By Patrick Crowley
The Cincinnati Enquirer

Democrats and Republicans have set dates for selecting nominees in the Jan. 28 special election where Northern Kentucky's newest state senator will be chosen.

The 17th Senate District will cover the southern half of Kenton County as well as Grant, Owen and Scott counties. It was formed earlier this year when state lawmakers used 2000 U.S. Census data to redraw legislative districts.

Under state law, political parties - not voters - choose nominees in special statehouse elections when a seat opens unexpectedly, such as a retirement or changes to a district. The voters will elect the new senator in the Jan. 28 special election that Gov. Paul Patton has called.

Republicans will meet Mondaynight in Dry Ridge to select between thoroughbred racing industry executive Damon Thayer and builder Joe Jarboe, both of Scott County.

Electors selected by the Republican executive committees of the counties in the district will vote for the nominee, party officials said.

The Democrats will meet Dec. 28 in Georgetown to select between Williamstown Schools superintendent Cliff Wallace and labor leader Charles Wells of Georgetown. Precinct captains will choose the nominee, said Nathan Smith, chairman of the Kenton County Democratic Party.

The election will give Northern Kentucky a fourth seat in the state Senate. The region's three current senators - all Republicans - are Katie Stine of Fort Thomas, Jack Westwood of Erlanger and Richard Roeding of Lakeside Park.

Email pcrowley@enquirer.com