Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-30-25

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for October 30, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Ultium to Lay Off Workers (CDH)

Ultium Cells will furlough about 700 of its employees as its Spring Hill, Tenn. plant braces for a temporary pause in production next year, Reuters reported Oct. 29. 

The Spring Hill battery assembly plant, a joint partnership between General Motors and LG Energy Solution, will halt production beginning in January 2026 through mid-year, Reuters reported.

The report followed a July announcement that outlined the latest steppingstone in the $2.3 billion partnership between LG Energy Solutions and GM to produce low-cost battery cells known as lithium iron phosphate, or LFP.

General Motors and Ultium Cells did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Additionally, Ultium Cells’ operations in Warren, Ohio will halt production similar to the Spring Hill plant, but will furlough 850 of its workers, and indefinitely lay off 550 employees. 

The report came on the heels of GM adapting to slower-than-expected electric vehicle demand, and a shifting regulatory landscape, Reuters reported.

Despite strong earnings following last week's quarterly earnings report, this week, the company has taken steps to trim its workforce, by laying off 300 and 200 employees in its Warren, Michigan Technical Center and Georgia IT Innovation Center, respectively, the Detroit Free Press reported. 

The automaker is in the midst of its annual review process, which will continue through the rest of the year, the company told the Detroit Free Press. 

In September, GM announced it would furlough half of its 1,400 shift workers as it rolls back production of electric vehicles at its Spring Hill plant. The plant implemented a month of downtime during a week in October, Thanksgiving and all of December. 

“General Motors is making strategic production adjustments in alignment with expected slower EV industry growth and customer demand by leveraging our flexible ICE and EV manufacturing footprint,” GM spokesperson Allison May told The Tennessean in a Sept. 4 statement.

Although this round of layoffs did not affect employees at the neighboring Ultium Cells site, reports indicate that following the September Homeland Security immigration raid at LG Energy Solution’s joint battery plant with Hyundai Motor in Georgia, Korean workers employed at Ultium Cells’ Spring Hill facility fled the country.

CA to Forfeit Final Game (CDH)

Columbia Academy is bringing an early to end to its TSSAA football season.

Columbia Academy forfeited the final game of the Tennessee high school football regular season because of an accumulation of injuries which have plagued the Bulldogs' roster throughout the season — its first in Division II-AA — Columbia Academy President, Dr. James A. Thomas confirmed to The Daily Herald on Oct. 29.

The Bulldogs were set to host the Middle Region's No. 1 seed, Franklin Roa Academy, on Oct. 30.

Columbia Academy closes the season 1-8 with a 0-5 record in region play. The Bulldogs opened the season with a 36-25 win over Fayetteville before losing the remainder of their games, which included non-region matchups against Nashville Christian, Lincoln County and Marshall County.

Columbia Academy sat just outside the TSSAA playoffs picture in DII-AA, one win behind Pope John Paul II. FRA is 7-1 and 5-0 in region play.

Columbia Academy moved up from DII-A as part of the TSSAA's new classification cycle. Last season was the most successful in program history, as Columbia Academy finished 10-4, reaching the DII-A state championship game for the first time before falling to Nashville Christian.

Columbia Wastewater Treatment Plant (MSM)

The new Columbia wastewater plant is the largest capital project in the city’s history and is intended to serve for the next 50 years.

Leading personnel from the Columbia Wastewater Department and the company in charge of building the $97.5 million facility recently took city leaders and officials on a tour of its progress.

Work began on the facility in July 2024, and by the time of the tour 11,000 feet of concrete had been poured. It will come online in April 2027 and will have a total of 20,000 square feet of concrete when it is completed in June 2028.

The treatment facility will have four concrete canals, 400-feet long, 40-feet wide and 18-feet deep, that spiral into one another. As Director of Wastewater Donnie Boshers and treatment plant Superintendent Cory Jenks explained how the whole facility will work, Boshers’s voice echoed all the way down the empty first canal.

“These are massive, so we’ll be able to handle big flow spikes without any problem because of the redundancy,” Jenks said.

The “oxidation ditch” features a motorized paddle which moves wastewater through the chambers and permeates it with oxygen. As the waste progresses through the basins, specially chosen cultures of microbes digest the waste. Part of the cleansed wastewater is injected back into the front end, to reintroduce the microbes there.

