Shelbyville, IN — Mayor Scott Furgeson joined fellow leaders from across Shelby County for a dynamic and forward-looking conversation at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s Municipal Matters with Shelby County Leaders event, held Friday morning. The forum brought together elected and community representatives from five different Shelby County municipalities to discuss shared challenges, opportunities, and long-term goals.
Mayor Furgeson was joined by Shelby County Commissioner Nathan Runnebohm, St. Paul Town Council Member Kim Livingston, Morristown Town Council President Dave Benefiel, and Waldron Hometown Committee Member Nicole Cherry. The discussion was moderated by Jean Renk of Duke Energy, a sponsor of the event.
“This event highlights the power of collaboration and the strength we find in working together as a county,” said Mayor Furgeson. “Each of us brings a unique perspective, and together, we’re building a stronger Shelby County.”
During the discussion, Mayor Furgeson emphasized Shelbyville’s focus on raising median income, improving local amenities, and creating a better quality of life for residents. He also spotlighted upcoming projects such as the city’s new amphitheater and continued investment in trail systems—initiatives that reflect Shelbyville’s growing role as a hub for entertainment, recreation, and economic opportunity in the region.
“We’re focused on making Shelbyville a place where people want to live, work, and stay,” Furgeson said. “By attracting employers who offer $25-per-hour jobs or higher, we are being intentional about lifting our community’s financial baseline.”
The event also allowed Mayor Furgeson to speak on the importance of collaborative infrastructure development, such as the city’s strategic use of Community Crossings Matching Grant (CCMG) funds—matched by casino revenue—to maintain and enhance local roads.
When asked about the challenges facing Shelbyville, Furgeson acknowledged that the nature of city leadership includes navigating unexpected disruptions—like the recent railroad closure—but credited the city's dedicated team of 213 employees for their skill and professionalism. “They make my job easier and allow me to focus on leadership,” he said.
Throughout the forum, leaders discussed a range of countywide topics including housing development, broadband expansion, road maintenance, economic development, and the potential impacts of SEA 1 legislation. While each community faces unique circumstances, a common theme emerged: the need for continued dialogue, shared resources, and civic engagement.
“This kind of open communication between municipalities is essential,” said Mayor Furgeson. “Our goals are aligned more often than not, and it’s important that we support each other in building a thriving Shelby County.”
The event concluded with a shared call to action: get involved. Panelists encouraged residents to participate in their communities through volunteering, serving on boards, or joining committees.
As Shelbyville continues to grow and modernize, Mayor Furgeson remains committed to working in lockstep with fellow leaders across the county. “Leadership isn’t about doing it alone—it’s about bringing people together to solve problems, create opportunities, and move forward as one,” he said.