Community forums hosted by the Northern Kentucky Area Development District (NKADD), in partnership with local leaders, are giving residents across the region a direct voice in shaping the future of their communities. Through a series of interactive meetings, local leaders and planners are gathering input on development, infrastructure, housing, and quality-of-life priorities to help guide long-term decision-making.
Forums were recently held in Carroll County on December 13 and in Gallatin County on January 13. Both meetings brought together residents, elected officials, and NKADD staff to discuss how local communities can prepare for population growth and economic pressures spreading outward from Northern Kentucky.
Each forum is designed to encourage hands-on participation. Residents placed stickers on maps to identify important community assets and highlight areas where improvements are most needed. This interactive activity has become a key part of the forum process, allowing planners to capture local knowledge and better understand on-the-ground priorities.
In Carroll County, participants emphasized the need for downtown revitalization, additional workforce housing, and improved transportation and road infrastructure. Many residents expressed interest in creating more local job opportunities and strengthening community amenities to support families and small businesses.
During the Gallatin County forum, discussions centered on similar themes, including attracting new employers, expanding housing options, and improving infrastructure and public services. Participants highlighted the importance of planning for growth while protecting farmland and preserving the rural character that defines the community.
Across both counties, residents consistently stressed that any future development must carefully consider road capacity, utilities, emergency services, and the needs of existing neighborhoods. Breakout group conversations in each forum underscored a shared desire for balanced, responsible growth that improves quality of life without losing the identity of local communities.
Local leaders reinforced that resident input is central to the planning process. “Everything you have to say and input that you want to give is crucial to everything that we’re doing,” Gallatin County Judge/Executive Ryan Morris and NKADD staff told attendees.
Officials said the feedback gathered at the Carroll and Gallatin forums will directly inform NKADD’s ongoing planning work and help guide future land-use, zoning, and economic development decisions in both counties. A more detailed summary of what was learned at each meeting will be released by NKADD at a later date.
Additional forums and engagement opportunities will be held throughout NKADD’s region as part of this ongoing initiative to gather community input and guide future planning efforts.