At the State of the Cities and County Address last week, Mayor Kevin Cotton and Judge-Executive Jack Whitfield celebrated Madisonville and Hopkins County’s economic growth, crediting Bill Rudd’s pivotal role in these advancements.
Judge Whitfield and Mayor Cotton praised Rudd, president of Madisonville-Hopkins County Economic Development, and Kelly Forbes, executive director, operations & communications, as the key figures behind the local economic development. One of those projects, Whitfield said, was the Build Ready Site across from the GE Aerospace facility, a project enabled by state grants.
click to download audioWhitfield commended Mayor Cotton and the city’s amazing efforts in attracting retail businesses, emphasizing that such groundwork is essential for drawing in larger industries. He noted that industry and retail must work in tandem, with Rudd playing a crucial role in driving economic development.
Mayor Cotton remarked that Rudd has successfully transformed economic development throughout Hopkins County.
He highlighted that the city successfully secured a KPDI grant that helped with the West Noel Interceptor Plant, increasing capacity to support new industries. Additionally, he noted another grant was obtained for a 72-acre lot owned by economic development, further attracting businesses and industries.
click to download audioWhitfield also discussed other developments, such as the new sheriff’s office, which is currently situated just a block away from the Madisonville Police Department.
click to download audioBoth leaders emphasized that economic development relies on essential infrastructure, including water, sewer, broadband, and safety to support growth across the community.
click to download audioMayor Cotton and Judge Whitfield also touched on the quality of life initiatives, such as the new extension office. WFMW’s News Edge will have more details in the coming days.
To view pictures from the event, click here.
