August 2026 Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Matt Starr

WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr for the August Spotlight on Mount Vernon, covering several major projects and issues shaping the city’s future.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Starr gave updates on water and wastewater improvements, including planned upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant, a change in the city’s water disinfection system and continued replacement of water meters.

He also discussed several major city facilities. Construction on the new police station has been delayed by unexpectedly soft clay at the site, while design work continues for the new Municipal Court, probation and Clerk of Courts offices at 40 Public Square. Renovations at the Mount Vernon Municipal Center are also moving forward.

Transportation and development were another major focus. Starr updated the State Route 13 realignment, Burgess and Hamtramck Street projects, work at the Catle Dam and new private development along Coshocton Avenue.

He also discussed the future of the historic Taugher Block, saying the city is looking for the right developer and plan to preserve as much of the property’s historic character as possible.

Housing growth was also part of the conversation, including the proposed Arista Villas development and the city’s use of public-private financing tools to help support infrastructure and future city services.

Starr also shared results from the city’s e-bike survey, discussed the renaming of Shellmar Park as John Francis Park and gave updates on the police and fire departments, including plans for a future east-side fire station.

Looking ahead to September, Starr previewed the Back-to-School-themed First Friday and the Mount Vernon Association of Police Chaplains’ Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on September 16th at Foster Hall.

The August conversation also marked Eric Brown’s final Spotlight on Mount Vernon with Mayor Starr before Eric’s move to Florida.

Click HERE to register for the Mayor’s Mayor Breakfast!

Click HERE to learn more about the city of Mount Vernon!