Kevin A. Barbian

The Business Meeting addressed a Land Addition Plat Application for 10 N. Ft. Thomas Ave., concerning the conveyance of a parcel to finalize access to a parking lot and the creation of a potential walkway, which involved discussion on zoning compliance for non-conforming lots. A Land Consolidation Plat for 62 W. Kimberly Dr. was approved conditionally, pending confirmation of the Parcel Identification Number (PIDN) and submission of an updated plat. The Commission also continued a discussion from the previous meeting regarding whether the combination of fully deeded lots with existing lot descriptions requires Planning Commission approval, with the consensus being that such consolidations should continue to be brought before the Commission.

New business included approving a resident's request to substitute a Dawn Redwood for a Bald Cypress planting in a common area. The Commission considered and approved the removal of trees at 141 Sheridan Ave and 935 Highland Ave due to poor health or conflict with infrastructure. Conversely, the tree at 71 Deshler Ln was approved to be kept despite causing sidewalk damage. Landmark Tree Trail improvements, including benches, bike racks, and signage, are complete, with site preparation and native planting planned for the fall. Discussions also covered setbacks for the Front Yard Planting Program due to staffing changes, efforts to combat invasive plants, and coordination with SD1 regarding grass seed mixes for park restoration. The Commission agreed to compile a list of the top ten desirable tree species for nursery consideration at the next meeting.

The key discussions included input from The Garden Club regarding planting visions, particularly considering evergreen replacements for struggling boxwoods. A representative from Drees Homes discussed a potential development on Shamrock Lane, which may involve tree survey area reductions. A recap of the Earth Day event highlighted successful aspects like displaying photos and the successful ordering of saplings, while suggesting future improvements such as using a banner and ordering more medium/large trees. Updates on the Tree Trail work included coordination for bridge replacement and discussions on utilizing remaining budget for pre-purchasing plants and kiosk content like native tree listings. The commission approved the removal of a tree at 720 Highland Avenue due to dead limbs and power line concerns. Finally, the commission discussed allocating remaining budget funds towards items like a bike rack, boot brush stations, a banner, kiosk prints, and trail benches, as well as planning the implementation details for a Front Yard Tree Planting Program, including reimbursement caps and approved tree lists.

Key discussions included a review and fielding of questions regarding the 2024/2025 Annual Financial Report presented by the external auditor. Updates were provided by the Fort Thomas Business Council and local organizations regarding new businesses and upcoming events. Citizen concerns addressed included missed trash pickups, insurance tax billing, and requests for video recording of Renaissance and DRB meetings. Mayor Ellison delivered the State of the City Address, reflecting on past progress, addressing the findings of the financial audit which indicated poor bookkeeping rather than fraud, and outlining future priorities focused on transparency, public safety investment, and infrastructure improvements, including tennis court work and the Midway Streetscape. Department reports were received and filed for the Police and Fire Departments. The City Administrator reported on progress for the Highland Hills Playground plans, the Midway project, a pedestrian safety grant application, and the initiation of the 2026/2027 Budget process. Council debated the scope and cost of city events for the next budget cycle. Old business involved continued discussion regarding the Forensic Audit RFQ and a future discussion on hiring an HR Consultant. Several legislative actions were taken, including the first reading of ordinances establishing Electrical and Natural Gas Franchises, and the approval of municipal orders reappointing/appointing members to the Tree Commission, the OKI Board of Directors, and the Board of Adjustment.

The key discussions focused on several new business items. The Commission tabled a request from a resident at 5 Greene Street to remove a spruce tree and replace it with a Bald Cypress pending further evaluation. An update was provided regarding the successful replacement of a damaged bridge on the Landmark Tree Trail and ongoing invasive plant removal efforts, along with planned upgrades for benches, bike racks, and signage on the trail. The Commission also discussed ordering native plants for fall planting in trail clearings. A request for tree removal at 29 Willow Dr. due to health and safety concerns, specifically girdling roots and dead limbs, was considered and approved. Updates on invasive plant management included the deployment of park kiosks and an internal plan development following an evaluation by the Ft. Thomas Forest Conservancy. Finally, logistics and concerns regarding a fall front yard tree planting initiative were reviewed.