Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 10-8-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for October 8, 2025

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

We start with local news…

OPMobility to Layoffs (CDH)

OPmobility, a French automotive supplier, plans to lay off 82 employees at its Spring Hill facility effective Nov. 21, according to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) filed Oct. 7 with the U.S. Department of Labor.

The layoffs follow a $3 million dollar expansion plan announced in June 2024 for the company that primarily supplies electric vehicles. They arrive as automakers are rolling back electric-vehicle production plans amid low consumer demand.

OPMobility, which has more than 150 plants in 28 countries, has operated in Tennessee since 2015. Its locations include Smyrna, Chattanooga and Hendersonville. 

On Sept 4., General Motors Spring Hill announced the company would furlough roughly half of its 1,400 shift workers as it rolls back production of its electric vehicles. 

The plant will pause production for more than a month of downtime through the end of the year — during the week of Oct. 6, the Thanksgiving holiday and all of December.

Additionally, Michigan-based automotive parts manufacturer Tenneco announced plans to lay off 349 employees in Tennessee between December 2024 and December 2025.

Following the largest single-site immigration raid in U.S. Homeland Security’s history at LG Energy Solutions joint battery facility with Hyundai Motor in Georgia, many Korean employees at the company’s Spring Hill operation left the U.S., according to a Reuters report.

Spring Hill Library Considered (CDH)

The city of Spring Hill’s goal to construct a new Spring Hill Public Library could take its first steps this month with a new design proposal the Board of Mayor and Aldermen is considering.

The proposal, submitted by HGA/WBA, was presented Monday, Oct. 6 to BOMA. The work would consist of the library's conceptual design, as well as Geotech and environmental surveys, with an estimated cost of $66,300.

Spring Hill Library Director Dana Juriew said HGA/WBA had submitted a proposal previously, but it was at a size and scope beyond what is needed at this time.

"The architect came with a proposal that was a little high and a little bit out of scope, included things that we weren't ready to worry about at this point, because we wanted to make sure the facility can actually come adjacent to City Hall," Juriew said. "Do the environmental and Geotech study before we worry about the public engagement, and a lot of the mechanical and plumbing."

Discussion among BOMA members was brief, but addressed the design provided, such as if it would be enough to guarantee the library's location next to City Hall.

"If there are any major environmental issues, that should flag it," Assistant City Administrator Dan Allen said. "We can always go in and further investigate if something gets flagged."

Mayor Matt Fitterer added it would be beneficial to stipulate in the proposal that the city conduct scheduled "check-ins" to better keep track of the progress.

"I would anticipate that maybe there are a couple of high-level concepts that are shared with staff before they narrow in on a single conceptual site plan as their final deliverable," Fitterer said. "If they are off the right track, they catch it early. Reading it strictly how it's written, they could just deliver a final site plan, be totally off base and we wouldn't have an opportunity to correct it."

Alderman Jaimee Davis asked if the design would also carry an expiration date, pending the timeline of when the project can be completed.

"I would hope it would hold, because in the past we have done conceptual designs and held on through similar situations," Juriew responded.

Allen added that, given the basic nature of the concept and what the proposal seeks to accomplish, the basic scope of work should remain steady unless the city decides to make any drastic changes in the future.

"They are not doing hundreds of thousands of dollars of design work, not taking it all the way up to get ready for construction," Allen said. "They are basically getting some concepts and visuals put together, a general idea of square footage and parking. If you change the scope or add on to it, you aren't really losing a whole lot.

"Let's say we were talking about 50,000 square feet, and you say, 'You know what, we've changed our mind, and we really want to do a big one at 100,000 square feet.' That's the kind of stuff when you'll start to lose the value in what you have done."

Spring Hill Discusses Capital Improvements (MSM)

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Alderman held a special meeting last week to discuss capital improvement plans and road closures in the city. 

City Administrator Carter Napier presented a review of the city’s 10-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), outlining $480 million in projects to be distributed over the next 10 years. 

