approval of Regular meeting minutes from October 9, 2025

The Newport Tree Board approved seven tree‑removal applications and the tree maintenance schedule. All removal motions were carried, with a 3‑1 vote on the 813 Park Ave case and unanimous 4‑0 votes on the others. The board also approved the meeting minutes and adopted the maintenance schedule unanimously.

• Approved removal of tree at 813 Park Ave (3-1)
• Approved removal of tree at 1006 Patterson St (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 523 Overton St (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 636 Oak St (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 420 Monmouth St (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 601 Columbia St (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 601 E 2nd St (4-0)
• Approved tree maintenance schedule (4-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider a rental agreement for emergency bridge support and an interlocal agreement for animal shelter services. A following caucus meeting will feature a Finance Department update on policies and the first-quarter financial report.

• Order R-2025-76: Monthly rental and inspection of emergency shoring tower for Purple People Bridge at $8,697.00 per month
• Order R-2025-77: Interlocal agreement for animal shelter services with Campbell County Fiscal Court and the cities of Dayton, Southgate, and Woodlawn
• Finance Department update on audit readiness and first-quarter financial report

The Board of Commissioners voted 5‑0 to adopt Order R-2025-76, directing Mayor Thomas L. Guidugli Jr. to execute a shoring rental proposal with LRT Restoration Technologies for an emergency shoring tower on the Purple People Bridge. The Board also voted 5‑0 to adopt Order R-2025-77, authorizing an interlocal agreement among Newport, Dayton, Southgate, Woodlawn and the Campbell County Fiscal Court for animal‑control shelter services. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-76 authorizing shoring tower for Purple People Bridge (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-77 authorizing interlocal animal‑control shelter agreement (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will vote on several items, including authorizing up to $5,000,000 in taxable industrial building revenue bonds to finance a commercial office facility for NXG Holdings, LLC. They will also consider a gift agreement with EducateNKY for a $15,000 Read Ready Newport grant, a temporary construction easement for the World Peace Development project, a contract with Custom Design Benefits for 2026 employee health and dental insurance, and a lease extension with Woodhull, LLC for seven new copiers.

• Authorize issuance of up to $5,000,000 in bonds to fund acquisition, construction, and equipping of an office facility for NXG Holdings at 810 Monmouth St and 825‑835 York St
• Approve a Gift Agreement with EducateNKY providing $15,000 for the Read Ready Newport planning grant
• Grant a temporary construction easement to 400 Monmouth, LLC and World Peace Hospitality LLC for the World Peace Development project
• Contract with Custom Design Benefits to administer 2026 employee health and dental insurance, with premium increases of 30.5% for health and ~10% for dental
• Lease extension with Woodhull, LLC for seven copiers at $1,825 per month, total $109,500 over five years

The Board unanimously approved the issuance of taxable industrial revenue bonds not to exceed $5,000,000 to finance an industrial building for NXG Holdings, LLC. It also approved a gift agreement for the Read Ready Newport planning grant, a temporary construction easement for the World Peace Development apartment and hotel project, a health‑and‑dental insurance administration agreement with Jefferson Health Plan, and a dealer lease for copiers with Woodhull, LLC. The minutes from the September meetings were also approved.

• Approved issuance of up to $5,000,000 industrial revenue bonds for NXG Holdings, LLC (5-0)
• Approved gift agreement for Read Ready Newport planning grant (5-0)
• Approved temporary construction easement for World Peace Development apartment and hotel project (5-0)
• Approved health and dental insurance administration agreement with Jefferson Health Plan (5-0)
• Approved dealer lease agreement for copiers with Woodhull, LLC (5-0)
• Approved September 15 and September 29 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Newport Board of Adjustments will consider a request to adaptively reuse a property at 601 Overton Street into an event center. The applicant, Richard Hunt, seeks approval for the change in use.

• Public hearing for adaptive reuse at 601 Overton Street
• Request to operate an event center at 601 Overton Street
• Approval of September 18, 2025 Board of Adjustments minutes

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will hold public hearings to consider Certificates of Appropriateness for several residential alterations and two mural permits. The body will decide on requests involving window and siding replacements and relief from wall area maximums for murals.

• Proposed $12,000 alterations at 729 Weingartner Place including facade, window, and siding changes
• Window replacement and substitute material requests at 328 E. 6th St., 907 Washington Ave., and 824 Monroe St.
• Door and window infill request at 908 Putnam St.
• Mural permit request for relief from 50% wall area maximum at 317 Monmouth St.
• Mural permit request for relief from 50% wall area maximum at 648 Monmouth St.

The commission conditionally approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 824 Monroe St., requiring wood windows on the front façade and fiberglass windows on the sides. It approved the Hardie siding component, tabled overhang discussions, and conditionally approved windows for 729 Weingartner Place. Additional approvals included certificates for 328 E 6th St. and 907 Washington Ave., and a mural permit for 648 Monmouth St. with relief from the 50% wall‑area limit. All motions passed unanimously (7‑0).

• Conditionally approved COA 2500801 for 824 Monroe St. (7-0)
• Approved Hardie siding portion of COA 2500634 for 729 Weingartner Place (7-0)
• Tabled overhang/awning discussion for COA 2500634 (7-0)
• Conditionally approved windows portion of COA 2500634 (7-0)
• Approved COA 2500798 for 328 E 6th St. (7-0)
• Approved replacement of deteriorated wood windows for COA 2500794 at 907 Washington Ave. (7-0)
• Approved fiberglass‑clad wood windows for COA 2500794 with brick‑mold condition (7-0)
• Approved mural permit 2500868 for 648 Monmouth St. with relief from 50% wall‑area limit (7-0)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will meet to approve minutes from September and hold a public hearing on nine cases requesting the removal of trees at various Newport addresses.

• Approval of September 11, 2025, meeting minutes
• Public hearing for tree removal at 403 Forrest Street
• Public hearing for tree removal at 722 E 8th Street
• Public hearing for tree removal at 121 E 3rd Street
• Public hearing for tree removal at 1006 York Street

The Newport Tree Board approved the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes and voted 4‑0 to allow tree removals at several locations, including Forrest Street, E 8th Street, E 3rd Street, York Street, Central Avenue, and Saratoga Street. One application, for a tree at 813 Park Ave, was tabled after a member lacked full information. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved September 11, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 403 Forrest Street (NTB-25-20) (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 722 E 8th Street (NTB-25-21) (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 121 E 3rd Street (NTB-25-22) (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 1006 York Street (NTB-25-23) (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 1001 Central Ave (NTB-25-24) (4-0)
• Approved removal of tree at 846 Saratoga Street (NTB-25-25) (4-0)
• Tabled removal of tree at 813 Park Ave (NTB-25-29) (4-0)

_Board of Commissioners

At the special meeting, commissioners will appoint Daniel Honaker as a firefighter/paramedic, approve a contract for 35 Taser 10 units for the police department, and consider several bond and land agreements. Items include a bond vote for Newport Central Catholic High School improvements, land conveyance for a new Fourth Street Bridge, and up to $40 M in revenue bonds for a 121‑unit mixed‑use development with 400 Monmouth LLC, plus an easement agreement for the World Peace apartment and hotel project.

