Name: James Franks
Party: Republican
Age: 38
Education: HCC- High School Equivalency Diploma; Dale Carnegie – Sales Advantage; Effective Communications & Human Relations; KCTCS – Kentucky Fire Commission – Kentucky Basic 1 Certification.
Health & Safety Institute (HSI) – Trainer Certification: Adult First Aid, Pediatric First Aid, CPR/AED All Ages, Wilderness First Aid (WFA), Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP), Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS), Use and Administration of Epinephrine Auto Injectors (EAI), Oxygen, Stop Life Threatening Bleeding.
Experience: I have20 years of experience in the commercial inspection and restoration industry, specializing in storage tanks. I spent the first 10 years of my career working across this great country overseeing and managing various projects. Over the last decade, I have transitioned into a more consistent administrative role, which has allowed me to grow into a stronger and more dedicated public servant. I became a volunteer firefighter after a serious accident involving my daughter and sister, which made me realize how vital volunteer responders are to our county.
In short, I do not have any political experience and do not consider myself a politician. I am a blue-collar individual who feels called to advocate for meaningful changes in Henderson County. I am a public servant, and I have been one for years.
Current Occupation: President & CEO of Complete Restoration, LLC since 2013
Family: Wife: Kelli; Three daughters: Katelyn, Gracie, Kailyn; Two grandchildren: Chaselyn and Hudson
Why did you decide to run for this office?
I believe Henderson County cannot afford another four years without a firm and unwavering effort to protect public safety concerns from “green energy projects” and the core agricultural community Henderson has been built upon.
As a volunteer firefighter, I participated in a training session led by a State EPA representative outlining the dangers of commercial-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). We learned that, in the event of a fire, our communities are powerless to extinguish these systems or protect citizens from potential toxic plumes. Several local officials were present and voiced concern, even making promises to prevent such projects from entering Henderson County. Yet since then, only one ordinance has been put in place regarding “green energy,” which I believe is inadequate and potentially the deadliest.
BESS systems and other renewable energy projects are being proposed across our county, and if allowed, they could permanently alter our landscape with little to no benefit for residents. We are under attack by large power companies chasing government subsidies—and once those subsidies disappear, so will these companies, leaving our community to deal with the consequences.
I am committed to protecting our county’s agricultural roots and ensuring my grandchildren can enjoy Henderson County without risk to their mental or physical health. I also believe that no one should face property devaluation or damage caused by industrial projects placed in once-agricultural or residential areas without proper safeguards and concessions for neighbors. Voting for me is a stand to defend our agricultural heritage, our health, and our property rights. I am highly accessible to my community and deeply committed to serving and protecting every resident.
Why do you believe you are the best choice for this seat?
While being Magistrate of District 2 does not give me the power to solve every problem, it does give me a vote—a vote I will use to protect our community, defend property rights, and safeguard the future of our children. I am highly accessible to my community, deeply committed to service, and ready to fight for Henderson County every day.
What are your top priorities for the next term, if elected?
- Prohibit Commercial-Scale Wind Projects
Implement a prohibition on commercial-scale wind projects.
Address concerns regarding safety, environmental impact, and community acceptance.
- Cap Commercial Solar Projects
Limit the expansion of solar developments to protect community landscapes and resources.
Implement a prohibition on further commercial-scale solar projects.
Launch a panel of individuals from various aspects of the community to study effects of the solar on infrastructure, wildlife, and environmental concerns.
- Prohibit Commercial-Scale Lithium-Ion Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Implement a prohibition on commercial-scale B.E.S.S. systems.
Address concerns regarding safety, environmental impact, and community acceptance.
- Collaborate with Henderson County Water Officials
Focus on resolving existing water infrastructure issues.
Develop sustainable water management practices to support community needs.
- Strengthen Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Enhance funding, resources, and training for countywide FIRE and EMS services, strengthening public safety.
- Fix Radio Communication Dead Zones
Work on improving communication infrastructure to enhance safety and coordination among emergency services.
A final brief statement to support your candidacy.
My candidacy for this position is not something I take lightly. It is essential that our community chooses strong, unwavering representation for the pending issues like wind turbines, BESS systems and additional solar fields. Make no mistake: we are under attack from large power companies seeking to take advantage of our weak and undefined ordinances. The government subsidies for solar projects in Henderson County have already had a devastating impact. Have you driven through Robards, KY?
Voting for me is not a vote for a politician, it is a vote for a father and grandfather who wants his children and grandchildren to enjoy our beautiful county for generations to come. If you give me your support and vote to become the new Magistrate of District 2. I will remain steadfast in protecting public safety and defending your property rights throughout my term. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community!