Integrity in Public Service — and a Call for Strong Local Leadership
By Jeff Jobe, Community Publisher
Jobe Publishing Inc.
Candidates with integrity—and genuine respect for the office they hold—do something too often forgotten in modern politics: they notify voters of their intentions before filing deadlines close. It is a small act on the surface, but a powerful one for transparency, fairness, and community trust.
A true example of this is Barren County Sheriff Kent Keen.
Keen made it known early that he will retire at the end of this election cycle. As a community publisher, I commend him for this professionalism. Over the years, I have witnessed situations where an elected official steps down mid-term, allowing an assistant or political insider to be appointed—or allows the filing deadline to lapse without letting potential good candidates know a vacancy is coming. These actions limit competition and ultimately rob voters of choice.
Sheriff Keen chose a better path.
By announcing his retirement before filing deadlines, he ensured that anyone interested in serving the community had a fair opportunity to step forward. He is also allowing for a smooth, stable transition to the next sheriff, avoiding the confusion and political maneuvering that so often surrounds leadership changes.
Signs of Change Ahead in Glasgow — and What Strong Leadership Looks Like
In my world of local news, I often hear rumors and work hard to confirm them. I seldom use unnamed sources—and certainly would never do so to harm any individual. However, sources close to the Glasgow City Council have indicated that at least one, and possibly more, council members may not seek re-election.
Potential candidates should understand something important about our city government structure: with nine elected council seats, a newcomer only has to finish in the top nine to be elected. This means opportunities for serious, qualified individuals are wide open.
And without question, the City of Glasgow needs candidates who have a proven record of success—individuals who have built a career or business through their own hard work and sound judgment.
Those paying attention to the Glasgow City Council will know that strong, elected leaders are often too timid to speak up in the current environment. Strong leaders won’t be pushed. Strong leaders won’t be threatened. And strong leaders respect other opinions.
We need more strong leaders.
Why Glasgow Needs These Leaders Now
Glasgow is increasingly becoming a bedroom community of Warren County. With national and state incentives accelerating industrial development across the region, our future will be shaped by decisions made today. We need leaders who understand growth, who recognize both its opportunities and its challenges, and who are prepared to guide our city with steady, informed leadership.
The reality is simple:
Glasgow desperately needs candidates capable of moving us forward—not placeholders, not political opportunists, but proven doers.
These council roles are part-time, and I am confident they can be balanced with a family or business life by a true leader. Serving on the council is work, yes—but it is meaningful work, and it matters now more than ever.
Sheriff Kent Keen’s example of transparency and professionalism should be the model. And with potential openings on the Glasgow City Council, now is the time for strong, capable community members to step up and serve.
