Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 11-6-26

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for November 6, 2026

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

We start with local news…

Car Burglary Spree (MSM)

Five masked men stole a car and burglarized several others in a West Hardy subdivision early Oct. 11, and one brandished a handgun at a security camera when a resident turned on a light.

At about 2:15 a.m. on West Burt Drive, the men stole one car with the keys left in it and the contents of another that was left unlocked. By 4:30 a.m. they were seen on West Hardin Drive, trying the doors of cars without breaking windows.

At one house on West Hardin, a resident got up to use the bathroom while the burglars were outside. When he turned on a light inside the house, one of the burglars walked up to the house’s security camera and brandished a handgun into the lens.

The footage is in the hands of city police.

Alice Harvill, who lives in the area, told Main Street Maury about the burglaries.

“It’s a good, good neighborhood. That’s why they left car doors open… This is not a high crime area, believe me,” said Harvill. “They evidently worked their way south through the subdivision… [and] they may have started in the… subdivision that’s on the other side of Hardy Acres.”

Columbia Awarded $1Million for Pump Station (MSM)

The City of Columbia has been awarded an additional $1 million in grant funding from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) through the State Water Infrastructure Grants (SWIG) Program to support improvements to the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station. The funding was awarded through a competitive statewide grant process, underscoring the strength of Columbia’s application and the importance of the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station Project to the community’s long-term infrastructure needs.

The City was originally awarded $4.8 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding through the State of Tennessee for wastewater infrastructure improvements. The additional $1 million competitive SWIG grant award brings the total state funding under the grant contract to $5.8 million, providing additional resources for critical wastewater infrastructure improvements in Columbia.

“Investing in infrastructure is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a City,” said Mayor Chaz Molder. “This additional grant award represents another important investment in Columbia’s future and helps ensure we are maintaining the infrastructure necessary to serve our community for years to come.”

The additional $1 million will be directed toward the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station Project. This major infrastructure investment serves portions of downtown Columbia, the Bear Creek corridor, and the interstate area.

“The new Bear Creek Pike Pump Station advances a strategic plan objective established by the City Council in 2022 to protect the long-term integrity and reliability of the City’s sanitary sewer system,” said Assistant City Manager/CFO Thad Jablonski. “From the outset, the City successfully pursued the maximum available grant funding to reduce the financial burden on our ratepayers.”

Over the years, the Bear Creek Pike Pump Station had experienced repeated flooding, creating reliability and maintenance concerns. The City is addressing this by relocating the pump station outside the flood zone and modernizing its equipment.

The improvements will enhance service dependability, increase energy efficiency, and strengthen the overall performance and resiliency of Columbia’s wastewater system. It helps ensure the infrastructure can reliably serve residents and businesses in the community for years to come.

“We appreciate the State of Tennessee for recognizing the importance of this project and providing an additional $1 million grant to help our wastewater system,” said City Manager Tony Massey.

County Commission Declines Ethics Revision (MSM)

The Maury County Commission declined to revise its ethics and disclosure policy on Oct. 19, with the revision stating county commissioners should disclose personal interests, the interests of their relations, and membership in organizations relevant to county business.

Ethics Committee chair Mike Kuzawinski drafted the proposed addition to the current ethics policy with help from county attorney Mark Dobies. Kuzawinski used the word “should” and made the policy non-specific and non-punitive to encourage commissioners to reflect honestly, not just legally, on possible conflicts.

“Even with [the current CTAS conflict-disclosure rules] in place, much confusion and personal opinion come into play… I believe the more you say, the more opportunity you create for loopholes, rabbit trails, and abuse… [and the applications of specific rules] become subjective in nature and lead to never-ending debate,” he said. “The rule as presented… was never about trying catch a violator, but rather to promote a spirit of transparency through positive peer pressure.”

Public commenters convinced the commission to reject the new rules, arguing for clear rules with teeth and appealing to their own experiences pushing ethics complaints through the county system.

“Disclosure of potential conflicts isn’t even an option [in the corporate world], I’m bound to disclose them, and I expect no less from local government,” said Teresa Sparks, a veteran of corporate governance. “Ethics violations aren’t simply procedural matters, they have caused real harm to the citizens you’re elected to represent… When relationships aren’t disclosed, citizens are left questioning whether decisions serve the public interest or private interest.”

