Court debates controversial $100 address application fee

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implications of a $100 application fee for obtaining a new address, which has raised concerns about its clarity and fairness. The current ordinance suggests that anyone applying for an address, regardless of whether they require a road sign, must pay this fee. This has led to confusion, particularly for residents who may need a new address for existing properties without the need for additional signage.

One official highlighted that the intention behind the fee was primarily to cover costs associated with road signs for new developments, not for all address applications. The discussion revealed a consensus among officials that the fee should only apply when a road sign is necessary, prompting a proposal to amend the ordinance for clarity. The court agreed to revise the language to ensure that only those requiring road signs would incur the fee.

In addition to the address fee discussion, the meeting also addressed the annual Northern Kentucky Regional Hazmat affiliation agreement. The updated agreement, which remains at 13 cents per capita, totals $1,092 and is essential for securing mutual aid in the event of hazardous material spills. The agreement will be retroactive from July 1st and extend through June 30, 2025. The court unanimously approved the agreement.

Lastly, officials noted that no bids were received for surplus items that had been advertised, indicating a lack of interest in those offerings. The meeting concluded with plans to present the revised address fee ordinance at the next gathering.