London, Kentucky, December 6, 2025
The Kentucky State Auditor’s Office has launched a special examination of London’s finances under Mayor Randall Weddle due to unpublicized concerns. This comes as tensions escalate between Weddle and the City Council, which recently attempted to remove him from office over alleged misconduct. A judge restored Weddle’s position, while campaign finance investigations into contributions linked to him are ongoing, highlighting the turbulent political climate in London, Kentucky.
London, Kentucky
The Kentucky State Auditor’s Office has initiated a special examination of London’s finances under Mayor Randall Weddle, following the identification of issues that warrant further review. The specific concerns prompting this audit have not been publicly disclosed. City officials are required to provide necessary records and staff access to facilitate the audit, which will culminate in a report. Mayor Weddle will have 15 days to respond to the findings upon its release.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between Mayor Weddle and the London City Council. A scheduled special council meeting was canceled after only one council member attended, continuing the feud between the mayor and council members. The council had previously alleged that Weddle created positions and set salaries without council approval, leading to disputes over the validity of council meetings and the mayor’s authority. Mayor Weddle has contested the council’s actions, citing concerns over compliance with the Kentucky Open Meetings Act and the legality of council meetings conducted without a quorum.
In September 2025, the London City Council voted unanimously to remove Mayor Weddle from office, citing alleged misconduct, including executing a $5 million note secured by a mortgage on Levi Jackson State Park and the Laurel County Fairgrounds without council approval, failing to timely fill a vacancy on the ethics commission, and not properly publishing a city ordinance. However, a Laurel Circuit Court judge reinstated Weddle, ruling that the council failed to present sufficient grounds for his removal. The council has filed an appeal against this decision, and the case is currently under legal review.
Additionally, the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance is investigating substantial campaign contributions linked to Mayor Weddle, which were made through “straw donors” to support Governor Andy Beshear’s 2023 reelection campaign. The contributions, totaling over $202,000, were initially reported as coming from Weddle’s family members and employees of his company, WB Transport. However, it was later revealed that these funds were charged to Weddle’s personal credit card. The Beshear campaign and the Kentucky Democratic Party refunded the excess contributions, and the matter is under ongoing investigation to determine compliance with campaign finance laws.
These developments underscore the complex and contentious political landscape in London, Kentucky, involving legal disputes, financial audits, and campaign finance investigations that continue to unfold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What prompted the Kentucky State Auditor’s Office to examine London’s finances?
The Kentucky State Auditor’s Office initiated a special examination of London’s finances under Mayor Randall Weddle after identifying issues that require further review. The specific concerns prompting this audit have not been publicly disclosed.
What allegations led to the London City Council’s removal of Mayor Weddle?
In September 2025, the London City Council voted unanimously to remove Mayor Weddle from office, citing alleged misconduct, including executing a $5 million note secured by a mortgage on Levi Jackson State Park and the Laurel County Fairgrounds without council approval, failing to timely fill a vacancy on the ethics commission, and not properly publishing a city ordinance.
What is the status of the legal proceedings regarding Mayor Weddle’s removal?
A Laurel Circuit Court judge reinstated Mayor Weddle, ruling that the council failed to present sufficient grounds for his removal. The council has filed an appeal against this decision, and the case is currently under legal review.
What is the nature of the campaign finance investigation involving Mayor Weddle?
The Kentucky Registry of Election Finance is investigating substantial campaign contributions linked to Mayor Weddle, which were made through “straw donors” to support Governor Andy Beshear’s 2023 reelection campaign. The contributions, totaling over $202,000, were initially reported as coming from Weddle’s family members and employees of his company, WB Transport. However, it was later revealed that these funds were charged to Weddle’s personal credit card. The Beshear campaign and the Kentucky Democratic Party refunded the excess contributions, and the matter is under ongoing investigation to determine compliance with campaign finance laws.
Key Features of the Situation in London, Kentucky
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| State Audit | The Kentucky State Auditor’s Office is conducting a special examination of London’s finances under Mayor Weddle due to identified issues requiring further review. Specific concerns have not been publicly disclosed. |
| City Council Dispute | The London City Council canceled a special meeting after only one council member attended, continuing tensions with Mayor Weddle. Allegations include unauthorized hiring and salary setting without council approval. |
| Legal Proceedings | A Laurel Circuit Court judge reinstated Mayor Weddle after the council’s removal, citing insufficient grounds. The council has appealed the decision, and the case is under legal review. |
| Campaign Finance Investigation | The Kentucky Registry of Election Finance is investigating substantial campaign contributions linked to Mayor Weddle, totaling over $202,000, made through “straw donors” to support Governor Beshear’s 2023 reelection campaign. The funds were charged to Weddle’s personal credit card, leading to refunds and ongoing compliance investigations. |
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