Gary Keener Jr. pitches industry recruitment, spec buildings and 'tight belt' fiscal approach for District 4

Gary Keener Jr., a candidate for Fayette County Council District 4, used his TV3 forum time to emphasize private-sector experience and an economic development strategy he said would protect county finances.

Keener said the state changes to property-tax rules and credits require the county to 'tighten our belt' but that Fayette County has cash on hand to manage near-term effects. He urged caution on spending, said attracting industry and creating site-ready options (spec buildings, incubator programs and available land) would be a priority to grow the tax base, and argued a well-run county government will be more attractive to site selectors.

Keener also said better budgeting and product delivery by council are key to keeping residents and retaining infrastructure investment. He asked voters for support and said he is ready to begin work on day one if elected.