FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 16, 2024)—Menifee County Judge/Executive Rick Stiltner yesterday assumed the role of the 49th chairman of the Kentucky Council of Area Development Districts (KCADD) Executive Board.
Stiltner, representing the Gateway Area Development District (GADD), succeeds KCADD Citizen Member Steve Thurmond, representing the Barren River Area Development District. Stiltner's term is slated to run for one year.
Serving as Menifee County Judge/Executive since 2015, Stiltner actively participates on several boards and commissions, including the Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo) Board of Directors. Before assuming the role of judge/executive, Stiltner ascended through the ranks of the Kentucky State Police, serving in nearly every rank within the agency. His career culminated in a promotion to colonel in 2004, followed by a promotion to deputy commissioner in 2005, a position he held until his retirement in 2007.
"Judge Stiltner's remarkable dedication to public service and extensive experience make him an outstanding choice for the role of Chairman of the KCADD Executive Board," said KCADD Executive Director Casey Ellis. "We are confident that his leadership, combined with his commitment to community development, will ensure our organization's continued success."
GADD Executive Director Joshua Farrow echoed Ellis's statements: "Rick Stiltner's election as chairman of the KCADD Executive Board is a testament to his unwavering dedication to public service and tireless advocacy for the Gateway region. His leadership embodies a steadfast commitment to advancing our communities and improving the quality of life for all residents. Under his tenure, we can look forward to continued progress and prosperity for all Area Development Districts."
Additionally, the following individuals were elected to the 2024 KCADD Board of Directors:
Magoffin County Judge/Executive Matt Wireman, First Vice-Chair, representing the Big Sandy Area Development District
Madisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton, Second Vice-Chair, representing the Pennyrile Area Development District
Anderson County Judge/Executive Obrey Gritton, Secretary, representing the Bluegrass Area Development District
Citizen Member Ms. Penny Robinson, Treasurer, representing the Cumberland Valley Area Development District.