• Appointment of Daniel Honaker as firefighter/paramedic
• Contract with Axon Enterprise Inc. for 35 Taser 10 units for the Police Department
• Vote to authorize bonds for improvements at Newport Central Catholic High School
• Vote to convey city land to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for a new Fourth Street Bridge
• Authorization to issue up to $40 M revenue bonds for a 121‑unit mixed‑use project with 400 Monmouth LLC

The Newport Board of Commissioners approved six separate orders, each authorizing contracts, bond issuance, land conveyance, or memoranda of understanding related to public safety, infrastructure and a mixed‑use project. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:24 p.m.

• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-70 appointing Dan Honaker as firefighter/paramedic (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-62 authorizing a contract with Axon Enterprise Inc (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-63 authorizing a certificate of approval for bonds for Newport Central Catholic improvements (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-66 authorizing a deed of conveyance for parcels needed for the Fourth Street Bridge replacement (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-67 authorizing a memorandum of understanding with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for the Fourth Street Bridge replacement (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-68 authorizing a memorandum of agreement with 400 Monmouth LLC for a mixed‑use commercial and residential project (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-69 authorizing a reciprocal easement agreement with 400 Monmouth LLC and World Peace Hospitality LLC for the World Peace Development apartment and hotel project (5-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will meet to review a request for a dimensional variance and a conditional use permit. The applicant is seeking permission to build a two-story detached garage with a workshop above it.

• BA-25-14: Variance request for a two-story detached garage at 713 Columbia Street requested by Dean & Karen Gosney
• Approval of special meeting minutes from May 22 and July 24, 2025

The Board unanimously approved the minutes of the May 22, 2025 special meeting. A motion was made to approve the July 24, 2025 special meeting minutes, but the record does not state the vote outcome. The Board approved a variance to build a two‑story garage at 713 Columbia St, with all five members voting yes. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved May 22, 2025 special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to approve July 24, 2025 special meeting minutes (outcome not recorded)
• Approved variance for two‑story garage at 713 Columbia St (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will vote on accepting the transfer of the Purple People Bridge from the Purple People Bridge Company, Inc. to the City. The board is also conducting second readings for the 2025–2026 tax rates and a budget amendment for a CDBG grant.

• Transfer of ownership of the Purple People Bridge to the City
• Proposed 2025–2026 tax rates: $2.24 per $1,000 for real property and $2.80 per $1,000 for personal property
• Budget amendment for a recently approved CDBG grant award
• Bids from Cargill Company for rock salt and Irvine Wood Recovery for mulch and playground surface
• Promotion of Daniel Verkamp to Engineer/Medic in the Fire/EMS Department

The Board of Commissioners voted 5‑0 to approve an order transferring the Purple People Bridge from the Purple People Bridge Company Inc. to the City of Newport and authorizing the mayor to execute a quitclaim deed. The board also approved a promotion, two budget‑related ordinances, and a contract for the Department of Community Services, each by a unanimous 5‑0 vote.

• Promoted Daniel Verkamp to Engineer/Medic in the Fire/EMS Department (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance O-2025-13 levying ad valorem taxes for FY 2025‑2026 (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance O-2025-14 amending the adopted budget for FY July 1 2025‑June 30 2026 (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-64 to accept bid from Carhill Company and Irvine Wood Recovery for the Department of Community Services (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-65 transferring the Purple People Bridge to the city and authorizing a quitclaim deed (5-0)
• Approved the regular meeting minutes from August 18 2025 and special meeting minutes from September 8 2025 (5-0)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will hold a public hearing to consider five tree removal applications submitted by the City Arborist. Each application requests removal of a specific tree located on public right‑of‑way or private property at the listed addresses. The board will decide whether to approve each removal based on the provided reasons such as dead or dying trees.

• Case NTB-25-15 – removal of tree at 113 W 10th Street, Newport, KY 41071
• Case NTB-25-16 – removal of tree at 331 W 11th Street, Newport, KY 41071
• Case NTB-25-17 – removal of tree at 215 E 11th Street, Newport, KY 41071
• Case NTB-25-18 – removal of tree at 439 W 12th Street, Newport, KY 41074
• Case NTB-25-19 – removal of tree at 519 W 10th Street, Newport, KY 41071

The Newport Tree Board approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved five tree‑removal applications—lilac at 113 W 10th St, red maple at 331 W 11th St, sugar maple at 215 E 11th St, crab apple at 439 W 12th St, and red maple at 519 W 10th St. Each motion carried unanimously with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved July 10, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved removal of lilac tree at 113 W 10th St (NTB-25-15) (4-0)
• Approved removal of red maple at 331 W 11th St (NTB-25-16) (4-0)
• Approved removal of sugar maple at 215 E 11th St (NTB-25-17) (4-0)
• Approved removal of crab apple at 439 W 12th St (NTB-25-18) (4-0)
• Approved removal of red maple at 519 W 10th St (NTB-25-19) (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at ~4:30 p.m. (4-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and first reading on the 2025–2026 ad valorem tax rates, which are proposed at $2.24 per $1,000 for real property and $2.80 per $1,000 for personal property. The board will also consider ordinances and orders including a budget amendment for a CDBG grant, an agreement for the Kentucky Route 8 Bridge Replacement Project, and a contract for repaving the City Building’s parking lot.

• First reading of Ordinance O-2025-13 setting 2025–2026 tax rates at $2.24 (real) and $2.80 (personal) per $1,000
• First reading of Ordinance O-2025-14 amending FY25/26 budget for CDBG grant award
• Commissioners Order R-2025-59 authorizing Mayor to execute Kentucky Route 8 Bridge Replacement Project agreement with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
• Commissioners Order R-2025-61 accepting Riegler Blacktop’s bid to repave City Building parking lot
• Public hearing on proposed 2025 tax rate exceeding compensating rate

The Newport Board of Commissioners unanimously approved four items: the first reading of Ordinance O-2025-13, the first reading of Ordinance O-2025-14, an order authorizing the mayor to execute the Kentucky Route 8 bridge replacement agreement, and an order accepting a bid and authorizing a contract with Riegler Blacktop for a parking‑lot project. The property‑tax rate public hearing received no public comments. All approvals were recorded with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved Ordinance O-2025-13 (first reading) – 5-0
• Approved Ordinance O-2025-14 (first reading) – 5-0
• Approved Order R-2025-59 authorizing mayor to sign Kentucky Route 8 bridge replacement agreement – 5-0
• Approved Order R-2025-61 accepting bid and authorizing contract with Riegler Blacktop for parking‑lot project – 5-0

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission will hold two special meetings on August 27, 2025. The first at 5:00 p.m. is a training session on commission procedures and rules. The second at 6:00 p.m. will include public hearings, including a review of a Certificate of Appropriateness for a rooftop deck at 318 Park Ave.

• Certificate of Appropriateness HP2500598 for rooftop deck at 318 Park Ave, requested by Molly and Jeffrey Hartman
• Discussion of Guidelines updates (no vote) during the 6:00 p.m. meeting

The commission unanimously approved amended meeting minutes from July 23, 2025. It then approved a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA 2500598) for a rooftop deck at 318 Park Ave. after a 5‑0 vote, with Commissioner Carter recusing himself. Both motions were adopted without opposition.

