Calvert City named 2025 City Government of the Year by Kentucky League of Cities

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CALVERT CITY, Ky., (KBSI) – The Kentucky League of Cities (KLC) has named Calvert City the 2025 City Government of the Year, recognizing its leadership and community impact.

An independent panel of judges selected Calvert City from several nominations, citing the city’s transformational achievements and innovative governance. The award will be presented Sept. 26 during the KLC Conference in Owensboro.

“This award is a testament to the dedicated leadership of our employees, especially those at the retirement level whose hard work has laid the foundation for this recognition,” City Administrator John Ward said. “Their vision and combined experience of over 75 years brought Calvert City to this proud moment, and they deserve to be celebrated.”

Mayor Gene Colburn said the award reflects the city’s resilience and civic spirit.

“Calvert City exemplifies the best of Kentucky—resilient, resourceful, and rooted in community,” Colburn said. “With trailblazing initiatives, nationally recognized infrastructure, a growing economic footprint and a powerful civic spirit, we continue to prove that size is no barrier to excellence.”

City officials noted that the honor comes at a meaningful time, as many longtime employees near retirement. They emphasized that the recognition reflects the work of police, fire, public works, utilities, clerks, managers, board members and council members who have contributed to the city’s growth.

The City Government of the Year Award has been presented annually since 1999 to cities that demonstrate innovation, excellence in governance and significant community impact. KLC, founded in 1927, represents more than 380 cities across Kentucky.

More information is available at www.calvertcityky.gov.