VERSAILLES, Ky. — The City of Versailles has a new mayor after 11 years. Former Mayor Brian Traugott stepped down in September and sitting councilwoman Laura Dake was named his replacement by Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky. 

What You Need To Know

  • Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky., selected sitting councilwoman Laura Dake as new mayor of Versailles 

  • Dake replaces former Mayor Brian Traugott, who resigned in September after 11 years 

  • Dake has served on the city council for eight years and has called the community home since 1992 

  • Some goals Dake said she has are continuing economic investment in the city and addressing a housing gap

Dake has called Versailles home since 1992. She's served on the city council for the past eight years. 

“Apart from my family, being on city council has been the greatest joy of my life," Dake said.

Beshear chose Dake after the city council could not come to a consensus for a replacement in October. She will serve the remainder of Traugott’s term, which ends in 2026.

“I hope people find me positive, with some vision, approachable and that I do care," Dake said.

Dake said some goals she has for her time in office are continuing economic development, keeping downtown vibrant and alleviating the housing shortage through a manufactured homes pilot program.

“Within the next couple of weeks or so, we will open it to the public to view and get people comfortable with the idea of a factory-built home in Versailles," Dake said. "It's lovely on the outside and lovely on the inside, and we’re excited about exploring that as a possibility." 

Dake was sworn into office Monday by Woodford County Judge Executive James Kay. After winning reelection to her council seat in November's election, city council will select someone to serve her position through 2026.

She said it's an honor and a privilege to serve her hometown. 

“I love this community; I raised three children here," Dake said. "It is my home." 

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