Bellevue Kentucky

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Bellevue City Council: 4/8/26 Apr 09, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue City Council meeting on April 8, 2026 began with approval of prior meeting minutes, followed by a detailed treasurer’s report outlining expenditures across multiple funds, including over $142,000 in general fund claims and additional allocations for capital improvements, municipal road aid, parks, and Port Bellevue . Council updates highlighted upcoming community initiatives such as an Earth Day city cleanup in partnership with Dayton on April 25, volunteer opportunities for gardening projects, and a community happy hour event. The mayor reported progress at Beach Park, including demolition of a recently acquired structure and site cleanup efforts to improve river views, with volunteers needed for rock removal. The meeting featured a Bellevue Police Department presentation recognizing local students and businesses for their participation in a distracted driving awareness campaign, followed by fire department updates noting 143 emergency responses, ongoing training efforts, and a major regional response to a gasoline tanker incident that was successfully contained without injuries or major damage. Public works updates included ongoing pothole repairs, streetscape improvements, and pedestrian safety enhancements near Grandview School. Council also discussed planning for the Memorial Day parade and events, including a 5K fundraiser and expanded community activities tied to the America 250 theme. Under new business, council approved a mowing services agreement, a revocable license for a residential fence encroachment on city right-of-way, and a resolution supporting a proposed mixed-use development project with up to $90 million in industrial revenue bonds. Additional discussion addressed future street resurfacing priorities and consideration of alley improvements. The meeting concluded with general comments and adjournment.

This summary was generated using AI based on the provided meeting transcript.

Bellevue Code Enforcement: 3/26/26 Mar 27, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue Code Enforcement Board meeting on March 26, 2026, opened with roll call and approval of prior meeting minutes before proceeding to several contested property violations. The first case, involving 206 Lafayette Avenue, centered on unauthorized exterior alterations in a historic district, including painting natural brick without a Certificate of Appropriateness and continuing work after a stop-work order was issued. Testimony revealed the contractor removed a posted notice and completed additional painting despite being ordered to stop. The property owner failed to appear, and after discussion confirming the paint could be removed, the board unanimously approved the maximum fine of $1,750 and granted 30 days for compliance before a lien would be imposed.

The second case, at 129 Retreat Street, involved a long-standing “chronic nuisance” property with multiple violations dating back to 2019, including structural deterioration, debris accumulation, and ongoing construction concerns. Although the owner and a contractor presented evidence of recent progress and cleanup efforts, board members emphasized continued issues with site conditions, noise ordinance violations, and repeated noncompliance. Acknowledging the improvements and the owner’s stated goal to complete the project within six months, the board opted to continue the case rather than issue additional fines, requiring monthly progress updates and warning that lack of progress would result in penalties.

The final case, at 329 Berry Avenue, involved unauthorized work in a historic district, including porch modifications, an unapproved curb cut, and construction without proper permits. The property owner argued that he had attempted to follow proper procedures but received conflicting guidance from the county versus city regulations. Evidence showed that corrective actions had been taken, including removal of noncompliant structures and partial sidewalk repairs. Board members recognized the effort to remedy violations and the confusion between regulatory authorities, ultimately voting to waive fines while advising the owner to seek clear approval before future work.

The meeting concluded with no additional old business and a motion to adjourn.

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI based on the provided meeting transcript.

Bellevue Planning & Zoning: 3/23/26 Mar 27, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue Planning & Zoning Commission met on March 23, 2026, with all members present and a quorum established. The meeting began with the election of officers, with Aaron Wilkins unanimously selected as chair. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved, and no old business was discussed. The primary focus of the meeting was a major new business item: review of a site development plan (Case PZ-26-09) submitted by 179 Fairfield Avenue New, LLC for a mixed-use development located near Fairfield, Berry, and Lafayette Avenues.

Planning staff presented details of the proposal, noting the site has long been targeted for redevelopment and is governed by a master development agreement with the City of Bellevue. The project includes a mixed-use layout with a public parking garage, retail frontage along Fairfield Avenue, and a multi-family residential component, with no requested zoning changes, variances, or conditional use permits. The development is designed as an urban infill project and “gateway” to the city, with up to 200 residential units and improvements to surrounding infrastructure such as widened roadways, sidewalks, and access points.