• Approved amended minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for rooftop deck at 318 Park Ave. (5-0)

Board of Adjustments

The Newport Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on a variance request to allow a two-story detached garage at 713 Columbia Street. The applicant, Dean & Karen Gosney, seeks approval for a conditional use permit for a single-family residence with a two-story garage and workshop above.

• Variance request for two-story detached garage at 713 Columbia Street
• Conditional use permit for single-family residence with three-car garage and workshop
• Public hearing scheduled for case BA-25-14

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special executive session followed by a regular meeting. They are deciding on professional services for James Taylor Park, vehicle purchases, and several updates to the city's code of ordinances.

• Professional Services Agreement with Corporex Development and Construction Management, LLC for James Taylor Park improvements
• Purchase orders for one ambulance for Fire/EMS and one 2026 Chevrolet 3500 pickup truck
• Property assessment moratoriums for 337 W 11th Street, 1007 Monmouth Street, and 605 Linden Avenue
• Ordinance O-2025-10 establishing guidelines for the approval, placement, and design of murals
• Amendment to Section 37.073(C)(3) regarding Annual Occupational License Fees for contractors on projects over $50,000

The Newport Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the consent agenda and several orders, including property‑assessment moratoriums for three redevelopment sites and the declaration of surplus personal property. They also authorized a professional services agreement with Corporex Development for James Taylor Park improvements, and approved purchase orders for a new ambulance and a Chevrolet pickup truck. Additionally, four ordinances covering code supplements, mural guidelines, rental‑dwelling license penalties, and occupational license fees were adopted. All votes were 5‑0.

• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Granted property assessment moratorium to Cote Brillante Ventures LLC for 337 West 11th St (R-2025-52) (5-0)
• Granted property assessment moratorium to KJR Real Estate LLC for 1007 Monmouth St (R-2025-53) (5-0)
• Granted property assessment moratorium to 605 Linden Associates LLC for 605 Linden Ave (R-2025-56) (5-0)
• Declared certain city personal property surplus and authorized disposal (R-2025-55 & R-2025-57) (5-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Corporex Development for James Taylor Park improvements (R-2025-48) (5-0)
• Approved purchase order for one ambulance for Fire/EMS (R-2025-54) (5-0)
• Approved purchase order for one 2026 Chevrolet 3500 pickup truck (R-2025-58) (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to consider Commissioners Order No. R-2025-48. This order would authorize Mayor Thomas L. Guidugli, Jr. to execute a professional services agreement with Corporex Development and Construction Management, LLC.

• Professional services agreement with Corporex Development and Construction Management, LLC for James Taylor Park improvements

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will hold a special meeting to consider two applications. The board will review a request for adaptive reuse of a property and a dimensional variance for signs at the Newport City Garage.

• BA-25-15: Application by Covington Fitness LLC for adaptive reuse of 1211 Brighton Street to create a fitness center and hair salon
• BA-25-16: Application by Klusty Sign Associates for a dimensional variance for two projecting signs at 11 E 5th Street
• Request for a 39.75 sq ft projecting sign for Hotel Check In & Entrance at 11 E 5th Street
• Request for a 69.3 sq ft projecting sign for the Parking Garage entrance and rates at 11 E 5th Street

The Newport Board of Adjustments approved an adaptive‑reuse permit (BA‑25‑15) for Covington Fitness LLC to operate a gym, hair salon and physical‑therapy office at 1211 Brighton Street, with a 3‑1 vote. The board also approved a dimensional variance (BA‑25‑16) for two projecting signs at 11 E 5th Street, with a unanimous 4‑0 vote.

• Approved adaptive‑reuse permit for 1211 Brighton St (3-1)
• Approved dimensional variance for signs at 11 E 5th St (4-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will hold public hearings to decide on Certificates of Appropriateness for five residential properties. These requests include demolition, additions, and the use of substitute materials for siding and windows.

• 231 E 4th St: Demolition of rear structure, addition, and facade changes ($250,000)
• 934 Washington Ave: Replacement of windows and siding ($120,000)
• 807 Linden Ave: Filling in garage door and lawn, and window replacement
• 723 Maple Ave: Window replacement and use of substitute materials
• 642 Overton St: Construction of a third story addition and rooftop deck

The commission unanimously approved the June 25 meeting minutes. It approved three separate motions for 231 E 4th St, including a rear addition, demolition of the rear addition, and façade changes, each with a 6‑0 vote. Additional COA motions were voted on for 934 Washington Ave (5‑2), 807 Linden Ave (garage infill 5‑1, window replacement 6‑0), and 723 Maple Ave (7‑0).

• Approved June 25 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved rear addition at 231 E 4th St (6‑0)
• Approved demolition of rear addition at 231 E 4th St (6‑0)
• Approved façade changes at 231 E 4th St (6‑0)
• Motion to approve COA 2500583 at 934 Washington Ave received 5‑2 vote
• Approved garage infill at 807 Linden Ave (5‑1)
• Approved window replacement at 807 Linden Ave (6‑0)
• Approved window replacement at 723 Maple Ave (7‑0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several ordinance updates, including new rules for public murals and rental dwelling licenses. The body is also considering contracts for city design services, park improvements, and a traffic study.

• Ordinance O-2025-10 establishing guidelines for the approval, placement, and design of murals
• Ordinance O-2025-12 amending occupational license fees for contractors on projects over $50,000
• Order R-2025-48 for a professional services agreement with Corporex Development and Construction Management, LLC for James Taylor Park improvements
• Order R-2025-49 for a contract with TEC Engineering, Inc. to review a Monmouth Street two-way study
• Resolution R-2025-51 establishing the Read Ready Newport early learning initiative

The Newport Board of Commissioners unanimously approved four ordinances covering meeting minutes, mural guidelines, rental dwelling license penalties, and occupational license fees. They also approved three orders for professional services contracts and a resolution to launch a kindergarten readiness program. One order for James Taylor Park improvements was tabled. All votes were 5‑0 in favor.

• Approved Commissioners Ordinance O-2025-06 (special & regular meeting minutes) (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Ordinance O-2025-10 (mural design guidelines) (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Ordinance O-2025-11 (rental dwelling license penalty amendment) (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Ordinance O-2025-12 (annual occupational license fee amendment) (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-47 (architects contract for design concept) (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-49 (TEC Engineering two‑way study contract) (5-0)
• Approved Commissioners Order R-2025-50 (statewide emergency management mutual aid agreement) (5-0)
• Tabled Commissioners Order R-2025-48 (James Taylor Park improvements) (5-0)

Code Enforcement Board

The Code Enforcement Board will meet to elect a 2025 chairperson and review appeals for four property citations. The board will determine if the cited property owners are in violation of city maintenance codes.

• Appeal for Octavian Aker, Fitzsimmons Lot (Citation #25224): Weeds
• Appeal for Octavian Aker, 524 W 12th Street (Citation #25226): Sanitation
• Appeal for Kim Wolf, 206 E 10th Street (Citation #25258): Window glazing and decorative features
• Appeal for Anthony Costa, 300 E 10th Street (Citation #25160)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will hold public hearings to decide on the removal of five trees located in public rights-of-way. The board will also conduct a review of its bylaws.

