Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-16-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for October 16, 2025

All news stories are aggregated from various sources and modified for time and content. Original sources are cited.

We start with local news…

City to Spend $2.4M on Sports Complex (CDH)

Columbia City Council has approved a grant application valued at $2.4 million to expand the Columbia Aquatics and Recreation Center (ARC) and construct a new sports complex.

The city is competing for the grant funds for the fourth time.

The expansion would include the addition of two indoor sports courts, sized for basketball, volleyball and pickleball, with the courts surrounded by a 0.10-mile walking track.

The BlueCross Healthy Place Grant, if awarded to the city, would provide the funding, with no matching funds required, Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan said.

"Anything that can be done indoors, we can do," Reagan said. "Basically, we are doubling the size of our facility so we can have indoor sports and recreation. It would provide a lot of needed opportunities."

This is also the fourth time Columbia has applied for the grant, though it is the first time for this project, Reagan said.

Reagan added that the two new courts would be located next to the current facility, but the walking track would connect both the new and existing areas as one big unit.

"Especially with our senior population, which is 300-plus [members], it is a place for when it is too hot, too cold or too wet, they can walk inside," Reagan said. "It just provides a lot of services and quality activities that we can increase."

Vice Mayor Randy McBroom said the walking trail would also provide an added activity for parents to utilize as their kids are playing.

"When you watch the competitions, you can still walk and watch your kids play," McBroom said.

Mayor Chaz Molder commented on the project and the ARC's success since the city's acquisition of the former Muletown Rec for $4.6 million in January of this year.

"This is, yet again, another example of this center being such an opportunity," Molder said. "There is sufficient space for this. I really hope we can do whatever we can to put our weight behind getting this grant.

"This could be just a huge game-changer for that facility and what it can do for the community in terms of hosting tournaments and having other events there that most people would not have thought we had the ability to do."

Train Derailment (CDH)

Columbia Academy was forced to evacuate students and faculty after a train derailed off its tracks at West 7th Street and Trotwood Avenue at approximately 11:33 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14.

Emergency crews worked throughout the day to clear up the scene.

Columbia Fire Chief Chris Cummins said most of the train cars, many of which were designed for transporting automobiles, were empty at the time of the derailment. However, the train was also carrying a propane tank which had dislodged, though no leaks were reported. This prompted the nearby school to evacuate at about 1 p.m.

At about 11:50 a.m., emergency responders established a unified command with units from Columbia Fire & Rescue, Columbia Police Department, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, Maury County 911, Maury County Office of Emergency Management, Patriot Railroad, Maury County Schools, Maury County EMS, VNP, CSX and Tennessee Highway Patrol, Cummins said.

"The scene is stabilized with no leaks or hazardous materials going on, and so we are developing a plan to set the propane tanker back up on its trucks," Cummins said at a press conference following the incident. "It's just sitting off of the trucks, not flipped over. Just derailed ...

"The propane tanker just has residual pressure, and so very little propane left in it and is considered empty."

The incident also caused all lanes of West 7th to remain closed, which later reopened shortly before 3 p.m.

"The only thing that is shut down now is Trotwood, and people can look to social media to see alternate routes to get around everything," Cummins said. "We will be working over the next 12 hours to mitigate this incident. We are mainly just concerned about the one propane tank sitting off of its trucks."

No injuries were reported at the time of the incident, Cummins added, and crews worked through the night and into Wednesday.

"Everybody is safe and accounted for," Cummins said. "The situation is safe with no leaks and no injuries, and we are taking a very slow and methodical process to mitigate this incident," Cummins said.

The direct cause of the incident is still under investigation, though Cummins said initial reports indicate it could have been a malfunctioning rail where the train would have switched tracks.

"Our trains in this area are all low-speed trains, and so we really don't have many train derailments," Cummins said. "But where it jumps the tracks, if you are going to have a derailment that's where it would probably happen. It's a train derailment, but a low-speed derailment."

As of Wednesday morning, the propane car was put upright and Columbia Academy open for students.

Pipeline Solution Cost Prohibitive (CDH)

Constructing a pipeline from the Cumberland River to Columbia appears to be an unrealistic solution to Maury County's water needs, following a recent letter issued by the Mallory Valley Utility District.

The proposed project's comprehensive study, conducted by Mallory Valley in partnership with Columbia Power & Water Systems, Spring Hill, Mt. Pleasant and Maury County Water, determined such factors as cost, an estimated timeline and long-term required maintenance, if it were to be pursued.