“As written, it actually, I think, weakens our overall ethics [policy] because it creates this argument that ‘If somebody violates it, [at least] we’ve inserted this “should” language,'” said attorney Dustin Kittle. “[Also,] we’re misinterpreting ‘ethics:’ when the state standard [requires disclosure of] financial interests, that’s the minimum standard. It does not say that you can’t add to that [or]… define what [another type of] conflict is… We can take the time to do that. It shouldn’t be that you’ve got to have proof that a commissioner’s been handed money.”

The motion to pass Kuzawinski’s policy failed for lack of a second.

Maury Alliance report

Maury Alliance President Wil Evans presented the 2026 county commission, half of its members newly elected, with its first quarterly report from the Alliance.

“This is the best report we receive as a commission,” returning Commissioner Chad Brothers told his new colleagues.

Maury Alliance is fielding 18 industrial proposals and has pivoted from taking whatever economic projects it can get, to choosing only those that promise diversified jobs, good pay and manageable infrastructure demands. The proposals include both relocations of existing businesses and expansions of local ones.

Evans explained that the chamber now picks projects based on their economic fit. It is coordinating between county schools and employers to create the workforce that both present and future clients will need.

Evans praised the county’s strong metrics, but acknowledged that the community is also divided over recent growth. Maury Alliance will launch its “Cohesive Community Vision” effort in the next few months to gather people’s hopes and concerns for the future and synthesize them into a vision for future development.

“There is a lot of angst around the growth that our community is experiencing, and there are a lot of opinions,” he said. “We see our organization as a neutral catalyst that can bring together not just the key stakeholders… but the general community at large, to… understand what we want to be when we grow up.”

Other Business

The county commission appointed Kenny Morrow, Sam Barnes and Brent Coen, all commissioners, to the Audit Committee; Bill Marbet to the Park Board; and Jerry Dickey to the Civil Service Board. They announced vacancies on the Civil Service Board, the Agriculture Committee and the Regional Planning Commission.

The county is still seeking a permanent director for building and zoning to replace Robert Caldiraro. The county is offering pay above the first quartile for the profession ($86,920) to the right candidate. Senior engineer Mathew Piofer is serving as interim director.

The commission approved Guaranteed Maximum Prices (GMPs) for two projects at Maury County Park: $1.28 million to build a pavilion, and $7.757 million to plan and build the new recreation center.

The commission also agreed to pay up to $375,800 to the firm Kimley Horn to survey and assess the safety of Iron Bridge Road, Polk Road, Mapleash Avenue and Theta Pike, as part of the county’s Safety Action Plan to eliminate deadly and serious vehicle accidents.

Boys and Girls Club Celebrates (MSM)

The Boys & Girls Club of Maury County saddled up for an evening of giving, celebration and brighter futures during its 2026 Great Futures Gala on Friday, Oct. 23.

Hosted at The Mulehouse, the western-themed event brought together community members, sponsors and supporters to celebrate the children served by the Boys & Girls Club and raise funds to support its mission.

Guests were welcomed by the Boys & Girls Club Cheer Team before hearing from one of the evening’s most important voices: a student whose life has been shaped by the organization.

Carson C., a Boys & Girls Club student, served as the evening’s host, sharing how the club has helped him grow, build confidence, develop life skills and work toward his goals.

“When I first started coming, a staff member noticed me and took the time to come over and talk to me. That made me feel welcome,” Carson said. “For the first time there, I felt safe, comfortable, and most importantly, I felt like I belonged. That is what makes the Boys & Girls Club so special.”

Carson’s story reflects the relationships the organization works to build with the children it serves.

Through the guidance and support of staff members and teachers, the Boys & Girls Club strives to provide young people with a safe, positive and caring environment where they can reach their full potential.

Ginny Wright, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Maury County, also spoke about the organization’s growth over the past year and the increasing number of children walking through its doors.

“Last week, we averaged over 550 kids each day coming in the doors of the Boys & Girls Club,” Wright said.

With attendance continuing to grow, the organization is looking for ways to expand its resources and ensure more students have access to its programs and opportunities.

The evening’s fundraising efforts brought in $165,000 through a live auction, with proceeds supporting the club and the children it serves.

Auction items included a whiskey tasting in Nashville, a getaway to Navarre, Florida, and several other experiences. Guests also had the opportunity to bid on student sponsorships, helping cover the cost of full memberships or summer experiences for one to five children.