Public comment was extensive, with residents and business owners raising concerns about pedestrian safety, traffic congestion, parking availability, lighting, and the balance between rental units and long-term community investment. Additional discussion addressed project elements such as the removal of prior plans for single-family homes or condos, lack of a hotel component, and the need for future coordination with the Riverfront Commons trail and other infrastructure. Commissioners and staff also emphasized outstanding technical requirements, including floodplain analysis, traffic studies, utility approvals, landscaping responsibilities, and lighting plans.

Following discussion, the commission unanimously approved the stage one and stage two development plans with conditions, including completion of required engineering studies, incorporation of agency recommendations, and enhancements to landscaping and infrastructure. The meeting concluded with no administrator report, a brief preview of potential upcoming agenda items, and adjournment.

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI and may condense or omit details from the original transcript.

Bellevue City Council: 3/11/26 Mar 12, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue City Council met on March 11, 2026, to conduct regular city business, beginning with approval of the minutes from previous meetings and the monthly financial claims. The treasurer reported 54 general fund claims totaling $551,170.73, along with additional claims from other funds including $6,642.49 from the events fund, $31,222.33 from Municipal Road Aid, $27,106.79 in prepaid general fund claims, $146.07 from the Port Bellevue fund, and a $450 events fund claim, all of which were approved by council. During council reports, members highlighted recent and upcoming community activities organized by the Bellevue Neighborhood Association, including a February happy hour event, volunteer opportunities to help plant flowers along “The View,” and fundraising efforts through volunteer work at several Cincinnati Reds games. Council also noted that volunteers had already contributed 165 hours of service in 2026, representing an estimated $4,800 in value to the city.

Mayor Dooley announced that the April First Friday event would take place on April 3 with the theme “Chicks on the Avenue.” Fire Chief Brett Schaefer then delivered the department report, noting that the Bellevue-Dayton Fire Department responded to 157 fire-related incidents and 818 EMS runs in February. Firefighters completed approximately 410 hours of training during the month, including courses on solar power safety and natural gas response, and Duke Energy also conducted specialized training for the department. Chief Schaefer reported that the department’s audit had been completed and that ten inspections of new businesses were conducted. He also discussed plans to apply for federal grants, including a SAFER grant to help fund three additional firefighter positions and an Assistance to Firefighters grant to purchase a new ambulance, though the SAFER application process was temporarily delayed due to the federal government shutdown. The department also announced a public fire department showcase scheduled for April 11, where council members and fire board members will be invited to participate in demonstrations and training activities.

This summary was generated using AI based on the provided meeting transcript.

Bellevue City Council: 2/11/26 Feb 12, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue City Council met on February 11, 2026, opening with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of prior meeting minutes. Council approved the treasurer’s report, which included 47 general fund claims totaling $99,730.22, $264,812.85 in prepaid general fund claims, $16,761.82 in Municipal Road Aid, $5,277.64 in events fund claims, and smaller disbursements from capital improvement, parks, and Port Bellevue funds. Council members highlighted upcoming community events, including the Bellevue Neighborhood Association (BNA) happy hour on February 26, the Winter Carnival and Chili Cook-Off on February 28 (which will also launch the city’s “Read Ready” early childhood literacy initiative), a pedestrian safety meeting on February 16, and preparations for the Memorial Day parade themed “America’s 250th.” Mayor Cleves announced the resignation of Marketing and Communications Director Melissa Morandi after five and a half years, noting her role in generating 7 million social media views for the city in the past year.

Police Chief McClain presented a proclamation declaring February 11, 2026, as “Jeff Fisher Day” in honor of the longtime Bellevue business owner and community supporter who passed away January 23. The department reported its two newest officers had completed field training and were now on solo patrol, released its annual report, named Officer Austin Begley as 2025 Officer of the Year, and presented the Police Partnership Award to retired coach Rob Sanders for his continued support of local youth and holiday outreach. The fire department reported 151 runs in January (57 fire and 94 EMS), 192 training hours, 19 inspections, and five structure fires across Bellevue and Dayton, along with mutual aid responses; officials also detailed snow response efforts and equipment updates, including a ladder truck repainting delay. Public works was commended for around-the-clock snow removal during recent storms.