The four-page plan divides projects into categories and highlights funding status, contractors and progress. 

CIP Director Missy Stahl reviewed the first page of the plan to the board, which included five sections of projects: completed projects, projects currently in progress, committed but not allocated, not committed and not allocated and developer-funded projects. 

Stahl focused on the “ not committed and not allocated” section, which are various department heads’ requests on what they’d like to see in 10 years. The lengthy section included Fire Stations 1,5 and 6, City Hall basement renovations, Port Royal Road Widening and Derryberry Lane passive park design and engineering, and more. 

Committed but not allocated projects include a new library building, police training facility, Hurt Road park land and the Buckner Road widening project. 

On Sept. 30, staff sent two surveys to board members, asking them to rank the projects in both the “not committed and not allocated” and the “committed but not allocated” categories in order of priority. The surveys are due Oct. 20, staff will consult and view the results and present it at the Dec. 1 BOMA work session. 

The goal is to have the final resolution adopted by Jan 5, 2026. 

The contractor for the south segment of the Buckner Lane widening project is asking for a short-term closure to speed up construction.

The request is to close the section of Buckner Lane during Williamson County Schools’ fall break, Oct. 9-10, with Oct 11 as a backup date in case of weather delays. The road would be closed at 9 a.m. and reopen at 3 p.m. each day.

The current project requires three different one-lane closures to install two stormwater pipes and a pipe across Buckner Lane. The closure would allow the team to complete these items in one shift, which would ensure a faster completion rate and less impact on traffic and travel for school and residents. 

The contractor has also included a detour plan that would route traffic from Spring Station, through Wade’s Grove and Chapman’s Retreat then reconnect at Duplex Road. Stahl noted that the chief of police has agreed to utilize extra patrols on the detour routes for the two days. 

Message boards would be placed at the end of each project site a week in advance to notify residents of the closure and detour information. This request was forwarded to the consent agenda at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting. 

Commissioners Jennifer Mason and Guy Carden II, District 3 of Spring Hill, shared grant funding approval for College Grove Park during Monday night’s citizen comment portion. 

The grant passed, allocating more than $10 million for pickleball courts, baseball fields, walking trails and a stage for concerts.

CFR Recognized (MauryCountySource)

The City of Columbia proudly announces that Columbia Fire & Rescue was honored with the 2025 Excellence in Risk Management Award by Public Entity Partners.

The award was presented during the Excellence in Risk Management Luncheon on Thursday, October 2, as part of the annual Risk and Insurance Symposium.

This recognition celebrated the department’s innovative efforts to enhance firefighter wellness through the introduction of Darby, an emotional support service dog stationed at Fire Station 3. Darby provides comfort and support to first responders, helping them manage the stress and trauma that often accompany emergency response situations.

The award underscores Columbia Fire & Rescue’s ongoing commitment to protecting not only the community but also the health and well-being of its firefighters. By embracing forward-thinking approaches to risk management and wellness, the department continues to set an example for fire service agencies across the state.

CSCC STEM Within Reach (MSM)

Columbia State Community College will host a STEM Within Reach event in an effort to promote and encourage young people’s knowledge and access to science, technology, engineering and math careers, on Oct. 25 at the Columbia Campus.

“STEM Within Reach is more than just a science outreach event – it’s an ongoing passion project of Columbia State faculty and staff who love science,” said Ryan Badeau, Columbia State educational services coordinator for the Williamson Campus and associate professor of physics. “STEM Within Reach is a full-day Saturday event, held every other year at the Columbia Campus, with the goal of bringing novel hands-on science activities and experiences to middle school boys and girls right here in Middle Tennessee. We believe in inspiring upcoming students to not only learn more about the natural world, but also how they can use that knowledge to pursue future careers that benefit themselves, their families and communities.”

STEM Within Reach is a one-day STEM forum open to all sixth, seventh and eighth graders that will offer interactive, hands-on activities as well as encourage early student success in STEM, provide awareness of STEM careers available in Tennessee and promote the scientific and technological understanding of such fields.

