Watson recaps 2019, looks ahead to 2020 in state of the city address

January 10, 2020 | 12:09 am

Updated January 9, 2020 | 11:35 pm

Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson | Photo by Ngan Ho

In the first Rooster Booster of the new year Thursday morning, Mayor Tom Watson acknowledged numerous city agencies, officials and leaders for their service and accomplishments in 2019 and also touched on the highlights of what is to come in 2020.

Watson congratulated Owensboro Chief of Police Art Ealum for his accomplishment of not only being the first black chief of police in Owensboro history, but also becoming the first black president of Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police last year.

He also referenced the $18 million Cedarhurst Senior Living facility that broke ground last year — jokingly admitting it was a project that hit close to home.

“We need senior living centers in our community,” he said. “I can speak from experience that it’s a big deal. And I’ve already made my reservations there.”

Other highlights included:
– Fund balance increased by $5.7 million in the 2019 fiscal year compared to $2.4 million in the 2018 fiscal year,
– KY 54 nearing the end of Phase 1,
– The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum drew 35,000 visitors in its first year, and
– Owensboro is approaching a population of 60,000.

Watson also hinted at some of things that the city will try to tackle in the near future. He mentioned the demolition of Gabe’s Tower, but he didn’t provide details.

Construction on relighting the Blue Bridge is scheduled to begin this month and may take six to seven months to complete with a $2 million price tag, he said.

“It gave me a little heartburn,” Watson said. “But it should be pretty nice once we get it done. So I’m hoping everybody is going to be excited about that.”

He also reminded people that it’s a big election year, encouraging everyone to go out and vote.

Nearing the end of his speech, Watson alluded to a possible departure from his position.

“I think you very much for allowing me to serve. This is probably my last talk,” he said. “It’s been an honor. I love this community and I know you do too. So let’s all make it a community. Let’s all come together as best as we can and have a diversity of opinions and get along with every person.”

January 10, 2020 | 12:09 am

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