Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 12-17-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for December 17, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Officer Involved Shooting (Press Release)

At the request of the 22nd Judicial District Attorney General Brent Cooper, TBI agents are investigating the circumstances leading to an officer-involved shooting that occurred Sunday evening in Maury County.

Preliminary information indicates that a deputy with the Maury County Sheriff’s Office responded to an address in the 900 block of Southport Road in Mount Pleasant on an attempt to locate a man who was the subject of a BOLO (Be On The Lookout) out of Lawrence County. Upon arrival, the deputy made contact with the man, identified as 22 year old Jeremiah Dobbins. During the encounter, Dobbins reportedly produced a weapon, resulting in the deputy firing shots, striking him. Dobbins was transported to an area hospital, where he later died.

TBI agents are working to independently determine the series of events leading to the shooting, including collecting evidence and conducting interviews. Throughout the process, investigative findings will be shared with the District Attorney General for his further review and consideration. The TBI acts solely as fact-finders in its cases and does not determine whether the actions of an officer were justified in these types of matters. That decision rests with the District Attorney General requesting TBI’s involvement. 

The TBI does not identify the officers involved in these types of incidents and instead refers questions of that nature to the respective department to answer as it sees fit.

Spring Hill Sewer Moratorium (CDH)

The Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Alderman approved the first of two readings Dec. 15 to establish a sewer moratorium for new developments until Spring Hill secures higher water capacity.

BOMA's unanimous approval was part of the city's regular meeting. Pending its final approval in January, Ordinance 25-29 would not only establish the proposed sewer moratorium but also allocate any of the city's remaining sewer capacity.

"[It's been] a great deal of work, a great deal of collaboration," City Administrator Carter Napier said.

During a special called meeting Aug. 5, BOMA approved terms to a Consent Order issued by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) after repeated violations had been found at Spring Hill's Water Treatment Plant.

These findings were tracked between 2023-2025, wherein 29 total violations were reported, according to an Aug. 8 press release, resulting in a total civil penalty of $65,700 — $13,140 of which must be paid within 30 days.

"Spring Hill takes full responsibility for these violations and have been transparent with TDEC throughout this process by self-reporting these issues. We are committed to bringing our sewer treatment plant into full compliance with state standards,” Mayor Matt Fitterer said in the release. “Ensuring the safety and health of our community is our top priority. Our focus is on implementing lasting solutions to prevent future violations and deliver safe and reliable utility systems."

Per TDEC's Consent Order, the city agreed it would enact a sewer connection moratorium for all projects, which do not have vested sewer rights under applicable Tennessee law. The moratorium, according to the Aug. 8 release, would be lifted only after Spring Hill is in compliance with the Consent Order for a period of 12 consecutive months.

In October, BOMA enacted a temporary suspension on the acceptance, processing and approval of construction plans, grading permits and building permits. The suspension was initially set to expire Nov. 17, but was extended to the Dec. 15 meeting.

"I think we are getting to an understanding of people not getting everything they wanted, but I think this is a workable solution while we continue to explore other paths forward," Linville said. "I really appreciate the collaboration from everyone to help us get to the best solution we could in light of a tough circumstance."

Fitterer concluded the Dec. 15 discussion by acknowledging the ordinance's second reading in January, and that they "can and sometimes do change between first and second reading."

"It takes a motion and an amendment from us at the second reading following the public hearing," Fitterer said. "While this is a significant step, it's not the final step. We have well documented over the past nine or 10 meetings how we got to this point, and it's pretty clear how the city has arrived where we are at."

Conway Boyz Publish Another Graphic Novel (MSM)

Ryon (20) and Kanye Conway (21), cousins from Columbia, have published their fourth graphic novel Lake, a “vampiric horror” story which they recommend to readers of age 16 and older. They promoted it at the Columbia Comic Book and Toy Expo, held at the National Guard Armory, in late September.

The “Conway Boyz” grew up imbibing “nerd culture,” which has become more socially acceptable in the last couple decades, and writing down and drawing their own ideas. During the coronavirus lockdown, they began revisiting their old drawings and drafting stories based on them.

“When it came time in COVID to write the books… they just pulled from what they’d been drawing when they were eight, nine and 10 years old at my mom’s kitchen table,” said Kaliente Conway-Glenn, Kanye’s mother and Ryon’s aunt.

One of Kanye’s early character designs transformed into “Nightman,” the title character of their first book, whom they regard as the “most grounded” of their creations.

“He has no actual powers. This is just a teenager coming of age, who sees a problem in the world and wants to take care of it,” explained Ryon. “He wants to do it all himself, [but] the moral of the story is to trust and have friends.”

They work together on illustrations and stories, then type the story and edit or critique one another’s drafts. Their visions are reasonably similar — “I like what he likes, and he likes what I like,” Kanye said — but as they get older their distinct skills and interests have emerged. Ryon is a film student at Belmont University, where he makes short films and watches long ones.

“Because I’m doing [film] so much now, [my style is] coming to me quickly,” he said. “I watch so much that it’s becoming an amalgamation of things I already know I like.”

