Councilmember Denise Gray resigns from office

On Wednesday, July 23rd, 6th District Councilmember Denise Gray announced that she will be resigning from her office effective July 31st. Gray shared that she will be moving to Milwaukee to serve as the Executive Director of Nia Imani Family, Inc., a transitional housing organization for women and families in need.

On top of her career transition, Councilmember Gray cited media coverage of her sexual assault allegations against former 4th District Councilmember Brenda Monarrez as another reason for her decision to resign.

Since she was granted an interpersonal protective order against Monarrez, Councilmember Gray has been a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual assault. In April of 2025, Gray brought the City's Domestic and Sexual Violence Prevention Coalition and Fayette County Sheriff Kathy Witt to the Social Services and Public Safety Committee to share resources they have available for survivors.

Councilmember Gray was first elected to the 6th District Council seat in 2022 and is currently in her second term. During her time in Council she has helped lead the passage changes to Lexington's Code Enforcement policies, the CROWN Act that protects Lexington residents from hair-based discrimination, and the expansion of the Urban Service Area.

Once Gray leaves office on July 31st, Mayor Linda Gorton will have 30 days to nominate a 6th District resident to finish Gray's term. Council does not have to vote to approve the nominee; but if Council chooses to reject the nominee, they must vote to reject within 15 days of the appointment.

Councilmember Gray has endorsed Christian Wellmann to be her replacement on Council. Wellmann is a Business Representative for Central Midwest Carpenters and a member of the Carpenters Local 1650 labor union. She featured him on her Facebook page as part of a 6th District Spotlight post.

CORRECTION: The original piece stated that Council had to vote to approve the nominee. The article has been update to accurately reflect Council's role in the appointment process.