2025 in Rowan County: Progress, Service, and Shared Success
As we wrap up another year, it’s a good time to reflect on the accomplishments and the many ways our community has grown over the past twelve months. 2025 has been a year of progress, pride, and service here in Rowan County, thanks to the dedication of our employees, volunteers, and residents.
Your county government has continued to dedicate time and resources to initiatives that benefit the entire community. Together, we’ve strengthened programs, enhanced services, and promoted the kind of cooperation that ensures resources are used wisely and efficiently.
This year saw the launch of the Library of Things at the Rowan County Public Library in January, giving residents access to tools, games, and educational items — a new way for our community to learn, create, and share resources. In February, we celebrated DesaRae Nickell, who brought home gold and bronze medals from the World Winter Special Olympics, showcasing the talent, determination, and pride of our community on the international stage.
Cave Run Lake received a major boost from local volunteers during the June cleanup, protecting one of our county’s natural treasures and ensuring residents and visitors alike can enjoy a safe, clean, and beautiful outdoor space. Meanwhile, the Park House at Harry T. Clark Community Park became a hub for lifelong learning, hosting Extension Office courses in cooking, sewing, gardening, and more — strengthening skills and connections for residents of all ages.
Our Road Department continued to improve transportation safety and reliability, completing major blacktopping projects, shoulder work, and follow-up cleaning to ensure smooth and safe roadways. A record breaking $1.5 million was spent on blacktop to improve travel across the county. These improvements are vital to keeping our community connected and ensuring residents can travel safely every day.
The first ever Rowan County Senior Center is nearly completed at almost $2.5 million. At this time, the Senior Center is projected to open in March 2026. Once complete, the new facility will provide a modern, dedicated space designed to better serve Rowan County’s senior population through programs, meals, and community activities.
In April 2025, Morehead and state officials celebrated the opening of the new Morehead Utility Plant Board Water Treatment Plant, a nearly nine-year project that faced delays and cost increases from $28 million to $53 million due to permitting, federal legislation, and the pandemic. Funded through a combination of state contributions and low-interest loans, the facility draws water directly from Cave Run Lake and features advanced treatment technology—including ultrafiltration membranes and granular activated carbon—to improve water quality and remove contaminants such as PFAS. Serving nearly 2,800 households with room for expansion, the plant represents a major infrastructure investment that ensures safe, reliable water and supports long-term regional growth.
The City-County Christmas Dinner once again brought hundreds of residents together, combining holiday fellowship with recognition for outstanding service. This year, we celebrated Karen Dehart and Penni Adkins with the Dedicated Service Award, Jarred Moore as Citizen of the Year, and Rowan County Christmas as Organization of the Year — honoring those who make our community stronger and more connected.
Our Volunteer Fire Departments continued to protect residents tirelessly, responding to emergencies day and night. Rowan County EMS conducted thousands of runs, ensuring care is always available when needed. Animal Control facilitated adoptions, rescues, and reunions, caring for hundreds of pets throughout the county. Solid Waste and Detention Center crews worked together to clean thousands of miles of roadways, remove illegal dump sites, and maintain county infrastructure. The Detention Center continued providing education, work programs, and rehabilitation opportunities for inmates. Meanwhile, the Treasurer’s Office and Maintenance Teams ensured county operations ran smoothly, from budgets to buildings, and helped make events like the Christmas Dinner a success.
Finally, 2025 was a year of ongoing preparation for the future. From infrastructure upgrades to community programs and emergency service enhancements, Rowan County remains focused on growth, safety, and quality of life for all residents.
To everyone in Rowan County — residents, employees, volunteers, and community partners — thank you. Your engagement, dedication, and support make all the difference. We look forward to building on this year’s successes and continuing to make Rowan County a great place to live, work, and play in 2026.
Harry Clark
Judge/Executive of Rowan County
