Union City Commission May 5
The meeting was called to order at 6:00pm after the Pledge of Allegiance. Present: Mayor Larry Solomon, commissioners Doug Bine, George Eldridge and Kimberly Tuyn (Commissioner John Mefford was absent due to illness), City Administrator Amy Safron, Public Works Director Paul Kremer, City Clerk Tammy Wilhoite
Approval of minutes for meeting 4/7/25 and 4/21/25
Financial Report Taxes collected this year total $487,378. Last year at this time $492,849 had been collected; however, taxes are still coming in and this year’s total is expected to be more. Regular bills for the month have all been paid.
Sidewalk Maintenance Policy Paul Kremer reviewed cracked and uneven sidewalk policy indicating separation more than 1” is the responsibility of the owner of the property and not the city. The city inspects and monitors sidewalk.
Other Maintenance Two areas of full-depth blacktop repairs are currently being considered. One is Chris Ct., with a cost of $8,500, and Old Union Road close to the Orleans Subdivision, at a cost of $11,000. Riegler Blacktop will be contracted for those. Some trees in Union Town Square wilI be cleared at a cost of $1200 so utility poles can be moved.
Administrator’s Report concerned signage for Union Promenade. McAlister’s proposed sign was approved. A wayfinding sign, costing $8500, for Old Union Road businesses was discussed. The sign will accommodate 10 slats for which each business advertised will pay a share. A survey will need to be done to determine if enough businesses are interested in participating.
Union Celebrates America Celebration George Eldridge indicated it is scheduled for June 27. There will be a parade again this year. They are currently seeking sponsors to cover the cost.
Recycling Program It was decided to continue. A survey of Union residents revealed that 72% do use the bins and 28% do not. 10% stated they will never use them.
Legislation Report given by Greg Voss
Ordinances
- Ordinance No. 2025-05 adds 2 members to the Economic Development Committee for a total of 5.
- Ordinance No. 2025-06 adopts an annual budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. ($13,617,334.50) by estimating revenues and resources and appropriating funds for the operation of city government for the City of Union. ($21,920,167) First Reading.
Municipal Orders
- Municipal Order No. 2025-27 Appoints William Santiago to serve on the Economic Development Committee May 5, 2025, to 12/31/2027.
- Municipal Order No. 2025-28 Appoints Michael Smith II to serve on the Economic Development Committee May 5, 2025, to 12/31/2027.
- Municipal Order No. 2025-29 accepts the contract of Rumpke of Kentucky, Inc. to provide solid waste and curbside recycling collection and disposal services.
Mayor’s Comments
- The Union City trash pickup bid was again awarded to Rumpke, noting the excellent service they have provided over the past several years. This service is paid by the city and not billed to residents who live within the city limits. The cost is paid by the Union City taxes collected.
- Talks are in the works with the Boone County School Board for the sale of the old Kroger store, but nothing has been decided.
- Mayor Solomon has had two meetings with County Clerk Justin Crigler and Sheriff Les Hill as to how to resolve the debacle that took place in Union’s November 2024 elections and ensure it never happens again.
- Mayor Solomon received an email from the city attorney stating that the charge from Brian Garner regarding the installation of the Union Commissioners was invalid and was discarded by the Attorney General. Mr. Garner was not present at this meeting.
Visitors wishing to speak
Union resident Djoukon L. informed the commissioners she had been a victim of “immigration fraud.” She stated she is an American citizen and married a man from the Ivory Coast. He proceeded to obtain a green card and then divorced her and was awarded half her assets. She is on a mission to warn fellow citizens that have immigrated here of this fraud.
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:20pm.