HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – A local business owner, Desaepa Vansauwa, is one of three candidates for the Mayor of Hopkinsville who will be on the ballot for the general election in November.

Mayor James R. Knight will be surrendering the seat at the start of 2027 since he lost the May primary election to incumbent Russ Guffey. As an independent candidate, Vansauwa (I) will be up against Guffey (R) this fall, along with Markeeta Oldham Wilkerson (D).

| RELATED STORY: General election candidates set for cities across Christian County: Mayor, school board and more

Vansauwa’s candidacy announcement

Vansauwa released the following news release to establish his top priorities with his candidacy for mayor.

““Good ideas must be matched by real plans and accountable budgets,” said Desaepa Vansauwa. “I’m running to turn community requests into practical, measurable programs that make Hopkinsville safer, more connected, and economically resilient for EVERYONE.”

Public safety & safe streets: Invest in improved street lighting, traffic signals, crosswalks and sidewalks to protect pedestrians and drivers.

Accessible transit pilots: Launch phased 6- to 12-month shuttle pilots for seniors, youth and event routes with defined staffing and budget plans.

Economic support for small businesses: Expand local festivals, vendor marketplaces, microgrants and business‑development coaching to grow local enterprises.

Local food & farm linkage: Strengthen procurement and market connections so local farms reliably supply restaurants, food trucks, caterers and vendors.

Workforce development: Create paid apprenticeships, job training and youth placement programs tied to local businesses and city programs.

Infrastructure for inclusivity: Prioritize ADA ramps, benches, public restrooms and wayfinding so downtown works for all ages and abilities.

Budget transparency & accountability: Require easily accessible public reporting, measurable pilots and community oversight for new programs.

Grant‑first funding strategy: Pursue state/federal grants and public–private partnerships before creating new recurring city spending.

Reentry & equity supports: Ensure returning residents can access jobs, transit and services needed to rejoin the workforce.

Community engagement: Hold regular neighborhood listening sessions and partner with schools, nonprofits and faith groups for co‑created solutions.“

| SUBMIT YOUR NEWS: Email news releases to news@christiancountynow.com