I have learned more than I could have imagined about how Lexington and its government work
It was Feb 27th and I got a call saying I was selected to participate in the first ever Civic Assembly in Kentucky on March 1st, just 2 days away. Another member had backed out, and I was asked if I was still interested. As always when God opens a door for me I jump through and am excited to see what he has in store for me. So, I said YES!
Our first session was a six-hour session which seemed to go very quick. We each stood up and introduced ourselves and I was amazed how many people were not originally from Lexington. When it came to me I stood up and said…..I am Bob S., you can call me Bob or B.S. I am originally from the Chicago area and have been in Lexington for 14 years. From then on everyone calls me B.S…..lol. It has been a great experience working with these new friends. We all have various backgrounds, ages, and experiences. This was intentional.
So, this first Civic Assembly is charged with looking inside our Urban County Charter and deciding if we need to change the Council’s pay and how often this charter should be reviewed. The last time it was looked at was in 1998; it was formed in 1974 when the councils of Fayette County and the city of Lexington where combined. I was hoping we could also have discussions about lengthening the district Councilmember’s terms from 2 years to 4 because once they win their race they have to start running again and never have enough time to actually work for their constituents. Unfortunately, we were not given that responsibility; maybe next time.
Coming into this assembly my knowledge of Lexington was not deep since I am not from here. I have learned more than I could have imagined before this experience. Coming into this with over 40 years of management experience in various industries, I felt like I could add to this experience. I have met and talked with some of the councilmembers, one of which is my own representative (whom I had never met or even knew who she was). They were all very informative and very down to earth to talk with.
I am very anxious to continue this process and see what conclusions we attain. The journey continues.