Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 12-3-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for December 3, 2025

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

We start with local news…

MCPS Achieves Advancing Public School Designation (Press Release)

Maury County Public Schools (MCPS) has earned an Advancing School District designation from the Tennessee Department of Education for the first time in the school district’s history!

 The designation is part of the state’s accountability system, which evaluates school districts on multiple indicators, including student academic growth, achievement, grade-band success rates, chronic absenteeism, English language proficiency progress, and graduation rates. The recognition follows several years of steady districtwide improvement, highlighted by rising achievement scores and stronger outcomes across grade levels.

 “This accomplishment reflects the hard work happening in every classroom across Maury County,” said Lisa Ventura, Superintendent of Maury County Public Schools. “Our students are learning and growing, and our teachers and staff are dedicated to ensuring every child succeeds. Achieving Advancing School District status for the first time in our history is a milestone that belongs to our entire community, and we are incredibly proud.”

 The state identifies districts across five accountability levels: Exemplary, Advancing, Satisfactory, Marginal, and In Need of Improvement. MCPS previously held a Satisfactory designation. Moving into the Advancing School District category demonstrates measurable gains in student achievement, effective district-level support, and the impact of strategic investments by the Maury County Public Schools Board of Education.

 In a press release, Maury County Public Schools said they will build on this momentum through data-driven instruction, continued investments in student support, and a commitment to ensuring every student can thrive academically and personally.

Mt. Pleasant Planning Votes No on Ashwood Annexation (MSM)

The Mount Pleasant Planning Commission voted 4-1 against annexing the 106-acre Armstrong field on Trotwood Avenue, and 5-0 against the plan of services for the development of 247 houses that John Maher Builders hopes to build on it.

The resolution to annex came back in front of the planning commission last week because the city decided to add some small parcels of land and stretches of Old Zion Road to the annexation area.

“I was against this last time, [and] I’m still against it. I think the city’s going out of their way,” said Planning Commission head John Hunter.

“If we could do some stuff different[ly] I could come around, on the zoning and sewer,” said Commissioner Kris Irvin, “but as it stands right now, I’d be a no vote.”

Commissioner Pam Johnston, who also sits on the Mount Pleasant City Commission, wanted to annex the property to give the city some control over whatever gets built there.

Dustin Kittle, a career environmental attorney who’s been retained by concerned citizens to oppose the development, spoke at length at the public hearing on the plan of services. He argued that the groundwater in the area is directly linked to the Duck River through a system of underground limestone tunnels (a phenomenon called “karst” topography), and that contamination of the field would eventually reach the river.

“We’re all on the same aquifer,” he said. “You could take a dropper of red dye and… put it in a spring coming out of the ground here, and you would ultimately find it in the Duck River, theoretically.”

He also cited the state Supreme Court ruling in City of Kingsport v. State of Tennessee, 1978, which found that “any annexation having as its sole purpose the collection of additional revenues is totally void,” and claimed that the only arguments he’d heard in favor of the development was that it would bring in new taxes and fees and encourage data-driven chain stores to move to town.

In Kittle’s worst-case scenarios, the city might find itself stuck with an empty field if any part of the deal were to fall through; if the approved project received a legal challenge or broke an environmental law, it might well lose.

“A plaintiff’s attorney’s dream is for this to get approved [and] that STEP system to go in [and fail],” Kittle said. “Then you’ll have your own suit under the Clean Water Act.”

Other public commenters spoke against the development from several other perspectives: its projected impact on traffic and road safety, the apparent perils of STEP wastewater-treatment systems, the likely presence of archaeological artifacts, the risk of overburdening schools — public commenter Rob Lacy estimated that up to 770 more households are already being built in Mount Pleasant’s school district — and the near-unanimity of express public sentiment against it.

The next public hearing will be on December 8th.

Development Changes Go To County Commission (MSM)

The Maury County Regional Planning Commission voted to recommend two important measures last Monday: a moratorium on building new “major subdivisions” and a revision of the allowance for “administrative splits.”

Both will require approval of the Maury County Commission.

The moratorium halts the construction of subdivisions which feature sub-five-acre lots and more than five lots. Permitting and review will still go on for development applications, whether new or already submitted.

Building and Zoning Director Robert Caldiraro stated that the county had approved an average of 200 permits per year (for individual buildings, not whole developments) since 2020.

“The developments that we’re seeing are a lot larger,” Caldiraro explained. “Five [or] six years ago, we had never seen a 300-lot subdivision; [now] we are seeing them consistently, and we’ve got one in the pipeline that may move forward that is quite a bit larger than that.”