The workshops at STEM Within Reach are designed to teach middle school students about the different opportunities in STEM-related careers as they begin to think about their futures.

Stations will be set up around campus for the students to observe and participate while Columbia State faculty and guest presenters guide them through an interactive, hands-on experience.

Topics include animal science, astronomy, biology, chemistry, engineering, math, technology and more. 

“Our last event was held in October 2023, and included stations that explored drone flight, chemistry flame tests, an introduction to Python and game development, cow eyeball dissection, live animals and agricultural science and more,” said Bobbie West, Columbia State associate professor of engineering and physics. “We partnered with the Columbia Police Department and Columbia Fire & Rescue to showcase how they use technology in keeping our communities safe. We also had a guest workshop sponsored by Ultium Cells on the science behind batteries. 

Parents and teachers are invited to a tour with information on how their children can pursue resources and careers in a variety of STEM fields. Complementary Wi-Fi and lounge areas will also be available throughout the event.

The event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Waymon L. Hickman building on the Columbia Campus. There is a $20 registration fee, with limited financial assistance opportunities available via the scholarship application made possible thanks to lead sponsor, the Tennessee Valley Authority. Seating is limited.

“We are looking forward to this year’s event which will bring back many of our favorite science activities and workstations and add some new ones!” Badeau said. “I’m personally excited to see the return of the game design event (that was very well received in our last event) and a new activity related to cloud chambers.”

STEM Within Reach is made possible through the volunteer effort of Columbia State’s faculty and staff, the donations of community partners like the Tennessee Valley Authority, and volunteer community presenters like the Columbia Police Department and Columbia Fire & Rescue.

For full details and to register for the event or apply for scholarship funds, please visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/stem-within-reach.

For more information on Stem Within Reach, please email stemwithinreach@ColumbiaState.edu.

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!

Spring Hill Chamber Awards (Press Release)

Join the Spring Hill Chamber for their annual Excellence in Business Gala on Friday, November 7th at the UAW Hall located at 125 Stephen P. Yokich Parkway. This premier black-tie event celebrates outstanding leadership, innovation, and community impact across our local business community. Guests will enjoy an elegant served dinner, open bar, and live entertainment from an Old-School Motown Revue Band, The Compozitionz.

Please join us as we recognize this year’s distinguished nominees:

Business of the Year

• Light Hill Meats

• Grecian Family Restaurant & Bakery

• The Awaken House

 Non-Profit of the Year

• Friends of the Spring Hill Library

• The Well Outreach

• Community Baptist Church

PLUS, Woman and Man of the Year!

We look forward to an inspiring evening of celebration, connection, and community pride as we honor those who make Spring Hill a thriving place to live and do business.

Tickets are limited and expected to sell out — reserve your seat today!

https://business.springhillchamber.com/events/details/tonight-business-excellence-awards-gala-36855

Duck River Access Points Opened (Press Release)

The City of Columbia officially celebrated the opening of two new paddle craft access points along the Duck River with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Riverwalk Park on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

The project, funded through a $200,000 State Tourism Enhancement Grant with matching contributions from the State of Tennessee and the City of Columbia, was designed to expand outdoor recreation opportunities and create easier access to one of the community’s most treasured natural assets.

“Outdoor recreation is essential to building a healthy, connected community,” said Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan. “These new access points give our residents and visitors more opportunities to enjoy the Duck River, stay active, and experience the natural beauty that makes Columbia special.”

The new facilities include two designated paddle craft launches, one located near the Columbia Dam and another under the 5th Street Bridge inside Riverwalk Park. Together, the access points form a convenient thirty-minute float route, offering a family-friendly way to experience the Duck River without committing to a full-day trip.

Mayor Chaz Molder highlighted the importance of the river to Columbia’s identity. “The Duck River is one of the most biodiverse rivers in North America, and it’s right here in Columbia’s backyard,” said Molder. “These access points give us a new way to connect with the river and showcase the importance of preserving and celebrating this incredible re-source. I am proud of the vision that brought this project to life, the latest example in our efforts to make Columbia the best place in America to live, work and raise a family.”

