Bellevue Kentucky

The Bellevue City Council met November 11, 2026, and approved the previous meeting’s minutes. Council excused one member and approved the Treasurer’s report, which included claims across the General Fund, Capital Improvements, Event, Municipal Road Aid, Parks and Port Bellevue funds.The city reported 158 unique volunteers contributing 2,699 hours, representing nearly $83,000 in donated value. Upcoming events included a holiday party November 17, a November 28 community cleanup, and “The Luminous Art of Transparency,” an enameling exhibition at the Enamel Museum November 19 featuring 83 pieces from the Corson family. Bellevue’s Christmas Walk will take place the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving, with a 6:30 p.m. tree lighting, Santa and a fire truck and snowplow parade. The riverfront development groundbreaking was scheduled for November 12.Police Chief John McClain reported that the department was nominated for a community service award by the Kentucky Women of Law Enforcement Network. A roughly $30,000 grant from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office will provide rifle-rated body armor panels, ballistic helmets and an additional shield for the school resource officer. Officer Ian Clark will receive the Governor’s Award for Impaired Driving Enforcement. McClain addressed Flock license-plate cameras, explaining that Bellevue officers have no database access and the city is not sharing data with other departments. Council suspended camera use, and restarting them would require another vote. The city has requested removal, and the camera involved in recent concerns is first in line.Fire Chief Brant Shafer reported 64 fire calls, 130 EMS runs and 65 training hours. The department held a train-derailment exercise and completed hydrant and hose maintenance. Firefighter/medic Andrew Rath was promoted to engineer. Shafer said a replacement ambulance may be needed in 2027 and could cost more than $300,000; the department has applied for a grant. He clarified that the department will continue responding to South O’Fallon, despite access challenges from narrow roads and weather. The city attorney is reviewing possible roadway solutions.The pedestrian bridge project is expected to be advertised for bids soon. Its estimated cost has risen from about $200,000 to $800,000; the bridge will be lifted by crane, repaired on the ground and reinstalled. The city also expects to advertise the Lincoln Road sidewalk project, supported by a grant exceeding $2 million. Officials cited approximately $23 million in grants received or in process. Bellevue plans to use about $2 million received for the riverfront property to pay off outstanding bond debt, freeing approximately $155,000 annually.During public comment, a Prospect Street resident described repeated problems with vehicles parking in her designated handicapped space, including a threatening encounter with an Amazon driver. She asked the city to consider ways to protect residents who rely on accessible parking. Council acknowledged her concerns and said possible solutions were being explored.Council introduced Matt Dowling as its choice for city administrator after considering five candidates, citing his municipal government, law and utilities experience. Order 2026-1102 approving his hiring passed. Council also approved Order 2026-1101, authorizing use of available funds to redeem up to $1,905,000 in outstanding General Obligation Refunding Bonds, using riverfront property proceeds. Order 2026-1103 declared certain city property surplus. Resolution 2026-1101 added Bell Ridge Loop to the city’s road list to help increase road-aid funding. Resolution 2026-1102 named the creek between Bellevue High School and Newport High School “Coach Coleman Battle Creek,” at the request of the Sports Hall of Fame.A council member thanked the current council for its participation and volunteer work at city events. The meeting was adjourned.This summary was generated using AI.

