Why do you want to hold the office of Fiscal Court Magistrate?
Amy Thomas Iwahara: I am running for District 3 Magistrate because I love my county and I wish to serve. Born and raised in Versailles, I understand the importance of community service and leadership. I have served in numerous capacities over the years right here in Versailles. I would appreciate the opportunity to be the voice for my constituents on the fiscal court. I am dedicated, organized and ready to get to work for the people of District 3 and all of Woodford County. I respectfully ask citizens of Woodford County District 3 to vote for me, Amy Thomas Iwahara.
Darrell Varner: For the past four years, I have represented District 3 and seek to continue further work to enhance our neighborhoods. As a lifelong resident of Woodford County and a farmer, I understand the value of hard-earned money and advocate for fiscal responsibility in county government. I prioritize essential services like reliable water, maintained roads, and safe pathways, especially as our community expands. New developments must consider infrastructure needs while preserving farmland. I appreciate your support and ask for your vote on November 3rd, promising transparency and continued advocacy.
Fiscal Court has funded a young farmer program over the last two budget years. Do you support this? Would you expand it with additional funding or widen the qualifications to widen the scope for the applicants?
Iwahara: Farming is the foundational pillar that feeds the population and drives the rural economy. The farmland in Woodford County is precious, and the fiscal court has worked to preserve this finite treasure. I fully support the fiscal court’s funding of the Young Farmer Program. With rising inflation costs and the increase in diesel costs, this financial support is vital to a young farmer’s success. When elected, I would support expanding the program and widening the qualifications if the fiscal court budget allowed. Our farmland is precious and Woodford County farmers are a vital part of our future.
Varner: I have consistently supported the Young Farmer/New Farmer Program, aiming to create opportunities for farmers of all sizes. Recognizing the importance of selling agricultural products, I propose exploring a grain receiving facility with railroad access to enhance market opportunities. Additionally, I encourage collaboration between the Fiscal Court and Versailles City Council for a permanent home for the Woodford County Farmers Market, promoting expansions like hay auctions and local meat sales. Agriculture is vital, and investments should be practical and aligned with the needs of both young and established farmers.
Midway recently adopted a Landlord-Tenant ordinance which incorporates a Kentucky statute that provides significant protections to tenants and a non-court process to resolve disputes. Would you support the Fiscal Court adopting such an ordinance?
Iwahara: Woodford County is no exception to the affordable housing shortage. Mortgage rates and rental rates are high and many Woodford Countians are being priced out of the market. Midway recently adopted a Landlord-Tenant Ordinance. While landlords generally are not in favor of such ordinances, they can provide much-needed protection for renters. If the Woodford Fiscal Court would be inclined to adopt an ordinance, I think it would have to be mutually beneficial for both parties. If elected, I would work for a balanced rental environment where landlords and tenants feel secure and valued.
Varner: I’m open to supporting a landlord-tenant ordinance but seek clarity on its purposes and potential consequences before voting. It is essential that any ordinance is fair to both landlords and tenants and ensures safe living conditions. I propose asking the County Attorney to review the proposal for enforcement, costs, and responsibilities. We should gather feedback from landlords and tenants, using Midway’s experience as a reference. Caution is needed to prevent unintended consequences like increased rents or reduced housing availability. Ultimately, I will support the proposal if it offers meaningful protections and is implemented responsibly, backed by facts and thorough consideration.