Meanwhile Kanye is studying theater and the other arts at Columbia State Community College, and acting has sharpened his characterization.

“[Acting] also helped me discover not just my character that I’m playing, but the characters that I’m writing as well,” he explained. “I’m going deep into what makes that character who they are, what makes them very unique [but] relatable.”

The Conway Boyz also hope to inspire people with their work. They insert hopeful and confidence-building themes into the stories themselves, and they give talks at the public schools, most recently at Whitthorne Middle School.

“I want the kids to see… local, young authors who are trying to make a difference and overcome obstacles,” said Mrs. Conway-Glenn.

CSCC Awarded $2 Million Grant (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College has been awarded a $2 million Rural Health Care Pathways Expansion Grant by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. The “Rural RNs Rise (R3): Growing Caregivers” project focuses on creating clear educational pathways to high-demand healthcare careers, including implementation of a new paramedic-to-RN pathway, changes to the college's existing LPN-to-RN option and strategic attention to growing the EMS pipeline.

The R3 project also aims to address critical healthcare workforce shortages across southern Middle Tennessee.

The grant includes funds for an LPN/Paramedic-to-RN pathway coordinator and a success navigator to provide participants with wrap-around services and access to resources.

LPNs and paramedics with credit for the appropriate pre-requisite general education courses can apply for pathway admission. Upon completion of the summer transition courses, students merge into the third semester of the traditional, in-person nursing program in the fall and can graduate the following May with an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing, NCLEX-RN eligible.

“We are thrilled to offer paramedics and LPNs the chance to expand their skill set and educational horizons through this new pathway,” said Greg Johnson, Columbia State EMS program director and assistant professor. “It's a tremendous opportunity for career growth and a vital step in strengthening the entire healthcare system in Middle Tennessee.”

The new pathway helps address the shortage in registered nurses, on a local and national level, while also providing career advancement opportunities for working LPNs and paramedics.

“What an exciting time here at Columbia State to be able to provide a new pathway for LPNs and paramedics to enter the nursing practice as RNs,” said Dr. Loretta Bond, Columbia State nursing program director. “This pathway will serve as a vital solution to address critical nursing shortages!”

“Receipt of the R3 grant provided the college with funds to develop and implement an opportunity for LPNs and paramedics — many who are former Columbia State students — to care for and about patients in new ways!” said Dr. Kae Fleming, Columbia State dean of the Health Sciences Division. 

For updates regarding application deadlines and admission criteria for this new pathway, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Nursing.

Paramedics and LPNs who are interested in this new opportunity have time to take the remaining pre-requisite courses in the Spring semester. College application information is available here: www.ColumbiaState.edu/Admissions.      

Candidates may request academic guidance and assistance by email at NursingApp@columbiastate.edu.

Maury Alliance Annual Meeting (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance on Thursday, January 29th, for their most anticipated event of the year, the Maury Alliance Annual Meeting! Celebrate the successes of 2025, honor the transition of their volunteer leadership, and discover their exciting strategic goals for 2026.—all while continuing to commemorate over 100 years of growth, innovation, and community impact in Maury County.  

Enjoy an evening filled with entertainment and networking celebrating business and industry in Maury County with a social hour, elegant dinner and live music.

Purchase tickets now to guarantee a seat at Maury Alliance’s biggest event of the year.

Registration will close January 19 at 5:00 pm. 

Get tickets and learn more by visiting www.mauryalliance.com.

Short-Term Rental Nonconformity Applications (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is issuing a public reminder to property owners operating short-term rentals (STRs) that nonconformity (grandfathering) applications must be submitted by December 31, 2025, to remain eligible for continued operation in areas where STRs will no longer be permitted by zoning beginning January 1, 2026.

Short-term rentals are permitted (with an STR permit) only in the CD-4, CD-4C, and CD-5 zoning districts. Property owners may use the City’s online zoning map at www.ColumbiaTN.gov to verify the zoning of their property. STRs located outside these permitted districts may still qualify for nonconforming status only if a Nonconformity Application is submitted along with a Short-Term Rental Application by December 31, 2025.

A property may continue operating as a short-term rental if it was in use before April 10, 2025, and the owner remitted required state taxes for at least six months within the 12 months preceding that date. Continued operation remains valid unless the property is sold or transferred, STR use ceases for 30 consecutive months, or the property receives three or more violations of applicable local laws. Eligible owners must still obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit and provide documentation of tax remittances.

Property owners seeking to maintain eligibility must submit all required applications no later than December 31, 2025.

Information on zoning, STR permits, and nonconformity applications is available on the City of Columbia’s official website. For questions, contact Planning & Zoning at 931-560-1560 or visit ColumbiaTN.gov.

Youth Leadership Maury (Press Release)

Applications are now open for Youth Leadership Maury! Youth Leadership Maury is a county-wide program for high school juniors designed to foster leadership skills, community development, and networking.

Class members meet with local decision-makers in several sectors of the community, such as business, government, health, public services and agriculture.

Participants will visit places all over the county to hear speakers and participate in activities to help them learn about Maury County and how to positively impact where they live, learn, work and play.

