Lexington mayor outlines growth, safety gains and future investments in state of the city addressLEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton used her annual State of the City and County address Thursday to reflect on what she says is a year of progress — and to lay out where the city is headed next, focusing on economic growth, public safety, housing and long-term infrastructure. City officials say Fayette County hit a record high for employment last year, with more than 171,000 people working locally. Public safety was another major theme. Gorton closed by praising Lexington residents for their community spirit, highlighting a food drive that collected more than 105,000 pounds of donations for God’s Pantry Food Bank in just one month. “Lexington’s people have always been our secret strength,” the mayor said, emphasizing collaboration as the city plans for continued growth.