Lead Where You Live: Candidate Training 101

Commerce Lexington’s Candidate Training Program is designed to equip business and community leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to run an effective campaign for local office and make a meaningful impact through public service.

This nonpartisan program is intended for individuals who are considering running for local offices such as the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council or Fayette County School Board as well as those interested in serving on local boards and commissions. Participants will gain insight into the fundamentals of running for office, including campaign finance, fundraising, messaging, voter engagement strategies, and key issues affecting the Lexington business community, and local housing and economic development.

The program will take place August 27–28, 2026, at Commerce Lexington. Note that this program is for future candidates for local office - not those who have already filed to run.

Space is limited due to the number of available seats. A $50 application fee will be due upon acceptance into the program. The Candidate Training Program is supported by Commerce Lexington, Bluegrass REALTORS, the Building Industry Association of Central Kentucky, and Lexington For Everyone.

Please complete all sections of the application to be considered for participation.

Name

First NameLast Name

Email

example@example.com

Phone Number

Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Home Address

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code

Current City Council District

Find your Council District at https://www.lexingtonky.gov/government/office-urban-county-council/councilmembers

Current School Board District

Find your FCPS School Board District at https://www.schoolsitelocator.com/apps/fayette/

Current Job Title

Current Employer / Organization

Please provide two professional or community references who can speak to your leadership, community involvement, or interest in public service.

Rows	Full Name	Email	Phone	Relationship to Reference
Reference 1
Reference 2

Please share any public social media account handles you use.

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

X

What motivates you to consider running for local office in your community? Please share the experiences, values, or concerns that have inspired your interest in public service. (Limit 250 words)

0/260

Please describe any leadership roles you have held in your community, workplace, civic organizations, or volunteer activities. What did you learn from these experiences? (Limit 250 words)

0/260

What specific issues or challenges facing Lexington are you most passionate about addressing? Why are these issues important to you, and what impact would you hope to make? (Limit 250 words)

0/260

What do you hope to gain from participating in the Candidate Training Program, and how will it help you pursue your future goals in public service? (Limit 250 words)

0/260

Please select the local offices you are most interested in pursuing in the future?

In your view, what role should local government play in supporting business recruitment and fostering long-term economic growth in the community? (Limit 250 words)

0/260

What role should local government play in addressing housing needs in order to support workforce development and a strong local economy? (Limit 250 words)

0/260

In your view, please rank local issues facing Lexington based on importance.

Rows	1	2	3	4	5	6	7
Jobs
Housing
Public Safety
Homelessness
Traffic
Preservation
Public Education

Other

If issue isn't listed above, please note it here.

How did you hear about the Candidate Training Program? (check all that apply)

The Candidate Training Program will take place August 27–28, 2026 at Commerce Lexington. Are you able to attend and participate in the full program?

Signature

Lead Where You Live: Candidate Training 101

Applicant Information:

Personal Information:

References

Additional Information

Motivation for Public Service

Community Leadership Experience

Community Issues

Program Goals

Office of Interest

Economic Development

Housing & Workforce Development

Priority Local Issues

Program Commitment