A Lexington Urban County Councilmember is about to take the reigns of a major city department.
The council held a hearing for 1st district representative Chris Ford Tuesday. At that meeting, his peers confirmed his appointment by Mayor Gray to head the city’s Social Services Department, which is responsible for programs supporting youth, families, and senior citizens. When asked about his priorities as commissioner, Ford emphasized continuity of services.
“From the youngest, our early childhood education, all the way through our senior citizens, the safety net that we provide when folks are in crises are in need of financial or other emergency assistance, we want to continue to do those things well," he said.
Ford added that his four years on council, including his chairmanship of the General Government and Social Services Committee, have prepared him well for the job. He views the appointment as a call to service.
“It’s an honor, I’m excited. I’m ready to go in regards to this opportunity, to continue to serve the first district in a different capacity and to serve all of Lexington, to work with Mayor Gray and to work with our councilmembers and local nonprofit providers, I’m excited,” he said.
Ford’s appointment will be made official at Thursday’s council meeting, where he will replace current Social Services Commissioner Beth Mills.