Lexington, February 5, 2026
Tom Eblen, a former journalist, has joined the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council as the representative for the 3rd District. Sworn in on February 3, he brings a wealth of community engagement experience and aims to promote transparency and accountability in governance. Eblen fills the seat left vacant by Hannah LeGris and has the opportunity to run for reelection in November 2026. His appointment enhances community representation within the council, which addresses key local issues and fosters citizen involvement.
Tom Eblen Joins Lexington’s Council to Foster Community Engagement
Tom Eblen, a former journalist, has been appointed to the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council, representing the 3rd District. He was sworn in on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, filling the seat vacated by Hannah LeGris, who resigned last month to take a full-time position with the city government as Lexington’s first access and engagement officer.
Mayor Linda Gorton selected Eblen for his extensive experience and community involvement. Eblen, a Lexington native, worked for the Herald-Leader from 1998 to 2019 and currently serves as a contract employee for the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning. He will serve the remaining 11 months of LeGris’s term, with the option to seek reelection in the November 2026 election.
Taking on this new role, Eblen is set to apply the same values he upheld as a journalist: transparency, accountability, fairness, and fact-based analysis. His deep-rooted connection to the community positions him to make meaningful contributions to the development and governance of Lexington.
The Role and Function of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council is crucial in shaping the future of Lexington, acting as the legislative branch of the city’s government. The council consists of 15 members, including the vice mayor, two at-large councilmembers, and 12 district councilmembers. Among its responsibilities are enacting ordinances, approving budgets, and addressing a range of community issues that affect residents’ daily lives. Eblen’s appointment enables the council to operate at full capacity, ensuring continued governance and dynamic representation across the city.
Tom Eblen: A Commitment to Community Service
With a strong background in journalism and community engagement, Eblen brings a wealth of experience to his new position. His tenure at the Herald-Leader allowed him to foster relationships and understand the needs and challenges that residents face. Currently involved with the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning, Eblen continues to emphasize the importance of education and civic literacy in local development.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Community Involvement
Eblen’s appointment comes at a time when community engagement is essential in local governance. His commitment to transparency and accountability echoes a growing trend in Lexington, where citizens are encouraged to take part in decision-making processes. This openness helps to reduce bureaucracy and fosters an environment where personal initiative can thrive, ultimately leading to enhanced community growth.
Election Insights: Future Opportunities for Representation
As a member of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council, Eblen serves a term that lasts until the next election, scheduled for November 3, 2026. This timeframe not only allows him to initiate several community-focused projects but also offers an opportunity for the public to evaluate his performance and potentially re-elect him for another term.
Staying Engaged: The Importance of Civic Participation
For residents of Lexington, Eblen’s role is a reminder of the importance of civic participation. Local governance thrives when citizens engage with their councilmembers and participate in community dialogues. By staying informed and involved, residents can help shape a vibrant, responsive, and innovative Lexington for future generations.
Key Features of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | 15 members: vice mayor, two at-large councilmembers, and 12 district councilmembers |
| Term Lengths | District councilmembers: 2 years; at-large councilmembers: 4 years |
| Election Type | Nonpartisan |
| Responsibilities | Enacting ordinances, approving budgets, addressing community issues |
| Next Election | November 3, 2026 |
FAQs
Who is Tom Eblen?
Tom Eblen is a former journalist who worked for the Herald-Leader from 1998 to 2019. He currently serves as a contract employee for the Carnegie Center for Literacy and Learning. He was appointed to the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council on February 3, 2026, representing the 3rd District.
Why did Hannah LeGris resign from the council?
Hannah LeGris resigned from the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council to take a full-time position with the city government as Lexington’s first access and engagement officer.
What is the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council?
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council is the legislative branch of Lexington’s government, consisting of 15 members: the vice mayor, two at-large councilmembers, and 12 district councilmembers. The council is responsible for enacting ordinances, approving budgets, and addressing various community issues.
What are the terms for councilmembers?
District councilmembers serve two-year terms, while at-large councilmembers serve four-year terms. The vice mayor is the at-large councilmember who received the most votes in the previous election. All elections are nonpartisan.
When is the next council election?
The next council election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, during which Eblen can seek reelection for the 3rd District seat.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tom Eblen Appointed as 3rd District Council Member in Lexington
Wildcats Enhance Roster with Two Key Transfers
Kentucky Wildcats Defeat No. 5 Oklahoma Sooners in Thrilling Game
Kentucky Football Strengthens Defense with Wiseman Commitment
Lexington’s Mayoral Race Begins with Raquel Carter in Lead
London Mayor Cancels City Council Meeting Over Controversial Issues
New Prosecutor Appointed in Harless Shooting Case
Kentucky Opens Application Period for LIHEAP Fall Subsidy
Amy McGrath Announces 2026 U.S. Senate Bid in Kentucky
Lexington Unveils Largest Public Artwork ‘A Common Thread’
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
