SPECIAL EPISODE: 2026 State of the City with Mayor Todd Barton

·41 min·4 clips

Mayor Todd Barton reveals how Crawfordsville gained international attention in 2025 and what that means for the city's future.

Mayor Todd Barton opens the 2026 State of the City Address by reflecting on 2025 as a remarkable year for Crawfordsville, emphasizing community collaboration and momentum. He notes the city gained national and international attention, particularly through hosting the 78th Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations at Ironman Raceway, which brought an estimated 20,000 visitors from over 30 countries. The mayor discusses the Montgomery County Early Learning Center opening in March 2025, addressing child care capacity and workforce development. Economic development highlights include Penguin Random House expanding to 1.6 million square feet, International Paper investing $17 million, Midwest Wire Group's $7 million expansion, and Kroger Marketplace's $38 million investment creating 78 new jobs. The Crawfordsville Regional Airport saw a 25% increase in aircraft operations and record Jet A fuel sales. Workforce initiatives include the launch of a new public transit system on January 5, 2026, and the Crawfordsville Career Academy serving as an education hub. The Mayor's Youth Council was reimagined with partnerships from three local high schools to engage younger residents. Innovation efforts include the Mobile Integrated Health program gaining national recognition and the Crawfordsville Fire Department being featured in EMS World. Infrastructure projects covered the Purple Heart Parkway Extension, downtown placemaking with a new mural, and stormwater improvements. Housing developments like Arbor Homes and the Ben-Hur Apartments revitalization aim to add nearly 1,000 new doorsteps. Public safety updates show the fire department responded to 7,437 calls, with EMS charges increasing to $2.71 million. Financial stewardship resulted in a city balance of $42.36 million and a 2026 tax rate of $1.47. The mayor thanks city staff, the City Council, and Clerk-Treasurer Karen Douglas, emphasizing teamwork. He encourages residents to stay connected through the Crawfordsville Connection podcast, which produced 52 episodes in 2025.

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