Candidate Questionnaire
What is your name: Lesley (Les) Jenkins-Mackey
What office are you seeking? Henderson County Judge/Executive
What is your age: 25
Please provide family background. I am married to Harrison Jenkins-Mackey. My parents are David and Diana Mackey, and my in-laws are Josh and Becky Jenkins. We also have two cats, Ginger and Gus, who definitely keep life entertaining.
What is your educational background? I completed the Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program and graduated from Apollo High School in Owensboro. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Occupational Science from Eastern Kentucky University and later completed my Master of Business Administration from Fort Hays State University.
Have you been elected to a political office previously? I have not previously been elected to public office.
What is your professional background? Currently, I serve as a Project Manager for ProspectCloud, a market research firm based in Miami-Fort Lauderdale area. Previously, I worked in the graduate office at Fort Hays State University, where I served on the university’s budget committee and was active in the local chamber on behalf of the Office of the President.
Since returning home, I have become involved with the local chamber on behalf of Thompson’s Barbecue. I also coach and support cross country and track initiaties within Henderson County.
In addition, I have served on the Inner City Improvement Plan committee. Last year, I participated on the Youth Engagement and Enrichment Committee, and I expect to serve on the health committee during the upcoming cycle.
Why are you running for office? I am running because I believe Henderson County benefits from steady, thoughtful leadership focused on practical
solutions. Through my education, professional experience, and community involvement, I have developed a strong foundation in accountability, collaboration, and public service.
After returning home, I intentionally invested my time and energy into this community, and I am ready to step forward to help guide responsible growth while serving in the public interest.
If elected to office, what would be your top three goals?
1. Promote responsible and community-conscious growth. I want to support economic development while also being mindful of how projects impact residents and neighborhoods. Growth is important, but we should also consider quality of life for the people already living here by protecting residential areas, investing in landscaping and buffers where appropriate, and ensuring community voices are heard throughout the process.
2. Preserve and enhance Henderson County’s natural assets. I would like to see continued investment in parks, trails, outdoor recreation, and green spaces throughout the county. As a cross country coach and long distance runner, I value accessible outdoor spaces and believe improving these amenities benefits both quality of life and community wellness.
3. Increase transparency and communication in local government. I believe local government should over-communicate rather than under-communicate. I would like to improve how residents receive information about county services, meetings, and opportunities for involvement. Simple ideas, such as welcome packets for new utility customers, text alert systems, and clearer communication channels, can help residents feel more connected and informed.
Why should people vote for you? I believe I bring a balanced and practical approach rooted in listening, respect, and collaboration. I regularly attend community meetings across a wide range of organizations and viewpoints
because I believe effective leadership starts with listening to people and understanding their concerns.
My goal is to represent all residents of Henderson County, not just one group or perspective. I believe we can disagree respectfully while still working together toward solutions that strengthen our community. I want to help build a future focused on thoughtful decision-making, community engagement, and maintaining the strong sense of connection that makes Henderson County special.
Please feel free to add an additional comment. Regardless of the outcome of this election, I hope we continue building a community that values respectful dialogue, local engagement, and working together for the future of Henderson County.
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