Teresa Sparks, an organizer for the group “Stop the Sprawl, Y’all,” explained to the planning commission that surrounding counties have issued moratoriums to re-evaluate the patterns and allowances for growth in recent years.

“We’re working with some outdated information, and… we’re just saying give us a chance to catch up,” she said. “We need to align our zoning with our infrastructure and capacity, and make sure future development is planned, not reactive.”

Planning Commissioner Peder Jensen announced that he would abstain from voting. He thought that 200 buildings per year was a healthy rate and didn’t require a moratorium.

“I don’t see how that’s not smart growth… I think this commission has done a very good job putting together some very specific changes to our zoning,” he said. “I don’t see how this moratorium is going to do much for this county, in any way but to take away the property rights of the landowners.”

Administrative split

Under a former county law, an owner could perform an “administrative split” on a property, subdividing it into two or more lots in one fell swoop, which could be even smaller than five acres, when the county only intended that they be able to carve off one parcel each year from a parent property. Caldiraro explained that the new language passed by the planning commission closes the loophole.

The law became a target for activists after a developer performed an administrative split on an 80-acre property on East Sheepneck Road in Culleoka, dividing it into 16 residential lots, some of them less than five acres.

“Subdivisions of five-acre and larger tracts… without planning commission review… [have] been happening across the county, creating 15–20 new driveway connections on rural roads never designed for this level of traffic,” said “Stop the Sprawl, Y’all,” a local group opposed to overgrowth in the rural county, in an email update. “This new requirement adds transparency and gives the public a voice in these decisions.”

“With all of these developments going on, particularly on my road, I can’t haul hay [past] 14 or 15 new driveways,” said Chris Gramling, a livestock farmer on East Sheepneck, who claimed that his work truck almost collided with a developer’s speeding car one day. “The rural roads are not big thoroughfares. We all know each other on these roads… and we know, ‘Slow down at that particular area.'”

“Your vote tonight is a strong and necessary step,” Sparks said. “It introduces long-overdue regulation for five-acre and larger lots, and creates a foundation that the county can improve on [in] the Comprehensive Land-Use Plan.”

Glen Alexander, a surveyor in Culleoka, spoke on behalf of some of his clients, who had been at work for two years on projects that depend on the administrative splitting of their property. Though they ultimately got permission to proceed, since they had submitted their application before the split privilege was revoked, he and his clients had worried about it ending.

“My clients are very concerned about things moving under their feet… I will say, this has come mighty fast, and it’s gonna put [the plans of] some of my people I’ve been working for… in danger,” he told the planning commission. “These are just Tennessee landowners, not developers… All I’m asking [is to] just consider [giving them] a little time… and leeway.”

CPD Names New Chief (Press Release)

The City of Columbia has announced a significant change in its police department's leadership starting in January.

Columbia Police Chief Jeremy Alsup, who has served in the position since 2020, told The Daily Herald Dec. 1 that he will retire effective in January, with current Assistant Chief Jeremy Haywood receiving promotion as the new chief.

"I will be retiring at the first of the year," Alsup told The Daily Herald, following a Dec. 1 news release sent by the city.

Haywood will begin duties as chief starting Jan. 10, 2026, according to the news release.

Alsup has served the department for 29 years, first hired to CPD in 1997 as a reserve officer and was hired as a full-time patrol officer the following year.

He was later promoted to detective in 2006 and has served in various positions ever since, including a sergeant in the Criminal Investigation Division in 2009, lieutenant in 2011 and captain status in 2013. Alsup was promoted to assistant chief in 2018 before rising to the top rank in 2020.

Alsup has received several awards and recognitions for his service, including the Knights of Columbus CPD Officer of the Year and the Fraternal Order of Police Officer of the Year.

In 2024, Alsup was presented the distinguished Department of Defense Patriot Award by the U.S. Department of Defense.

CPD has also consistently received accreditation status under Alsup's leadership from the Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, which reviews and examines all aspects of local department policies, procedures, management, operations and support services.

Haywood has served with the department for 27 years.

As a second-generation law enforcement officer, Haywood's ties to the department trace back to 1983 when he walked into the police offices at just eight years old with his father, Bobby Joe Haywood, a CPD lieutenant who retired in 2009.

His career with the CPD began in December of 1998, where Haywood has since served in various roles, including police sergeant, criminal investigations lieutenant, captain of patrol and most recently assistant chief.

"It is an incredible honor to continue serving the city I’ve called home throughout my career," Haywood said.

"I am grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to leading the department with integrity, accountability, and a continued focus on strengthening the partnership between our officers and the community we serve."

