On the Morning Thing Friday, Mayor Matt Starr talked to Marcy Rinehart about the issues facing Mount Vernon.

Click HERE to hear the entire conversation.

He talks about major construction projects on Mansfield Avenue and Fairgrounds Roads. He also talks about a comprehensive infrastructure initiative regarding water lines and culvert replacements. The bid for the shared use path is also now open.

Mayor Starr then talks about the current municipal building and the safety of the building. He says that they need to move from the building as soon as possible.

Mayor Starr says renovations at Memorial Park have started and things are moving along nicely. The Harmony Playground is doing well and at Riverside Park the Splash Pad is almost done and should be open in May and the opening of Hiawatha Water Park.

Mayor Starr talks about Issue 2 which is on the statewide ballot this May. Issue 2 is a proposed change to the constitution that would let the state government borrow $2.5 billion over ten years—up to $250 million each year—to help local governments cover costs for public infrastructure projects.

Mayor Starr gives an update on city council. He talks about council working on a grant for the police station. He also says that a property transfer to the Land Bank has been a hot topic, an update on the Knox County Comprehensive Plan.  

Mayor Starr gives an update on the police department and their new facility.

Mayor Starr gives an update on the fire department and the large amount of training they have been doing. They’ve also applied for a First Responder grant.

Mayor Starr says that one of his goals for May is coming up with a plan to vacate the municipal plaza building. He also talks about some other projects around town.

Mayor Starr says that they are going to be applying for a $2.5 million grant for the Waste water Treatment Plant.

Mayor Starr talks about upcoming events for the city including the Yard Sale Trail which is this weekend.

Mayor Starr talks about how we can pray for him, city council and others trying to improve the lives of citizens of Mount Vernon. He also shares how you can stay up to date online.

Click HERE to visit the City of Mount Vernon’s website.