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While many were understandably preoccupied with federal elections this year, local elections also bore stories worth telling. 

In particular, four individuals were voted to serve as City Commissioners. 

Following the final City Commission meeting of 2024, those voted to the position were sworn in on Wednesday, December 18. 

“[This] is an oath that [is] given to all officers within the Commonwealth,” stated 25th Judicial Circuit Court Judge David Ward, who performed the swearing-in ceremony. “We’re here for a very happy occasion.” 

This year’s four City Commissioners – who will serve on the Commission alongside Winchester Mayor JoEllen Reed – are Shannon Cox, Kitty Strode, Hannah Toole, and Joe Chenault. 

Cox and Strode are long-time members of the Commission, while Toole – another incumbent – has been elected to her second term. 

Chenault, who previously served on the Commission, returns following a two-year absence. 

He replaces Kenny Book, who served 28 non-consecutive years on the City Commission. 

“It’s exciting to me to come back and do this,” Chenault said. “I’m looking forward to it and ready to go.” 

Having worked with multiple commissioners previously – including Mayor Reed when she served as a Commissioner during former Mayor Ed Burtner’s time in office – Chenault believes his opportunity is advantageous. 

“Whatever’s on the table, I’m looking to work and get those [matters] accomplished,” he said. “Whatever the people [want] me to bring to the table, I will bring that to the table.” 

The event – which took place at City Hall at 32 Wall Street – also included the presence of Winchester officials such as City Attorney William Dykeman, City Manager Bruce Manley and City Clerk Joy Curtis. 

During the course of the ceremony, Judge Ward read aloud and had the officials repeat after him certain statements. 

“I’ll support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth and be faithful…to the Commonwealth of Kentucky so long as I continue [to be] a citizen thereof,” read Judge Ward.

Mayor Reed expressed her thoughts as the event neared its conclusion. 

“It’s a very meaningful time for all of us. We’re changing the guard a little bit, and we all look forward to working with each other in the coming year,” she said. “We need to be able to organize and work with each other and care about each other…all of us are here for one reason…and that’s to serve the people of Winchester.”