Franklin, Kentucky · 2026
Experience. Leadership. Results. A strong record built on honest answers, affordable and responsible progress, and a City Hall that serves every neighborhood.
40+ Years
Stewart's Barbershop on the same corner
#1 in the Nation
Per capita economic development
~9,000 Jobs
Local labor force and growing
The Candidate
Wendell Stewart, the son of a small farmer and factory worker father and a home care taker mother, knows about the importance of good jobs, quality housing, public safety, and a thriving community. With his solid upbringing and as a husband and father, Wendell decided to dedicate his life to serving Franklin like his parents. He worked in a factory until he saved enough to open Stewart's Barbershop, which has been in the same location and a pillar to the community for over forty years.
After being active in many civic endeavors, Wendell decided to find a way to contribute in a different way by running for office and being honored by the citizens of Franklin electing him to City Commission. On the Commission, Wendell has fought to attract good paying jobs, to maintain responsible and controlled economic growth, to ensure housing remained good quality and affordable, and that public safety and services maintained high standards.
Recently, Wendell decided to run for mayor, because he did not want Franklin to falter from the positive growth and amicable civility that have defined this great community. With all the volatility and challenges that the current climate presents to smaller towns, Wendell believes that effective leadership and proven results are needed more than ever to maintain good job growth, affordable housing, safe streets, low taxes, a connected community, and an open door and friendly face for all of Franklin.
Honest leadership. Proven results.
Franklin, Kentucky
Decades of hands-on work and community leadership in Simpson County.
Bringing people to the same table to solve problems, not score points.
Measurable progress on streets, safety, and services — reported publicly.
The Record
Work on the City Commission has delivered real, measurable progress for Franklin.
Worked closely with the Industrial Development Board to help Franklin and Simpson County become the nation's top county for per capita economic development.
Worked to keep Franklin competitive for business and good jobs, helping grow a local labor force of nearly 9,000 workers.
Helped create a new Franklin Police Department campus, complete with a community pavilion and playground for families.
Helped develop a partnership between Franklin-Simpson High School and SKYCTC for the On Track program, creating a school-to-job pipeline for local students.
Supported major infrastructure improvements, including sewer systems, water service lines, and roads.
Consistently supported lowering property tax rates, easing the burden on working families while helping grow the revenue base that makes those cuts possible.
The Platform
Where Wendell stands, in his own words — the priorities that will guide every decision made in the Mayor's office.
Franklin and Simpson County are one community, and residents pay for it twice when their governments can't work together. Wendell will rebuild a working relationship with the Fiscal Court — starting with a durable agreement on joint planning and zoning — so growth decisions are made together instead of in court.
Large-scale projects like the proposed Steele Road data center deserve real scrutiny: what they cost us in water, power, and land, and what they actually return in jobs and revenue. Wendell will insist on clear standards, honest numbers, and public input before anything is approved.
Aging water lines, low water pressure, and fire-protection capacity are not someday problems. Wendell backs a published, prioritized schedule for water plant and line upgrades, streets, sidewalks, and drainage — so residents can see what's being fixed, when, and what it costs.
Support the small businesses on Main Street, recruit employers who pay a living wage, and partner with Franklin-Simpson schools and trade programs so our young people can build careers here at home.
Fully staffed and well-trained police, fire, and EMS, faster emergency response times, and community policing that builds trust in every neighborhood.
Encourage attainable housing for working families and seniors, address blighted properties, and invest in parks and sidewalks that make neighborhoods safe and walkable.
Plain-language budgets posted online, meetings that welcome public comment, and a mayor who returns the call. Your tax dollars, your right to see how they're spent.
After-school and summer programs, expanded senior services and transportation, and recreation facilities that give every generation a reason to stay in Franklin.
The Agenda
Publish a full audit of city finances and a public infrastructure repair list with dates attached.
Launch a small-business front door at City Hall — one office for permits, guidance, and grant help.
Break ground on prioritized street, drainage, and water projects funded without raising property taxes.
Quarterly town halls in every part of Franklin — reporting on progress in person, not just on paper.
Calendar
Wendell would love to hear your comments and concerns about making Franklin better. Together we can continue to make a difference.
Monday, August 31 · 5:30 PM – 7:30 PMSimpson County Historical Society and History Center207 N College St, Franklin, KY 42134
Come meet Wendell Stewart, ask questions, and get to know him and his vision for Franklin. Neighbors welcome — no RSVP required.
More events coming soon
Check back for town halls, neighborhood meetups, and volunteer opportunities.
Election Guide
Kentucky voters can register or check their registration online through the State Board of Elections at govote.ky.gov.
Confirm your polling location and sample ballot with the Simpson County Clerk's office before Election Day.
Kentucky offers no-excuse early in-person voting and absentee ballots for eligible voters. Deadlines are set by the county clerk.
Always confirm dates and deadlines with the Simpson County Clerk — official election information takes precedence over anything listed here.
Join In
This campaign runs on neighbors talking to neighbors. Host a meet-and-greet, put a sign in your yard, knock a few doors, or simply share what you've read here with someone who votes.
