June 2024

A Note from the Mayor


Over the last several weeks, we experienced a series of storms that caused power outages, downed trees, structural damage, and flooding. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Pennyrile Electric, HES, and all of our utility departments, as well as our dedicated city and county workers, for their tireless efforts in getting our city back up and running. I am incredibly proud to be part of a community that comes together for the good of its citizens.


As we head into summer full swing, I encourage everyone to take advantage of the numerous community events happening throughout the city. Our water park is open and fully operational, offering a great way to beat the heat. Additionally, I am excited to announce the Mayor Knight's Museum Days at the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County. Throughout the summer, the museum will be offering free admission for students and families, thanks to they city's successful funding efforts. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore and learn more about our local history.


Hopkinsville is a wonderful place to live. Though we sometimes face adversity, our strength lies in our unity. By working together, we can continue to grow, be successful, and enjoy all that our community has to offer.

Mayor Knight

James.Knight@h-ky.us

With gratitude and determination,

Mayor James, R. Knight, Jr.

City Council Updates


Find my Ward

During the June 4th City Council Meeting, Mayor Knight and Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam proudly issued a proclamation recognizing Juneteenth! This historic day marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and justice.

Learn more

At the June 4th City Council Meeting, citizens shared their thoughts and concerns regarding the "chicken ordinance". Citizens were referring to ordinance 90.02 Domestic Fowl Running at large in the City which currently prohibits live poultry within city limits. Several community members have requested an update to the ordinance which would allow citizens within city limits to have live poultry.

Council Meeting Highlights

During the May 22nd City Council Meeting Mayor Knight swore in four new police officers.

From left to right: Detective Danielle O'Hara, Officer William Flood, Officer Tanner Reneer and Officer Chris Little.

During the May 22nd City Council Meeting Chief Futrell along with Mayor JR Knight made three recent promotions official by swearing in Battalion Chief Marc London, Captain Curtis Sauers, and Lieutenant Zach Lundberg.

City council voted to pass the FY 2024-2025 budget during the June 4th City Council meeting.

FY 2024-2025 Budget

A Big Thank You to Our Linemen! 


After the storms, extensive damage left many without power. Thanks to the efforts of our incredible linemen, we were quickly on the path to restoration.


These heroes worked around the clock, enduring long hours, to ensure our city and county were powered up again. Their dedication and hard work are truly commendable.

Municipal Center Updates

Senator Rand Paul visits Hopkinsville, KY


Mayor Knight, accompanied by several city council members, county officials, and community members, had the opportunity to hear from Senator Rand Paul during his visit to Hopkinsville on Saturday, June 15th.


View social media post

Honoring a local legend


On June 12th Mayor Knight had the honor of presenting Levi Peterson Jr. with a Key to the city.

Family and friends gathered to support Mr. Peterson and celebrate his remarkable achievements. Several shared heartfelt words about the profound impact he’s had on their lives.

Read more

On June 8th Mayor Knight spoke at the Trail of Tears Park in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, during the dedication ceremony of the park’s new bilingual sign! This historic sign, featuring both Cherokee and English, is the first of its kind in any Trail of Tears park, highlighting our commitment to honoring and preserving our shared heritage.



We also celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Remember the Removal Bike Ride, with Mayor Knight recognizing the incredible journey and resilience of the riders. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this momentous occasion!


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Tune in to the June 6th episode of Here in Hoptown and discover how the Industrial Foundation secures prime land for development and how the SWK works to solicit and support new and current industries. We'll explore the challenges they face, the collaborative projects that have made a significant impact, and their vision for the future of our community.

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Job opportunities



Want to work for City of Hopkinsville? Visit our website and learn how you can become a part of our incredible team!


Learn More!

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Celebrating National Drug Court Month (May)


On May 29th, in honor of National Drug Court Month, Mayor Knight and Christian County Judge-Executive, Jerry Gilliam, presented a signed proclamation designating May as Drug Court Month in our community. This special announcement was made just before the graduation ceremony of four remarkable individuals who have successfully completed the Christian County Drug Court program.