The Bellevue City Council met October 14, 2026, approved the meeting minutes and treasurer’s report, and heard department and council updates. The treasurer reported September prepaid claims and regular claims across the General, Capital Improvement, Event, Harbor Green, Municipal Road Aid, Park, and Port Bellevue funds; council approved the claims.Council members promoted upcoming community events, including the B&A glow-in-the-dark happy hour/pub crawl on October 16, the Garden Jam at the community garden on October 24, and the city’s recent tree-planting effort, which added 10 trees. The mayor highlighted Boo in the View and its local ghost tour, Bluegrass for Good benefiting breast cancer awareness, free document-shredding day and fall cleanup on October 24, Halloween trick-or-treating on October 31 from 6–8 p.m., and the November 6 “Flannels, Football and Fire Pits” event. The city also announced a ribbon-cutting for Wine Vault on October 16 at 6 p.m. The Bellevue Beach Park survey deadline was extended to October 18; officials reported 522 responses and urged residents to participate online or contact city staff for help.Police Chief John McClain announced that Bellevue will participate in a no-cost pilot program providing digital maps of both Bellevue schools, the gym, and Holy Trinity. The maps can help officers from multiple jurisdictions locate specific rooms during emergencies. The fire chief reported 167 runs during the month, including 65 fire calls and 134 EMS calls, and said the department’s annual call volume had already surpassed last year’s total. The department had accumulated roughly 1,650–1,700 training hours, was hosting three interns, and reminded residents that burn permits must be submitted online and approved before burning. The public services report said leaf collection would likely begin in the first or second week of November, weather permitting, with schedules posted on social media.City staff reported that Bellevue had received approval for a $25,000 O’Fallon Park grant after several years of waiting, plus a $1,500 Campbell County grant for spring tree planting. Approximately 20–21 trees had been planted around the city in the prior two weeks. Fall cleanup would provide a dumpster outside the city building beginning the following Sunday, subject to posted restrictions. The engineer reviewed recent paving on numerous streets and alleys, noted additional grant-funded projects remain delayed, and said the $80 million riverfront development was expected to break ground soon. The city expects to receive $2 million related to the development and, under its bond requirements, apply it to outstanding debt, freeing other funds for future uses. During audience participation, a resident thanked city staff for arranging removal of a tree planted beside her driveway without her knowledge.Council unanimously approved the second readings of Ordinance 2026-0901 setting the property tax rate for fiscal year 2026–27 and Ordinance 2026-0902 updating zoning rules for qualified manufactured homes to comply with state law. It approved an agreement for the O’Fallon Recreation Expansion Project, contracts with Steel Seamstress LLC for mobile welding and Superior Painting LLC for exterior painting, and a resolution requesting an increase in retail package liquor licenses from four to seven. Council also adopted a resolution recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The mayor again urged residents to complete the Bellevue Beach Park survey by October 18 and reminded them to vote on November 3.Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI.

The Bellevue Code Enforcement Board met September 24, 2026, approved its previous meeting minutes, and heard several property enforcement cases. In Case 2026-529 at 6202 Cleveland Avenue, a vacant home was cited for an unregistered vacant dwelling, rubbish, weeds, lack of maintenance and significant deterioration, including collapsed retaining walls, damaged steps and porch supports. The owner had requested a hearing but did not appear. The board imposed the $500 minimum fine, with 30 days before it becomes a lien.Case 2026-531 at 883 Lafayette Avenue involved a chronic nuisance complaint after multiple police responses to domestic disturbances, intoxication and firearms being present in the home. Property owner Thomas Barrett testified that the tenant is participating in intensive outpatient therapy, random alcohol screenings, parenting classes and AA meetings, and that the lease ends in October. Because an abatement plan was in place and the owner was working with Code Enforcement, the board determined the violation occurred but dismissed the citation based on the corrective action.The board imposed the $100 minimum fine in Case 2026-532 at 1195 Taylor Avenue for rubbish and a vehicle parked on the lawn. Case 2026-534 at 253 Barry Avenue involved a long-vacant property with high weeds, rubbish, a deteriorated roof and foundation, damaged porch steps and supports, and a dilapidated garage. Previous fines remained unpaid and liens had been filed. The board imposed the $7,000 maximum fine and discussed possible foreclosure or other action to address the abandoned property.At 540 Barry Avenue, Case 2026-541 involved weeds, rubbish and vegetation obstructing the sidewalk. The owner had trimmed some vegetation, but other problems remained, so the board imposed the $150 minimum fine. Case 2026-545 at 224 Covert Run Pike involved a condemned structure that had been placed on the property without a building permit and remained in place. The owner could not be reached at the address of record, so the board imposed the $350 maximum fine and directed the matter into the lien process.Case 2026-546 at 225 Roosevelt Avenue concerned a vacant, unregistered property and a dangerous tree that had fallen onto the house. The board imposed the $600 minimum fine. Case 2026-548 at Bellbrook Ridge involved unsafe rear egress stairs. Representatives of the homeowners association said repairs were underway, including new concrete pads and replacement of the stairs. The board agreed to hold the fine in abeyance for a month while the repairs were completed.Case 2026-549 involved items stored underneath and around stairways at 624–630 Truman Lane, creating a fire-safety and egress violation. Property owner Colleen Carr acknowledged the problem and said the items had been removed after the fire department contacted her. The board waived the fine after confirming the violation had been corrected.The board also considered Case 2026-550 at 318 Fairfield Avenue, the vacant former theater property. Officials cited unweathertight windows, interior deterioration, exposed electrical components, unsafe interior drops, roof and gutter problems, and a lack of water, electricity and sewer service. Representatives said they had been contracted in July to help sell or lease the property and had begun cleanup and repairs. The board agreed to allow the work to continue while requiring regular communication with Code Enforcement. A final case involving 235 Retreat Street concerned weeds and garbage, but those problems had been corrected, so no additional fine was imposed. The meeting was then adjourned.Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement or action taken during the meeting.

