Historic Election Results in Lexington: New Urban County Council Welcomes Youngest and First Transgender Members

Lexington is set to welcome a significantly altered Urban County Council in January 2025, featuring five new members among the 15 council slots. Following the recent election, two incumbents were ousted, while two others successfully retained their positions. Additionally, there were two open council races to fill.

This council election is historic as Emma Curtis has emerged as the first openly transgender official elected to the city council in Lexington—and notably, the first transgender person elected to a city office in Kentucky. At 28 years old, Curtis will join newly elected Tyler Morton, 26, marking the first time the council will include individuals younger than 30, as none of the current members meet this criterion.

The changing demographics of the council will also include Amy Beasley, the sole candidate for the now-vacant 8th Council District seat, taking over from retired Councilman Fred Brown. The 8th District encompasses neighborhoods adjacent to Tates Creek schools.

Among the six contested races, all nonpartisan, were significant outcomes. In the 1st District, Tyler Morton, previously a council aide, secured 58% of the votes, defeating incumbent Tayna Fogle, who garnered 42%. Morton has committed to prioritizing addressing homelessness, gun safety, and traffic safety issues within his district, which encompasses areas extending north of Main Street to Interstate 75.

Shayla Lynch will return for another term after winning the 2nd District race with 63% over challenger Jacques Wigginton. Lynch aims to concentrate on infrastructure enhancements and affordable housing initiatives.

In a closely watched race for the 4th District, Emma Curtis claimed victory with 52% of the vote against incumbent Brenda Monarrez, who received 48%. Curtis is focusing on improving conditions on Nicholasville Road and tackling affordable housing concerns in the district, which encompasses neighborhoods south of New Circle Road.

Liz Sheehan, who holds a position in the University of Kentucky’s psychology department, secured re-election in the 5th District with 60% of the vote. She plans to continue her advocacy for affordable housing and the ongoing issue of homelessness during her third term.

The 7th District saw Joseph Hale win against Heather Hadi, receiving 55% of the vote. Hale, emphasizing community engagement, plans to address diverse local issues ranging from safety to parks and leisure facilities.

In the rural 12th District, Hil Boone, a farmer and business owner, garnered 64% of the votes over Chad Walker. Boone has expressed his commitment to preserving Lexington’s green spaces and serving as an independent voice for the district.

The new members will start their terms amid shifting priorities and ongoing community discussions, diversifying both the representation and the focus areas within the Lexington Urban County Council.