• Case NTB-25-10: Tree removal at 224 W 10th Street
• Case NTB-25-11: Tree removal at 227 E 5th Street
• Case NTB-25-12: Tree removal at 641 Park Ave
• Case NTB-25-13: Tree removal at 617 E 9th Street
• Case NTB-25-14: Tree removal at 728 Park Ave

The Newport Tree Board approved the removal of trees at 224 W 10 th Street, 227 E 5 th Street, 641 Park Ave, and 728 Park Ave, each with a 5-0 or 4-0 vote. The board denied the removal of the crab apple tree at 617 E 9 th Street with a 5-0 vote. Earlier agenda items approved the April 14 and May 8, 2025 meeting minutes, each by a 5-0 vote.

• Approved removal of lilac tree at 224 W 10 th Street (5-0)
• Approved removal of red maple tree at 227 E 5 th Street (5-0)
• Approved removal of sugar maple tree at 641 Park Ave (5-0)
• Denied removal of crab apple tree at 617 E 9 th Street (5-0)
• Approved removal of red maple tree at 728 Park Ave (4-0)
• Approved April 14 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved May 8 2025 minutes (5-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The special call working session scheduled for July 9, 2025, has been canceled. The commissioner training will be rescheduled.

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will hold public hearings to determine if proposed changes to five properties meet historic standards. Decisions include requests for demolitions, additions, and material substitutions.

• Proposed $250,000 renovation at 231 E 4th St including rear structure demolition and a 2-storey addition
• Request for door changes and substitute materials at 1002 York Street (estimated cost $10,000)
• Request to fill in a window on a secondary facade at 512 Lexington Ave.
• Request for rear roof decks and substitute materials at 125 W 11th St.
• Request to partially fill in a window on a secondary facade at 936 Monroe St.

The commission approved Certificates of Appropriateness for projects at 1002 York St., 512 Lexington Ave., 125 W 11th St., and 936 Monroe St., each with specific conditions. The application for 231 E 4th St. was tabled pending revised designs. Minutes from prior meetings were also approved.

• Approved COA 2500105 for 1002 York St. (garage door sandstone color) – motion carried
• Approved COA 2500461 for 512 Lexington Ave. (brick not toothed, set back) – motion carried
• Approved COA 2500487 for 125 W 11th St. – motion carried
• Approved COA 2500515 for 936 Monroe St. (sill retained, brick not toothed, set back, coursing maintained) – motion carried
• Tabled COA 2500488 for 231 E 4th St. pending updated design – motion carried
• Approved minutes of May 28, 2025 meeting – vote 6-0 (Vice Chair Ramler abstained)
• Approved minutes of June 18, 2025 special call – vote 5-0 (Commissioners Haas and Palmer abstained)
• Adjourned meeting – motion passed unanimously

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to conduct second readings of budget ordinances for the current and upcoming fiscal years. The board will also consider orders regarding a property settlement and city insurance agreements.

• Second reading of Ordinance O-2025-09 to adopt the city budget for July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026
• Second reading of Ordinance O-2025-08 to amend the General Fund budget for July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025
• Order R-2025-45 regarding a settlement agreement with Gator Newport Partners, Ltd for real property sale and easements along Carothers Road
• Order R-2025-46 authorizing insurance agreements with Kentucky League of Cities (KLCIS) and Kentucky Employers Mutual (KEMI)

The board approved the second reading of Ordinance O-2025-08, amending the adopted budget for the fiscal year July 1 2024–June 30 2025, by a 5‑0 vote. It also approved the second reading of Ordinance O-2025-09, adopting the city’s budget for fiscal year July 1 2025–June 30 2026, by a 5‑0 vote. The board approved Resolution R-2025-45, authorizing a settlement agreement with Gator Newport Partners, Ltd. for the sale and easements of real property along Carothers Road, by a 5‑0 vote. Finally, the board approved Resolution R-2025-46, authorizing the city manager to enter insurance agreements with the Kentucky League of Cities and Kentucky Employers Mutual, by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved Ordinance O-2025-08 amending FY 2024‑25 budget (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance O-2025-09 adopting FY 2025‑26 budget (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution R-2025-45 settlement with Gator Newport Partners, Ltd. (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution R-2025-46 insurance agreements with KLCIS and KEMI (5‑0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission is considering a recommendation for a new ordinance creating Chapter 103 of the Code of Ordinances. This framework would establish guidelines for the approval, placement, and design of murals within the city.

• Proposed creation of Chapter 103 regarding mural guidelines
• Restriction of painted murals to commercial and industrial zones
• Introduction of projection-style murals allowed once annually per site for up to 30 days
• Requirement for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for murals in historic districts
• Prohibition of murals on residential structures

The commission voted to approve the recommended mural ordinance, adding a provision that allows projected murals extra time during special events. All five commissioners present voted Yes, resulting in a unanimous (5-0) approval. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved mural ordinance with special-event relief (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special executive session regarding Gator Properties ROW Acquisition litigation followed by a regular meeting. The body is deciding on the upcoming fiscal year budget and the purchase of several police and fire department vehicles.

• First reading of Ordinance O-2025-09 to adopt the FY 2025-2026 budget
• Second reading of Ordinance O-2025-07 replacing bar ID requirements with Kentucky S.T.A.R. training
• Orders R-2025-41, 42, and 43 for the purchase of one 2025 Dodge Durango, four Tesla Model Ys, and one 2025 Chevrolet Trax
• Resolution R-2025-44 to amend the agreement with the Campbell County Consolidated Dispatch Board
• Executive session to discuss potential litigation related to Gator Properties ROW Acquisition

The Newport Board of Commissioners approved Ordinance O‑2025‑09 adopting the city budget for July 1 2025 – June 30 2026, along with two budget‑adjustment ordinances (O‑2025‑07 and O‑2025‑08). The board also authorized purchase orders for one Dodge Durango (Fire/EMS), four Tesla Model Y vehicles, and one Chevrolet Trax (social‑worker use). Additionally, the board approved the relocation of the Campbell County Consolidated Dispatching Center and ratified the May 19 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved Ordinance O‑2025‑07 repealing and reenacting Section 111.05 (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance O‑2025‑08 amending the adopted budget with a $13,750 adjustment (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance O‑2025‑09 adopting the FY 2025‑26 budget with a $13,750 adjustment (5‑0)
• Approved Order R‑2025‑41 purchase of one 2025 Dodge Durango AWD for Fire/EMS (5‑0)
• Approved Order R‑2025‑42 purchase of four Tesla Model Y electric vehicles (5‑0)
• Approved Order R‑2025‑43 purchase of one 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS FWD for a social worker (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution R‑2025‑44 relocating the Campbell County Consolidated Dispatching Center (5‑0)
• Approved the regular meeting minutes from May 19 2025 (5‑0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission will review and vote on recommendations to the Board of Commissioners, including updates to historic preservation ordinances and new mural guidelines. The meeting will also consider several applications for certificates of appropriateness for property alterations at specific addresses in Newport.

