Jill Cain Bailey

The ordinance adopts the annual budget for the fiscal year from July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2020. It estimates revenues and resources and appropriates funds for the operation of city government. The budget includes allocations for the General Fund, Emergency Fund, MRA Fund, Park & Rec Fund, Dixie/KylesTIFF, Capital Improvement Fund, Fire/EMS Fund, and JARC/W Balance Fund. Key areas of expenditure include the Administration Department, Fire Department, Police Department, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation Department.

The meeting addressed a text amendment for the Shimmers property, including parking changes and a development agreement, to accommodate a wellness business. Council discussed and authorized the submission of an application for this text amendment. The council also addressed the repeal of the motor vehicle tax, unpaid property taxes from Hospitality Associates (Days Inn), and chronic nuisance properties. An update was provided on the OKI 2040 Transportation Plan, and discussions were held regarding the Dixie Highway alignment and potential zone changes. Additionally, the council discussed a draft ordinance requiring utility companies to repair or replace city streets damaged by them, a worker's compensation claim, and a memorial statue project.

The caucus meeting included discussions on various topics such as the Fort Wright Economic Development Authority (Dixie TIF), the establishment of a Municipal Utility Franchise Fee, opioid litigation, and the FY19 Budget. Regarding the Dixie TIF, there was a recommendation for PDS representation on the board and a consensus to prepare an ordinance for the May Council Meeting. For the utility franchise fee, information was presented on setting up the fee with Duke, with potential revenue generation for the City. The council also discussed joining a class action lawsuit against pharmaceutical companies regarding opioid dependencies. The proposed 2018-2019 budget was presented, covering the General Fund, Dixie TIF, Asset Forfeiture, Municipal Road Aid, Fire/EMS, and Parks and Recreation.

The public hearing addressed the expected funds from Municipal Road Aid, recommending approximately $103,000 to be spent on the 2001 Street Program for various streets and intersections. Also, the hearing addressed the expected funds from LGEA Fund, recommending approximately $105 to be spent on the Senior Watch Program.

The caucus meeting included discussions on several key topics. The possibility of issuing industrial bonds for a property at Wrights Summit was discussed. A proposed Nuisance Code Ordinance addressing issues such as signs on poles and tall grass was presented, with suggestions for revisions. The upcoming renewal of health insurance and potential plan changes were reviewed. A request from Fort Mitchell for financial assistance with Park Road was discussed, with the City of Fort Wright declining to participate. Adjustments to the 2014-2015 Budget were reviewed, including attorney fees.