CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
INEZ — Martin County Judge/Executive Colby Kirk announced his resignation from his position and withdrawal from the General Election Friday.
“I have been proud to serve the people of Martin County and am grateful beyond words to all who have supported me in this role,” Kirk said in his letter of resignation. “I can confidently say I am leaving the county in good fiscal condition and more ready than ever for opportunities in tourism and economic development.”
Kirk has taken a position as president and CEO of One East Kentucky but will remain in Martin County.
“I’ve had an opportunity come that Cori and I have talked and prayed about,” he said. “I feel I’m being led in that direction to work full-time in economic development. I’ll be working full-time to bring jobs to this area. That’s where my heart and passion are. I appreciate the people and all they’ve done for me to put me where I am. I’ll still be working for them, just in a new role.”
Kirk’s last day as judge/executive will be Oct. 28.
“Over the next two weeks, I will do all I can to ensure a smooth transition of leadership,” said Kirk. “I recognize that life for me as an elected official has come to an end. And as I return to the obscurity of private life, I look forward to doing what I can to support those who step into this leadership role. I love Martin County and her people, and I will always call this place home.”
Kirk was appointed judge/executive Jan. 10 by Gov. Andy Beshear following the passing of the late Martin County Judge/Executive Victor Slone, appointed in April 2021 to replace Bill Davis, who resigned. The late Judge/Executive Slone announced a month before his death that he would not seek reelection due to a lingering illness.
Kirk’s original plan was to serve out Slone’s term that ends Dec. 31.
At the time, Kirk was serving as Slone’s deputy and oversaw economic development in Martin County.
“I was prepared to come into the role and I feel like I’ve done my best with it,” said Kirk. “I’ve tried to have the county’s best interest at heart. I’ve tried to be as transparent as I can in all that we’ve done.
“Public service is not for everyone,” said Kirk. “It’s hard on people. I don’t think people realize the stress it puts you under.”
Kirk won the Republican nomination in the May Primary Election and was unopposed on the Nov. 8 ballot.
The governor will appoint an interim judge/executive to finish out the term.
In the meantime, Martin County’s next judge/executive will be elected by write-in.
“I trust the same voters that elected me in the primary this year to make the same good decision in who they select next,” said Kirk. “I hope it’s someone who again has the county’s best interest at heart, who has a vision for tourism and economic development in our community. And really a servant’s heart to do what’s right for all the people.”
