Opinion – William Woods: Patricia Wingo’s public service history strengthen service to Florence

This is part of a series on Florence City Council candidates

Council Member Patricia Wingo has been involved with the city for two decades. Initially appointed to the Council to fill the unexpired term of Mike Apgar, Wingo, holding a History Degree from the University of Cincinnati and a Certificate of Historic Preservation, also served the city of Newport as Economic Development Director and Historic Preservation Officer.

Excited that the city is expanding, welcoming citizens from every corner of the globe, Wingo says Florence is a melting pot, which is currently reflected in local government. She is running for re-election to the council.

“City Council is more diverse than it has ever been, which is a great thing for our residents. We work very hard to ensure voices from every faith, ethnicity, race, background and culture are represented when it comes to decision making.”

Responding to complaints that housing prices are too high, Wingo said though she agrees not everyone can afford the increasing rates, the city doesn’t set them as the city doesn’t own homes and prices are driven by demand.

“Florence, because of its welcoming, friendly, safe environment – when paired with the high-paying jobs we have available within 10 miles, is a high-demand area when it comes to housing.”

The economic development expert says she understands the struggles many are facing in such a challenging environment and hopes there is relief soon. That relief, according to Wingo, can be found through first-time home buyer grants from the Kentucky Housing Corporation. As to providing a program for housing subsidies, Wingo said the Federal Government would need to provide a grant to enact such a large undertaking. She isn’t opposed to the relief but reminds citizens that because Florence has low tax rates and virtually no additional fees for living in the city, the city budget would not have the required funds to create the program without federal assistance.

Wingo says the importance of the coming election cannot be overstated.

“The decisions that have the largest impact on your daily life are made at the city government level. It is imperative to have educated, knowledgeable and committed individuals on Council.”

As for the recent negativity that has shown itself at several meetings, Wingo said, “Negativity is a disservice to residents of the city. Disagreements are fine, because we all have a different view of how the city should function. However, public confrontation doesn’t move the city forward and it doesn’t provide results for residents.”

When it comes to the perpetually draining conversation about the Aquatic Center, Wingo insists there is no need to continue using stale “talking points” during this election.

“We are committed to funding the pool. Yes, repairs and upkeep are costly; but that is an expected risk in running such a large attraction. I believe we can move on from the discussion, as we are focused on maintaining the pool for the enjoyment of our guests as long as possible.”

Wingo said her main goal, if elected November 5th will be to continue engaging citizens.

“I visit with and have conversations with citizens every day. I am not a country club member; I enjoy being out and about in the community. Our residents are so welcoming, they’re friendly and I am proud to represent that.”

Showering praise on everyone but herself, Wingo says the professionals working for the city are the real deal.

“We have a great team. From the folks who run the city building, to our police, fire and EMS – to our public works crews who work 24/7 to keep services running for our residents. Everyone works together and it adds to the city’s desirability; people want to be in Florence, and that is great.”

Wingo said residents should know the city is financially secure due to the work of city leadership over the last two decades; reminding residents that even with tax rates lower than most communities in Northern Kentucky, Florence has a booming retail industry, and highlights the fact that Florence is also an Education Hub.

Ready for another term, the long-time Florence resident is looking toward the challenges we might face in the future; the maintenance and expansion of roadways, the health and safety of residents, and the continued monitoring and protection of the city’s green space. Pointing out collaborative work with the Department of Transportation, Wingo said a new Smart Signal system is being installed in preparation for testing on US-42 within Florence.

The system will use sensors to move traffic through the city in a more efficient manner, allowing the signals to change based on the minute-to-minute needs of traffic flow.

“We have worked with the DOT on this issue for quite some time. We are ready to see it in action and, hopefully, it will provide relief to folks driving on 42 when traffic becomes jammed. We are really focused on providing new services to our residents that can have a positive impact on their lives, every day.”

William E. Woods is a Northern Kentuckian, small business owner, and a Kentucky Colonel. He has run for public office and aims to use his two decades of business and political experience to enlighten citizens on public issues relevant to them. He lives in Boone County.

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