2026 Program Dates:

Thursday, January 22nd - Team Building Day

Tuesday, February 10th - Economic Development

Thursday, March 12th - State Government

Tuesday, April 14th - Government / Tourism / Health

Wednesday, April 29th - Agriculture / Graduation

Apply online by visiting https://mauryalliance.com/youth-leadership/

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 License Kiosk (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department has introduced a new Driver License Self-Service Kiosk in the lobby of its headquarters at 800 Hathaway Blvd. The kiosk is open to all Tennessee residents—regardless of county—and offers a convenient alternative to visiting the DMV.

Available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the kiosk allows users to:

* Renew a driver license

* Obtain a duplicate license or state ID

* Change their address

* Pay reinstatement fees in full

The kiosk does not accept cash or checks; payment must be made using a credit or debit card.

No appointment is necessary. For more information about the service, visit www.tn.gov/content/tn.

Maury County Clerk Satellite Office (Press Release)

The Maury County Clerk’s office can now help residents with renewals of license plates or placards each Wednesday from 8am to 3:30pm at the Maury County Senior Center located at 1020 Maury County Park Dr.

Please drive around to the back of the building and look for the car tag renewal sign near the back door.

Forms of payment include credit/debit card or check – no cash.

Any Maury County Resident can use this office.

All other transactions will still need to be done through the main office located at 10 Public Square.

Also, you can renew online at TNCountyClerk.com or at kiosks in Spring Hill City Hall or Mt. Pleasant Courthouse.

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

Mr. Jerry Wayne Hartsfield, 79, died Tuesday at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center. Funeral services will be conducted Thursday at 1:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Thursday from 12 noon until time of the services at the funeral home.

Mrs. Sara Whiteside Farris, 91, died Tuesday at Maury Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted Friday at 1:00 PM at South Gate Church of Christ. Burial will follow in Old Well Cemetery in the Shady Grove Community. The family will visit with friends Friday from 11:00 AM until time of the services at the church.

Mrs. Clara Durand Ledbetter, 89, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center surrounded by her loving family. A memorial service will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 10:00 AM.

Now, news from around the state…

Blue Oval City Changes Focus (TNLookout)

Ford Motor Company is scrapping plans to manufacture a next-generation electric pickup truck at BlueOval City in West Tennessee, looking instead to gas-powered pickup trucks with more stable paths to profit.

The auto manufacturer will begin producing gas-powered Built Ford Tough truck models at its renamed Tennessee Truck Plant in 2029, according to a Monday news release. The facility was previously called the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center. 

“Ford no longer plans to produce select larger electric vehicles where the business case has eroded due to lower-than-expected demand, high costs and regulatory changes,” the release states.

A representative for Ford did not immediately respond to questions about what this change means for the 5,760 new jobs promised in exchange for a nearly $1 billion state economic incentive package for the site, which was originally slated to begin producing electric pickup trucks in 2025.

“We are aware of Ford’s decision to update their production plans; however, this corporate decision does not change or diminish their commitments to West Tennessee,” the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development stated Tuesday. “Ford’s promised jobs and investment remain on track and will drive long-term, generational growth across the region.”

Gov. Bill Lee said Tuesday that the state will be in “continuous communication” with Ford about the incentives tied to the facility’s job count, “but we deal with that regularly with companies that change plans.”

Lee said he is “encouraged that their commitment is to stay” and produce the gas-powered trucks in Tennessee. But he was uncertain they would fulfill the job requirements necessary to reap the state funds.

“I think we’ll have to watch this play out over the next few years,” he said. “We’ll be talking to them, obviously, about what happens if they don’t (meet hiring requirements), what are their plans to meet those required job numbers.”

Plans at BlueOval City, a $5.6 billion campus located on about 3,300 acres of former farmland, have shifted significantly since the manufacturing plant was announced in 2021. 

Gas Prices (MSM)

Gas prices across the state fluctuated slightly higher over last week, but fell through the weekend to only a penny more expensive than last week. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.57 which is 12 cents less expensive than one month ago and six cents less than one year ago.  

“Right now, Tennesseans are seeing the cheapest gas prices in four years,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “While it’s possible that we could see some fluctuation in pump prices around the holidays, it’s likely that prices will remain low through the holidays and the end of the year, which is a nice gift for drivers planning a holiday road trip.” 

Tennessee is currently the 12th least-expensive gas market in the nation.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Families in Columbia have a new opportunity to help children build confidence and skills in the water through a series of free evening swim lessons.

The Parks and Recreation Department is offering the lessons at the Columbia Aquatics and Recreation Center for swimmers ages 4 and older. The program is designed for both beginners and those looking to improve their swimming techniques, with certified instructors providing personalized instruction in a safe and welcoming environment.

Lessons are held Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5 to 5:45 p.m. and from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Space is limited, and advance registration is required.

The lessons are free for ARC members. Non-members may participate by purchasing a day pass, with rates set at $5 for city residents, $8 for county residents, and $11 for those outside the county.

Registration and additional details are available through the city’s Parks and Recreation online catalog.

Learn more at www.columbiatn.gov.