(WKYT) – Voters in this southern Kentucky city signaled they want changes in how they voted Tuesday.
Drama has filled numerous London City Council meetings over the past year. The city’s police department has faced investigations over a deadly shooting when police went to the wrong home while trying to serve a warrant.
Part of that investigation was tied to property stolen from the top county official.
Some of the candidates who received the most votes Tuesday said London residents told them they want changes.
“They are tired of the fussing, arguing, name calling,” said Debbie Gilbert, a London City Council candidate.
Gilbert was among the top vote getters in the city council primary Tuesday. She and 11 others will move on to the fall race. Chase Carson received the most votes.
“The people are tired of it. They are ready to move forward. Ready to move forward with a brand new 6,” Carson said.
At least half the London City Council will be new come January because three incumbents did not receive enough votes to move on. Those are Justin Young, Kellie Smith Greene and Donna House.
London’s incumbent mayor Randall Weddle, who has faced impeachment, reinstatement and indictments, received the most votes but only 11 more than challenger Matt Orr. Laurel County’s incumbent judge executive was defeated.
The election comes more than a year after Doug Harless was shot and killed in his home when police went to Harless’ house to serve a warrant his name was not on.
“I do think the Doug Harless case changed the way people are viewing things. I think the election showed people are ready for a change. A lot of things changed,” said Jamie Burns, a Justice For Doug Harless event organizer.
People said they wish voter turnout was higher, which could have signaled more change.
Prior to the election, a lawsuit was filed against Carson over the residency of required signatures on election papers in the London council race, but a judge ruled against the lawsuit.
Mayor Randall Weddle and Judge Executive David Westerfield did not return calls for comment on the election results.