Beech Tree News Network

Mayor Billy Phelps gave the following State of the City address during the City Council meeting:

"Tonight, we take time to look honestly at where Morgantown stands and where we are headed. The past year was not defined by one single project or moment, but by steady progress across many areas of our city. Through continued planning, collaboration, and fiscal responsibility, 2025 strengthened the foundation we have spent nearly a decade building.

Simply put, Morgantown is doing well- 

Morgantown remains financially sound. Even as we continued to invest in infrastructure, services, and long-term improvements, we maintained stability in our General Fund. That balance did not happen by chance — it reflects disciplined budgeting and a shared commitment to planning for tomorrow without losing sight of today’s responsibilities.

Economic development continued to move forward in meaningful ways throughout the year. Activity within our Industrial Park remains a positive signal for future growth. Our factories and industrial partners now employ more than 1,100 people right here in Morgantown. That means 1,100 families supported, 1,100 paychecks spent locally, and 1,100 reasons our city remains a working, thriving community. These jobs strengthen our local businesses, support our schools, and contribute to our overall quality of life, reinforcing Morgantown’s role as a place where opportunity and hard work come together. Investments like these not only create jobs but also support local spending, housing, and essential services that benefit the entire community. Over the past year, we’ve seen steady progress, renewed community pride, and a high level of participation in city events- that tells me one thing loud and clear: people believe in Morgantown.

One of the clearest signs of that belief is the incredible turnout at our city events. These gatherings are about more than entertainment — they build community, support local businesses, and showcase what makes Morgantown special. This past year, Holiday Hoopla welcomed approximately 8,000 people, the Mayor’s Monster Mash drew around 700 attendees, Summer Social brought in about 200 residents and visitors, and the Hispanic Heritage Celebration welcomed nearly 500 people. That is thousands of visitors coming into Morgantown — many from outside our city limits — shopping in our stores, eating in our restaurants, buying fuel, and discovering what we already know: Morgantown is a place worth coming back to. These events have a real and measurable impact on our local economy. Our small businesses benefit, our downtown stays active, and our city gains visibility far beyond what any advertisement could buy. Every dollar spent here helps strengthen our tax base, allowing us to reinvest in the services and improvements that our residents deserve. And just as important as growth is giving back — something this city takes very seriously.

Our parks and public spaces continued to see strong use throughout the year. Charles Black City Park remains a central gathering place for families, youth sports, and community events. MOGO Commons (the area by the Green River) reached an exciting milestone this year with the grand opening of The RAFT Pavilion — Riverside Artisans and Farmers Trade — the new home of the Morgantown Farmers Market. This space has quickly become a hub for community connection, commerce, and activity. Situated along the Green River, MOGO Commons links directly with the MOGO Shuttle and sets the stage for future additions. More than just a pavilion, it represents our vision for accessible, welcoming spaces that bring people together and highlights our beautiful riverfront.

Community services continued to play a critical role in daily life for many residents. The MOGO transportation shuttle remained heavily utilized throughout the year, serving those who rely on it for work, medical appointments, and everyday errands. In partnership with The Kitchen, the shuttle also continued delivering meals to residents within city limits, providing 6,838 meals and transportation for 18,409 riders in 2025. These numbers are more than statistics — they represent real people being supported, needs being met, and lives made easier. And if the service is unavailable for even a day, we quickly hear just how important it is to our community.

Our city staff continue to show up each day with professionalism and pride. From public works and utilities to administration, public safety — including our police officers and volunteer firefighters —, Everyone’s dedication keeps Morgantown moving forward. In addition, our youth employment program continues to provide meaningful work opportunities for young people, reinforcing the values of service and responsibility at an early age. This program serves students ages 16 through college, most all from outside the city in Butler County, with more than 50 students employed last year — all fully funded by the City of Morgantown — helping prepare the next generation of our workforce and community leaders.

As we look ahead to 2026, our focus remains on continued development and thoughtful growth. Plans include further improvements at MOGO Commons, including a walking trail, restrooms, and additional amenities through our remaining Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. Work will continue on active grants across the city, further development at the boat dock, and continued support for local businesses through façade and entrepreneur grant opportunities. This year’s Summer Social is honoring the founder of Blue Grass Arnold Shultz who is buried right here in Morgantown, this year’s theme is Roots & Rhythm and will be a 2-day event.  And we hope to put out to bid our New Fire Dept. within the next month.   

Our goal has never been growth for growth’s sake. It has always been growth that improves the quality of life for the people who call Morgantown home. Progress does not happen alone. Every step forward is the result of collaboration between City Council, our boards and committees, city employees, and residents who care deeply about this community.

On behalf of the City Council and myself, thank you for your continued support, your trust, and your willingness to work together. I am confident that Morgantown will continue moving forward in the year ahead.

 Mayor Billy Phelps