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Erlanger honors retiring K9 officer Kino and restaurant owner Mike Zhang
Summary
At its May 19 special meeting the Erlanger City Council presented proclamations honoring retiring Skyline owner Mike Zhang and K9 officer Kino; K9 handler Glenn Hartke described Kino's community work and said the Havercamp Foundation will donate a replacement dog.
Mayor Jessica Feddy read proclamations recognizing two local retirements: Mike Zhang, the founder of local Skyline restaurants, and K9 officer Kino of the Erlanger Police Department.
Feddy praised Zhang's community contributions and declared May 20, 2026, "Mike Zhang Day" in Erlanger. Zhang thanked the council and said he and his wife still live in Erlanger; he noted passing the restaurant to his son and reflected on working with schools, churches and the city.
The council also recognized K9 officer Kino. The mayor noted that SPC Glenn Hartke became Kino's handler in April 2020 and that the pair earned dual‑purpose certification through the North America Police Work Dog Association and maintained certification for six years. The proclamation set aside funds for Kino's retirement and declared May 21, 2026, "K9 Keynote Day" in Erlanger.
SPC/Police Specialist Glenn Hartke addressed the council, saying the decision to retire Kino was difficult and was made to ensure the city continues to have a working K9 while he is scheduled to deploy. Hartke emphasized Kino's role in community engagement, including visits to schools and churches, and thanked other handlers and regional training partners. He also acknowledged that the Havercamp Foundation will donate another dog to the program.
"Kino has allowed me to be in just about every school in Kenton County," Hartke said, describing the dog's role in outreach. The mayor and council applauded the honorees and expressed gratitude to the K9 program's regional partners.
No formal action was required for these proclamations; they were presented as part of the mayor's report.