“Basically, what we do is the same process that occurs naturally in a stream,” said Boshers. “We just manipulate the process to complete it more quickly.”

At the end of the chain, the water goes through UV purification and a “clarifier” which filters out the last solids; the clean water is then pumped back into the Duck River a little after the 127-mile marker. CPWS recently told Main Street Maury that Columbia Wastewater’s effluent is so clean that they can’t process it in their treatment plant for reuse; they’ll let Columbia Wastewater’s product float downstream for several miles, mixing in with Duck River water, before taking it in at their new Williamsport valve.

Boshers was especially proud of the plant’s cocktail of bacteria, fungi and microalgae, which remove organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus and ammonia, chemicals which cause harmful algal blooms in the Duck River. The state requires wastewater utilities to eliminate ammonia and nitrogen, and is applying more pressure to do the same for phosphorus. They already use microbial digestion, and will seed the new plant’s wastewater with microbial “sludge” from the current one, but they will lean even more on the power of nature and less on mixing and straining machines in this new plant.

“This will be so much less labor-intensive, [and] the amount of mechanical equipment is so much less than at the old plant,” Boshers said. “Now, where we can handle 24-25 million gallons during a rain event, we’ll be able to handle 35-38 million gallons.”

The increased volume will also help them to meet the state’s purity requirements. TDEC caps the amounts of substances allowed in Columbia Wastewater’s effluent, and their permit doesn’t allow for more even during high-volume rainstorms; they can better control their process and purity levels by keeping the wastewater in the chambers with the microbes for as long as possible.

“Our permit limits will never go down, regardless of how much our flow increases,” explained Boshers. “So this will help us meet those limits that are coming.”

“We’ll have a lot more consistent effluent numbers with this plant than [with] the other plant,” agreed Jenks.

Whataburger to Come to Spring Hill (CDH)

Spring Hill continues to be a site for what could be the next Whataburger location.

The location, if approved, would be located off Belshire Village Drive, a site that has remained vacant for several years. The burger franchise is currently seeking approval for a site plan conversion of a former drive-thru.

The Texas-based fast-food chain's final site plans were first proposed in 2022, which would have been located at a former Burger King adjacent to Publix and Truist bank, though Whataburger chose not to move forward at the site.

The new Belshire Village site formerly operated as a KFC.

The proposed Whataburger has been discussed by the Spring Hill planning commission several times, this time being met with concerns about the property's potential development, and how the potential widening of U.S. Highway 31 could cause issues with parking.

Spring Hill Mayor Matt Fitterer addressed how the proposed restaurant could conflict with the Tennessee Department of Transportation's project to widen U.S. Highway 31, and how that project could potentially eliminate much of the Whataburger's parking lot.

"Their right-of-way acquisitions, their easements and their retaining walls basically take over all of the eastern border and northern border parking lot stalls," Fitterer said. "It is very foreseeable that in the not-too-distant future TDOT is going to come in and take away a majority of your parking. I would be extremely cautious in moving forward with this plan."

According to a Spring Hill staff report, the proposed reuse of the site is expected to increase current traffic volumes, posing a potential negative impact on the street network, though the applicant is proposed to install a new pedestrian sidewalk and crosswalk from the existing sidewalk on Belshire Way.

Emma Donnely-Bullington, representing Kimley-Horn overseeing Whataburger, said, while losing parking is a concern, the vast majority of the business is expected to be utilized via the drive-thru.

"TDOT is actively procuring engineering services," Fitterer responded.

"They tend to hire engineers when they expect to move forward with a project."

Donnely-Bullington added that the company expects a high traffic volume once the business opens, but that plans are in place to handle it.

"Whataburger will work with local PD to handle that queue," she said. "But as that comes into a more regular flow of business, we expect that flow to come down significantly."

No votes were taken at the Oct. 27 meeting. The item will be considered at the planning commission's Nov. 10 regular meeting.

Youth Education Foundation Awards Grants (Press Release)

Maury County Public Schools (MCPS) is excited to announce that the Youth Educational Foundation (YEF) has awarded $29,750 in grants that will fund 27 educational projects across the school district! MCPS educators who applied for the grants detailed how their project idea would help their students grow academically or emotionally, teaching them lifelong skills, or empower ownership and confidence. YEF reviewed all applications to determine winners and funding.

