Reflecting on 2023, the Office of Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight released a year in review on Tuesday spotlighting Knight’s accomplishments such as increasing law enforcement staff, focusing on economic developments and much more during his first year as mayor.
In the review, Knight says it is his goal to provide the highest quality of life he can to ensure future generations choose Hopkinsville as their hometown and he believes his accomplishments throughout the year reflect that goal.
Starting with public safety the review shares that for the first time in 13 years the Hopkinsville Police Department is fully staffed and patrols and specialized units have been increased. The review also notes that the establishment of the Hopkinsville Fire Department’s fifth station is underway.
Focusing on surveillance, 80 new security cameras have been installed at 39 locations throughout the city for law enforcement monitoring purposes.
In regards to economic development, city leadership have been supporting small businesses with the establishment of the Hopkinsville Small Business Commission. Turning toward industrial developments, the review highlights, the opening of Commerce Park II as well as two new incoming industries and two that are expanding.
According to the review the industrial growth and expansions will total in more than 250 new jobs and over $335 million in new capital investment.
Turning toward city cleanliness the review recognizes the Lot Next Door program which was established to help make productive use of vacant lots by transferring them to residence with plans to create something in the vacant space. Knight also increased funding for the Hopkinsville Beautification Program.
The review concludes by noting the increased support to city staff. City firefighters have access to a full-time counselor, two chaplain positions were made for the police department, the city has a public information officer and city employees received a 6.5% payroll increase.
Knight says he is proud of the work the city was able to achieve during his first year as mayor and recognizes that there is much more work to be done.