Political Opinion: Statement from mayor Jason Hayes
VOTE TODAY!!!
It has been an absolute privilege to serve the City of Lexington these past 16 months and I thank the citizens for this opportunity. There are so many positive things that are happening in our community that are the result of previous administrations, city management, and importantly our current City Council’s ability to capitalize on current opportunities and build relationships. Our intentional commitment to both economic development and equity are not mutually exclusive. I believe wholeheartedly that it is possible to do both very well and I plan to continue to advocate for this in my next term as Mayor and/or as a fellow Lexingtonian.
This Council has NOT increased taxes and doesn’t plan to, regardless of what you may have heard through flyers, videos, one-on-one conversations, or social media. This Council is NOT going to spend money that we do not have or place an undue tax or fee burden on our citizens. This Council has inherited a $1.31 per 100 tax rate (inclusive of County, City, and School tax) which is in line with other municipalities of our size…some higher and some lower. As we continue to increase our tax base by bringing in industry and encouraging residential and retail development throughout our community, we will hopefully have an opportunity to revisit our tax and fee structures.
Lexington’s Depot District revitalization is continuing in a major way under this Council with a planned rail stop, an approved 120 unit multi-family complex with first floor retail, and a premium parcel of land (the former Lexington Homebrands office) that is receiving multiple proposals for future development. Our Uptown area continues to flourish as a destination location for locals and visitors alike. Industrial growth and development opportunities will be the catalyst for an increased tax base in Lexington. Siemens Mobility’s decision to locate in Lexington with a $220 million investment and 500+ living wage jobs is a game changer for our community and Samet’s 750+ acre industrial site off of I-85 receives inquiries weekly for national and multi-national companies to locate here in Lexington, bringing millions of investment and hundreds, if not thousands of jobs. Lexington’s much improved relationship with the Davidson County Commissioners will continue to reap rewards for all Davidson County AND Lexington residents.
There is still much more work to be done in our community, to continue to grow our City in a way that supports ALL of our current residents. That is what I am committed to…ensuring that Lexington is a City that can work for EVERYONE. I hope that you will consider voting for Jason Hayes to continue to moveLexington into the next decade. I would also like to ask for your support of our Mayor Pro Tem, Joe Watkins who shares in my vision of Lexington’s continued growth. Please exercise your right to vote today on November 7th if you have not already. I’m ready to continue to serve the citizens of Lexington!!!
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