The Bellevue City Council met September 9, 2026, beginning with a public hearing on proposed property tax rates for the 2026–2027 fiscal year. The proposed rates were $0.391 per $100 of assessed value for real property and $0.853 for personal property, compared with last year’s rates of $0.364 and $0.860. The compensating rates were $0.376 and $0.821, respectively. Council discussed how new construction and improvements affect the difference between the compensating rate and previous revenue. No members of the public commented, and the hearing was closed.Council approved the previous meeting’s minutes and reviewed a letter from Dayton Police Sergeant Jeffrey Linkogle commending Bellevue officers for their response to an August 23 medical emergency. Officer Clark immediately began CPR on an unresponsive man, while Sergeant Bonner provided a police escort to the hospital because the ambulance’s siren was not working. The patient regained a heartbeat, and the Dayton officer credited the Bellevue officers’ actions with helping save his life. The Treasurer’s report and monthly claims were also approved.Council discussed upcoming events, including Art in the Park on September 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Fall Fest in October at the Beach Park. The city also announced an October 8 DNA happy hour tied to Pedestrian Safety Month. Staff reported on a successful senior luncheon, a new BOOST grant program for business improvements, and progress on Bellevue’s portion of the flood-wall mural.Police Chief John McLean reported that plainclothes surveillance addressing vehicle break-ins resulted in charges involving juveniles. He also updated Council on an Independence police officer who was seriously injured while assisting Bellevue during Riverfest and asked residents to continue keeping the officer and his family in their thoughts. Fire and EMS reported nearly 900 EMS runs for the year, extensive training, school inspections and emergency-planning activities. Council also discussed plans for a safer crosswalk near Grandview Elementary School, including ADA improvements and a possible relocation estimated to cost $6,000–$7,000.During audience participation, residents discussed the October 24 block party, a growing sinkhole near a bridge, volunteer activities and concerns about Bellevue’s Flock license-plate reader cameras. One resident questioned the placement and use of a Flock camera and expressed concerns about privacy and data collection.Council approved the second reading of the medicinal cannabis zoning ordinance and introduced ordinances concerning the 2026–2027 property tax rate and qualified manufactured homes. Council also approved appointments to the Human Rights Commission and Historic Preservation Commission, amendments related to the Van Vorst Pedestrian Bridge and Lincoln Road Sidewalks projects, and a proclamation recognizing October as Pedestrian Safety Month.The most significant discussion concerned Flock cameras. Council members cited growing public concern and actions by other Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati communities. A motion was made to suspend use of Bellevue’s Flock cameras through the remainder of the current contract rather than immediately terminate the contract. Council discussed making the cameras inoperable while determining how to proceed. The motion passed unanimously, 6–0, and the meeting was adjourned.Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement or action taken during the meeting.

