Mount Vernon continues to see growth across nearly every corner of the city, and Mayor Matt Starr says that momentum is showing no signs of slowing down.
During the May Spotlight on Mount Vernon with WNZR’s Eric Brown, Starr shared updates on several housing, infrastructure, beautification, and public safety projects currently underway throughout the city.
Click HERE to hear the full conversation!
One of the biggest topics remains housing development. Starr says projects like Liberty Crossing along State Route 13 and continued expansion at The Retreat on the east side are already attracting new residents from across the country. Many of those families are relocating for jobs with major local employers including Kenyon College, Kokosing Construction, MVNU, and Knox Community Hospital.
The city is also looking ahead to future development opportunities with projects like Founders Grove and Arista Villas. At the same time, Starr says smaller housing investments are happening throughout Mount Vernon thanks to zoning updates aimed at encouraging infill development and additional housing options.
Road and infrastructure improvements are also a major focus this year. Starr highlighted ongoing work on North Main Street, Mulberry Street, and Sandusky Street, along with improvements near the former middle school site along West Burgess and West Hamtramck streets.
In the coming months, demolition work is expected to begin along South Sandusky Street as part of the future State Route 13 corridor project. Several streets are also being considered for resurfacing this year, including Mansfield Avenue, Nash Street, West Vine Street, Upper Gilchrist Road, Yager Road, and Eastwood Drive.
Beautification efforts continue across the city as well. Starr says Mount Vernon’s Shade Tree and Beautification Commission plans to plant 400 trees this year. Code enforcement crews also remain active addressing mowing violations, unsafe structures, and property maintenance concerns.
According to Starr, many of those situations are resolved with a simple phone call or letter. He also praised volunteers and church groups who continue helping elderly residents maintain their properties.
The mayor also discussed a new partnership involving Knox County’s electric and natural gas aggregation program. Mount Vernon is now working alongside the Knox County Commissioners and neighboring communities to negotiate better utility rates for residents. Starr says bringing more customers into the program creates stronger negotiating power and could ultimately help families save money on monthly bills.
Several recent actions by Mount Vernon City Council were also highlighted during the interview. Council approved applying for a Small Cities Grant that could help expand the city’s street resurfacing program. Officials are also partnering with the Knox County Land Bank on improvements near Heartland Commerce Park along North Norton Street.
Starr additionally shared details on O’Reilly Auto Parts’ planned expansion along Coshocton Avenue, which will include additional entrances and expanded inventory space.
One of the largest projects discussed during the spotlight was the city’s new police headquarters.
Starr says Mount Vernon has officially completed financing paperwork for the new police station project, marking a major milestone for one of the largest public safety investments in city history. He noted the current station has long outgrown its space and no longer meets the needs of a modern police department.
The new police HQ will include updated technology, improved security systems, expanded evidence storage, modern training areas, and additional workspace for officers and staff. Starr says the facility is designed not only to meet current needs, but also to support Mount Vernon well into the future as the city continues to grow.
Groundbreaking could begin later this summer, with construction expected to continue into 2028. Starr says city leaders, architects, and department officials have spent years carefully planning the project to ensure it remains functional while also being financially responsible for taxpayers.
The mayor also shared updates from the Mount Vernon Fire Department, including the promotion of Nate Hines to assistant fire chief and the arrival of a new medic unit after a nearly three-year wait.
Looking ahead to summer, Starr previewed several upcoming events and projects, including renovations at the future municipal center on South Main Street and continued planning work at 40 Public Square.
He also encouraged residents to participate in community events like First Fridays, Movies in the Park at Ariel-Foundation Park, and the return of the Front Porch Concert Series on East High Street. City officials will also host a booth during First Fridays where residents can ask questions about road construction, development projects, and the new police headquarters.
As construction season ramps up across Mount Vernon, Starr asked residents for patience and continued prayers for city leaders, workers, and the community.
He says the city remains committed to communication, transparency, and serving residents well during this period of significant growth and investment.
Click HERE to find out more about the City of Mount Vernon!
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