A single unpaid tax bill, code enforcement fine, or overdue license fee now puts every city-issued permit a Union business holds at risk.

Ordinance 2026-11, published July 22, on the city's website, creates what the text calls a "cross-collateralization" system. If a business falls behind on any obligation owed to the City of Union, the city can suspend, deny renewal of, or revoke any or all licenses and permits that business holds, regardless of which department issued them.

The ordinance covers license fees, real property taxes, tangible property taxes, occupational taxes, code enforcement fines, and franchise fees.

Mayor Larry K. Solomon signed the measure after the City Commission passed it on second reading July 20. City Clerk Tammy Wilhoite attested the document. The first reading was July 6.

How enforcement works

Before the city can act, it must send written notice by email or U.S. mail spelling out the amount owed, the license affected, and the action it intends to take. The business then has 30 days to pay.

If the bill goes unpaid after that window closes, the city may suspend or revoke any license the business holds.

Appeals and payment plans

A business hit with a suspension or revocation has seven days to appeal to the City Administrative Officer, who schedules a hearing before the full City Commission. The commission can subpoena witnesses, take testimony under oath, and reverse the city's decision. Its ruling comes as formal findings of fact, conclusions of law, and an order.

If a business disagrees with the commission's final order, it has 30 days to appeal to a court of appropriate jurisdiction under Kentucky law.

The ordinance also authorizes the city to offer payment agreements. A business that enters one and stays current on all required payments can avoid losing its license.

Background

The city has been pursuing delinquent business accounts since at least September 2025. At the September 15, 2025, caucus meeting, City Administrator Amy Safran reported that City Attorney Greg Voss had sent letters to businesses that owed a $50 delinquent fee, a $500 penalty, and a $150 attorney fee. The commission voted 5-0 that night to waive the $500 penalty for first-time offenders but kept the $150 attorney fee in place.

The new ordinance does not set a minimum dollar amount that triggers enforcement. Any unpaid obligation, regardless of size, could start the 30-day clock.

What's next

The next regular Union City Commission meeting is August 3, at 6 p.m. at the Union City Building, 1843 Bristow Drive. Residents and business owners can address the commission during public comment. The ordinance will be codified in Section 110(B) of the City of Union Code of Ordinances.