UPDATE: South Kenton County residents voiced strong opposition to industrial development plans during a packed meeting at the Kenton County Fiscal Court in Covington on July 22, 2025. Despite reassurances from county officials, community members remain skeptical of initiatives aimed at paving over farmland.
Resident Rhonda Shank expressed her concerns, stating, “Let’s be honest, this initiative isn’t about readiness. It’s about paving over farmland that feeds us and protects our water.” The meeting highlighted the growing discontent among residents regarding the county’s Site Readiness Initiative, which aims to identify land suitable for industrial development.
This initiative, a collaboration between the Kenton County Fiscal Court, the Northern Kentucky Port Authority, and the Kenton County Planning and Development Services, has faced backlash since its inception. It focuses on two areas in south Kenton County, one spanning 2,180 acres near US-25 and another along the Boone and Grant County borders, both with access to major transport routes.
Despite the initiative being in its early stages and not yet a concrete plan, it has sparked significant opposition. Residents had previously voiced their concerns at public meetings in March and February, leading the county to pause one focus area and reduce the size of the other. However, county officials, including Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann, emphasized that “doing nothing is not an option,” urging for proactive planning to address infrastructure challenges.
As the meeting progressed, attendees were unconvinced by the presentations from county officials and representatives, including Lee Crume, CEO of BE NKY, and Sharmili Reddy, executive director of Kenton County Planning and Development Services. Critics labeled the presentations as a “performance” and questioned the job creation promises associated with manufacturing.
“I am confident not a single person who came here tonight in opposition of the SRI project was swayed by the song and dance given by unelected officials,” said resident Heather Grothaus.
As of Tuesday evening, an online petition opposing the Site Readiness Initiative had gathered nearly 3,000 signatures, reflecting widespread discontent. Residents are exploring legal avenues to prevent industrial development, including conservation easements and agricultural district establishment.
During the public comment section, concerns were raised about the potential job losses due to automation and AI in manufacturing, with one resident noting, “Amazon now employs as many robots as people.” This sentiment underscored fears that industrial growth may not result in the promised job opportunities.
Commissioner Jon Draud assured attendees that substantial changes would not occur immediately, estimating an eight to ten-year timeline before any developments materialize. He vowed never to vote for the use of eminent domain to facilitate industrial growth.
As the meeting concluded, county officials reiterated their commitment to listening to community concerns. “It all comes down to balance,” Knochelmann stated, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure while respecting residents’ desires to protect their land.
With tensions rising, South Kenton County is poised for a continued debate over the future of its farmland and industrial landscape. Residents are encouraged to remain engaged and voice their opinions as the situation develops.
