Meet John Hibbard

John Hibbard is running for District 5 Magistrate in Franklin County with a proven record of service, leadership, and deep commitment to the community he calls home.

A graduate of Madison Central High School’s Class of 1993, John went on to earn a degree in Political Science from the University of Kentucky. In 2003, he began his professional career in the financial services industry with MetLife Financial Services. After gaining additional experience at JPMorgan Chase, John joined Edward Jones, where he has spent the past 18 years building a successful practice from the ground up. Today, he proudly serves hundreds of friends, family members, and neighbors, helping them plan for their futures with integrity and care.

John’s dedication to public service is rooted in the example set by his parents. His mother, Paula Hibbard, was a retired educator who devoted 36 years to teaching and shaping young lives. His father, Jack Hibbard, worked as a coal miner, instilling in John a deep respect for hard work, perseverance, and community. Both of John’s parents passed away after courageous battles with cancer, but their values continue to guide him. John often says that without their love, sacrifice, and guidance, he would not be where he is today.

An active and engaged member of the Franklin County community, John has served on the Chamber of Commerce Board and has been involved with the Franklin County Humane Society since 2015, including two years as president. He also served as a board member for LadyVet Connect, supporting veterans and their families.

Protecting animals and promoting responsible treatment has long been a priority for John. Through his leadership with the Humane Society, he worked to strengthen community partnerships, support adoption efforts, and advocate for the humane treatment of animals. As Magistrate, John is committed to ensuring that Franklin County remains a place where animals are protected, shelters are supported, and responsible ownership is encouraged.

John has also dedicated himself to mentoring young people, coaching youth football in Lexington for nine years, spending two years coaching at Bondurant Middle School, and four years coaching high school athletes at Paul Laurence Dunbar.

In 2021, John married his wife, Lisa. They share their home with three dogs—Chewy, a Shih Tzu, and two Chocolate Labs, Juno and Venus—who are a constant reminder of why service, compassion, and responsibility matter.