and Congressman Hal Rogers for their assistance in securing funding.
“ It wouldn’ t be possible without them,” Mitchell said.
Among the most visible investments is the $ 8.5 million renovation of the former Union National Bank building in Barbourville. The renovated facility will house the judge-executive’ s office, as well as the county attorney, clerk, and property valuation administrator( PVA).
Mitchell described the current administrative building as outdated and not compliant with accessibility
Knox County Judge-Executive Mike Mitchell standards, calling the move both practical and necessary. Completion is expected in July or August.
The building will temporarily house court functions until completion of a new $ 53 million Judicial Center. Additional renovations tied to that project are expected in late 2026 or early 2027. Once court operations relocate, the current structure will be demolished.
Recreation and tourism have also become part of the county’ s broader development strategy. The newly completed Knox County Sports Park features
The Knox County Sports Park— featuring four turf baseball and softball fields in a cloverleaf design— was completed this year. | Graphic contributed
The Times-Tribune • Community Guide 2026 Page 19