Lexington Mayoral Candidates Forum

1. State the elected office you are seeking.

I am seeking election to the office of Mayor of Lexington, Missouri.

2. Give us a background of your family, your education and your history in the area.

I am married to Shelly (Johnson) Harden, and we have two children. Our son, Cody, is studying abroad in Japan. Our daughter, Kaylee, is working toward her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at Missouri University. My wife Shelly is passionate about serving others and works as a Community Health Consultant for the Lafayette County Enterprises, helping citizens of Lexington and the surrounding communities.

I am a proud graduate of Lexington High School and Lex La-Ray Technical Center. I have also completed undergraduate coursework at Wentworth Military Academy Junior College and the University of Central Missouri.

My history in this community runs deep. I was born and raised in Lexington, Missouri, and have spent my entire working life serving this community. I have worked as a local business owner and for the past 26 years have served as the Collision Repair Instructor at the Lex La-Ray Technical Center, helping prepare young people for successful careers in the skilled trades.

3. State your reasons for running for this office.

I am running for Mayor because I care deeply about the future of Lexington and want to continue building on the progress our community has made. As a lifelong resident, educator, and public servant, I understand the importance of responsible leadership that supports safe neighborhoods, strong local businesses, and a high quality of life.

One of our greatest opportunities is attracting and retaining younger adults and families who want to build their careers and lives in Lexington. By supporting responsible economic development, improving infrastructure, and encouraging community growth, we can create opportunities that keep the next generation here.

My experience serving six years as 3rd Ward Councilman and as Interim Mayor has given me the knowledge to help guide Lexington forward with steady leadership and a clear vision for the future.

4. State your qualifications for this office.

My qualifications for Mayor are built on decades of leadership, community service, and practical experience working with people and organizations. I have spent my entire life in Lexington as a small business owner, educator, and public servant.

For the past 26 years, I have served as the Collision Repair Instructor at the Lex La-Ray Technical Center, where I have mentored and trained hundreds of students for successful careers in the skilled trades. This experience has given me strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while working with students, parents, businesses, and community partners.

I also served six years as Lexington’s 3rd Ward Councilman and stepped forward to serve as Interim Mayor from May to November 2024. In those roles, I worked closely with the City Council, city administration, and community commissions on issues including economic development, infrastructure improvements, public safety, and community planning.

In addition, I have served in leadership roles in several professional organizations, including serving as President of multiple associations. These experiences have strengthened my ability to build consensus, manage responsibilities, and work collaboratively to achieve results.

Together, these experiences give me a strong understanding of our community, how local government works, and what it takes to lead Lexington forward.

5. What are your priorities and goals for the city of Lexington?

My priorities for the City of Lexington focus on responsible growth, strong public safety, and maintaining the quality of life our residents value. Economic development is a key priority so we can create opportunities that attract and retain younger adults and families while supporting our existing local businesses.

An important part of that growth is developing stronger relationships with key community partners such as the Lexington School District, Lafayette Regional Health Center, and the Chamber of Commerce. By working together, we can better support workforce development, strengthen our local economy, and improve services that benefit our entire community.

Continuing to improve infrastructure, including streets, sidewalks, and utilities, will also remain a priority. I will also continue supporting our police, fire, and EMS services to ensure Lexington remains a safe place to live and raise a family.

By working collaboratively with the City Council, City Administration, boards, commissions, and community partners, we can responsibly plan for Lexington’s future while preserving the character and history that make our city special.