Marshall Councilwoman Reba Godfrey Seeks Reelection as Opponent Faces Disqualification
Marshall, KY — District 5 Marshall Councilwoman Reba Godfrey is urgently campaigning for another term on the city council after her sole opponent was disqualified from the ballot due to a Class B misdemeanor conviction, city officials confirmed.
Godfrey, a longtime local with 72 years residency and a retired educator, describes her role as a ministry dedicated to serving the people of Marshall—not politics. “It’s my ministry, and that’s what my term in office has been,” she said in a recent interview. “It’s boots-on-the-ground,” she stressed, highlighting her hands-on leadership approach alongside her husband, Willard.
Her opponent, Candance Pierce, was removed from eligibility after the ballots were printed, meaning even if Pierce received votes, she could not assume office, city officials clarified. Godfrey warned a Pierce victory would cause a vacancy in the seat, underscoring the importance of voters electing a qualified candidate.
Key Achievements Drive Godfrey’s Push for Reelection
Since first winning the seat in 2022, Godfrey has led initiatives aimed at improving city infrastructure and employee welfare. She championed a 4% across-the-board raise for all city employees in the 2025 fiscal year budget, advocating originally for a 5% increase to offset inflation and rising living costs.
“I love seeing God open the purse strings,” Godfrey remarked, pointing to the new certification training pay she fought for, ensuring city workers received compensation tied to their skill development. “It’s all about the people,” she emphasized.
Godfrey also spearheaded the installation of LED streetlights in District 5, the first such upgrade in Marshall, which have now been adopted citywide after other council members sought to replicate the initiative. “That was my first accomplishment,” she said.
She is actively advocating improvements to recreational spaces, including renovation efforts at Smith Park, where she recalled playing as a child over seven decades ago. Her work extends beyond District 5, impacting the entire city with initiatives targeting illegal dumping, road repairs, and addressing long-neglected water system issues.
Water System and Infrastructure Focus Highlighted
Godfrey has been a vocal advocate for upgrades to Marshall’s aging water infrastructure. She toured the wastewater treatment plant when the city sought $22 million from the Texas Water Development Board to fund vital improvements. She predicted system failures before a major water outage on Spring Street left the city without water for days.
“Some parts of the water system date back to 1948 and 1950,” Godfrey said, pointing out the urgent need for modernization. Following a pump failure in a raw water treatment plant in September 2024, she collaborated closely with city officials to assess and push for repairs.
Teamwork and Unity Define Council Work
Godfrey expressed pride in the collaborative spirit of the current City Council, highlighting unprecedented unity and positive atmosphere. “At City Hall, we hug. There is love, there is unity,” she reflected, crediting divine influence for the shift in the city’s political climate.
As election day approaches, Godfrey is calling on voters to continue backing her vision of steady progress and compassionate governance. She underscored that although she represents District 5, her responsibility extends to supporting all citizens of Marshall.
What Happens Next: With her opponent disqualified, Godfrey is positioned as the clear frontrunner in the upcoming election. Should she win, Marshall stands to see continued focus on infrastructure modernization, employee support, and community revitalization. If voters fail to reelect her, the District 5 seat could become vacant, complicating city council operations.
The 2026 election will determine if Godfrey’s ministry-driven approach remains at the forefront of Marshall’s local government, driving urgent improvements in infrastructure and city services crucial for residents facing inflation and outdated public utilities.
