The rural communities in Fayette County will be represented by Lexington businessman Russ Hensley. He replaces Ed Lane who passed away earlier this month after serving on council for almost 10 years. The 40 year old London, Kentucky native is part owner of an information technology services firm and partner in a design and branding company. Hensley says he wants to carry on Lane’s focus. “I really want to respect what Ed had done in the past and try to follow some of the issues that’s he’s dealt with and how he’s dealt with it," Hensley said. "I didn’t win an election, it’s an appointment, but I’m gonna work hard.”
Hensley’s time on the council will be his first in public office. He plans to run for a full term. Hensley says one of the big issues in his 12th district is the ongoing debate about a recreational zone to meet requirements for zip line activities. One of the front burner issues at city hall is a proposal to raise the minimum wage. Hensley is undecided on the matter. “It’s hard for government to get involved in setting a wage so high that minimum wage is a living wage and so businesses have to take that into consideration," he said. "And so as we go into these issues, there’s a lot to consider.”
Outside of work, Hensley volunteers with the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol as a search and rescue pilot.