The Bellevue City Council met August 12, 2026, approving the previous meeting’s minutes and the monthly financial report, which included 57 general-fund claims totaling $249,964.02, six capital-improvement claims totaling $117,411.67, and additional claims from the event, Municipal Road Aid, and Parks funds. Council members announced several upcoming community events, including the Bellevue Neighborhood Association’s August 20 happy hour, a family night at Florence Y’alls on August 29, and the September 12 Art in the Park festival. Mayor Charlie Cleves also highlighted the upcoming farmers market, which will feature a children’s reading-buddy activity, and a September 8 senior lunch. The mayor reported on recent meetings with U.S. Representative James Comer and State Senator Shelley Funke, including discussions about the growing number of illegal Airbnb-style short-term rentals in Bellevue and their impact on affordable housing and school enrollment. Cleves also raised concerns about the increasing number of transportation devices using city streets and sidewalks, including e-bikes, e-scooters, golf carts, bicycles, skateboards and other motorized devices. He said the city is working with police to research existing regulations and potentially develop local rules concerning helmets, age limits, licenses, sidewalk use and where various devices can legally operate. Department reports showed the Fire Department responded to 192 calls during the previous month, including 64 fire calls and 128 EMS calls, while continuing extensive training and its firefighter internship program. The department also responded to a Bellevue structure fire without injuries and assisted neighboring communities with five additional fires. Public Works was recognized for quickly clearing trees and storm debris following recent severe weather. The city also discussed approximately $39,000 in unbudgeted alley work, about $15,000 in needed curb repairs, sidewalk problems and additional street-resurfacing costs. Bellevue recently resurfaced numerous streets and received a $400,000 state LARP grant requiring a $100,000 local match for improvements to Lafayette Avenue. Officials also discussed continuing drainage problems involving Culvert Run and a failed privately owned stormwater pipe, with the city exploring a possible SD1 private-public cost-sharing arrangement. The council heard from Chris Manning of Human Nature, the firm selected to redesign Bellevue Beach Park. Manning outlined a four-to-six-month process involving site documentation, community surveys, development of design alternatives, public feedback and creation of a final plan. The Bellevue Neighborhood Association reported planting 1,296 flowers, recording nearly 2,000 volunteer hours and providing an estimated $61,000 in volunteer value, while also continuing its community garden and litter-cleanup efforts. During new business, council gave first reading to an ordinance concerning medicinal cannabis and approved purchases of a Ford F-350 for Public Services and a 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe for the Police Department. Council also established the “Boost Bellevue” matching-grant program for eligible small-business and commercial-property improvements, adopted a severe-weather policy for city-sponsored outdoor events, and approved a license agreement for the Northern Kentucky Connector route. The council authorized up to $65 million in industrial building revenue bonds for the 179 Fairfield Avenue project, which is expected to add approximately 220 multifamily housing units; officials emphasized that the financing is the developer’s responsibility. Finally, council approved a memorandum of understanding with the Marion Arts and Education Center to guide the future development of the Marion Theater. Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI from the meeting transcript and is intended as a concise overview. It may not include every discussion, statement, or action taken during the meeting.

The Bellevue Planning and Zoning Commission met on July 27, 2026, and addressed old business concerning proposed amendments to the city’s zoning ordinance related to medicinal cannabis. The Commission first reviewed minutes from its previous meeting and discussed several corrections and clarifications, including references to the Planning Commission, the meeting date, wording within the discussion, and the recorded motions and votes. Members also raised a procedural question regarding whether commissioners who were absent from the initial hearing could participate and vote on a continued matter. After consultation during the meeting, the Commission was advised that those members could participate in the vote.The primary item of business was File No. 24053, proposed text amendments to the zoning provisions governing medicinal cannabis. The Commission had previously recommended allowing medicinal cannabis dispensaries in the Shopping Center zone, but City Council returned the matter for additional consideration of potential locations, including the T5 and T5.5 zones. Discussion focused on establishing definitions consistent with Kentucky Revised Statutes and identifying appropriate commercial areas while limiting potential impacts on residential properties. The Commission discussed using roadway classifications—specifically frontage on an urban minor arterial or urban major collector—as a way to distinguish appropriate locations within the T5 and T5.5 zones. Members also reviewed the state-required 1,000-foot separation from schools and discussed how that restriction would affect potential locations within Bellevue.Following discussion, the Commission unanimously approved a motion recommending amendments to Articles 7 and 10 of the zoning ordinance. The amendments incorporate definitions for marijuana and medicinal cannabis-related uses by reference to KRS 218B.010 and subsequent amendments, and revise permitted-use provisions within the applicable zoning districts. The motion also corrected the numbering of “medicinal cannabis dispensary” in the Shopping Center zone to No. 84 because No. 83 had already been assigned to electronic smoking retailers. The approved recommendation will now proceed through the city’s zoning amendment process.During closing business, the Commission welcomed new member Tim Wilhelm, a 20-year Bellevue resident and architect who works on large mixed-use commercial projects. The Commission also discussed obtaining updated nameplates for members. The next meeting was tentatively scheduled for August 24, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., provided there is business to consider. The meeting was then adjourned.Disclaimer: This meeting summary was generated using artificial intelligence (AI) based on the meeting transcript and is intended as a general summary of the proceedings.