• Recommendation to amend Chapter 32 of the Newport Code of Ordinances related to Historic Preservation Commission duties
• Proposal to create new Chapter 103 establishing guidelines for mural approval, placement, and design
• Application for Certificate of Appropriateness for door and material changes at 1002 York Street
• Application for Certificate of Appropriateness for roof alterations and deck construction at 234 E 7th Street
• Application for amendment to previously approved Certificate of Appropriateness for side window materials at 708 Columbia Street

The commission approved the proposed amendments to Chapter 32 of the Newport Code of Ordinances, giving the commission greater flexibility in decision making. The motion passed unanimously. Other actions included approving the April 23 minutes (6‑0, 1 abstention), tabling the mural ordinance to June, tabling a Certificate of Appropriateness for 1002 York St, approving a roof alteration at 234 E. 7th St (5‑1), and approving an amendment to a Certificate of Appropriateness for 708 Columbia St (6‑0). The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved changes to Chapter 32 ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved April 23 minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Tabled mural ordinance HP 2500407 to June meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled Certificate of Appropriateness for 1002 York St (unanimous)
• Approved roof alteration COA 2500411 (5-1)
• Approved amendment to COA 2401181 for 708 Columbia St (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Newport Board of Adjustments will hold a special meeting on May 22, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room on the 18th floor of the Newport Municipal Building, 998 Monmouth Street. The public may attend in person or via live stream on Facebook or YouTube. The board will conduct a public hearing on five applications for zoning relief, including setback variances, adaptive re-use permits, and a conditional use permit.

• BA-25-09: Setback variance for a fence at 401 Monmouth Street (requested by Andrew Glass)
• BA-25-10: Setback variance for a garage at 338 Riddle Place (requested by Sara Luena)
• BA-25-11: Adaptive conditional re-use to operate an inn & event space at 335 E 3rd Street (requested by Duane Cronin)
• BA-25-12: Adaptive conditional re-use for a mixed-use building with four residential units at 341 E 10th Street (requested by Duane Cronin)
• BA-25-13: Conditional use permit to operate an event center at 706 York Street (requested by Ron Pies, York Investment Group LLC)

The Newport Board of Adjustments approved a setback variance for a fence at 401 Monmouth Street, a setback variance for a garage at 338 Riddle Place, a conditional use permit for an event center and inn at 335 E 3rd Street, a mixed‑use tavern with four residential units at 341 E 10th Street, and a conditional use permit for an event center at 706 York Street. Each motion was carried unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved setback variance for fence at 401 Monmouth St (5-0)
• Approved setback variance for garage at 338 Riddle Pl (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for event center and inn at 335 E 3rd St (5-0)
• Approved mixed‑use tavern and four residential units at 341 E 10th St (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for event center at 706 York St (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special executive session regarding US 27/Carothers Road litigation followed by a regular meeting. The body will consider a bond order for industrial expansion and a change to alcohol server certification requirements.

• Order R-2025-37: Issuance of taxable industrial building revenue bonds up to $5,000,000 for NXG Holdings, LLC
• Ordinance O-2025-07: Replacing bar ID requirements with Kentucky S.T.A.R. training for alcohol servers
• Order R-2025-39: Contract addendum with Medicount Management, Inc. for EMS billing to participate in the Ambulance Supplemental Payment Program
• Presentation of a rendering for a farmer's market shelter in the 700 block of Monmouth
• NKY Water District presentation on a multi-phase water line replacement project

The Board appointed Skylar Fox as police social worker, Derick Diesters as executive assistant/office manager, and Gannon Torres as police cadet, each with a 5‑0 vote. It also approved Ordinance O‑2025‑07, changing employee ID requirements for alcohol‑licensed premises, by a 5‑0 vote. The Board authorized up to $5 million in taxable industrial revenue bonds for Nexigen Communications (R‑2025‑37) with a 5‑0 vote, and approved an addendum to the EMS billing contract with MedCount Management (R‑2025‑39) also by 5‑0.

• Approved appointment of Skylar Fox as police social worker (5‑0)
• Approved appointment of Derick Diesters as executive assistant/office manager (5‑0)
• Approved appointment of Gannon Torres as police cadet (5‑0)
• Approved appointment of Kira Palmer to Historic Preservation Commission (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance O‑2025‑07 revising alcohol‑service employee ID rules (5‑0)
• Authorized issuance of up to $5 million industrial revenue bonds for Nexigen Communications (5‑0)
• Approved addendum to EMS billing services contract with MedCount Management (5‑0)
• Approved regular meeting minutes from April 21, 2025 (5‑0)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will hold public hearings on four tree removal applications. The most notable request seeks removal of six trees on 4th Street between York and Monmouth for hotel construction. Other requests involve removal of Callery pear trees at residential properties and two pear trees at 901 York Street.

• Public hearing NTB-25-04: removal of six trees along 4th St. between York and Monmouth for hotel construction; applicant Jeffrey Wolf, World Peace Hospitality LLC
• Public hearing NTB-25-07: removal of Callery pear tree at 423 E 3rd St; applicants Marta & Tim Hewett
• Public hearing NTB-25-08: removal of Callery pear tree at 421 E 3rd St; applicant Mark Cooper
• Public hearing NTB-25-09: removal of two pear trees at 901 York St; applicant Henry Hosea House

The Newport Tree Board approved the March 18, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. It then approved four tree‑removal applications—six trees on Fourth Street, a Callery Pear at 423 E 3rd St, a Pear Callery Tree at 421 E 3rd St, and two pear trees at 901 York St—each by a 5‑0 vote and with a requirement to replace the trees with Kentucky native species where applicable. The meeting was adjourned at 5:07 p.m. by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved removal of six trees on Fourth Street (NTB-25-04) (5-0)
• Approved removal of Callery Pear at 423 E 3rd St with native‑species replacement (NTB-25-07) (5-0)
• Approved removal of Pear Callery Tree at 421 E 3rd St with native‑species replacement (NTB-25-08) (5-0)
• Approved removal of two pear trees at 901 York St (NTB-25-09) (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at approximately 5:07 p.m. (5-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. The body will also hold public hearings on four applications for Certificates of Appropriateness regarding property modifications.

• Window shortening and material replacement at 645 Overton St. ($2,000)
• Door replacement and alterations at 1002 York St. ($10,000)
• Front yard fence and retaining/landscaping walls at 401 Monmouth St.
• Removal and replacement of a rear addition at 1146 Columbia St.
• Election of Commission Chairperson and Vice Chairperson

The commission elected Mike Kolb as chair and Mark Ramler as vice chair. It approved Certificate of Appropriateness applications for 1146 Columbia St. and 401 Monmouth St., directed the applicant at 645 Overton St. to modify the window design, and tabled the 1002 York St. application. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved minutes of March 26 meeting (unanimous)
• Elected Mike Kolb as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Mark Ramler as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved COA for rear addition at 1146 Columbia St. (unanimous)
• Directed 645 Overton St. applicant to modify window design (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of 1002 York St. COA (unanimous)
• Approved COA for fence and substitute materials at 401 Monmouth St. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider approving state funding for municipal road aid for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2025. The body will also vote on a new water truck and a pavement project. Additionally, the board will discuss proposed changes to Bar ID and Extended Hours License ordinances.

