Mount Vernon Mayor Dr. Matt Starr shared updates on the City with The Morning Thing on Friday, 6/26/26.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation.

Topics included:

• An update on the city’s storm cleanup efforts following several major weather events this year
  • The Mayor explains how City Crews balanced debris removal with ongoing infrastructure projects
  • He discusses the financial impact of repeated storms, and says the city is absorbing the unexpected costs while continuing to maintain parks, utilities, and other essential services.

• Mount Vernon has become the first community in Knox County to join MORPC’s Sustainable 2050 initiative.
  • Mayor Starr explains what the designation means, emphasizing that it’s about responsible planning, protecting natural resources, improving neighborhoods and infrastructure, preparing for future growth, and strengthening the city’s ability to compete for grant funding—all while investing wisely for future generations.

• Mayor Starr discusses a proposed workforce housing development on the north side of the community.
  • While the project would be located in Clinton Township, he says it would benefit Mount Vernon by helping address the area’s housing shortage.
  • If awarded grant funding, the development would eventually connect to city utilities through a partnership between the city and township.

• Construction season continues across Mount Vernon as crews work on utility upgrades, street improvements, brick road restoration, and infrastructure projects throughout the city.
  • Mayor Starr reviews several road closures and detours, saying the temporary inconveniences will lead to long-term improvements that enhance neighborhoods and improve quality of life for residents.

• Mayor Starr recaps recent action by Mount Vernon City Council, including efforts to improve utility governance with Clinton Township.
  • He explains how proposed changes could simplify operations, eliminate unnecessary fees for township residents, and strengthen cooperation between the city and township while continuing to provide reliable utility services.
• Mayor Starr highlights several significant actions taken by City Council, including expanding opportunities for future development through the New Community Authority and designating portions of downtown as an Urban Renewal Area.
  • He says those steps will allow future redevelopment around City Hall to reflect the vision residents shared during public listening sessions, while giving the city more control over how key downtown properties are developed.

• Mayor Starr also shares an update on the future Mount Vernon Police Department.
  • City officials are finalizing the building design to stay within the project’s budget while ensuring officers receive a modern facility that meets today’s public safety needs.
  • Although some features will be phased in later, Starr says the project remains one of the city’s highest priorities and represents a major long-term investment in public safety, giving officers the space, technology, and resources needed to better serve the community for decades to come.

• Mayor Starr provides an update on Mount Vernon’s police and fire departments.
  • He discusses increased activity for both agencies, ongoing officer and firefighter training, community engagement efforts, and preparations for future issues such as e-bike regulations.
  • He also shares progress on plans for the new police station, saying the project continues moving toward final design while remaining within budget.

• Mayor Starr previews several upcoming community events, including First Friday, Independence Day festivities, and the popular Front Porch Concert Series.

• Mayor Starr discusses progress on the Municipal Center, courthouse renovations, and planning for future paving projects as the city continues investing in long-term improvements.

• Mayor Starr closes the June Spotlight by asking listeners to pray for city employees, elected officials, and first responders as they make important decisions and continue serving the community. He also encourages residents to celebrate Mount Vernon’s many successes while staying informed through the city’s website and social media channels.

To stay in touch with the City, go to:

• Website –  https://www.mtvernonoh.gov/
• Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/CityofMountVernonOhio
• YouTube – The City of Mount Vernon
• LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/cityofmountvernonohio