Planning and Development Services of Kenton County (PDS) announced the election of Mayor Jessica Fette, of Erlanger, as chair of the PDS Management Board for the 2026-2027 term. Making history as the first female Chair in the organization’s 65-year history, Mayor Fette previously served as Vice Chair of the Management Board and currently holds the position of Vice President of the PDS Council. She brings a wealth of experience in local governance and municipal leadership to her new role.
Fette has served as Mayor of the City of Erlanger since 2019, guiding one of Kenton County’s largest and most dynamic communities through a period of substantial growth and investment. Her tenure on PDS governing bodies has provided her with a thorough understanding of the agency’s mission, operations, and the diverse needs of the 20 Kenton County jurisdictions PDS serves. As Chair, Mayor Fette will work closely with fellow mayors and local elected officials throughout the county to advance planning and development priorities countywide.
“It is an honor to take on this role and continue the important work of PDS on behalf of our communities,” said Mayor Fette. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated board members, staff, and partners to advance thoughtful planning and development that strengthens the quality of life across Kenton County.”
The PDS Management Board also extends its sincere gratitude to the outgoing Chair, Mayor Chris Reinersman of Independence, who has served as Chair since 2022. Mayor Reinersman announced that he will not seek re-election as Mayor and will conclude his service on the PDS Management Board at the end of the year. Mayors Fette and Reinersman, alongside their fellow Management Board members, have played vital roles in PDS governance – most notably during the agency’s reform and reorganization six years ago, an effort that strengthened PDS operations and kept the organization focused on its core mission.
“Serving on the PDS Management Board has been a great privilege,” said Mayor Reinersman. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, building a stronger, more focused agency that truly serves the people of Kenton County. None of that happens without an exceptional team of board members, staff, and partners who show up every day committed to doing this work well. I have every confidence that PDS will continue to thrive, and I look forward to watching Mayor Fette and this board lead it to even greater heights.”
In addition to Mayor Fette, Covington Mayor Ron Washington was elected as Vice Chair, and Crestview Hills Mayor Paul Meier was re-elected as Treasurer. Other members of the PDS Management Board continuing to serve include: Kenton County Commissioner Joe Nienaber (Chair, 2020-2022), Independence Mayor Chris Reinersman (Chair, 2022-2026), Fort Mitchell Mayor Greg Pohlgeers (PDS Council President), and Fort Wright City Council Member Bernie Wessels.
Planning and Development Services of Kenton County