Beyond the western attire and auction items, the gala highlighted the opportunities the Boys & Girls Club works to create for local youth, from education and career development to building confidence, character and lifelong values.

Wright, alongside the club’s staff and teachers, expressed gratitude to the community members and sponsors who continue to invest in the organization’s mission.

“To watch people come and pour their heart and soul into a cause on their own initiative is amazing,” Wright said.

Spring Hill to Host Citizens Academy (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department is hosting the Citizens’ Police Academy from January 2027 through March 2027 with classes held on Thursdays from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Click for More News

The program provides students with a well-rounded understanding of the various aspects of police work and operations. Although certain subjects are taught through traditional classroom lectures, the program emphasizes providing students with practical, hands-on learning experiences. This blended approach allows students to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

While each CPA session has a slightly different focus, the curriculum covers a diverse range of law enforcement-related topics. Examples include:

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

• Criminal Investigations

• Active Shooter response

• Emergency Vehicle Operation Course (EVOC)

• Firearms training and safety

The Citizens’ Police Academy is open to all individuals 21 years of age or older and reside or work within the municipal city limits of Spring Hill. People may apply outside of the municipal city limits; however, precedence will be given to those within the municipal city limits.

Fill out an application at www.www.springhilltn.org/formcenter/police-3

Columbia Central Gets Foundation Money (MauryCountySource)

Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder and members of the James Craig Foundation recently presented a check to Columbia Central High School to support a variety of educational programs, scholarships, and student assistance initiatives. 

The James Craig Foundation was established by Dr. James Craig, a 1951 graduate of Columbia Central High School, and his wife, Bobbie Craig. For over 20 years, the foundation has played a pivotal role in supporting CHS students by providing funding for scholarships, educational resources, and various school programs.

The foundation’s contributions support a wide range of initiatives, including:

-Scholarships

-Tutoring and mentoring programs

-Classroom calculators

-Science fair grants

-Family Resource Center

-ACT preparation software and classes

-Advanced Placement testing assistance

-Class fees for students in need

-Remediation software

-Caps and gowns for students in need

-Girls State and Boys State assistance

-Success Fest, recognizing students earning all A’s and B’s

-Night of Stars Dinner, honoring senior students receiving scholarships and awards

Spring Hill Fire Gets Grant (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Fire Department has been named as a recipient of a $17,474 grant through the Gary Sinese Foundation First Responder Outreach Program. The grant funding is to allow for the purchase of the FiAR Fire Extinguisher Training System V2. FiAR is an augmented reality fire extinguisher training tool that allows trainees to practice fire suppression using real hardware in any indoor or outdoor environment without messy chemical discharge, cleanup, or reset times.

“We understand the work your department performs daily is imperative to the safety and security of the citizens of Spring Hill and surrounding areas,” said Madisen Gentry Moore, Director of Community Outreach for the Gary Sinese Foundation. “Gary, the Gary Sinise Foundation, and our thousands of American donors from across the country are honored to be able to assist you. We hope this equipment

helps keep your first responders safe and assists them in their life-saving day-to-day work.”

Currently, SHFD does not have a fire extinguisher training device for demonstrations or for public education. The previous device was outdated and did not function correctly, requiring extensive updating and repairs. It was disposed of in 2024.

Bringing tools like the FiAR Fire Extinguisher in house allows for easy access to training exercises for residents — furthering the goal of the Community Risk Reduction program within SHFD.

“This amazing technology takes advantage of augmented reality to bring realistic live training to any location for actual hands-on experience,” said Chief Graig Temple. “Our Community Risk Reduction efforts extend beyond messaging and fire safety best practices; if you, your workplace, or community group would like to demo this device and get the hands-on training, contact Captain Lisa Burns.”

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted to accept this grant funding by way of Resolution 26-281 on Monday, October 5, 2026.

Ice Skating At Riverwalk Park (Press Release)

Columbia Main Street is bringing Ice Skating to Riverwalk Park for 12 unforgettable days, December 1-12! The Farmers Market Pavilion will offer an affordable holiday experience for the entire community. Residents and tourists can enjoy skating for $10 (ages 6+) or FREE for children 5 and under , plus nightly food trucks, holiday-themed nights, character appearances, and a Holiday Market on December 12.

