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Hi, I'm Chris.
A dedicated Lexingtonian, urban planner, husband, and father of three amazing kids. From years of experience working with city officials and leaders on Lexington’s long-term vision, I have developed a consensus-building approach that will deliver results for District 10. Guided by my faith and values, I believe in strong neighborhoods, responsible growth, and creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Bringing integrity, compassion, and a forward-thinking vision to the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council, I will give my
all for Lexington.
Creating a
Lexington for All
Though I grew up just up the road in Louisville, Lexington has truly become my home. When I came to the University of Kentucky for college in 2003, I began to appreciate what makes this place so unique. Now over 20 years later, I take tremendous pride in this special place and can't imagine raising my children anywhere else.
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My journey toward public service began unexpectedly with an intro to Urban Planning course at UK. Thanks to the passion of Professor Lynn Phillips, my perspective completely changed. Cities aren't just about buildings and streets; they're about the interconnectedness of our environment, our communities, and our lives. Her course sparked a lifelong commitment to thoughtful planning and community engagement, and it's why I believe that responsible development is so important to Lexington's future. Education changed the course of my life, and to this day I hold our local schools and teachers in high regard.
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After college, I married my high school sweetheart, Charis, who I've known since middle school – a partner who shares my values and sense of adventure. Our first big adventure was leaving Kentucky so I could earn my Master's Degree in Urban & Regional Planning from Florida State University. Grad school exposed me to world-class professors, research, and experiences. But, our Tallahassee adventure didn’t last long...
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Two years later, with my master’s in hand, I returned to Kentucky to serve as the Director of Planning for Jessamine County and the City of Wilmore. For five years, I learned the ropes, built relationships, and navigated the complex world of local government. I enjoyed building consensus around important issues and it prepared me for a dream job in Lexington in 2016.
​As Manager of Long-Range Planning, I had the opportunity to shape our city's future by guiding the development of key plans and policies that are actively building a better Lexington. This city has a long history of forward-thinking planning, and I was honored to further that legacy by developing strategies for smart growth, promoting affordable housing, and addressing historical policies that have impacted our most vulnerable communities. Building relationships with Planning Commissioners, Councilmembers, and community leaders provided the foundation for collaborative partnerships and successful implementation of those strategies.
Public awareness and involvement are critical, which is why I was proud to establish new outreach and education avenues to help the community better understand their city, and the delicate balance and relationships that exist within it. One example of this: I led the City’s team in the inaugural “On the Table” program in 2017, which increased public participation in the planning process from hundreds to over 10,000. This unprecedented process brought members of the community together to collaborate and craft solutions for a growing city, and led to the most publicly informed comprehensive plan in Lexington's history.
Recently, I've been actively engaged in our community, dedicating my time and energy to a variety of causes. I volunteer at my church, lending my musical talents and assisting with children's programs, teach guitar to enthusiastic students at Beaumont Middle School, and proudly lead the Moondance Foundation, working to enhance south Lexington's premier outdoor entertainment venue. Connecting with our youth and contributing to our local arts and creative culture has been incredibly satisfying and rewarding.
Now, with a deep love for Lexington, I’m ready to serve our community in a new way – as your District 10 Councilmember. I’m committed to making Lexington a place we can all be proud of, a place that thrives for generations to come. I believe in good stewardship, leaving things better than I found them. I’m asking for your vote, so that together, we can build a Lexington for all!
Experience that Matters
Shaping Our Community Through Smart Planning
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As Director of Planning and Lexington's Manager of Long-Range Planning, Chris has dedicated 10+ years to shaping Central Kentucky through thoughtful land use planning.
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Bringing People Together to Build Better Plans
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Chris’ award-winning approach to public engagement has increased community participation in Lexington planning from hundreds to thousands, ensuring that all voices are heard.
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Championing Responsible Growth & Stronger Neighborhoods
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By removing barriers to housing production, and providing our City with a long-term vision for the future, Chris has worked to develop innovative plans for a better quality of life for Lexington.
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Building on a Foundation of Knowledge
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With a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from right here at the University of Kentucky and a Master's Degree in Urban & Regional Planning from Florida State University, Chris builds plans that have produced results. He is also designated by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).
Investing in our Community
Prioritizing Arts, Culture, and Small Businesses
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As President of the non-profit Moondance Foundation, Chris is dedicated to enhancing the heart of Beaumont, with his efforts leading to new shade trees, beautiful artwork that inspires, and expanded opportunities for local vendors.
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Supporting our Youth
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At Beaumont Middle School, Chris volunteers his time to give back by teaching area youth the art of playing the guitar, and by accompanying the young performers in their concerts.
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Guided by Faith
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Chris supports his home church by volunteering with the youth and music ministries.
