City of Independence, Kentucky
Mayor and City Council Members
Overview
The City of Independence, Kentucky, operates under a mayor-council form of government. The mayor serves as the executive authority, elected for a four-year term, while the six council members, elected at-large for two-year terms, form the legislative body. All positions are nonpartisan, with elections held in even-numbered years. Below are detailed profiles of the current mayor and council members, effective as of June 2025.
Mayor: Chris Reinersman
Background
Chris Reinersman has served as Mayor since November 2014, after being elected to the city council in 2010. A Northern Kentucky native, he moved to Independence in 2001 with his wife, Jeanette, and their three children. Reinersman holds a degree from Northern Kentucky University and has over 25 years of experience as a commercial real estate appraiser. In 2002, he founded The Reinersman Company, focusing on commercial real estate appraisal and construction draw inspections.
Municipal Experience
Before joining the council, Reinersman was appointed in 2008 to the Independence Strategic Action Committee (ISAC), serving as Vice Chairman. He advised on implementing the Small Area Study for city development.
Role and Responsibilities
As mayor, Reinersman holds executive powers, including vetoing legislation, overseeing personnel, and managing daily city affairs. His term extends until December 31, 2026.
Contact
Reach the mayor through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
City Council Members
The six council members, elected in November 2024, serve two-year terms ending December 31, 2026. They include five incumbents and one new member.
Background
Chris Vogelpohl is an incumbent, re-elected in 2024. His consistent re-election reflects strong community trust.
Role and Contributions
Vogelpohl participates in legislative duties, including enacting ordinances and adopting budgets. He supports city initiatives like infrastructure and public safety.
Contact
Available through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
Background
Carol Franzen, an incumbent re-elected in 2024, has served multiple terms, indicating deep community ties.
Role and Contributions
Franzen contributes to policy-setting and budget approvals, likely supporting events like the Independence Day Parade.
Contact
Available through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
Background
Tom Brinker, an incumbent re-elected in 2024, brings experience to local governance.
Role and Contributions
Brinker helps enact ordinances and oversee budgets, likely involved in economic development projects.
Contact
Available through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
Background
Greg Waite, an incumbent re-elected in 2024, is a trusted community representative.
Role and Contributions
Waite supports legislative tasks and community engagement programs.
Contact
Available through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
Background
Greg Steffen, an incumbent re-elected in 2024, is experienced in local governance.
Role and Contributions
Steffen contributes to policy continuity and budget oversight.
Contact
Available through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
Background
Matthew Fehler, elected in 2024, is the newest council member, replacing Dave Shafer.
Role and Contributions
Fehler brings fresh perspectives to legislative tasks, potentially focusing on economic development.
Contact
Available through City Hall at 859-356-5302.
Additional Information
Governance Structure
The council meets regularly at City Hall to address local issues, with agendas publicly available. The mayor can veto legislation, but the council can override with a majority vote.
Election Details
The 2024 election saw five incumbents re-elected and one new member, Matthew Fehler, join the council.
Contact City Hall
For more information, contact City Hall at 859-356-5302.