The Crescent Springs City Council voted against a proposed plan for a 17-unit rental housing complex on October 23, 2023. The decision, made during a public meeting, resulted in a 4 to 2 vote, reflecting significant concerns from both council members and local residents regarding issues such as traffic, water retention, and potential impacts on property values.
Brian Fullenkamp, a partner at Legacy Management, which sought to develop the land, expressed disappointment following the meeting. “We don’t have anything else to do, as of right now,” he stated. The proposed site, located on about an acre at the intersection of Ireland Avenue and Harris Street, has faced scrutiny since its initial development discussions began in 2007, when the former owner submitted plans for 32 townhomes.
Earlier in the month, the Kenton County Planning Commission had approved the plan after a lengthy review process. However, Council Member Jeannine Bell Smith raised concerns that prompted an appeal to the council. During the October discussions, the land’s attorney, Thomas Breitenstein, requested that three council members recuse themselves from the vote due to their previous expressions of concern regarding the development. Ultimately, Bell Smith, along with Council Members Jeff Smith, Don Kiely, and Mark Wurtenberger, voted against the proposal, while Bob Mueller and Carol McGowan supported it.
The area surrounding the proposed development is characterized by a mix of residential and commercial properties, including a nearby Panera Bread and a paint store. The new plan involved constructing two buildings with a total of 17 housing units, designed to include features such as rear-entry two-car garages and walk-out access onto Ireland Avenue. Although the zoning typically requires a 25-foot setback from streets, the planning commission had approved variances, which became a contentious point during the council’s deliberations.
Concerns raised at the meeting included the adequacy of water retention systems, potential light pollution, and increased traffic in the area. Resident Dawn Johnson highlighted ongoing water accumulation issues and expressed fears that additional development could exacerbate these problems, particularly during winter months when icy road conditions can arise. No local residents spoke in favor of the project during the meeting.
Mueller acknowledged the developers’ efforts but also recognized the community’s concerns. He stated, “I think we have an opportunity to look at someone who has come forward with the concept over a number of years, who wants to develop the site, versus—we don’t know what may come.” Despite his initial support, by the end of the meeting, he conceded that resident concerns warranted serious consideration.
As the meeting progressed, tensions surfaced between council members regarding potential conflicts of interest. Bell Smith questioned Mueller about his professional ties to real estate, suggesting he might have a vested interest in the development’s success. City Attorney Mike Baker clarified that Mueller had no direct financial stake in the outcome, allowing him to participate in the vote.
The discussions culminated with a motion from Mueller and a second from McGowan, leading to the decisive vote against the development. The council’s decision reflects broader community sentiments surrounding the balance between development and maintaining the character of Crescent Springs.
As local leaders continue to navigate housing challenges, the outcome of this proposal highlights the complexities involved in urban development and the importance of community input in shaping local policies.
