The Democratic candidates facing off for the Hopkinsville City Council Ward Nine seat shared their stances on community-related topics at Monday’s forum hosted by the Hopkinsville League of Women Voters.
Democrats Monike Love, Duane Shepard and Ardell Owens will be going head-to-head-to-head for the city council’s Ward Nine seat. Monday’s forum only included Love and Shepard, and they discussed what issues the city is facing and how they plan to address them.
Love says homelessness and a lack of supportive housing is one of the biggest issues impacting her ward and the city. She also says homelessness occurs as a result of other issues citizens are facing, such as economic instability, mental health issues and addiction.
Shepard says the city is facing a housing shortage and gentrification. He says some of the new homes being constructed in Hopkinsville are not affordable for the average resident.
To reduce crime, Love says she plans to collaborate with local law enforcement and organizations that provide youth outreach to help them stay on the right side of the law.
Shepard rebutted Love’s response, saying community members are already working with law enforcement agencies and other organizations to reduce crime. When it comes to ensuring local youth are on the right path, Shepard says they can’t help children without also helping their parents.
Turning toward blighted properties, Shepard says the city’s Lot Next Door Program should be expanded to all citizens and not just property owners who neighbor vacant lots. Shepard says this would allow residents to not just become landlords but also to make a home for themselves.
The full Ward Nine Democratic debate is available on Facebook at League of Women Voters – Hopkinsville, KY. The primary election is on May 19.