In this episode of Here in Hoptown, we dive into the findings of the newly released Hopkinsville Housing Needs Assessment—a comprehensive report conducted by Bowen National Research that takes a hard look at our city's housing landscape.

City leaders and housing stakeholders joined forces to examine key issues such as housing affordability, residential blight, workforce housing shortages, and the need for new development. You'll hear how community voices, employer surveys, local data, and economic trends were brought together to create a clear picture of where Hopkinsville stands—and where we're headed.

Whether you're a resident, a developer, or just passionate about making Hopkinsville a place people are proud to call home, this episode offers insights and actions that matter.

In this episode of Here in Hoptown, we're joined by Pam Hale, one of the coordinators behind this year's Blvd Bash—a community celebration bringing energy and excitement back to one of Hopkinsville's key corridors. Now in its second year, the event is gaining momentum thanks to a unique collaboration between one of the Boulevard's oldest businesses and one of its newest.

Tune in to learn how the Bash got started, what's planned for this year's event, and how local businesses are teaming up to bring the community together in a big way.

In this episode of Here in Hoptown, we sit down with Kristina Scott—self-described overseer of Hopkinsville's Trail of Tears Commemorative Park. Kristina shares the powerful history behind the park, its cultural significance, and the role it plays in preserving Native American heritage. Learn about the park's amenities, the annual pow wow, and how visitors can respectfully engage with this sacred space. Whether you're a local or a traveler passing through, this episode invites you to connect with history on a deeper level.

In this episode of Here in Hoptown, we're joined by Summer Brown from the University of Kentucky to talk about a hands-on STEM opportunity for local students this summer.

UK and the Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library have partnered to host a free, three-day STEM camp focused on common Kentucky disasters—from flooding and tornadoes to other earth and weather-related events. Designed for rising 7th, 8th, and 9th graders, the camp gives students the chance to explore how scientists study and prepare for these events using cutting-edge tools like drones, virtual reality, and more.

Held June 24–26 from 10 AM–5 PM, this interactive camp offers a fun and meaningful way for students to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math—while gaining real-world insight into how science keeps communities safe.

️ Lunch and snacks provided daily.
Free to attend!
Sign up now: https://ees.as.uky.edu/enviropods

Ever wonder how a city budget comes together? In this episode of Here in Hoptown, City Administrator Troy Body sits down with Chief Financial Officer Melissa Clayton to pull back the curtain on Hopkinsville's finances.

They break down where the city's money comes from, how it gets spent, and the careful planning that goes into balancing services, infrastructure, and long-term priorities. Whether you're a budget nerd or just curious about how your tax dollars work for you, this episode offers a clear and insightful look at the dollars and sense behind city government.

In this episode of Here in Hoptown, we sit down with the City of Hopkinsville's new Administrative Budget Officer, Cory Alexander. From what drew him to our community to his favorite local hangout, we get to know the person behind the spreadsheets.

Recorded during EMS Week in May—also recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month—this episode highlights the resilience and dedication of Hopkinsville's EMS professionals. We explore the mental, emotional, and physical challenges of life as a first responder, and how Hopkinsville is working to ensure our teams are supported and prepared for every emergency. One EMT even shares a memorable first-call experience that involved—unexpectedly—rounding up 30 cats after a house fire. It's a powerful and personal conversation about the people behind the sirens.

In this special Police Week edition of Here in Hoptown, we sit down with Hopkinsville Police Chief Jason Newby and Public Information Officer Royale Marfil for an honest, insightful, and surprisingly lighthearted conversation about policing in our community.

From department achievements and future goals to everyday moments that remind them why they serve, this episode offers a personal look at the people behind the badge. ‍♂️

You'll hear stories, laughs, and messages of unity from two leaders who truly love Hopkinsville—and who believe that building strong community relationships is just as important as enforcing the law.

Tune in and hear how HPD is working to make our city safer, stronger, and more connected.