Alsup worked closely with Haywood over the years and acknowledged his leadership skills.

"Chief Haywood is an exceptional leader whose dedication to this community is unwavering," Alsup said. "His experience, steady leadership style and genuine concern for the well-being of both our officers and residents make him the right person to guide the department into its next chapter."

Haywood holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in criminal justice and has completed various leadership training sessions, including the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) Trilogy Certification and the Southeastern Command Leadership Academy (SECLA).

Haywood's unwavering leadership during times of crisis is believed to have helped advance departmental initiatives and fostered strong relations with the Columbia community, the press release states.

"Chief Haywood has earned the respect of his peers, his department, and this community through decades of exceptional service," City Manager Tony Massey said.

"He also carries forward a proud family legacy at the Columbia Police Department, following in the footsteps of his father, retired Lt. Bobby Joe Haywood, who served the city for over 25 years. Chief Haywood’s professionalism, experience, and strong leadership abilities make him well-prepared to take on the responsibility of leading the Columbia Police Department."

As the new chief of police, Haywood will be spearheading all city law enforcement efforts and oversee all operations within the Columbia Police Department.

Collaborating closely with city officials, department personnel and community stakeholders, he aims to ensure a safe environment for all residents and visitors.

City management expresses full confidence in Haywood's capabilities, citing his commitment to public safety, consistent leadership, and profound dedication to the community. These qualities make him the ideal candidate to guide the department toward a safe and harmonious future for Columbia, the press release states.

Spring Hill Planning Commission Updates (MSM)

The Spring Hill Planning Commission met last week to discuss several development proposals for Whataburger, Legacy Pointe, Wells Fargo and Centrifuge Dewatering project, with applicants addressing concerns and solutions for approval. 

The City of Spring Hill presented the Spring Hill Centrifuge Dewatering Project, intended to enhance efficiency and reliability within the city’s wastewater operations. 

The request seeks site plan approval for construction at 3893 Mahlon Moore Road, the location of the city’s existing Wastewater Treatment Plan, designed for public utility and infrastructure use. 

The plant currently utilizes a belt press dewatering system that lacks sufficient reliability. The new centrifuge system is expected to significantly improve performance and meet both current demand and future capacity needs while the city continues to peruse long-term solutions. 

Board members supported the proposal as Alderman Jamiee Davis and Mayor Matt Fritterer saw it was fit and a great investment for the city. The item was moved to the consent agenda. City staff recommended several revisions prior to the next voting meeting. 

Legacy Pointe Heavy Retail’s site plan request was presented by Manhard Construction, proposing a one-story commercial building with a fueling station, 12 dispensers, a canopy, parking and landscaping. 

Staff noted ongoing concerns about design elements and the traffic impact study recommendations, which must be addressed before the Dec. 1 revision deadline. 

The identity of the end user has yet to be disclosed, however city leaders have expressed enthusiasm for the project and its benefits for the city. 

“The city and citizens are pretty excited for the end user, whoever that ends up being,” Fitterer said. “I know that the city and Maury County, as well, have a lot of enthusiasm behind this project and are very excited for this investment to be made.”

Whataburger’s site plan returned to the agenda this week, following revisions addressing concerns raised by staff at the Oct. 27 meeting. 

Kimley-Horn Associates brought the proposal last month, but it was deferred due to inaccuracies in the right-of-way dedication and other unmet requirements. Since then, the applicant has met with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to review and discuss right-of-way standards and possible solutions. 

The site plan proposes additional right-of-way along U.S. Highway 31 to align with the planned road widening project, expanding the arterial width to 95. However, city staff noted that the current right-of-way depiction is inaccurate and lacks additional right-of-way along Belshire Way. 

The applicant stated that due to uncertainty surrounding TDOT’s plans, the dedication is not shown at this time to avoid over dedicating valuable property from the landowner and Whataburger. 

Due to ongoing inaccuracies and unmet right-of-way requirements, the board has deferred the item from the Nov. 10 agenda. Applicants must submit revisions by the Dec. 1 deadline. 

Lastly, Wells Fargo’s site plan approval was reviewed by the board, requesting a 4,230-square-foot facility at 4933 Main Street with an ATM drive-through, parking and landscaping. 

While the proposal meets most city standards, staff expressed concerns regarding the 90-degree parking spaces on the west side of the building, which they believe could create turning conflicts. Staff recommended adjusting the spaces to 60-degree angle. 

The applicant explained that the 90-degree spaces are intended for employee parking only— a solution the board accepted. Before the Dec. 8 voting meeting, staff recommended revising the plan to fully meet the Unified Development Code (UDC) requirements. 

