Three candidates for Lexington mayor squared off in a forum at Transylvania University Monday night.
Candidates weighed in on issues like mass transit, license plate cameras, and jail staffing during the almost hour- long forum. In responding to a question on drug issues, Adrian Wallace said he’s volunteered as a chaplain with police.
“Far too many of the responses that I’ve been called out for have been due to overdoses…in my administration substance abuse and public health will take top priority,” said Wallace.
Wallace said there’s a need for more revenues, putting those funds into public health as a way to reduce mental strain.
Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton refuted opponents’ claims of increasing violent crimes and defended police along with public and private partnering programs.
“It’s an insult to them to say they’re not working because they are and they’re making a difference,” said Gorton.
The mayor said violent crime is down 5% from a year ago.
Current Council Member David Kloiber said certain violent crimes are up. He also proposed that more revenues to be directed to Housing streams.
“That’s affordable and otherwise because every house you build lowers the price of rent, lowers the price of housing across the board,” said Kloiber.
Next week the top two vote-getters in the Lexington mayoral race will go on to compete in the fall.