• Vote on municipal road aid funding agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky
• Contract with TMS Construction Inc. for 3rd Street and Monmouth Street stamped concrete pavement project
• Purchase of one 2025 Aluminum 2500 gallon water truck
• Proposed changes to Bar ID requirements and Extended Hours License Ordinances
• Appointment of Dillon Carson as Laborer/Maintenance in the Community Services Department

The Board unanimously approved a municipal road‑aid agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. It also approved a purchase of a 2500‑gallon water truck, a stamped‑concrete contract for 3rd and Monmouth Streets, and the disposal of surplus city property. An appointment to the Community Services Department and the meeting minutes were approved as well.

• Approved appointment of Dillon Carson as Laborer/Maintenance (Order R-2025-32, 5‑0)
• Authorized Mayor to execute road‑aid agreement with KY Transportation Cabinet (Order R-2025-31, 5‑0)
• Approved purchase order for one 2025 aluminum 2500‑gallon water truck (Order R-2025-30, 5‑0)
• Authorized contract with TMS Construction for 3rd & Monmouth St. stamped concrete project (Order R-2025-33, 5‑0)
• Declared certain city personal property surplus and authorized disposal (Order R-2025-34, 5‑0)
• Approved February, March and April meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

Tree Board

The Newport Tree Board will hold a special meeting to review four applications for tree removal. These requests include removals for construction, safety hazards, and decay.

• NTB-25-03: Tree removal and replacement at the corner of Fourth and Monmouth Streets
• NTB-25-04: Tree removal along Fourth Street between York and Monmouth Streets for hotel construction
• NTB-25-05: Removal of three linden trees at 733 Park Ave
• NTB-25-06: Removal of a silver maple tree at 307 Overton Street

The board voted 4‑1 to cut down three linden trees at 733 Park Ave per the city arborist’s recommendation. It also approved the removal and replacement of a tree at Fourth and Monmouth Street (4‑1). The request to remove trees on Fourth between York and Monmouth was tabled, and the vote on a silver maple at 307 Overton Street was postponed pending a second arborist opinion.

• Approved removal of tree at Fourth & Monmouth St, replacement approved (4‑1)
• Approved removal of three linden trees at 733 Park Ave (4‑1)
• Tabled request to remove trees on Fourth between York & Monmouth (4‑1)
• Postponed vote on removing silver maple at 307 Overton St (4‑1)

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will hold a special meeting with two public hearings. The first is for a conditional use permit and parking variance to operate a meeting/reception venue at 518 York Street in the Central Business District Fringe. The second is a parking variance request for a mixed-use property at 901 Saratoga Street in an R-3 residential zone.

• Conditional use permit and parking variance for a reception venue (Yorkshire Club) at 518 York Street, CBDF zone
• Parking variance request for 901 Saratoga Street in R-3 zone for three residential and one commercial unit
• Applicant for 518 York: Hermes Construction Company & Schuler Investments LLC
• Applicant for 901 Saratoga: 901 Saratoga LLC
• Meeting is a special meeting with only these two agenda items

The Newport Board of Adjustments voted 5-0 to approve a conditional use permit and parking variance for Hermes Construction Company at 518 York Street. The board also voted 5-0 to approve a parking variance for 901 Saratoga Street. Both motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved conditional use permit and parking variance for 518 York St (5-0)
• Approved parking variance for 901 Saratoga St (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board will hold a caucus for an update on medical cannabis program limitations, then a special meeting to vote on an Industrial Revenue Bond agreement for PLK Communities to redevelop the former Newport Steel site into 195 townhomes with public amenities, involving $5M in environmental remediation. The board will also vote on personnel appointments, a grass cutting contract, and second reading of an ordinance providing an occupational license fee credit for Nexigen Communications. All actions are for discussion and decision at this meeting.

• Vote on Industrial Revenue Bond for PLK Communities at former Newport Steel site (Route 9), with $5M remediation and $150,000 tree donation
• Appoint Keith Rust as Staff Accountant and Brian Johnston as Firefighter/EMT
• Vote on grass cutting contract with Professional Lawn Care, Inc.
• Second reading of ordinance to provide occupational license fee credit for new employees of Nexigen Communications
• Caucus presentation on statutory limitations of medical cannabis program

The Board of Commissioners approved a memorandum of agreement with PLK Communities for a mixed-use commercial and residential project in the downtown business district and authorized the issuance of industrial building revenue bonds. It also appointed a new staff accountant and a new firefighter/EMT, adopted an ordinance to credit occupational license fees for a new economic‑development project, and approved a contract for city lawn‑care services. All actions were voted on and adopted by the Board.

• Approved Keith Rust appointment as staff accountant (5-0)
• Approved Brian Johnston appointment as firefighter/EMT effective 4/28/25 (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance O-2025-05 to credit occupational license fees (5-0)
• Authorized MoU with PLK Communities for mixed-use project and future revenue bonds (4-1)
• Approved contract with Professional Lawn Care, Inc. for grass cutting (5-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings and decide on three applications for Certificates of Appropriateness: installation of Hardie siding at 905 Washington Ave., new construction at 229 W. 9th St., and a mural at 601 Overton St. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the February 2025 regular meeting.

• Application for Certificate of Appropriateness to install Hardie siding at 905 Washington Ave. by WOW Property Management, LLC
• Application for Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at 229 W. 9th St. by Bellevue Land, LLC
• Application for Certificate of Appropriateness for a mural at 601 Overton St. by ArtsWave

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for Wow Property Management at 905 Washington St. with conditions, and another for Bellevue Land at 229 W. 9th St. with conditions. Both votes were 6‑0. The commission also tabled discussion on a mural at 601 Overton St., directing staff to develop mural guidelines, also by a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved COA HP2500007 for 905 Washington St. with siding conditions (6-0)
• Approved COA HP2500176 for 229 W. 9th St. with siding conditions (6-0)
• Tabled mural discussion for 601 Overton St. and directed staff to create guidelines (6-0)
• Approved minutes from February 26, 2025 (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Board of Adjustments

The Board will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for three residential units and one commercial unit in an R3 zone at 901 Saratoga Street. The board also will approve the February 20, 2025 special meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for BA-25-07: conditional use permit for three residential units and one commercial unit at 901 Saratoga Street, requested by 901 Saratoga, LLC

The Board approved the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5-0 vote. It then approved a conditional use permit for 901 Saratoga Street to convert the building into three apartments and a first‑floor commercial space, also by a 5-0 vote. The meeting was adjourned after a motion to adjourn was carried.

• Approved February 20, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for 901 Saratoga Street mixed-use project (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Tree Board

The Tree Board will hold public hearings to consider requests for tree removals throughout the city and at specific addresses. The meeting also includes a review of risk management and maintenance plans for city trees.