However, on Friday, Sept. 26, Mallory Valley Utility District General Manager Jenny Clarke sent an email to the participating entities expressing that recent conflicting interests have rendered the pipeline project "non-viable".

The reason, she wrote, was due to the issue becoming "too political," and less about how such a project would affect customers.

She explained that during a recent presentation to the Duck River Planning Partnership's subcommittee, "a surprising and concerning situation arose."

"The subcommittee chair, Randal Braker, explained that he had been personally informed by key outside stakeholders that they had privately and recently expressed positions to him that would render our project non-viable," she said.

"The information presented by Mr. Braker directly contradicts what those entities have told us in conversations, in meetings, and what we have included in our study. We were shocked by the information presented in the meeting and told the committee that we would have follow up conversations to confirm his statements."

Clarke continued saying a successful, viable solution would require "a unified purpose" and a shared consensus, stating, "Without that common ground, our project—or any other under this framework—will be difficult."

"Unfortunately, as conversations about possible solutions to the region's water supply have increased, the issue has become increasingly political, seemingly at the expense of our good-faith efforts," Clarke stated in the email. "The actions of certain partners, who are openly attempting to discredit our viable options to advance their own solution, have created an environment that we believe is neither productive nor trustworthy. We will not engage in anything other than transparent, honest, and accurate conversations about how we can work together to help our communities."

The purpose of the study is to explore a long-term solution, she said.

"Our comprehensive study was designed to provide a complete picture of a long-term water solution, from the water's source and treatment to its transmission and long-term maintenance costs and ultimately addressing long-term water needs," Clarke wrote.

"We want to exemplify 'utilities helping utilities' and be a model that our citizens and leaders can be proud of and replicate elsewhere."

CPWS CEO Johnathan Hardin told The Daily Herald the letter is not necessarily Mallory Valley's resignation from the partnership, but that other options should be pursued, and that in the end "it is about the rate payers."

"The letter is reminding everyone that conversations should be centered around rate payers and what keeps rates the lowest, making sure due diligence and rigor uncover what is best for our rate payers, because those are the most important people we serve," Hardin said. "I think a lot of folks realize that an idea like the Cumberland pipeline could pay dividends down the road, but it's not something that can meet needs within the next three years,

And even if the pipeline project doesn't seem likely, at least in the short-term, the study itself could prove useful in the future as the information will be readily available for planning purposes.

"When you learn to pump water across great distances like from the Cumberland down to here, what you learn is applicable in any direction you end up going," Hardin said.

"When you learn to pump water over a hill, you've learned how to pump water over any hill. You are learning things that inform what's most effective to use, as well as being mindful of cost, and when you solve a technical challenge that's not wasted knowledge, but important knowledge we will have forever. What we learned coming from the Cumberland could also be applied to the Tennessee River, or some other water source."

The pipeline, while a potential solution to Maury County and Southern Middle Tennessee's increasing water needs, the project had also drawn many concerns from opposing sides calling for another option to be considered.

One of these voices is the nonprofit grassroots group Columbia Dam Now, who has been actively pursuing efforts to revitalize the long-abandoned Columbia Dam project, which was halted in the 1980s and fully dismantled by 1999.

"When the Mallory Valley Ulitilty District feasibility study came back, it was at a cost of $1.7-$1.9 billion," Columbia Dam Now founder Jason Gilliam said. "The reason there was a lack of interest is, like I have been saying for the last five months or so, it is too expensive and we are not going to be able to afford it. That pipeline option is not going to happen, and for obvious reasons."

Wiremasters Supports Amuseum with Memberships (MSM)

Maury County families stand to benefit from Columbia Children’s Museum, aMuse’um’s partnership with WireMasters in the form of one-year free of memberships to the Children’s Museum of Columbia.

aMuse’um announced the new membership initiative in partnership with WireMasters, a global leader in wire, cable and interconnect products headquartered in Columbia. WireMasters has extended their commitment to community by sponsoring the local program to support children and families.

The new program, titled “Launch into Play with WireMasters,” is part of aMuse’um’s broader Access Membership Initiative — aimed at removing barriers so more children and families in the community can learn, play, and explore together. Through the partnership, participating families will receive a free one-year family membership to aMuse’um.

