Hamilton County commissioners advance business incubator move despite dissent

May 7, 2026 - 07:09

Hamilton County commissioners have voted to advance the relocation of the county's business incubator, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from local residents and some of their own colleagues. The move, approved during a contentious meeting, will shift the incubator from its current downtown location to a site on the county's outskirts.

Supporters of the plan argue that the new facility will offer more space and modern amenities, allowing the incubator to better serve startups and small businesses. They say the relocation is a necessary step to boost economic development and create jobs in the region.

But opponents, including several community members who spoke at the meeting, contend that the move will hurt the very entrepreneurs the program is meant to help. They worry that the new location is less accessible by public transit and will isolate fledgling businesses from the city's core network of investors and mentors. Some commissioners also voiced concerns about the cost, which they say has not been fully justified.

The vote passed with a narrow majority, but the dissent signals ongoing tension over how best to support local business growth. The county plans to finalize the lease in the coming weeks, with a move expected by early next year.