Columbia City Manager Tony Massey emphasized the importance of long-term planning. “The Duck River has always been one of our greatest natural treasures,” said City Manager Tony Massey. “This paddle craft launch is a great way for our citizens to enjoy that treasure.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony drew community members, local officials, and representatives from the State of Tennessee to Riverwalk Park, where brief remarks were followed by the ceremonial ribbon cutting and a demonstration of the new launches.

The City of Columbia continues to prioritize investments in parks, recreation, and natural resources as part of its broader vision to make Columbia one of the most livable and family-friendly communities in the state.

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

Franklin Madison Thomas, 72, a resident of Culleoka and former resident of Goodlettsville, died Friday, October 3, 2025 at his residence.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Vincennes, Indiana. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com. 

Edna Agnes Glover Hooie, age 93, of Columbia, Tennessee, died peacefully at home on Sunday, October 5, 2025, after a brief illness.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, October 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends on Saturday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Oakes and Nichols Funeral Home

Now, news from around the state…

7th Congressional Race Determined (Fox17.com)

Matt Van Epps, a former commissioner in Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee’s administration, won a crowded Republican primary Tuesday in the special election to replace a GOP congressman who left office this summer.

In the Democratic primary, state Rep. Aftyn Behn won a four-way contest and will face Van Epps in the general election.

Van Epps clinched the victory with an endorsement from President Donald Trump that came after in-person early voting ended. Eleven Republicans were on the ballot for the seat vacated by former U.S. Rep. Mark Green. Among them, two candidates, including state Rep. Lee Reeves, suspended their campaigns after Trump weighed in, and they likewise endorsed Van Epps.

“Thank you to the people of Middle and West Tennessee! Our Donald J. Trump-endorsed campaign won in a landslide tonight,” Van Epps said on social media. “Now, on to December 2nd! We’re going to win the general and keep this seat RED!”

The Dec. 2 general election could gauge the popularity of Trump’s aggressive second-term agenda, especially with suburban Republican voters.

Meanwhile in the Democratic primary, the four candidates remained in a close race.

The seat is one of three districts that GOP lawmakers drew as safely red in 2022 by dividing left-leaning Nashville. Its voters elected Green by 21 percentage points in 2024 and by nearly 22 points in 2022.

During the primary campaign, Van Epps leaned into his military experience, including as a Tennessee Army National Guard lieutenant colonel and as an Army Special Operations helicopter pilot. Among the competitors he defeated were state Reps. Jody Barrett and Gino Bulso.

Trump’s backing followed Van Epps’ prior endorsements from Gov. Lee, Green and U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan.

Gas Prices (MSM)

Gas prices across the state rose two cents, on average, over last week. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.75 which is 10 cents less expensive than one month ago but three cents more than one year ago.  

“Tennessee gas prices fluctuated higher over last week, but shifted lower over the weekend,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Barring any major changes in the overall market, gas prices should stay in a familiar range in the short term, which is good news for those planning a fall break road trip.” 

Tennessee is the sixth least-expensive market in the nation.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Morning Pointe of Spring Hill Assisted Living invites the community to join in the Halloween fun at its Trick or Treat Family Nite on Thursday, October 30, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The event is open to families, friends, and even pets, offering a safe and festive way to enjoy the holiday. Children and guests of all ages can trick-or-treat through the community while enjoying candy, costumes, and cheerful Halloween spirit.

“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Tori Longino, executive director at Morning Pointe of Spring Hill. “It’s a joy to see our residents, families, and neighbors come together for a night of laughter, smiles, and sweet memories.”

The event will be held rain or shine at Morning Pointe of Spring Hill, located at 1001 McCutcheon Creek Lane, Spring Hill, TN. Guests are encouraged to dress up, bring their pets, and prepare for a fun-filled evening.

For more information, call (931) 451-1899