Martin County judge to resign; three file as write-in candidates

By Lilly Adkins

BSN Associate Editor

INEZ —Martin County Judge-Executive Colby Kirk announced Friday that he would resign effective Oct. 28 at 4 p.m., and withdraw as a candidate for the office in the general election.

“I’ve accepted an offer to be the next Presidet/CEO of One East Kentucky,” Kirk said in a release. “It was a difficult decision to make, but after lots of prayer and discussion with my family I accepted their offer. I will be working full time in economic development for a nine-county region which includes Martin County,” Kirk said. “I feel my knowledge, skills, and experience will better serve the people of our community with me working full time to recruit new and diverse job opportunities to our area. I look forward to working with whoever the people elect to take my place.”

In his letter of resignation, Kirk said he has been proud to serve the people of Martin Count and is “grateful beyond words” to all who supported him in that role.

“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 said. “In my next role, I will have a greater opportunity to bring jobs to this region. I will continue to work tirelessly for Martin County, and all of Eastern Kentucky. My last day as Martin County Judge/Executive will be October 28th, with my resignation taking effect at 4:00 PM. Over the next two weeks, I will do all I can to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. 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, a Republican, was the only candidate for the office on the November general election. After his announcement, three people filed as write-in candidates: former Judge-Executive Lon Lafferty; Marlena Slone, wife of the late Judge-Executive Victor Slone; and Jimmy Don Kerr.