Voices of Kentucky Leadership: Live from the KLC Annual Conference

Episode 242 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

When hundreds of Kentucky’s city leaders came together for the Kentucky League of Cities Annual Conference, the energy in the room was unmistakable. Mayors, clerks, and administrators gathered not just for sessions and speeches, but to connect, share stories, and remind each other why local government matters.

Following my opening keynote session, I sat down at the recording table to capture a few of those stories firsthand. What emerged were four short but powerful conversations; snapshots of the heart, grit, and commitment it takes to serve in local government.

• Mayor Robb Adams (Carrollton, KY) – A former paramedic and firefighter who now leads a small Ohio River community, reflecting on what it means to serve both in crisis and in city hall.
• Ashley Jackson (Bowling Green, KY) – A city clerk who has dedicated nearly two decades to her community, now leading the Kentucky Municipal Clerks Association and advocating for the vital but often overlooked role of clerks.
• Brian Traugott (Versailles, KY / KLC) – After more than a decade as mayor, he’s now serving cities statewide as KLC’s Chief Member Services Officer, bringing both practical experience and passion for public service.
• Kathy Walker (Nicholasville, KY) – From her early days in the police department to serving as city clerk in one of Kentucky’s fastest-growing cities, she shares what long-term dedication to community looks like.

These aren’t long-form interviews; they’re moments. Glimpses of the people behind the titles. But together, they paint a powerful picture: local government leadership isn’t about prestige. It’s about showing up, day after day, for the people you serve.

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Show Some Love to Our Sponsor — Tyler Technologies

We’re also proud to be sponsored by Tyler Technologies, a leader in empowering the public sector with software solutions that connect data, streamline operations, and improve service delivery. From civic services to public safety, Tyler helps local governments build stronger, more resilient communities. Learn more at tylertech.com →

The HaltingWinter Podcast celebrates and elevates the people who power local government. Through in-depth conversations with leaders from cities, counties, and communities of all sizes, host Seth Winterhalter explores the journeys, challenges, and innovations happening in municipal leadership across America.