Mayor Kevin Cotton has unveiled a proposed $123 million budget for the City of Madisonville for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting major investments in public safety, infrastructure, and community development as the city continues to grow and evolve.
At a special meeting on Monday, Mayor Cotton thanked departments, staff, and council members for their months of hard work on the budget, noting this year’s process was especially challenging due to the city’s ongoing growth, which brings additional expenses.
Cotton began with the general fund, set at about $34 million, including nearly $1 million for city streets and sidewalks and $900,000 for stormwater needs, expenses he expects to increase in the coming years.
click to download audioThe budget also funds a new fire station—Station Number 2—and a new pumper truck.
click to download audioHe added that the budget maintains full staffing and ongoing support for both the fire and police departments.
According to Cotton, the city has prioritized parks and quality of life since 2019, believing these efforts attract people to the community. He said that more than $1 million is allocated for improvements to the City Park Dams.
click to download audioHe also noted that $250,000 in grant funding has been budgeted to extend the paved walking trails by over half a mile at Mahr Park Arboretum.
The budget also supports major upgrades at Madisonville Regional Airport, equipment purchases citywide, and continued efforts to boost industry, housing, and downtown improvements.
click to download audioHe also mentioned that Legacy Spaces is renovating the old downtown library to create new apartments.
The budget continues investments in aging infrastructure, including the West Noel Interceptor, Rose Creek Road sewer extension for a new industrial park, over $1 million for wastewater plant upgrades, and funding for city departments.
click to download audioThe budget also sets aside funds for the Kentucky Sports Factory.
Mayor Cotton stated the total budget is $123 million, which includes all of the city’s enterprise funds.
Before the city clerk presented the first reading of the budget, Mayor Cotton said their goals remain unchanged and emphasized the importance of staying flexible. He added that they are excited for Madisonville’s future, and this budget reflects that optimism.
WFMW’s News Edge will share more details from the City Council meeting in the days ahead.
