Bellevue City Council: 5/13/26
At its May 13, 2026 meeting, Bellevue City Council approved routine financial claims across multiple city funds totaling more than $225,000 and heard updates on several community projects and events. Council members discussed the Harbor Green development traffic impact study, with one member recommending the city budget for a dedicated project manager to oversee the complex development process. Community announcements included upcoming Bellevue Neighborhood Association events, the Trash for Cash city cleanup scheduled for May 23, volunteer opportunities for the Fairfield Mile race, and positive reports from recent First Friday and Mother’s Day events in the city.
Representatives from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services presented information on the urgent need for foster families in Northern Kentucky, noting that Campbell County currently has 181 children in foster care but only about 47 foster homes available. Officials explained foster care certification options, financial support available to foster and adoptive families, and resources such as tuition assistance and adoption subsidies.
Mayor Charlie Cleves highlighted several major city initiatives, including a proposed plan to revitalize the historic Marianne Theater through a nonprofit partnership that would restore the venue for community use, arts programming, and public events. The mayor also introduced a proposal to establish a wiffle ball field at Bellevue Beach Park in partnership with the Greater Cincinnati Wiffle Ball League. Council later approved moving forward with the concept, while emphasizing the need for a future comprehensive park plan and formal agreement details.
Police and fire department officials provided updates on public safety activities, including a major drug trafficking arrest, installation of flock cameras that have already assisted investigations, police conference participation, and preparations for hosting the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police conference next year. Fire officials reported 177 emergency runs in April, ongoing firefighter training, public outreach events, and reminded residents of the statewide burn ban in effect through September 30.
Council also approved several ordinances and orders during first readings and votes, including the city’s 2026-2027 property tax ordinance, amendments related to the Bellevue Improvement District Development Area, appointments to city boards and commissions, a new health insurance agreement, a memorandum tied to the riverfront development project, and acceptance of an opioid abatement grant to support the Bellevue Police Department’s D.A.R.E. program. The meeting concluded with recognition of National Public Works Week and an executive session regarding the possible sale of city-owned property connected to the Marianne Theater discussion.
This summary was generated with the assistance of AI based on the meeting transcript.