• NTB-25-01: City of Newport request for various tree removals and review of risk management plans
• NTB-25-02: Tree removal and replacement request at 708 Washington Avenue
• NTB-25-03: Tree removal and replacement request at the corner of Fourth & Monmouth Street
• Review of proactive pruning for Zone 7, covering 181 trees between Linden, Ohio alley, Overton, and 7th

The Newport Tree Board approved a citywide tree removal list (Case NTB-25-01) with two exceptions: trees at 733 Park Avenue and 307 Overton Street will not be removed until a second arborist provides an opinion. The board also approved removing a tree at 708 Washington Ave (Case NTB-25-02) and tabled a request for a tree at Fourth and Monmouth Street (Case NTB-25-03) because the applicant was absent.

• Approved citywide tree removal list (NTB-25-01) 4-0, excluding 733 Park Ave and 307 Overton St pending second arborist review
• Approved tree removal at 708 Washington Ave (NTB-25-02) 4-0
• Tabled tree removal at Fourth and Monmouth St (NTB-25-03) 4-0 due to applicant absence
• Approved October 8, 2024 meeting minutes 4-0

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting on March 10, 2025, to receive an informational presentation from hired zoning expert Wendy Moeller on her audit of the city's zoning code. No public comment will be taken at this meeting, and no votes or decisions are scheduled. The findings will be posted on the city's website for public review, with future meetings planned for public input.

• Zoning code audit presentation by Compass Point Planning / Wendy Moeller
• Special meeting — no public comment session
• No votes or formal actions on the agenda

The Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on March 10, 2025, featuring a presentation by Wendy Moeller of Compass Point Planning on recommendations for updating the city's zoning code. No formal decisions were made; the board only received the presentation and then adjourned.

• Received zoning code update presentation from Compass Point Planning
• Adjourned meeting at approximately 5:17 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on two requests for Certificates of Appropriateness: a second-story addition over an existing garage at 825 Overton St., and replacement doors with substitute materials at 1002 York St. The meeting also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and other routine business.

• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for second-story addition over existing garage at 825 Overton St. (applicant: Heather Estridge)
• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for replacement doors with substitute materials at 1002 York St. (applicant: Rarjot Kaur)
• Approval of minutes from regular meeting on January 22, 2025
• Swearing in of Bruce Carter

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for a second-story addition and roof deck over the existing garage at 825 Overton Street, with a condition that windows be dark to match the house. The commission also tabled a request for alterations at 1002 York Street pending further information. The meeting minutes from January 22, 2025, were approved.

• Approved COA HP-2401214 for second-story addition and roof deck at 825 Overton St. (6-0)
• Tabled COA HP-2500105 for alterations at 1002 York St. pending more information (6-0)
• Approved January 22, 2025 regular meeting minutes (5-0, Carter abstaining)

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will vote on an industrial revenue bond (IRB) project for Nexigen Communications, which aims to create at least 75 jobs by redeveloping the former US Bank building on Monmouth Street and acquiring the Muehlenkamp Funeral Home property. The board will also discuss zoning and regulations for medical cannabis dispensaries, including a public input session and potential first reading in March. Other actions include appointing new municipal staff, approving a resolution opposing state legislation that would limit local short-term rental regulations, and authorizing a new school resource officer agreement.

• Vote on Nexigen IRB project: creation of 75+ jobs, redevelopment of former US Bank building, acquisition of Muehlenkamp Funeral Home property
• Resolution opposing Senate Bill 110 and any bills that would prohibit local regulation of short-term rentals
• Discussion of medical cannabis dispensary zoning, including public input and potential first reading in March
• Appointments: Bruce Carter to Historic Preservation Board, William Richardson as Municipal/Community Liaison, Josh Tunning as Municipal Specialist
• Authorization to purchase a 2025 Dodge Durango for the Fire Department (pending bid process)

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance and agreement with Nexigen Communications for an office building project, including a fee credit for new employees and authorization for industrial revenue bonds. They also approved several other orders, including new hires, a vehicle purchase, and a resolution opposing state legislation on short-term rentals. A motion to discuss medical cannabis legislation passed 3-2.

• Approved Ordinance O-2025-05 for Nexigen occupational license fee credit (5-0)
• Authorized Order R-2025-04 for Nexigen office project and revenue bonds (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-22 appointing William Richardson as Municipal Operations and Community Liaison, amended to start by March 31, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-23 appointing Josh Tunning as Municipal Specialist (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-16 MOU with Newport Independent School District for school resource officers (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-18 purchase of 2025 Dodge Durango for Fire/EMS (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-19 Southbank Partners membership agreement (5-0)
• Approved Resolution R-2025-25 opposing Senate Bill 110 on short-term rentals (5-0)

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will hold public hearings on three variance applications: one for additional wall signs at 7 Carothers Road and two for dimensional setback variances at 1028 Brighton Street and 227 E 9th Street. The board will also elect a chairperson, vote on a secretary, and approve minutes from the January 23 special meeting.

• BA-25-02: Variance for additional wall signs on north and south elevations at 7 Carothers Road, requested by Springfield Sign
• BA-25-03: Dimensional setback variance at 1028 Brighton Street, requested by Hub+Weber Architects & Brighton Properties Inc.
• BA-25-04: Dimensional setback variance at 227 E 9th Street, requested by Nicole Hilvert
• Election of a chairperson and vote on secretary

The Newport Board of Adjustments approved all three variance requests on the agenda. These included a dimensional variance for additional wall signs at 7 Carothers Road, a setback variance for a new home at 1028 Brighton Street, and a setback variance for an addition at 227 E 9th Street. All motions passed unanimously 3-0.

• Approved dimensional variance for additional wall signs at 7 Carothers Road (3-0)
• Approved setback variance for single-family dwelling at 1028 Brighton Street (3-0)
• Approved setback variance for addition at 227 E 9th Street (3-0)
• Approved minutes from January 23, 2025 meeting (3-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special strategic planning session to discuss city goals and develop strategies. No public comments will be allowed. Key discussion topics include the Monmouth Street comprehensive review, housing and density, and medical marijuana policy, but no formal votes are expected.

• Appointment of Larry Long as Code Enforcement Officer effective February 10, 2025 (Order R-2025-17)
• Monmouth Street comprehensive review: parking analysis, two-way traffic study, and proposed community center plans
• Purple People Bridge: current status, maintenance requirements, and future development plans
• Housing and density discussion: current inventory, development opportunities, and density recommendations
• Medical marijuana policy review: current regulations, zoning considerations, and community impact assessment

The Newport Board of Commissioners held a special strategic planning session on February 8, 2025, and approved the appointment of Larry Long as Code Enforcement Officer, effective February 10, 2025, by a unanimous 5-0 vote. The rest of the meeting was dedicated to discussions on various topics, including Monmouth Street improvements, the Purple People Bridge, housing, transportation, and medical marijuana policy, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved appointment of Larry Long as Code Enforcement Officer (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider a resolution opposing a proposed state bill that would create a central collection of local occupational taxes, which officials say threatens local control and revenue. Appointments include Michael Woloshin as contract attorney for citizen boards, Daylin Garland and Kim Colston to Parks and Recreation, and John Willis as Economic Development Coordinator. A second reading amends personnel rules in the police department.

