NEWPORT — Campbell County is starting a search for a planning director to work with local developers and planning agencies as the county deals with anticipated growth, especially in the Alexandria area.

        For several years, the county has used Cardinal Engineering and the Northern Kentucky Area Planning Commission to assist in development projects.

        “A planning director was one of the needs identified when we did our business plan,” Campbell County Judge-executive Steve Pendery said Wednesday. “We've had it in the budget, but so far haven't acted on it. We want someone steeped in planning principles and background.”

        Fiscal Court voted Wednesday night to create the position of planning director and advertise the job.

        “The planning commission has done a good job, but I believe things will run more smoothly if we have someone in house to act as liaison with the planning commission for Campbell County residents,” Mr. Pendery said.

        “I think there is a pent-up demand in Campbell County for development,” he said. “We haven't had the share of growth that the other two counties (Kenton and Boone) have had. Now that the (sewage) treatment plant will be built in the county, it is wise for us to stay on top of growth and planning issues. You must be ready to cope with more activity.”

        The Sanitation District has approved construction of a new, larger solid waste treatment plant in Alexandria that will bring an end to a moratorium from the Kentucky Water Department on new development in the Alexandria area. County officials anticipate additional growth over the next 10-15 years through much of the southern portion of the county.

        County Commissioner Dave Otto said the county needs the hands-on approach of an in-house planning director.

        “We need someone with the expertise and a real knowledge of Campbell County, a person who can handle questions about zoning and related matters when someone is interested in a piece of property” Mr. Otto said. “Whether we can find that person is the question.”

        Mr. Otto said he thinks the county must adopt a “convenience store atmosphere, where some one can come to the county building and pay fees, get licenses, and also have someone in house who can answer development and growth questions. Our citizens want convenience and ease of use.”

        Commissioner Roland Vories, however, said he had a problem with hiring a planning director at this time when “we have enough people in key positions to advise us as far as planning. I really don't see the need for a planning director.”

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