Columbia Main Street is looking for sponsors. Your sponsorship will make ice skating possible, and they would love to feature your business as part of the celebration. 

Gold Sponsor: $1,000

Ice Skating Tickets (x10), business LOGO on event signage, website and social media recognition, and vendor opportunity at the December 12 Holiday Market.

Silver Sponsor: $500

Ice Skating Tickets (x5), business LOGO on event signage, website and social media recognition, and vendor opportunity at the December 12 Holiday Market.

Community Sponsor: $200

You want to see this be as successful as possible, sponsor! Business LOGO on event signage and social media recognition.

There are also sponsorship opportunities for holiday characters, arts and crafts events and a photobooth.

Learn more at www.columbiamainstreet.com

State of Education Panel (Press Release)

Join us on Wednesday, November 18 at 11:30 am for the annual State of Education Lunch featuring Maury County Public schools. The program will take place at the War Memorial Building located at 308 W. 7th Street in Columbia.

During this year's event, Maury Alliance President & CEO, Wil Evans will lead a panel discussion with representatives from Maury County Public Schools including Lisa Ventura, MCPS Superintendent. They will discuss the current state of public education, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs and the 2026 Education Report. 

The cost is $25 for Maury Alliance Members and $30 for non-members and includes lunch.

For more information, visit www.mauryalliance.com.

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

Mrs. Shirley Geneva Wright Clanton, 88, resident of Pulaski, passed away on Thursday, October 22 at Maury Regional Medical Center Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. on November 7 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Pulaski

Robert Allen “Bob” Johnson, 84, resident of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away Friday, October 23, 2026, at The Gardens of Poplar Estates.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home, with Randy Owens officiating. The family will visit with friends Saturday from 1:00 PM until the service time at the funeral home.

Pamela Sue Hartsfield Black, 70, resident of Columbia, passed away Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Life Care Center of Columbia.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Brother Rushing officiating. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Friday, November 6, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. 

Marlene Pogue Huckaby, 84, resident of Columbia, passed away Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Funeral services will be announced later. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

And now, news from around the state…

GOP Speculate on Blue Wave (Tennessean)

In the fallout from the midterm elections, Republican officials and commentators in Tennessee and beyond have offered explanations for the GOP's losses, weighing in on issues such as affordability and the war in Iran.

Tennessee maintained Republican majorities in the General Assembly and U.S. Congress, but Democratic candidates in several congressional races posted stronger-than-expected results despite May's redistricting.

Nationwide, a blue wave swept across the country and helped Democrats regain control of both the House and the Senate by flipping states such as Texas, Kansas, North Carolina, Maine and South Carolina.

The blue wave was more of a blue ripple in the Volunteer State, as Tennessee's 4th Congressional District, where Victoria Broderick defeated GOP incumbent U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, was the state's only congressional seat to flip. Nonetheless, that lone upset added to the national conversation and prompted U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett and other Republicans to share what they believe went wrong this election cycle.

Incumbent Burchett, who won reelection in District 2 against Michaela Barnett, took to X the day after Election Day to not only thank his supporters for helping him remain in office, but also to diagnose why Republicans lost ground nationally.

"Why did Republicans lose?" Burchett said at the beginning of his video. "Two reasons really. One is affordability…The other reason is, [voters] don't trust Congress."

Regarding affordability, Burchett said the GOP failed to address the prices of fuel and diesel, as well as what he described as price gouging by oil companies, an issue he has discussed repeatedly since the war in Iran began in January 2026.

The congressmen also said that Congress as a whole is "infinitely broken and crooked," adding that polls leading up to the midterms showed Americans lacked trust in the institution.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Mark your calendars! The 2nd Annual Breakfast with Santa is coming back to Build A Donut Bakery & Café!

Bring the family for a cozy Christmas morning filled with delicious food, holiday cheer, and a special visit from Santa himself. Enjoy breakfast from the exclusive event menu, spend time with Santa, and take home an instant keepsake photo to remember the occasion.

Event Details:

Breakfast with Santa

Friday, December 12

10:15 AM–11:30 AM

Saturday, December 13

10:15 AM–11:30 AM

BAD Bakery & Café (106 E 7th Street, Columbia, Tennessee 38401)

Tickets include:

-Breakfast from the special event menu

-Visit with Santa

-Instant keepsake photo

Tickets are on sale now.

More information is available on the BAD Bakery and Café Facebook Page.