• Resolution to oppose state centralized occupational tax collection (R-2025-15)
• Appointment of Michael Woloshin as contract attorney for citizen boards (R-2025-11)
• Appointments to Parks and Recreation: Daylin Garland as manager (R-2025-12) and Kim Colston as administrative assistant (R-2025-13)
• Appointment of John Willis as Economic Development Coordinator (R-2025-14)
• Second reading of ordinance amending police department personnel (O-2025-01)

The Board of Commissioners approved five orders and one ordinance, all by unanimous 5-0 votes. They authorized a legal services agreement with Michael Woloshin, appointed Daylin Garland as Parks and Recreation Manager, Kim Colston as Parks and Recreation Administrative Assistant, and John Willis as Economic Development Coordinator. They also passed an ordinance amending police department personnel rules and a resolution opposing state centralized collection of local occupational fees.

• Approved legal services agreement with Michael Woloshin (5-0)
• Appointed Daylin Garland as Parks and Recreation Manager (5-0)
• Appointed Kim Colston as Parks and Recreation Administrative Assistant (5-0)
• Appointed John Willis as Economic Development Coordinator (5-0)
• Approved ordinance amending police personnel rules (5-0)
• Approved resolution opposing state collection of local occupational fees (5-0)

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on a request for a conditional use permit for a five-family unit and a parking permit at 125 W 11th Street, submitted by Woerner Company, LLC. The board will also consider approval of the December 19, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Public hearing on conditional use permit BA-25-01 for a five-family unit at 125 W 11th Street
• Parking permit request for the same property
• Approval of December 19, 2024 regular meeting minutes

The Newport Board of Adjustments held a special meeting and approved a conditional use permit for a five-family unit and a parking variance for three spaces at 125 W 11th Street, requested by Woerner Company, LLC. The vote was 4-0. The board also approved the minutes from the December 19, 2024 regular meeting.

• Approved conditional use permit for five-unit mixed-use building at 125 W 11th St (4-0)
• Approved parking variance for three spaces at 125 W 11th St (4-0)
• Approved minutes of December 19, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Certificates of Appropriateness: a new residence at 1028 Brighton St and enclosing a rear porch at 537 Maple Ave. They will also vote on adopting revised bylaws for the commission and discuss changes to the Historic Design Review Guidelines (no vote). The meeting begins with approval of minutes from a December 4, 2024 special call meeting.

• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness for new residence at 1028 Brighton St (Brighton Properties, Inc.)
• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness to enclose rear porch at 537 Maple Ave (Joseph Sideranko)
• Vote on adoption of revised bylaws for the Newport Historic Preservation Commission
• Discussion of changes to Newport Historic Design Review Guidelines (no vote taken)
• Approval of minutes from December 4, 2024 special call meeting

The Newport Historic Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a new residence at 1028 Brighton St., with a condition that siding be installed smooth side out. It also approved enclosing a rear porch at 537 Maple Ave. and adopted revised bylaws. All votes were unanimous, with Commissioner Haas absent.

• Approved new residence at 1028 Brighton St. with siding condition (5-0)
• Approved rear porch enclosure at 537 Maple Ave. (5-0)
• Adopted revised bylaws for the Commission (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will ratify reappointments to the Board of Adjustments and Historic Preservation Commission, approve a $52,000 Tesla purchase for Code Enforcement, and authorize a $994,818 federal grant for building five single-family homes. The meeting also includes second readings of ordinances amending city code and a grant application for police mobile data terminals.

• Reappointment of Susan Whitehead to Board of Adjustments
• Reappointment of Scott Fleckinger to Historic Preservation Commission
• Purchase of one Tesla Model Y for Code Enforcement ($52,000)
• CDBG grant application for $994,818 to build 5 homes at 1036 Hamlet St, 111 & 516 W 9th St, 429 Hodge St, 208 W 11th St
• Purchase of mobile data terminals for Police Department via 2024 homeland security grant

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several items, including the purchase of a Tesla Model Y for code enforcement, an application for Community Development Block Grant funds for single-family housing, and the purchase of mobile data terminals for police using a Homeland Security grant. They also ratified reappointments to city boards and passed ordinances on meetings and personnel.

• Approved purchase of one Tesla Model Y for Code Enforcement (5-0)
• Approved application for CDBG funds for single-family housing (4-1, Mayor recused)
• Approved purchase of mobile data terminals for police (5-0)
• Ratified Susan Whitehead to Board of Adjustments (5-0)
• Ratified Scott Fleckinger to Historic Preservation Commission (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including ordinances on meetings and personnel (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will be sworn in for the 2025-2027 term, appoint a vice-mayor, and vote on creating new positions: Parks & Recreation Manager, Parks & Recreation Clerk, Municipal Liaison, and Economic Development Coordinator. The board will also hold first readings of ordinances to reorganize city departments and amend the meeting start time to 6:30 PM. A lease agreement with Stryker Sales, LLC for Fire/EMS equipment will be considered.

• Appointment of Julie Smith-Morrow as Vice-Mayor
• Creation of Parks & Recreation Manager and Clerk positions to oversee youth leagues, community programs, and events like Chili Cookoff and Monsters on Monmouth Parade
• Creation of Municipal Liaison position to improve interdepartmental efficiency and resident engagement
• Creation of Economic Development Coordinator position to focus on business retention and vacant storefront revitalization
• First reading of ordinance to change regular meeting start time from 7:00 PM to 6:30 PM

The Newport Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on January 13, 2025, where they administered oaths of office for the 2025-2027 term for commissioners and 2025-2029 for the mayor. They approved several personnel orders, including appointing Julie Smith-Morrow as Vice Mayor and Melissa Hoffstedder as Payroll/Accounts Payable Specialist, and passed ordinances and orders related to personnel, meetings, and equipment leasing.

• Administered oath of office for commissioners and mayor (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-01 appointing Julie Smith-Morrow as Vice Mayor (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-02 appointing Melissa Hoffstedder as Payroll/Accounts Payable Specialist (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including first reading of O-2025-03 and O-2025-04, and second reading of O-2024-20 (5-0)
• Approved December 9, 2024 Regular Minutes (5-0)
• Approved first reading of O-2024-02 amending meeting sections (5-0)
• Approved Order R-2025-03 authorizing lease with Stryker Sales, LLC for Fire/EMS equipment (5-0)

_Board of Commissioners

The Newport Board of Commissioners will be sworn in, appoint a vice-mayor, and consider creating three new city positions: Parks & Recreation Manager, Municipal Liaison, and Economic Development Coordinator. They will also hold first readings on ordinances to adjust the meeting start time to 6:30 PM and to amend personnel sections of the city code. A lease agreement with Stryker Sales LLC for Fire/EMS equipment is up for authorization.

• Swearing-in of commissioners for 2025-2027 term by Supreme Court Justice Michelle Keller
• Appointment of Julie Smith-Morrow as Vice-Mayor
• Creation of Parks & Recreation Manager and Clerk positions to oversee community programs and events
• First reading of ordinance to change regular meeting start time from 7:00 PM to 6:30 PM
• Authorization of lease agreement with Stryker Sales LLC for Fire/EMS department equipment