Sheila Fields, Covington’s Solid Waste and Recycling Manager | Linkedin Website
Sheila Fields, Covington’s Solid Waste and Recycling Manager | Linkedin Website
Covington, Ky. – The Committee on Form of Government Transition in Covington convened for its first meeting to set a mission and timeline for the city's transition from a City Manager form of government to a Mayor-Council structure. This change was approved by voters last November.
The committee, led by Mayor Ron Washington, is tasked with making recommendations over the next two years. Washington noted that "state law really does not give much guidance to the transition committee," emphasizing the importance of public input throughout the process.
The committee comprises eight citizen voting members, seven ex-officio members, and a staff administrator. It plans to produce an initial progress report by June 30 and finalize recommendations related to the new City Council by October 17. A comprehensive final report is expected by May 1, 2026.
Meetings will occur monthly at City Hall's Commission Chambers and are open to the public. Public engagement will include community forums in March and an online survey focusing on council structure and representation.
The duties outlined in Commissioners Order 278-24 include decisions about the size of the new City Council, election methods, term limits, meeting frequency, salaries, and benefits. Additional considerations involve changes to city departments' organizational structures and potential updates to existing boards and commissions.
Committee administrator Sebastian Torres stated that “we are beginning a two-year process that will take considerable research, thought, and analysis.” He assured residents that their voices would be heard during this transition period.
The next meeting is scheduled for February 27 at City Hall.
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