As we enter 2026, WFMW’s News Edge is revisiting the top local stories from 2025, starting with the highlights from the first quarter, January through March.
In January, the Hopkins County Regional Chamber of Commerce welcomed Karen Solise as its new president.
Chamber officials highlighted Solise’s background in education, noting that her experience brings a unique perspective for supporting a thriving community. They cited her strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities as valuable assets. Officials also praised Solise’s can-do attitude and enthusiasm for the community as what truly sets her apart.
The United Way of the Coalfield hosted its first Community Impact Award Celebration at Madisonville Community College, honoring individuals who have made a difference in Caldwell, Hopkins, and Muhlenberg counties.
Dr. Ann Love of Madisonville Community College presented the award to Peyton Adams of Hopkins County, a retired environmental specialist and dedicated community member known for always being prepared.
click to download audioGovernor Andy Beshear appointed Dr. Andy Belcher, assistant superintendent and transportation director for the Hopkins County Board of Education, to the Murray State University Board of Regents, succeeding Virginia Gray, whose term had expired.
In February, severe flooding in Hopkins County led to several road closures and prompted evacuations in one community, according to Emergency Management Director Nick Bailey.
click to download audioMayor Kevin Cotton was featured as a leading voice from Kentucky in a new educational video produced by Dependable Power First Kentucky, a statewide coalition promoting reliable and affordable energy.
In the video, Mayor Cotton emphasized that reliable energy is essential for community safety and quality of life, adding that without it, the country cannot meet its production needs.
February also marked a historic milestone in Madisonville as the first Western Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Basic Training class began in-person sessions at the Madisonville campus
.Madisonville Police Chief Steve Bryan told the City Council that the inaugural training class included 24 recruits.
click to download audioThe Hopkins County Board of Education began its search for a new superintendent after Amy Smith announced her June retirement, approving a contract with Kentucky School Leadership Associates. The search concluded in May with the appointment of Dr. Damon Fleming, the district’s assistant superintendent.
In February, Kentucky Sports Factory General Manager Brett Roddy updated the Madisonville City Council on the new facility’s progress, noting that since opening on January 15, around 2,000 daily passes had been sold, generating $13,771 in revenue.
click to download audioFollowing his report, Council Chairman Frank Stevenson said that it’s a promising beginning for the facility’s future.
In March, the community and Hopkins County Schools officials gathered for the groundbreaking of the new Central Office at 2125 North Main Street, a property acquired by the Board, which had been operating out of the former Madisonville High School, built in 1922.
GE Aerospace announced plans to invest nearly $1 billion in its U.S. factories, including $200 million dedicated to military engine production at its Madisonville, Kentucky and Lynn, Massachusetts sites. This investment will support gearing up for the new T901 Black Hawk and Apache helicopter engine, as well as continued production of other military engines.
The company also revealed plans to hire approximately 5,000 U.S. workers this year, expanding both manufacturing and engineering positions.
At the State of the Cities and County Address in March, Mayor Kevin Cotton and Judge-Executive Jack Whitfield highlighted the economic growth in Madisonville and Hopkins County. They celebrated key projects such as the Build Ready Site across from the GE Aerospace facility and the West Noel Interceptor Plant, which will provide capacity for new industries.
Mayor Cotton also pointed out that a 72-acre lot, owned by economic development, is expected to attract additional businesses and industries to the area.
click to download audioThey also discussed the other developments, such as the new sheriff’s office, the new Hopkins County Cooperative Extension Office, and multiple new businesses opening in Madisonville.
WFMW will have the top stories for the second quarter of 2025 on Tuesday.
