The Owensboro Mayor and City Commissioners have outlined their goals and aspirations for 2025, emphasizing economic development, public safety, and collaboration among City and County entities.
Mayor Tom Watson highlighted public safety and fiscal responsibility as top priorities.
“The number one priority for elected officials is public safety,” Watson said.
He noted progress in recent years, including the police department’s training facility and the new fire training facility. Watson also stressed the importance of maintaining a balanced budget, emphasizing that the City was $17.5 million short when he initially took office.
Watson said land acquisition remains a challenge for the city, given geographic limitations such as the Ohio River to the north and floodplains to the south. He said annexation is crucial for future growth but should be consensual.
“We want to do consensual annexation when possible. We don’t want to drag somebody in that doesn’t want to be in the city,” he said.
Commissioner Jeff Sanford, returning after time away from the board, emphasized the need for industrial growth and community beautification.
“One of the major things I ran on was the industrial park and bringing in jobs. If you don’t have anywhere to put somebody, they’re not going to look at you,” Sanford said.
He stressed the importance of improving Owensboro’s entrances for better first impressions, comparing it to real estate curb appeal. Sanford also highlighted homelessness as a pressing issue.
“There’s a lot of mental illness and drug problems out there. We need to help people, but they have to want help,” he said, adding that the city cannot support an influx of people from outside the area seeking services.
Newly elected Commissioner Curtis Maglinger expressed enthusiasm about his first term and collaboration with fellow City leaders.
“I’m excited to work with the Commissioners and the Mayor. I’m going to be asking questions and listening as much as I can,” Maglinger said.
His focus areas include workforce development, particularly partnerships with schools and colleges to retain local graduates. Maglinger also emphasized the importance of continuing downtown development and expanding affordable housing.
“The downtown area has made great strides, but I want to see more affordable housing and vacancies filled,” he said, adding that the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum remains a vital cultural asset.
Commissioner Bob Glenn is focused on expanding residential options downtown and addressing homelessness.
“We need to accelerate the growth of the residential component of downtown Owensboro while also providing affordable housing,” Glenn said.
He expressed concerns about the abandoned youth drug treatment center on KY 54, calling it a hazard that needs immediate attention. Glenn also stressed the need for City-County collaboration on projects such as the Senior Center and beautification initiatives.
“We need to work together to present a cleaner community. Trash and litter create a negative impression, especially when we’re trying to attract visitors and businesses,” he said.
Commissioner Sharon NeSmith emphasized collaboration and the importance of an efficient city government.
“I tried to research what people want, and the common themes were safety, workability, and efficient government response,” she said.
NeSmith highlighted the need for more neighborhood-level economic development and strategies to reduce homelessness through community engagement and business growth. She also mentioned the importance of sustainability planning for emergencies and stronger transportation options.
“We need to investigate how prepared we are for potential crises and ensure reliable transit options for all residents, even during inclement weather,” she said.
The elected officials collectively expressed a commitment to economic growth, public safety, and collaboration while addressing key challenges like homelessness, affordable housing, and land availability.