Thanks to the WireMasters’ partnership, the first wave of foldable “Launch Tickets to Play” has been distributed to students at six local elementary schools: Baker, Brown, Highland Park, Howell, Mt. Pleasant and Riverside. Additional elementary schools in Maury County, as well as local Head Start programs, will receive certificates later this month.

Each certificate invites creativity and connection:

• Families are encouraged to fold the ticket into a rocket, plane, or glider of their own design.

• When they bring their creation to the museum, it can be redeemed for a free one-year family membership with unlimited admission, discounts on event tickets and birthday parties, and early access to programs.

• QR codes link families to aMuse’um’s event calendar, donation page, newsletter signup and social media.

“This initiative is about more than admission — it’s about opening doors and creating space for families to play and learn together in meaningful ways. We’re thankful to WireMasters for helping us break down barriers and bring the gift of play to more children in our community,” aMuse’um Executive Director Maeghan Wall said.

The program was further supported by the generosity of the local UPS Store, which printed the first wave of certificates in full color and two-sided at no cost.

Certificates began going home with students the week of Sept. 8, and families are encouraged to bring their folded rocket or plane to the museum to launch their membership.

Sprouts Coming to Spring Hill (MauryCountySource)

GBT Realty Corporation (GBT Realty), a leading national commercial development and investment company headquartered in Brentwood, Tenn., has submitted plans to bring Sprouts Farmers Market to Spring Hill, Tenn. as an anchor tenant in its Port Royal Marketplace retail project.

Sprouts is one of the largest and fastest growing specialty retailers of fresh, natural and organic food in the United States.

“This is the first grocer focused on fresh, organic product to be proposed in the Spring Hill market, which is a huge milestone for this dynamic community,” said George Tomlin, Founder, President, and Chairman of GBT Realty. “In planning the right location for Sprouts, we sought to build a new Marketplace within a community center that did not have immediate access to a grocer. Sprouts and the additional retail that comes at Port Royal Marketplace will be an exciting enhancement that adds convenience and livability to the neighboring community.”

The approximately 23,000 sf Sprouts would be flanked by two 8,000 sf shops with a third 6,800 sf expansion pad. The Sprouts-anchored center is located on the southwest corner of Duplex Road and Port Royal Road with excellent visibility and access. Additional tenants could include medical services, restaurants, ice cream or coffee shops, apparel and fitness. The property is zoned for commercial development, including retail shopping.

True to its farm-stand heritage, Sprouts offers a unique grocery experience featuring an open layout with fresh produce at the heart of the store. Sprouts is known for its fresh, natural, and organic products at affordable prices, inspiring wellness naturally with a carefully curated assortment of better-for-you products paired with purpose-driven people. The healthy grocer continues to bring the latest in wholesome, innovative products made with lifestyle-friendly ingredients such as organic, plant-based and gluten-free. In addition to its wide selection of produce, the grocery store will also feature a full-service deli, bulk foods, vitamins and supplements, meat and seafood.

Sprouts is committed to sustainability and community engagement, with a focus on volunteer work, local sourcing, local event support, and partnerships with area nonprofits. The new store will create approximately 80 full- and part-time career opportunities. Sprouts offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and a culture rooted in respect, sustainability, and community.

Plans were officially submitted to the City of Spring Hill by GBT Realty on August 18th, and with City approvals, the company expects construction on the new store to commence in early 2026 with a planned opening in early 2027.

GBT Realty has become a trusted partner to Sprouts, having developed more than a dozen stores, including location in Mt. Juliet which opens on October 17th, with another 12 in the pipeline.

Mt. Pleasant Citizens’ Police Academy (MSM)

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department is making plans to start a Citizens’ Academy program. The department hopes to consolidate their relationships with the people of the city they serve and give them more understanding of daily police operations.

“I feel like we have a good rapport with the citizens of Mt Pleasant currently, based on mutual trust and respect,” Officer Cory England said. “Ideally, both the citizens and the police department should see each other working towards the same goals: a safe and supportive community.”

The Citizen’s Police Academy is a four-week program that meets at the police department from 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24, and one Saturday which hasn’t yet been picked. At classes, participants will learn about the responsibilities of law enforcement, from fieldwork like patrolling and criminal investigations, to clerical work including hiring, communications and law. Participants will also get familiar with police equipment and do hands-on activities; if the program is successful, they might start taking citizens on ride-alongs and other, more involved missions.

“This academy is by no means certifying anyone to be a police officer, only a small look into what we do,” England said. “[But] it may help recruit people who want to be officers in the long run, not only for Mt Pleasant but other agencies.”