“We are deeply grateful for the generous financial support from the Youth Educational Foundation,” said Lisa Ventura, Superintendent of Maury County Public Schools. This funding will bring 27 creative, hands-on learning projects to life across our schools—directly benefiting students in every corner of our district. Investments like this empower our teachers to innovate and inspire, helping us provide every student with meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.”

YEF, a local 501(c) (3) was established in 2013 to raise funds in support of better educational opportunities for students in Maury County. In the 2024-2025 academic school year, YEF awarded more than $72,000 to 42 projects and programs to 22 different schools and organizations in Maury County.

“YEF is proud to support Maury County Public Schools and thankful for our generous donors,” said Travis Groth, Youth Educational Foundation Board Chairman. “We hope these grants will provide enhanced opportunities for teachers to enrich the education of students across Maury County.”

Pancake Day (Press Release)

Since 1959, the Columbia Noon Rotary Club has been flipping pancakes and serving smiles across Maury County. This year’s Pancake Day will be held on Saturday, November 8th, from 6:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Memorial Building on West 7th Street in downtown Columbia.

Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast of homemade pancakes, sausage, and a choice of beverage. Most folks enjoy dining in and visiting with neighbors, but carryout options will also be available.

“Pancake Day is the Noon Rotary Club’s largest fundraiser and allows us to serve youth and families in the Maury County community through our club projects,” said Connie Massey, Pancake Day Co-Chair. “This fundraiser is a long-standing tradition, and club members are proud to say we’ve made our pancakes from scratch for more than 60 years!”

Proceeds from Pancake Day help support some of the club’s most impactful service projects. Each year, Columbia Noon Rotary provides over $12,000 in scholarships to area high school students. The club also proudly sponsors Boy Scout Troop 103, which has produced more than 50 Eagle Scouts since 1960.

Tickets are $10 each or three for $25, and can be purchased in advance from any Noon Rotarian or at the door on Pancake Day. Children ages 6 and under eat free!

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Columbia noon rotary started in 1924 and has served the Maury County community for over 100 years through community service projects and programs that enhance youth education and leadership training. To learn more about Columbia Noon Rotary, you can visit our website at www.columbianoonrotaryclub.com or on social media at Columbia Noon Rotary.

Education Luncheon (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance on Wednesday, November 19 at 11:30 am for our annual Education Lunch featuring a State of Public Education and the 2025 Education Report. 

During this year's event, Maury Alliance President & CEO, Wil Evans, will lead a panel discussion with representatives from Maury County Public Schools. They will discuss the current state of public education, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs and the 2025 Education Report. 

Panelists include: 

• Lisa Ventura, MCPS Superintendent

• Keith Stacey, MCPS Assistant Superintendent of Instruction

• Amy Roberts, MCPS Career & Technical Education Supervisor 

• Michelle Gilbert, MCPS Director of Teaching, Learning & Assessment 

The event will be held at the Memorial Building located at 308 West 7th St.

The cost is $25 for chamber members and $30 for non-members. Lunch is included. The event is sponsored by Halifax Hospitality

Have a question you’d like the panel to address? Submit your questions in advance to help guide the conversation and ensure your voice is heard. Learn more by visiting www.mauryalliance.com.

Columbia State Performance Series (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College welcomes Scott Mulvahill to the Cherry Theater on November 13 as part of the Performance Series sponsored by First Farmers and Merchants Bank.

Scott Mulvahill doesn’t just play the upright bass—he reinvents it. A genre-blending singer-songwriter, he fuses Americana, folk, jazz and experimental sounds into something truly original.

“Scott Mulvahill has reimagined what the upright bass can do, even pioneering his own DataBass instrument,” said Tammy Rosson, Columbia State director of events and alumni relations. “Joined by his incredible band, he delivers a sound that’s as inventive as it is soulful, and we’re honored to welcome him back to the Cherry Theater stage.”