In legislative action, council approved Ordinance 2026-0101 amending tax deadlines when due dates fall on weekends or federal holidays, and Ordinance 2026-0102 regulating invasive plant species. Council appointed Pat Hogan to the Planning & Zoning Commission, approved a social contract between the mayor, council, and city administrator, authorized participation in the Northern Kentucky SWAT agreement, and formally adopted the Jeff Fisher proclamation. Council also unanimously passed Resolution 2026-0201 opposing Kentucky Senate Bill 112 and House Bill 518, citing concerns that the proposed legislation would preempt local control over short-term rental regulations and tax collection authority. The meeting concluded with announcements, including appreciation for Morandi’s service, and adjournment.

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using artificial intelligence based on the provided meeting transcript and is intended for informational purposes only.

Bellevue Code Enforcement; 1/22/26 Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue Code Enforcement Board met on January 22, 2026, with members present to review multiple ongoing code enforcement cases involving residential properties throughout the city. The board heard reports from code enforcement staff detailing violations related to property maintenance, including exterior deterioration, debris accumulation, structural concerns, and failure to comply with prior orders. Several property owners were either present or represented, and the board discussed each case individually, noting inspection histories, prior warnings, and opportunities already provided for compliance. In multiple instances, the board voted to impose fines for continued noncompliance, while in other cases deadlines were extended to allow owners additional time to complete repairs or cleanup efforts. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining neighborhood standards while continuing to work with owners willing to correct violations. After addressing all listed cases and confirming follow-up actions, the meeting was adjourned.

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using artificial intelligence based on a meeting transcript and is intended for informational purposes only.

Bellevue City Council: 1/14/26 Jan 15, 2026

Show notes

The Bellevue City Council met on January 14, 2026, opening with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of the previous meeting minutes. Council approved multiple prepaid and current claims across city funds and authorized the transfer of delinquent property taxes for collection. A major council discussion focused on pedestrian safety along Fairfield Avenue following a December crosswalk accident, with members advocating for enhanced enforcement, coordination with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, and consideration of improved crosswalk safety measures such as rectangular rapid flashing beacons. The mayor delivered an extensive State of the City address highlighting key 2025 accomplishments, including the expansion of Bellevue Beach Park, progress toward Ohio Riverfront development, record-breaking marketing and community events, business recovery initiatives following bridge closures, volunteer engagement, public safety contributions, park and infrastructure improvements, and modernization of city financial operations. Department reports followed, with police noting progress on new officer training and addressing prior vehicle break-ins, and fire officials reporting strong annual response, training, and inspection statistics while maintaining the city’s ISO Class 2 rating. Council also heard updates on zoning enforcement, public works operations, and ongoing development projects such as the former Shady Terrace site. Legislative actions included approval of a second reading of a waste management service charge ordinance, first readings of ordinances addressing delinquent tax deadline extensions and regulation of invasive plant species, and approval of a municipal order declaring surplus city property. The meeting concluded with announcements recognizing the passing of longtime community leaders and formal adjournment.

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using artificial intelligence based on a meeting transcript and is intended for informational purposes only.

Bellevue City Council: 12/10/25 Dec 12, 2025

Show notes

The Bellevue City Council met on December 10, 2025, beginning with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and approval of the previous meeting’s minutes. The treasurer presented the monthly financial report, detailing claims across the general, events, parks, capital improvement, and municipal road aid funds, all of which were approved. The meeting then shifted to a special presentation honoring resident Margie Geisler Grove on her 100th birthday, with a proclamation declaring December 10, 2025, as Margie Geisler Grove Day in Bellevue; council, the mayor, and family members celebrated with photos and recognition of her decades of service to her community, church, and country.

Council and mayoral reports followed, including reminders about upcoming holiday events. Department heads provided updates: the police chief reported on recent FAST training, a new pedestrian-safety public service announcement, and a surge in car break-ins and stolen vehicles, two of which were recently recovered. The fire chief summarized emergency responses, extensive training hours, mutual aid calls, and preparations for annual Christmas family deliveries. Public Works noted progress on tree planting, leaf collection, snow response, and general maintenance needs. Engineering and code enforcement updates were also presented, and council acknowledged the resignation of longtime Planning & Zoning member Jim Dady due to employment changes.

