Challenger calls on embattled Lexington Councilwoman Brenda Monarrez to resign
Emma Curtis, who is challenging incumbent Lexington-Fayette Urban County Councilwoman Brenda Monarrez in the Nov. 5 general election, called on the embattled council member to resign this week.
“Brenda Monarrez has had her day in court and the court has determined that she sexually assaulted one of her fellow council members multiple times,” Curtis said. “As a result of her actions, the court has banned her from coming within 500 feet of Council Chambers for at least 3 years.”
Curtis said Monarrez can’t enter the city government center until 2027 and can’t fulfill her duties to the constituents of the 4th Council District, which includes neighborhoods south of New Circle Road between Nicholasville and Tates Creek roads.
“Ms. Monarrez is no longer legally allowed to fulfill even the most basic responsibilities that come with being a council member,” Curtis said. “She will not be legally able to do so until 2027 at the earliest. If she cares at all about the people she was elected to represent, she will decide to do the right thing—leave office and end her reelection bid.”
Monarrez said she has no intention of resigning.
“I have done nothing wrong and have absolutely no intention of resigning.”
Fayette Circuit Judge Traci Brislin ruled Wednesday Monarrez sexually assaulted Councilwoman Denise Gray twice over a three-year span. Brislin granted Gray a three-year permanent protection order, barring Monarrez from contacting Gray.
She cannot be within 500 feet of Gray’s home and the city government center, where both women work.
Monarrez has repeatedly denied the allegations. Edward Cooley, her attorney, said after Wednesday’s hearing they are considering appealing the decision.
Monarrez has attended council meetings virtually since a temporary protection order was granted Aug. 20.
A Lexington police lieutenant testified Wednesday a criminal investigation is ongoing. No criminal charges have been filed to date.
Monarrez has served in the position since January 2023. The race is nonpartisan.
Monarrez, 52, a former small-business owner, came in first during the three-way May primary, receiving 48% of the vote. Curtis, 28, an independent filmmaker, came in second with 30%.
Brack Marquette, who ran in 2022 against Monarrez, came in third. The top two vote-getters move on to the November general election.
Monarrez is the first person of Latin American descent on the council. If elected, Curtis will be the first transgender person to be elected to council.
This story was originally published October 18, 2024 at 12:18 PM.
