Union City Commission Regular Meeting May 4
Welcome / Pledge of Allegiance. Meeting called to order at 6 p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor Larry Solomon, Commissioners John Mefford, Doug Bine, George Eldridge and Kimberly Tuyn, City Administrator Amy Safran, City Attorney Greg Voss, Public Works Director Paul Kremer and City Clerk Tammy Wilhoite
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes were approved for the April 6 Regular Commission Meeting, April 20 Caucus Meeting and April 21 Special Meeting.
MAYOR’S COMMENTS: Mayor Solomon acknowledged National Public Works Week May 17-23, and presented a Proclamation to Tyler Hill, Project Development Specialist for the Boone County Public Works Department. It was to thank him and the department for their exemplary service and care for all of Boone County. He compared them to the Star Wars characters and the Force that drives them to defend and protect. He cited many aspects of their job and how we don’t always recognize all they do. Mr. Hill was more than grateful for the recognition and thanked the mayor and the commission for their willingness to honor the department.
The mayor also commented about the gentleman who complained about the excessive noise coming from Braxton’s Brewery last year is continuing to complain, saying nothing has changed. He said that the HOA had received numerous complaints from the neighborhood residents as well. A short discussion took place about what the mayor and the commission could do to enforce the nuisance ordinance and reduce the noise. This will be addressed in the Caucus meeting May 18, 2026.
FINANCIAL REPORT – John Mefford
The report was given and motion passed to pay the current monthly bills. Included in deposits was $900,000 for the sale of the current city building located on Bristow Drive. Also noted is the city received just shy of a half million dollars in interest for the fiscal year 7-1-25 to 6-30-2026.
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE REPORT – Doug Bine and Paul Kremer
The entrance into the new Town Center is up and progress continues on the building.
An increase of $5,000 was approved for the new Public Works Vehicle bringing the total purchase to $55,000. They are currently searching for a Pickup Truck to replace the current one, and using the present vehicle as a backup.
ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT – Amy Safran
New software is needed for the property tax program. The current software will be discontinued mid-2027. They are evaluating different software programs now but noted the cost will be much more expensive.
There was a lengthy discussion regarding Employee Compensation including Holiday Pay, Health Benefits, and Vacation Benefits for the current full-time and part-time employees. All three benefits were increased as well as additional benefits for part-time employees that are not currently receiving them. They also added coverage for volunteers who work in the city for gardening, cleaning up and various projects in case of injury.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – Kimberly Tuyn
Kevin Costello, Boone County Planning Commission Executive Director, was present to give an update on the Union Town Plan. They talked generally about changes being considered but did not give any specifics. The population at the time of the original plan in 2000 was 2,800. Current population is over 8,000. Going forward, all proposed projects must meet with the city first before going to the Boone County Planning Commission. There will be a public hearing before the Plan is adopted. They discussed a workshop to introduce the Plan to the residents. They are looking for input from the residents as to what they want and expect from the city. Residents recognize this is the primary chance to have a say in what the City of Union looks like for years to come!
Doug Bine voiced concerns about a proposed funeral home and crematorium across the street from Braxton’s Brewery. The other commissioners also agreed and that discussion will continue at the caucus meeting May 18. They are looking for feedback from the surrounding residents of Fowler’s creek with their opinions about having a crematorium in their area. He noted that it could affect property values in the surrounding area
COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT – George Eldridge
There are now 41 confirmed sponsors for the Health and Wellness Fair May 16th at Storypoint. The hours are from 11 to 3. This is a great time to learn and get information about various preventative things you can do to stay healthy!
LEGISLATION / ATTORNEY’S REPORT given by Greg Voss
MUNICIPAL ORDER NO. 2026-11
Adopts the speed control policies for the streets and roadways located in the City of Union.
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-05 2nd Reading
An ordinance repealing the Union City Commission Ordinance Traffic Calming Policies for the streets and roadways located in the City of Union. Passed.
ORDINANCE NO 2026-06 2nd Reading
An ordinance setting the compensation for mayor ($9,000) and city commissioners ($8,100) Voting yes were Mayor Solomon, Commissioners John Mefford, George Eldridge and Kimberly Tuyn. Voting no was Commissioner Doug Bine who commented that he thought that amount was “too high.” Passed.
Visitors were excused and the meeting went to executive session.