Lexington, Ky. — Residents of District 12 are gearing up for a pivotal decision as they prepare to vote for their city council representative. The district encompasses several neighborhoods, including Athens Boonesboro, Briar Hill, and Richmond Road, with candidates Chad Walker and Hilary Boone vying for the position.
Walker, a newcomer to public office, expressed his desire to serve the district, stating, “This was just a natural progression; I already got my feet wet with understanding how the local government works and how to navigate.” Conversely, Boone emphasized her ambition to infuse the council with “new perspective, new ideas.”
A critical issue both candidates have identified is the management of short-term rentals. Boone suggested that these rentals could enhance tourism, particularly in agricultural areas, but cautioned against overwhelming neighborhoods with too many. She remarked, “…not diluting the communities as far as having too many short-term rentals in a certain area.” Walker echoed these sentiments, asserting that uniform density regulations across the district could alleviate the pressure on affordable housing due to losses attributed to short-term rentals.
Education also stands out as a significant concern for both candidates. Walker noted a troubling “disconnect between the school board and the council,” advocating for regular communication between the two entities to achieve better collaboration. Boone reiterated the need for an open dialogue, stating, “The school board and the council should have an open dialogue and should communicate on a regular basis with one another.”
Moreover, both candidates share a commitment to preserving farmland in the Lexington area, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the city’s resources responsibly.
The election for District 12 will determine the future direction of local governance, with residents facing critical decisions that will impact their community’s housing policies, educational cooperation, and agricultural integrity. As the voting day approaches, the voices of District 12 citizens will shape their representation in the city council.
