The Hernando Board of Aldermen rejected a proposal to rename a city street after the late Charlie Kirk on Tuesday night.
During the board meeting, Ward 5 Alderman Kit Kitchens urged his colleagues to support renaming a portion of Green T Road West in honor of Kirk, as he had promised to do last week. Kirk, a conservative influencer and Turning Point USA founder, is believed to have been shot to death by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson at a speaking event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10.
“Many people feel personally connected to Charlie Kirk in this community, and he has affected many people in this community’s lives in a positive way,” Kitchens said. “I think it would be worthwhile to name this street in his honor.”
Before considering the proposal, the board heard from members of the public who attended the meeting and even read messages residents had addressed to city leaders regarding the prospect of a street bearing Kirk’s name. Some heralded Kirk as a champion for free speech and a powerful voice, especially among young people, while others deemed him a controversial figure who espoused questionable opinions — especially on topics of race and LGBTQ+ rights.
Some called on the city’s legislative body to consider renaming a street after a local hero instead of Kirk, who had no affiliation with DeSoto County. One resident specifically referenced the late Marine Corporal Joshua Ose as a viable figure to name a street after. That sentiment was echoed by others. Ose died at the age of 19 in 2010 while serving overseas in Operation Enduring Freedom.
Some of the aldermen expressed concerns about the timing of the proposal, citing a politically charged environment and a desire not to stoke any unnecessary flames. According to Alderman at Large Lauren McLendon, roughly two-thirds of those who either showed up to the board meeting or addressed city officials through a different medium opposed Kitchens’ proposal.
“We would be naive to think the decisions we make up here don’t have ripple effects,” McLendon said. “Making a decision on this street will have ripple effects.”
The board also rejected a proposal to table the motion to rename a city street in Kirk’s honor, electing to put the matter to rest.
