Kenton County Commissioners Jon Draud and Joe Nienaber announced on Jan. 14 that they will not seek re-election in 2026, marking the end of their long tenures in public service.
The departure of both commissioners signals a significant change for Kenton County’s leadership, as they have played key roles in guiding policy decisions and overseeing major projects over the past decade. Their work has contributed to the county’s growth and stability.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time serving alongside both Jon and Joe,” said Kenton County Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann. “Both have dedicated so much of their lives to serving our residents with thoughtfulness, integrity and a deep commitment to doing what’s right for Kenton County. Their leadership and solutions-oriented approach to governing will be greatly missed.”
Commissioner Draud has served on the Fiscal Court since 2010, following more than five decades in public education as a teacher, principal, superintendent, Kentucky Commissioner of Education, Crestview Hills City Council member, and state representative. Commissioner Nienaber joined the Fiscal Court in 2014 after previously serving as Mayor of Fort Wright for five years and six years on its city council. He is also known for his business activities as a partner at Klotz Contracting and owner of Granite World.
During their tenure, the commissioners were involved in several notable projects such as renovating the Bavarian Brewery into the government center; preserving the Historic Kenton County Courthouse; redeveloping The Hayden apartment building; launching SparkHaus entrepreneurship hub; consolidating dispatch centers; achieving no-kill status at Animal Services; reorganizing Public Works; and lowering property-tax rates to levels not seen since 1983.
Both Draud and Nienaber will serve out their current terms through the end of 2026. Kenton County operates under a fiscal court system led by a Judge/Executive alongside three district commissioners who oversee administrative functions from offices located at 1840 Simon Kenton Way in Covington, according to the official website. The county emphasizes transparency by providing public access to agendas, meetings, fiscal information, supporting community partnerships, redevelopment funding initiatives for local projects, while focusing on efficient local government services for Northern Kentucky residents.