Hopkinsville's Leave Behind


A Leave Behind is a document that outlines key priorities, projects, and requests from our city to state and federal leadership. It serves as a powerful tool to communicate our community's needs and aspirations effectively.


We encourage all residents to take a look at what our city is asking of our state and federal leaders. Your support and awareness are vital to making our community's voice heard.


Learn more.



What is the Land Bank Authority?


The Land Bank acquires vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent properties, then prepares them for new owners who are ready to transform them into valuable community assets.


Sign up to receive updates when new properties become available! Be the first to know about opportunities to purchase and revitalize homes and lots in our area.


Hopkinsville Fire Department

Meet Stryker Sheppard, who celebrated his 3rd Birthday with Hopkinsville Fire and EMS! We were thrilled he wanted to stop by and chat with the crew, and even flow a little water.


Email info-fd@h-ky.us to schedule!

This year’s Squealin' on the Square Mayor’s Award, was presented to the Hopkinsville Fire Department. Congratulations, Hopkinsville Fire & EMS!

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On May 21st, Mayor Knight spoke to EMS professionals during a luncheon celebrating EMS Appreciation Week.

Read the full story

On May 29th Hopkinsville Fire and EMS responded to a vehicle fire at the 9 mile maker of the Pennyrile Parkway northbound. No injuries were reported and traffic in the area was affected until the area could be cleared.

Enjoying the beautiful weather


HFD made the most of June 11th's beautiful weather!


Battalion 2 dedicated the day to training on advanced pump operations, while also taking the opportunity to get better acquainted with the trucks and enjoy the sunshine!


Visit our Website

Congratulations to Battalion Chief Marc London, Captain Curtis Sauers, and Lieutenant Zach Lundberg on their recent promotions and swearing in!

Hopkinsville Police Department


Visiting the Mascots


Hopkinsville Police Department stopped by the Hopkinsville-Christian County Downtown Farmer's Market to show some love to the market mascots.

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HPD Anniversaries

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Congratulations to all of our officers celebrating their anniversary with the Hopkinsville Police Department!

See all anniversaires

Ensuring Rail Trail Safety


Emergency call boxes are installed along the Greenway Rail Trail. These call boxes are for your safety and convenience, connecting you directly to emergency personnel when needed.


In addition to the call boxes, a robust rail trail camera system has been installed to monitor trail activity. Public Safety Officers (PSOs) also monitor the trail to ensure the safety of its patrons.


We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our community and encourage you to take advantage of the rail trail and all it has to offer!

Visit our Website

Congratulations to our officers who were sworn in during the May 22nd City Council Meeting.

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Detective Bufford also received an Individual Commendation Award. Det. Bufford has led several investigations which have resulted in 159 criminal charges against human traffickers and violent sexual predators.

Retirees Gather to Reminisce


Hopkinsville Police Department recently held a retirement luncheon for HPD officers.

See photos

We will be at Lake Morris from 7 AM - 12 PM. Electric boats are allowed on the lake and fishing permits are not needed for this day. We will have the grill fired up with some hot dogs and hamburgers. Grab the fishing poles and we'll see you there!

Public Works

Make a Splash!


Bluegrass Splash is up and running and ready for you to splash into summer fun!


Hours of Operation:

Sun: 12p-7p

Mon-Fri: 11a-7p

Sat: 10a-7p

Holidays: 10a-7p

Learn more

Getting a Facelift


Hopkinsville is getting a facelift! You've probably seen our Public Works department out and about repainting parking spaces and crosswalks, keeping our streets in tip top shape. Please be patient as we continue to improve the streets of Hopkinsville, and be mindful of our workers in the road!

Independence Day Festivities--Don't Miss Out!

Squealin' on the Square a SUCCESS!


Western Kentucky News & Media got some absolutely fantastic shots from Squealin' on the Square event! Be sure to participate in the fun next year!