The academy is open to everyone 21 years or older, though preference will be given to applicants who work or live in Mt. Pleasant city limits. A paper application form must be printed off the police department’s website and mailed to: Mount Pleasant Police Department, 100 Public Square, P.O. Box 426, Mt. Pleasant, TN 38483, Attn: Cory England

Questions about the Academy can be asked of Officer England at cengland@mtpleasant-tn.gov or (931) 379-3201.

Maury Business Guide (Press Release)

Explore why Maury County is an ideal destination for businesses, professionals, and families in the latest issue of Maury County Business! This annual guide highlights our vibrant community, thriving business scene, and enviable quality of life. Whether you're a prospective resident, entrepreneur, or site selector, this must-read publication offers insights into what makes our region special.

Here’s how you can connect:

• Read Online: Visit [livability.com/maury-county] to explore unique stories about living, working, and thriving here.

• Print Copies: Contact the Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance located at

Join us in celebrating and sharing Maury County’s remarkable qualities, and thank you to our advertising sponsors for making this possible!

And now, Your Hometown Memorials, Sponsored by Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home…

Michael “Mike” Roy Looper, 69, a resident of Culleoka, died Friday, October 10, 2025 at TriStar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM at South Gate Church of Christ. Burial will follow in Wilkes Cemetery in Culleoka. The family will visit with friends Friday from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at South Gate Church of Christ. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

James “Jim” Harold Blackburn, 98, a lifelong resident of Maury County, died Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at The Bridge where he had made his home for the last year.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, October 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Randy Sprouse officiating. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens with military honors provided by Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. The family will visit with friends Sunday from 12:00 noon until 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Now, news from around the state…

Laws Regarding Drones (Tennessean)

Depending on the situation, spotting a drone can spark excitement — especially at live music performances or sporting events, where they’re often used for aerial footage and crowd shots.

But seeing a drone hovering over your private property can raise concerns about privacy and safety.

According to the Tennessee Department of Transportation, all drones must be registered through the Federal Aviation Administration’s DroneZone website, except those weighing 0.55 pounds or less.

The drone’s registration number must be clearly displayed on its exterior.

The department urges drone owners and operators to fly responsibly and follow FAA regulations and best practices, whether flying commercially or recreationally. Law enforcement agencies must obtain a warrant or meet specific exceptions before using drones for surveillance, such as during emergencies, missing person searches or disaster response.

"Tennessee law includes protections to guide drone use so that drones are not used in ways that violate personal privacy," writes the department online. "These measures help balance the benefits of drone technology with respect for personal privacy."

"These regulations may not cover all aspects of drone operation, and remote pilots should always check local, state, and federal laws to ensure full compliance."

According to the department, it is illegal to use drones to interfere with hunting or fishing, and drone surveillance of individuals engaged in these activities without consent is prohibited.

Operators should also follow federal aviation rules when using drones for tasks like mapping, surveying or capturing images at public events.

Drones cannot be used to collect personal information or record individuals in private settings without proper authorization. Those who believe their privacy has been violated by drone activity may seek legal action.

It is illegal to shoot down a drone over your property in the U.S. Drones are classified as aircraft and under federal law, damaging or destroying an aircraft, even one flying over private land, is a criminal offense.

The FAA regulates all U.S. airspace, not individual property owners.

This means that airspace above private property is not considered private, and any attempt to interfere with a drone in flight could result in serious charges, including property damage, endangerment, or violations under the Aircraft Sabotage Act.

While there are designated “No Drone Zone” areas where unmanned aircraft systems are prohibited, these zones are established by government entities and must be backed by specific statutes or local regulations.

The FAA provides customizable signage for official use, but private landowners are not permitted to use the “No Drone Zone” sign for personal property.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

It is almost that time for all the spooks to come alive and seek all the candy they can find! The Mount Pleasant Parks and Recreation presents its Annual Halloween Haunted Trail, taking place on Saturday, October 25th, 2025, from 4-6 pm! This Trail is set up around the walking trail of the Community Center located at 501 Gray Lane in Mount Pleasant, Tennessee.

This event is a great opportunity for kids to trick or treat in a safe place and allows all of local businesses a place to set up and be a part of our community.

There will be lots of candy, a Chili Cook-Off, and it will tell the tale of whether the Fire Dept can keep their back-to-back winning streak. You will also get to see all the amazing costumes.

Find more information on the Halloween Haunted Trails Facebook page.