Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson and Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen highlighted the city’s and county’s growth and achievements in 2024 while also outlining plans for 2025 during the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Rooster Booster on Thursday morning.
Watson emphasized the city’s economic progress, public safety investments, and community development initiatives. He cited the groundbreaking of the 88,000-square-foot indoor sports facility downtown, which will open in 2026 next to a new hotel and parking garage. The facility aims to attract athletes and visitors from across the region, further boosting tourism and the local economy.
“Owensboro continues to grow and thrive, and these investments are positioning our city for long-term success,” Watson said.
The mayor celebrated multiple infrastructure milestones, including reopening the renovated Cravens Pool, a completed irrigation project at Ben Hawes Golf Course, and the dedication of the Bill Thompson Courts at the Tennis Complex. Additionally, the Community Development Department completed over 300 projects as part of the Riverview NRSA initiative, with plans to revitalize the Monarch NRSA next.
Public safety was another key focus for Watson, who highlighted the $30 million Operation Firehouse Initiative, which includes a new fire training facility and multiple station upgrades. The Owensboro Police Department also graduated its first class from the OPD Basic Training Academy in 2024, and a second class will begin soon.
The city’s financial health also saw positive trends. The general fund balance increased by $7.6 million, largely due to federal ARPA funds, with record revenues from occupational and net profit license fees.
Meanwhile, Castlen echoed the city’s growth while emphasizing county-level developments. He noted that nearly 100 new fire hydrants have been added across Daviess County, with 20 already installed, thanks to a partnership with local water districts.
“It’s a privilege to serve this community. We’re committed to making Daviess County a better place for everyone, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together,” Castlen said.
The Daviess County Sheriff’s Office expanded its capabilities in 2024, introducing body-worn cameras, a new drug unit, and enhanced digital forensics technology. Castlen also highlighted a voter turnout of 60% in the recent general election and the successful implementation of the KAVIS vehicle registration system.
Community improvements extended to parks and public spaces, with updated restrooms and picnic shelters at Yellow Creek and Panther Creek parks. Additionally, a groundbreaking was held for a new Habitat for Humanity neighborhood development at Carter Community Court.
Looking ahead to 2025, Watson and Castlen emphasized continued economic momentum. Both highlighted major business investments, including Mizkan’s $156 million expansion, which added 44 jobs, and Swedish Match’s $232 million investment, which created 450 jobs.
The city also approved 993 new businesses in 2024 and is working on a new entrepreneurial hub, The Landing, which will offer co-working spaces and offices downtown.
Both leaders concluded by expressing optimism about the future.
“We’re too big to be little and too little to be big,” Watson said. “Every step we take shows that Owensboro’s best days are ahead of us.”
Castlen announced plans to expand the county’s “Trash for Cash” program and continue promoting community cleanliness initiatives. He also reaffirmed the county’s commitment to public safety, economic growth, and collaboration.
“The success we’re seeing is a result of strong collaboration across all levels of local government,” he said. “Together, we’re working to ensure our county continues to grow and thrive.”
