City of Lexington strengthens leadership team with staffing changes

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ/Press Release) – Lexington’s latest top-level staffing changes look to boost the city’s leadership team. Chris Ford is now the Commissioner of General Services and Kacy Allen-Bryant is the new Commissioner of Social Services.

“Our city’s strong leadership team is now even stronger,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Both of these people already have tremendous records of service to our community, and are proven leaders.”

Both commissioners served as members or gave oversight for the Mayor’s Commission for Racial Justice and Equality.

Ford used to be on the Urban County Council and was named Commissioner of Social Services in 2015.

“During his time in Social Services, Chris has helped the City reach out to those who are most in need of help. He has carefully managed our limited resources,” Gorton said.

As Commissioner of General Services, Ford will work with Parks and Recreation. He strongly believes in neighborhood engagement and positive youth development, as seen in his volunteer work as a youth sports coach.

Ford also played varsity football at the University of Kentucky where he got his bachelor’s degree. He earned a master’s degree in Public Administration from Western Kentucky University.

“I am honored by Mayor Gorton’s appointment to serve as Commissioner of General Services, and truly appreciate her confidence during my time leading Social Services,” Ford said. “My diverse experiences at the City have allowed me to be a part of some amazing teams. I look forward to continue building partnerships for operational efficiency and responsiveness in General Services.”

Ford and his wife, Talesha, have four sons.

Allen-Bryant will bring her expertise as a nurse and a lecturer at the University of Kentucky College of Nursing. She received her master’s degrees in nursing and public health from the institution as well.

“Health-related concerns are some of the most pressing challenges we face in Social Services right now,” Gorton stated. “Kacy’s experience as a nurse and as chair of the Board of Health will be invaluable to the City.”

“I want to thank Mayor Gorton for appointing me as the new Commissioner of Social Services. It is truly humbling to be entrusted with such an important position. To this role I will bring my years of public health nursing experience, which includes leadership, community engagement, and the uniqueness of nursing and our approach of holistic care,” shared Allen-Bryant.

Allen-Bryant and her husband, Brad, have two children.

The council confirmed the appointments on June 24 and they went into effect July 5.