meet James
Let’s Keep Building a Better Lexington, Together
For nearly a decade, Councilmember At-Large James Brown has served Lexington with steady leadership, trusted collaboration, and a focus on results that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Appointed to the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council by Mayor Jim Gray in 2015 and elected and re-elected by voters ever since. James has built a reputation as a leader who listens, works hard, and brings people together to get things done.
Experience
Proven. Steady. Results-Driven.
“Experience matters, especially when it delivers results.”
James’ experience in grassroots advocacy and local leadership has guided his success on council. As the Chairperson of the Budget, Finance and Economic Development Committee, Brown successfully led the Council’s budget process in recent years. During his tenure as Chair, he has led policy changes to increase the city’s Affordable Housing Fund and strengthen the Economic Contingency Fund. As past Chairperson of the Planning and Public Safety Committee, he has shaped policy for public safety, planning and zoning across the city., ensuring Lexington’s growth is safe, balanced, and sustainable.
James delivers results that get the city’s business done with integrity, accountability, and results Lexington can see.
Collaboration
Building Bridges.
“The best ideas come when we work together.”
James’ strength is bringing people together, residents, neighborhoods, businesses, and city departments to find common ground and shared solutions.
From revitalizing Douglas & Charles Young Parks through partnerships that included neighbors, police, and community groups to the establishment of the city’s first Commission on Veterans Affairs, James knows collaboration creates lasting impact.
He also leads efforts to make Lexington more beautiful and welcoming as the past Chairperson of the Corridors Commission and continues his community involvement on the Boards of Salvation Army, the Convention & Visitors Bureau, LexArts and various other groups.
James believes real progress happens when everyone has a seat at the table.
Forward-Thinking Leadership
Preparing Lexington for the Future.
“A great city plans ahead and builds opportunities for all.”
James understands that Lexington’s future depends on smart planning and inclusive growth. That’s why he’s been a consistent voice for balanced development, building strong neighborhoods, and creating opportunities that lift every resident.
From his early days volunteering with Fayette County Public Schools and leading local PTAs to his current service on City Council, James has always looked ahead, working to make Lexington a city where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and communities can feel connected.
He continues to focus on issues that strengthen Lexington for generations to come through public safety initiatives, expanding housing availability, improving infrastructure, and supporting economic opportunities.
Meet James
A lifelong Lexingtonian and graduate of Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, James is proud to call this city home. He and his wife of 30 years, Charmayne, have three adult children: James Jr., Maya, and Tre. In addition to his public service, James is a full-time real estate professional who understands Lexington’s neighborhoods inside and out.