Following Winter Storm Fern, Lexington residents took to social media to question why Mayor Linda Gorton's street appeared cleared of snow. A post on the r/lexington subreddit sparked debate, showing a plowed Beechmont Road. The city's snow removal plan prioritizes streets by traffic volume, often leaving neighborhood roads with lower priority.

City spokesperson Susan Straub denied preferential treatment, stating the mayor never requested special service. Gorton is currently not residing on that street. The city's snow removal map designates Beechmont Road as a rank 4 street, a lower priority. Frustration over the city's response to the storm has led to criticism from residents and political candidates.

Mayor Gorton has acknowledged issues with the city's snow and ice removal plan, signaling a need for review. She is seeking a third term as mayor. The city invested more resources into winter storm response after Winter Storm Blair in 2025. Straub criticized the reporting as "low, gutter-level journalism."

This incident highlights public scrutiny of city services during severe weather events. The situation underscores the importance of transparent and equitable resource allocation. The ongoing discussion reflects wider concerns about accountability and fairness in local government, especially during times of crisis. What happens next depends on how the city responds.