Madisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton has been recognized at the 2025 Elected Official of the Year by the Kentucky League of Cities.
According to a news release, Mayor Cotton was nominated by his peers, but an independent panel of judges selected him for the award based on what they call his innovative leadership, hands-on approach and tireless service to the City of Madisonville. The KLC Elected City Official of the Year Award recognizes a dynamic official who demonstrates outstanding leadership and innovation.
Mayor Cotton has served as mayor since 2019, but served in numerous community roles before that, including as a firefighter, fire marshal, EMT, business owners and more. He also serves as a foster and adoptive parents—he and his wife, Donna, have fostered more than 50 children.
Cotton says, “On behalf of every resident of Madisonville, I am profoundly honored to receive the Kentucky League of Cities 2025 Elected City Official of the Year award. This recognition reflects not just my efforts, but the hard work, resilience, and collective spirit of our entire team and community. Together, we have embarked on bold initiatives to elevate Madisonville — from innovative infrastructure projects and strengthened public safety to economic development, and the continued growth of our city.”