Florence City Council October 7
All City Council members and Mayor Julie Aubuchon were present
Item numbers correspond to published agenda.
1 – PROCLAMATION: Recognizing the month of October as City Government Month
- Sponsored by the Kentucky League of Cities, highlighting the economic and community impact of Kentucky’s 408 cities, where over 56% of residents live.
- Encourages public engagement with local government.
- Mayor Aubuchon signed the proclamation on behalf of the Council.
- Ceremonial item passed without discussion or vote.
2 – PRESENTATION: Cabinet for Health and Family Services
- Presenters: Clyde Jameson (Social Service Clinician II) and Casey Bushman (Social Service Worker II) from the Northern Bluegrass Service Region.
- Statistics: 170 children in foster care in Boone County (out of 1,224 regionally and 8,650 statewide). Age breakdown: 57 ages 0–5 years; 33 ages 6–11 years, 80 ages 12–21 years. Current homes: 58 DCBS and 74 private agency homes.
- Needs: more placements for ages 6–21, medically complex children. Emphasis on relative/fictive kin placements to minimize trauma.
- Programs: relative care (family members) and fictive kin (close non-relatives such as teachers) allow faster approvals and in-county stability. Respite care offers short-term trials without full training.
- Benefits and Support: stipends, medical coverage, tuition assistance, and adoption credits. Donation needs include suitcases, gift cards, and warm meals.
- Q&A Highlights:
- Council interest in city partnerships for events and promotions.
- Discussion on trauma-driven behaviors in older youth.
- Independent living programs for ages 18–21.
The Council expressed appreciation and explored collaboration opportunities, such as promoting via city events. No actions were taken.
3 – DISCUSSION: Kentucky State Mutual Aid Agreement
- Presenter: Kevin Vogelpohl, Boone County Emergency Management Director.
- Brief on the July 2025 voluntary opt-in program for mutual aid among Kentucky entities during disasters.
- Scope: covers police, fire, EMS, public works, and more. Streamlines responses by reducing bureaucracy (e.g., immediate resource deployment such as fire engines from Lexington within hours, not days).
- Benefits: no additional taxpayer costs (reimbursements cover wages, equipment, fuel); no penalties for declining requests if local needs prioritize. Provides protocols for insurance and operations under local rules.
- Local Context: Boone County and two fire districts have joined; others (e.g., Sheriff’s Office) are preparing. Florence Fire/EMS Chief Rodney Wren noted past deployment challenges without formal agreements.
- Q&A Highlights:
- Applicability to non-emergency services such as public works (e.g., debris removal). Cost neutrality confirmed; aids in scenarios such as massive fires or tornadoes.
- Vogelpohl stressed it as a “playbook” for faster aid.
The discussion advanced preparation for adoption, but no vote occurred in open session.
4 – MAYOR’S REPORT
- Tax bills issued with a 3% real estate tax reduction; Sheriff’s Office assisting at finance counter.
- Office closure: Monday, October 13 (Columbus Day).
- Fall cleanup event: October 13–19 at 7850 Tanner Lane (residency proof required).
- Leaf collection: October 20–December 18.
- Upcoming events: Yalawine Fest (Halloween, October 28), trick-or-treating (October 31), household hazardous waste collection (November 1), Wreaths Tree Event (November 1–11 for veteran awareness), Veterans Day program (November 8), and holiday card contest for seniors (due November 12).
No action required.
5 – OTHER
- Council Member Lesley Chambers reported skate park lighting issues; Public Works confirmed sensor replacements and timer adjustments to 6 p.m. Phase 1 upgrades (lighting, concrete) planned over two years.
- Police Chief Mallorie announced a donated protective vest for K9 Ajax from Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.; photos on department’s Facebook.
- An audience member requested vest photos, directed to social media.
No formal public comments recorded during the open session.
6 – CLOSED SESSION
Unanimously approved a motion to enter closed session under KRS 61.810(1)(c) for litigation discussions.
The meeting adjourned with no further business announced.
NOTE: The next City Council Business Meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025. Residents interested in foster care support should contact the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Those interested in emergency preparedness should contact Boone County Emergency Management.