The Lexington Urban County Council meeting on January 16, 2025, highlighted pressing issues affecting the community, including a rental crisis and rising antisemitism.

Phoenix Berry, a resident from the 6th District, opened the public comments by addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in Lexington. Berry noted that 30% of renters in Kentucky are extremely low income, emphasizing the disparity between the average rent of $1,047 and the state’s minimum wage of $7.25. Berry urged the council to consider creating funding pathways or programs to alleviate the rental crisis affecting many residents.

Following Berry, David Franklin from District 10 raised concerns about surveillance in public spaces, likening a recently dismantled police observatory to a panopticon—a design that promotes self-regulation through constant observation. Franklin argued that such measures infringe on personal freedoms and called for a reduction in surveillance practices in Lexington.

Rabbi Litvin, representing the Kentucky Jewish Council, presented a report on antisemitism in the state, detailing a troubling rise in incidents over the past year. He cited specific events, including threats against Jewish individuals and groups, harassment on university campuses, and antisemitic rallies. Rabbi Litvin stressed that these issues reflect a broader national problem rather than a local one, urging the council to remain vigilant and proactive in combating hate.

The meeting underscored the need for community action on both housing affordability and the fight against antisemitism, with council members encouraged to consider the implications of these issues for the residents of Lexington.