A former member of Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder, Mulvahill struck out on his own with Himalayas and his groundbreaking DataBass project. Encouraged by Bruce Hornsby, he’s since taken the stage on NPR’s Tiny Desk, Mountain Stage, and TEDxNashville, collaborating with Cory Wong, Lauren Daigle, and Keb’ Mo’. Don’t miss this musical innovator live in concert.

“Scott was well-received the first time he performed in the Cherry Theater, and we are delighted to welcome him back to Columbia State,” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “He has continued to hone his craft through reimagining the sounds his instruments can produce; our audience will enjoy the evening!”

Tickets for each performance are priced at $35 and include all fees. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.

Individuals may also contact the Performance Series ticket line at 931.540.2879, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On performance nights, the box office opens at 6 p.m. in the Kenneth and Ramona Cherry Theater, located in the Waymon L. Hickman Building on the Columbia Campus. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and all shows begin at 7 p.m. The Columbia Campus is located at 1665 Hampshire Pike in Columbia.

For more information, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/PerformanceSeries.

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…

Darla Sue Rayfield Smith, 65, resident of Lawrenceburg, died Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at her residence.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Now, news from around the state…

Andy Marshall Running for Williamson Mayor (WilliamsonScene)

Franklin businessman Andy Marshall kicked off his 2026 campaign for Williamson County mayor on Tuesday at Franklin’s Puckett’s Restaurant.

Marshall, the founder and CEO of A. Marshall Hospitality, the parent company of Puckett’s, said that he intends to build on the legacy of retiring County Mayor Rogers Anderson, who he said has “provided unmatched leadership for 24 years.”

“My goal is to build on this solid foundation that we have,” Marshall said. “The leaders we have in place today and those that have gone before them have played an integral role in making Williamson County desirable for both residents who have lived here for a lifetime and for those who have moved here in the past decade.”

Marshall is a Franklin High School and Middle Tennessee State University graduate and first-time candidate who describes himself as a “life-long Republican with strong Christian values.” He was joined on stage by his wife, Jan.

His listed priorities include: encouraging smart growth, maintaining fiscal responsibility, continuing community safety, sustaining a pro-business atmosphere, fostering community engagement, preserving agricultural heritage, and supporting the county’s top-ranked school system.

The event drew more than 100 community, government and business leaders, including Franklin Mayor Ken Moore and several sitting aldermen, Williamson, Inc. CEO Matt Largen and several members of the Williamson County Commission. Former Grace Chapel founding Pastor Steve Berger gave the invocation and led the pledge of allegiance.

“I think it's a very positive thing to bring a businessman in that has grown from a company with 10 people to 550 people. I know how to lead. I know how to get us there,” Marshall told the Williamson Scene, adding that he aims to modernize county operations.

A. Marshall Hospitality has grown Puckett’s into a regional brand with eight locations throughout Tennessee and North Alabama, as well as two other concepts, Scout’s Pub and Deacon’s New South. He opened the first Puckett’s in Leiper’s Fork in 1988 (in the building which now houses Fox & Locke) and sold that location in 2008 when he launched the restaurant management group.

In 2020, Marshall served on the governor’s sub-committee to the Economic Recovery Committee, which worked to establish guidelines for the safe opening of restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. He serves on several boards, including the Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Nashville Predators Foundation, Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, Tennessee Hospitality Association Education Foundation and Tennessee Tourism Committee.

Marshall is among a growing slate of candidates vying for the seat, including Williamson County commissioner Mary Smith, former state Rep. Brandon Ogles and Williamson County commissioner and health care executive Todd Kaestner.

“We need a calm leader,” Marshall said. “We need somebody that's going to keep their head about themselves and keep pushing this county forward. You know, right now, there's a lot of division in our country, and we don't need that here in Williamson County. What we need to do is unite with each other and build this county and push it forward. I mean, we're already recognized across this nation as one of the best counties in the country. We need to keep that. We need to keep pushing it forward.”

The primary election will be held May 5, with the general election on Aug. 6.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Columbia Police Department and Columbia Fire Department are teaming up in a friendly competition to support the Harvest Share Food Pantry.

Through November 7, residents can donate non-perishable food items at Food Lion or Piggly Wiggly locations in Columbia. Each item collected helps local families in need.

The city encourages the community to join the effort and show support for their favorite team—police or fire—while helping fill the shelves at Harvest Share one can at a time.