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

Mrs. Donna Faye Sisk Dial, 71, retired receptionist at Dr. Woodard’s dental office and resident of Columbia, passed away on November 28, at her residence. Visitation will be conducted on Wednesday from 4-7 at Oakes and Nichols. A service will be conducted Thursday, 10:00 am at Oakes and Nichols. burial will follow at Adkison Cemetery in Santa Fe

Mrs. Janet Marie (White) Rogers, age 93, passed away peacefully November 28, 2025 at

Birmingham, Alabama. Funeral services will be conducted December 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM, at Columbia First United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends at the church for 2 hours prior to the service. Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Mr. Hubert Marshall Cheek passed away peacefully on November 29, at the age of 84. A celebration of life will be held at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Visitation will be Thursday, December 4th, 4pm-8pm and the service will be Friday at 10am.

Mrs. Mary Katheryn Edwards McKinney, 95, former longtime resident of Columbia, died Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Senior Rehab & Recovery Center at Limestone Health Facility in Athens, Alabama. Funeral services will be conducted Friday at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Friday from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Mr. James Wilbur “Jimmy” Rodgers, 76, lifelong resident of Columbia, died Monday, November 17, 2025 at his residence. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, December 7, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Columbia Elks Lodge with a Masonic Service at 5:00 PM and with military honors provided by the Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19

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…

Van Epps Wins 7th (TNLookout)

In a race that drew national attention and brought leaders from both major parties to Middle Tennessee to campaign, Republican Matt Van Epps pulled out a narrow win over Democratic Rep. Aftyn Behn in the special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District. 

Van Epps edged Behn by 8% in a district Democrats have lost by more than 20 percentage points over the last several election cycles. With more than 95% of the votes counted, Van Epps pulled in 53.9% of the vote while Behn earned 45.1%.

“Tonight, you sent a clear message loud and clear,” Van Epps said to the crowd at the Millennium Maxwell House Hotel in Nashville during his election night party. “The people of Middle Tennessee stand proudly behind President Donald Trump.”

Van Epps went on to specifically thank Trump for his help and added that “running away from Trump is how you lose, running with Trump is how you win.”

“In Congress, I will be all in with him and together we will bring down the cost of living,” said Van Epps.

In spite of the Republican win Tuesday, the Democratic surge became a focal talking point in a district President Donald Trump won by 22% in 2024 — and became a referendum on his second administration. 

Van Epps described himself as a “MAGA warrior” in his ads and promised to back up Trump, while Behn ran on a slogan of “Feed kids, fix roads, fund hospitals,” addressing messages to working-class Tennesseans. 

Behn, elected to the Tennessee General Assembly during a 2023 special election, has sponsored legislative measures to end the state’s 4% tax on groceries and a bill that would legalize marijuana and use the tax revenue from sales for highway repairs. 

She won a four-way Democratic primary in October against three better-funded candidates, including two other state lawmakers. 

“The Republicans made these districts to be uncompetitive and we did not back down,” Behn told her supporters Tuesday night, saying she asked Van Epps not to let subsidies supporting the Affordable Care Act lapse.

“We have inspired an entire country,” she said.

Van Epps, a West Point graduate and combat veteran who worked in Gov. Bill Lee’s administration, beat 10 Republicans in his primary, benefiting from large cash infusions by outside groups and Montgomery County’s pro-military voting bloc. The county is home to the U.S. Army’s Ft. Campbell and the 101st Airborne Division. 

Triggered by the July resignation of U.S. Rep. Mark Green, a Republican, the race morphed into one of national significance after the Nov. 4 elections across the country in which Democrats won gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey and Mississippi Democrats broke a Republican supermajority legislature. 

Millions of dollars poured into the race, and national political figures became involved, with Trump endorsing Van Epps and U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson stumping for the Republican nominee on Monday.  

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

On Dec. 2, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival announced a jam-packed lineup for 2026.

The Manchester, Tennessee music festival will take place from June 11 to 14 on the 700-acre Bonnaroo farm with four days of live tunes spanning genres.

2026 Bonnaroo headliners include Skrillex, The Strokes, RÜFÜS DU SOL and Noah Kahan.

Other stars who will hit the stage include GRiZ, Turnstile, Teddy Swims, The Neighbourhood, Role Model and Kesha, who will curate the festival's 2026 Superjam, “KESHA PRESENTS: SUPERJÂM ESOTERÍCA: THE ALCHEMY OF POP.” The Bonnaroo tradition brings in an artist to organize a themed, collaborative performance.