At its July 8, 2026 meeting, the Bellevue City Council approved the minutes from the previous meeting and received updates from city departments on public safety, public works, community events, and ongoing city projects. Officials highlighted preparations for the upcoming Second Saturday Concert Series, featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors, and provided an update on the Newport-Bellevue floodwall mural and wayfinding project, noting that the mural is expected to begin taking shape soon and will serve as a gateway feature promoting both communities. Staff also discussed continued progress on other public art initiatives and encouraged public participation in upcoming summer events. Council approved the second reading of Ordinance 2026-0604, amending Bellevue's noise control regulations to simplify enforcement and modernize the city's ordinance. Members then approved Order 2026-0701, awarding a contract to Riegler Blacktop, Inc. for up to $252,295 in street resurfacing work, and Order 2026-0702, accepting a $400,000 State Local Assistance Road Program (SLAP) grant for the reconstruction of Lafayette Avenue between Anspaugh Avenue and Geiger Avenue. A significant discussion centered on Order 2026-0703, approving an agreement with Human Nature, Inc. to prepare a master plan for Bellevue Beach Park. Council emphasized that the planning process will include opportunities for public input before any long-term design decisions are made regarding the recently acquired riverfront property. Members noted Human Nature's extensive experience with park planning throughout the Greater Cincinnati region and expressed confidence that the master planning process will help create a vision that reflects community priorities while guiding future improvements to the park. Department reports also included updates from the fire department, which responded to 177 emergency calls during the previous month, including 121 EMS runs and 56 fire calls, while reporting successful implementation of new scheduling software, launch of a Junior Firefighter Program with three vocational students, completion of grant-funded purchases for new firefighting gloves and safety vests, and continued competitive staffing levels despite regional hiring challenges. Public Services reported ongoing seasonal maintenance, hazardous tree mitigation, and preparations for upcoming community events. Council concluded the meeting by recognizing local historian and city employee Beth McFarland for being featured in Southern View magazine for her work preserving Bellevue's history and thanked city staff for their continued service. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.

At its June 10, 2026 meeting, the Bellevue City Council approved routine business including prior meeting minutes, financial claims, and received correspondence recognizing the city’s recently installed Flock license plate camera system. A letter from One Stop Liquors and One Stop Fuel Mart praised Officer Austin Begley and the police department for successfully identifying and citing shoplifting suspects through investigative work supported by the camera network. Council also reviewed financial activity across multiple funds, including general operations, capital improvements, parks, municipal road aid, and events. Public participation centered heavily on the future of the newly acquired riverfront property in the Beach Park/DuPont Purchase area. Residents spoke both in favor of preserving the site as passive public green space and against moving too quickly toward a proposed temporary wiffle ball field. Speakers suggested alternatives including a shaded community gathering area with shelters, seating, and picnic spaces and encouraged a broader public visioning process before long-term decisions are made on what was described as a significant public investment in the riverfront. Council later discussed the proposal, noting that the concept is intended as a flexible, removable activation of the property rather than permanent development and referenced previous planning work and park design proposals. In legislative business, council approved on second reading Ordinance 2026-0601 adopting Bellevue’s Fiscal Year 2026–27 budget, Ordinance 2026-0602 updating the city’s classification and compensation plan, and Ordinance 2026-0603 amending the current fiscal year budget. Council also introduced Ordinance 2026-0604, which would revise Bellevue’s noise control regulations with the goal of simplifying enforcement and reducing ambiguity around measurement standards. Additional approvals included adoption of the Northern Kentucky Regional Trails Plan as a guiding planning document and agreements with Groundwork Ohio River Valley and Northern Kentucky Outdoor Cleaning LLC for tree, flower, and landscape watering and maintenance services throughout the city. Staff and council reports highlighted upcoming community events including Red, White & Bellevue on July 3, the Second Saturday Concert Series featuring School of Rock, and updates from Memorial Day activities, which included the city’s first Honor Roll run with nearly 100 participants and approximately $1,900 raised for the local veterans food pantry. Council members also recognized regional collaboration efforts, celebrated Councilwoman Tara Harp’s completion of the Northern Kentucky Leadership program, and thanked local businesses and volunteers for their continued community involvement. Disclaimer: This summary was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence based on the meeting transcript and may not capture every discussion, motion, or detail contained in the official meeting record.

