INEZ, Ky. — Martin County is expected to soon have its fourth judge-executive during the current term.
Judge Colby Kirk submitted his resignation to the county on Friday. It will be effective Oct. 28.
“It is with a heavy heart that today I announce my resignation as Martin County judge-executive and my withdrawal from the general election,” Kirk wrote. “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.”
About an hour after Kirk submitted his resignation, economic development organization One East Kentucky announced his hiring as president and CEO of that group, effective Oct. 31.
“After an extensive search, we found a local leader who possesses the unique skills and experience to succeed in this challenging position,” said Mark Gooch, board chairman of One East Kentucky and president and CEO of Community Trust Bancorp, Inc. “Colby is a smart, strategic leader who has demonstrated his commitment to East Kentucky on a personal and professional level. He is also a strong collaborator who can unite public officials and private businesses within our region and help us advance our mission of bringing new jobs to East Kentucky. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team.”
Kirk said he will still be able to serve Martin County in his new role.
“I will have a greater opportunity to bring jobs to this region,” Kirk wrote. “I will continue to work tirelessly for Martin County, and all of Eastern Kentucky.”
Kirk was the third judge-executive to serve Martin County in less than two years.
Former Judge William “Billbo” Davis was elected to the position in 2018, but he resigned abruptly during a fiscal court meeting in March of 2021. He was replaced by Victor Slone, who died in office in January. Kirk was appointed to replace Slone, and now a new judge will be appointed to fill Kirk’s position.
Kirk had been unopposed in the November election for the next term of office. Martin County Clerk Susie Skyles tells Mountain Top News that means the next judge’s race will be determined by write-in. However, in order for write-in votes to count, candidates must register with the County Clerk’s Office by Oct. 28.