See photos


Veteran Judges

Veteran judge, Tony Henson, poses with a photo taken just one year earlier, capturing him mid-bite during the 2023 taste-testing of Squealin' on the Square.

Full-size photo

Braggin' Rights



Congrats to our 2024 Squealin' On the Square Winners for all of their hard work and dedication!


Pork Chops – BBQ on Wheels – Score: 38.5

Pork Ribs – Knuckles BBQ – Score: 41.5

Chicken – New Work Fellowship – Score: 42.0

Mayors Award – Hopkinsville Fire Department


*We had 6 participating in all three categories, with an estimated 1,500 event attendance.

We can't wait to see everyone in 2025!

Online registration for Buddy Basketball Camp is NOW AVAILABLE. As always, we are so grateful to Pennyroyal Center and Trace Industries for their support and partnership in this event.

Register today
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May Trash for Cash Success


Thank you to our May 2024 Trash for Cash participants! Homeless on the Move to Beautify the Community, All Nations House of Prayer Youth Ministry Department, Bethel Berry Missionary Baptist Church, and Hopkinsville Christian County NAACP Branch 3092 picked up in May. They picked up 96 bags, weighing in at 3,360 pounds, and picked up over 35 miles!

We want to thank all of our Trash for Cash groups for helping to beautify the City, and encourage more groups to participate in the upcoming months!


Flowers at City Hall


Thank you to the Hopkinsville Beautification team for planting beautiful flowers outside of city hall!

They certainly brighten up the facility and bring an element of cheer as you enter the building!

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Agencies/Utilities

Don't be fooled...


HES was made aware of a scam where a number claiming to be an HES representative was calling customers & offering a discount. HES does not currently have a discount program. Remember to never give out your personal information over the phone, and to give HES a call at 270-887-4200 or send a message if you are unsure.


Do you have a question for Hopkinsville Surface and Stormwater Utility? Reach out with any questions or concerns.

    Contact us   

Want to stay on top of HWEA updates? Follow on social media!

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Stay up-to-date on upcoming meetings and information from Hopkinsville Solid Waste by following their Facebook page!

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Holly Boggess, with Community Development Services, joined Michael Goss, with The Lincoln Real Estate Group, to talk about how partners have successfully utilized the Land Bank program in our community.

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Every first Friday we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of Hopkinsville. In June we visited Ruffled Willow. Ruffled Willow is a modern florist known for their stunning fresh flowers, unique house plants, and exceptional wedding arrangements. Whether you're looking for the perfect bouquet or planning your dream wedding, Ruffled Willow has you covered.

Would your business liked to be featured on the next episode?

Sign up for a chance to be selected

Successful Inaugural Event


From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank everyone who came out and showed their support during the first annual BLVD Bash event. Your enthusiasm and community spirit made the day truly special.


Small businesses are the heartbeat of Hopkinsville, and it's your support that makes our community so unique and vibrant. We couldn't have done this event without you!

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Arts and Culture

What's Happening at the Alhambra?

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The Library attended the Hopkinsville Boys and Girls Club Juneteenth celebration on June 15th.

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History on Tap

Anne Noel takes us on a journey centered on South Main Street and focused on the life of her grandmother. Born in 1905, Marjorie Barker Lawson led a life that pushed the boundaries of her time. Her story begins and ends in Hopkinsville, but it takes a number of unexpected twists and turns along the way.887-4270. 


Learn more

Want to see what all Hopkinsville has to offer in the realm of arts and culture?

Visit our Website

Come get fit with us! FIT Training will offer free fitness classes at the Outdoor Amphitheater near Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library, 1101 Bethel St. The classes are scheduled for

11a- 12p June 15 and 22.

Learn more

The Museum is so excited to partner with Mayor Knight and the City of Hopkinsville Local Government to offer FREE admission to students this summer.

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Hoptown Remembers

On June 8, 1944 the Christian County Health Center, now the Christian County Health Department, was dedicated on Canton Street.

Photo Credit: The collection of William T. Turner provided by the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County.

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