At its May 13, 2026 meeting, Bellevue City Council approved routine financial claims across multiple city funds totaling more than $225,000 and heard updates on several community projects and events. Council members discussed the Harbor Green development traffic impact study, with one member recommending the city budget for a dedicated project manager to oversee the complex development process. Community announcements included upcoming Bellevue Neighborhood Association events, the Trash for Cash city cleanup scheduled for May 23, volunteer opportunities for the Fairfield Mile race, and positive reports from recent First Friday and Mother’s Day events in the city.Representatives from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services presented information on the urgent need for foster families in Northern Kentucky, noting that Campbell County currently has 181 children in foster care but only about 47 foster homes available. Officials explained foster care certification options, financial support available to foster and adoptive families, and resources such as tuition assistance and adoption subsidies.Mayor Charlie Cleves highlighted several major city initiatives, including a proposed plan to revitalize the historic Marianne Theater through a nonprofit partnership that would restore the venue for community use, arts programming, and public events. The mayor also introduced a proposal to establish a wiffle ball field at Bellevue Beach Park in partnership with the Greater Cincinnati Wiffle Ball League. Council later approved moving forward with the concept, while emphasizing the need for a future comprehensive park plan and formal agreement details.Police and fire department officials provided updates on public safety activities, including a major drug trafficking arrest, installation of flock cameras that have already assisted investigations, police conference participation, and preparations for hosting the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police conference next year. Fire officials reported 177 emergency runs in April, ongoing firefighter training, public outreach events, and reminded residents of the statewide burn ban in effect through September 30.Council also approved several ordinances and orders during first readings and votes, including the city’s 2026-2027 property tax ordinance, amendments related to the Bellevue Improvement District Development Area, appointments to city boards and commissions, a new health insurance agreement, a memorandum tied to the riverfront development project, and acceptance of an opioid abatement grant to support the Bellevue Police Department’s D.A.R.E. program. The meeting concluded with recognition of National Public Works Week and an executive session regarding the possible sale of city-owned property connected to the Marianne Theater discussion.This summary was generated with the assistance of AI based on the meeting transcript.

The Bellevue Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on April 27, 2026, opened with roll call and approval of prior meeting minutes before moving into agenda items focused on development review and zoning considerations within the city. The commission reviewed proposals related to residential and mixed-use properties, discussing site design elements such as setbacks, parking arrangements, and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. Particular attention was given to ensuring projects aligned with Bellevue’s zoning regulations and long-term planning goals, including maintaining neighborhood character while allowing for thoughtful redevelopment. Commissioners asked clarifying questions of applicants and staff regarding compliance, infrastructure impacts, and any requested variances, emphasizing the importance of balancing growth with community standards. Updates were also provided on ongoing planning efforts and administrative matters, with staff noting continued work on zoning definitions and future development considerations. After addressing all items on the agenda and confirming next steps where needed, the commission concluded the meeting with a motion to adjourn.Disclaimer: This summary was generated using AI based on the provided transcript and may not capture every detail of the meeting.