During audience participation, the Bellevue Neighborhood Association highlighted volunteer achievements and beautification efforts, while the Bellevue business association shared updates on holiday events, new officers, and support for local shops. A resident also raised concerns about severe potholes in a city alley and requested repairs.

In new business, council approved several items: a proclamation already presented earlier, reappointments to city boards and commissions, and an agreement related to the Harbor Green development. The most significant debate centered on adopting a Flock license plate reader system. After an extensive discussion weighing safety, privacy concerns, data storage, and national legal issues, the council vote resulted in a 3–3 tie. Mayor Charlie Cleves exercised his tie-breaking authority and voted in favor, approving the two-year Flock contract. The council also approved an agreement allowing a local restaurant to use city property for waste management. With no further business, the meeting adjourned, concluding with the annual holiday photo session.

Disclaimer: This summary was generated using artificial intelligence and may contain inaccuracies.

Bellevue City Council: 11/12/25 Nov 13, 2025

Show notes

The Bellevue City Council met on November 12, 2025, beginning with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Council approved the minutes from the previous meeting and reviewed the treasurer’s report, which detailed claims across several city funds. During council reports, members noted the success of a recent Bellevue Neighborhood Association fundraiser that will help fund next year’s flower installations. Mayor Cleves announced upcoming holiday events, including the annual Christmas Walk and tree lighting at St. John’s United Church of Christ, along with Cocoa and Carols and Pictures with Santa.

Council held a lengthy discussion about the potential installation of Flock safety cameras, weighing public safety benefits against privacy and data concerns. They agreed to revisit the issue in December with more information from the police chief. The fire department reported a busy month, with over 180 responses and recognition for earning a Class 2 ISO rating, which benefits local insurance rates. The meeting also included updates on infrastructure projects, such as stormwater improvements on Covert Run, and acknowledgment of the late Assistant Chief Mike Grenade’s service to the community.

Council conducted the second reading of an ordinance amending rules for the city’s solid waste transfer station, which passed unanimously. They also held a first reading of an ordinance concerning zoning for medical cannabis facilities, sending it back to the Planning Commission for further review and refinement. Later, council approved agreements with SD1 for a stormwater overflow pumping station and with the Bellevue Independent School District for a stormwater retention project near the high school.

The meeting concluded with announcements and thanks to staff and community members for their work.

This summary was generated using AI.

Bellevue Code Enforcement: 10/23/25 Oct 24, 2025

Show notes

The Bellevue Code Enforcement Board met on October 23, 2025, opening with roll call, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of prior meeting minutes. The board addressed several property violation cases presented by Code Enforcement Officer Tom McDaniel.

The first case involved 253 Berry Avenue, a long-vacant home belonging to the late Daniel McMillan’s estate. The property was cited for multiple violations, including failure to register as vacant, overgrown weeds, rubbish accumulation, structural disrepair, and unsafe conditions. After noting the lack of response from the estate despite repeated warnings, the board imposed a $3,500 fine and gave 30 days for compliance before a lien may be filed.

The second case concerned 902 Clayton Court, where recurring high weeds and overgrowth prompted prior fines and liens. Given the ongoing neglect, the board voted to issue a $1,000 fine and allow 30 days to correct the problem. A related property at 901 Clayton Court, owned by a family member, received a $50 fine for a first-time offense of overgrown weeds, with 30 days to comply.

The final case involved the Bellevue Eagles Club at 411–409 Frank Benke Way, cited for multiple late-night noise complaints following a pig roast event that continued past permitted hours. Police responded several times between midnight and 3 a.m. The board determined three separate violations occurred and issued a total fine of $750.

In closing, staff provided updates on several ongoing code matters, including progress at 114 Memorial Parkway, where inspections continue on electrical and fire safety issues, and monitoring of a partially demolished structure on Retreat Street. The meeting adjourned after brief discussion.

This summary of the October 23, 2025 Bellevue Code Enforcement Board meeting was generated using AI and may contain minor inaccuracies. For official records, please refer to the city’s approved minutes or meeting video.

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