Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 4-17-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for April 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…

Church Fire (MauryCountyMaury)

Columbia Fire & Rescue responded to reports of a structure fire at 317 East 18th Street early Wednesday morning. Crews arrived on scene around 6:55 a.m. and swiftly worked to contain and extinguish the blaze.

According to Google Maps, the address appears to be the location of New Life Ministries.

At this time, no injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and an investigation is currently underway to establish the origin and circumstances surrounding the incident.

Homicide Investigation (Press Release)

On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at approximately 5:30 p.m., Columbia Police responded to a reported shooting at a residence on Whatley Street. Upon arrival, officers located eighteen-year-old Jayden Braden unresponsive, suffering from gunshot wounds. Braden was transported to Maury Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Through investigative leads, officers identified and located the offender, eighteen-year-old Alijah Wolflin, at a residence in Columbia. Wolflin was taken into custody without incident and has been formally charged with:

First Degree Murder

Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Violent Felony

Reckless Endangerment

Aggravated Assault Resulting in Death

Preliminary investigation indicates that the individuals involved were known to each other, and there is no active or ongoing threat to public safety at this time.

The Columbia Police Department extends its condolences to the family of Jayden Braden and appreciates the continued cooperation of the community during this investigation.

Columbia Dam Project Being Mulled (CDH)

As the need for solutions to Maury County's utility needs becomes more apparent, a local group is looking into the past for potential answers to protecting the region's future.

Columbia Dam Now, a grassroots action group, held its first public meeting this week to raise awareness for revisiting the former long-time defunct Columbia Dam project.

The project, which dates back to the early 1970s and was initiated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, was halted in 1983 due to its potential impact on endangered freshwater mussel species found in the Duck River.

Jerry Bridenbaugh, who also serves as a Maury County Commissioner, and Jason Gilliam, who chair and vice-chair the Columbia Dam Now board, hosted Tuesday's meeting, sharing the many benefits the dam would pose for Maury County, as well as the surrounding region's growing water needs.

"This reservoir, when it comes to fruition, will be 12,000 acres, and Tim's Ford is 10,000 acres," Bridenbaugh said. "This is a 100-year solution to solve the water supplies for this county and the surrounding counties. When this thing gets built up, we won't have to buy water anymore, we can sell water."

In 1989, TVA demolished the unfinished dam, removing approximately 26,000 cubic yards of concrete and reshaping the basin to resemble its original state. The project's total expenditure by the time of deconstruction totaled approximately $85 million.

Gilliam, who also sits on the Maury County Water System board, added that the utility will also soon be connecting to a new H.B. & T.S. pipeline drawing from the Cumberland River, which will provide additional relief to the Duck.

Gilliam also shared personal ties to the former Columbia Dam project, and those directly affected by its dismantling.

"My grandparents' farm was one of the farms that had part of it taken from the TVA for this project," Gilliam said. "The economic viability of a project like this and the growth we would experience here economically is astronomical."

"None of that compares to the long-term pain that families have carried here for generations after having their land taken from them on a promise of a lake being built."

The Maury County Commission is set to review the dam project at its April 21 meeting, when the board will vote on whether it will provide support.

Commissioner Gabe Howard, who resides in District 2 where the reservoir is located, shared his support for the project.

"I am all in on this project, and I think it is a good additional opportunity for us to keep exploring and make happen," Howard said. "I would encourage local folks to continue the conversation, look at every option."

Columbia Dam Now also recently launched a website at www.ColumbiaDamNow.com, which provides information about the project's history, ways to donate and news about upcoming meetings.

Funding for the project would also need to come largely from federal support. Rick Williams, representing U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tennessee, 5th District, has also been a leading voice of support for revitalizing the former project.

"It should have never been taken down, and we are going to get it back," Williams said. "Now is the time, if there ever was a time, to rebuild it. You need water more than ever, and then there are the recreational benefits, the boating and fishing. It would be great."

A feasibility study would be required before any dirt can be shoveled, which could take years to complete.

In an April 9 Facebook post, Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt shared her concerns on the project's likelihood.

"What the Dam group is going to need is at least our two U.S. Senators, TVA and maybe even the President to champion the project," Butt states. "Even at that, any future administration could nix the project on a whim as we have already found out.

"So that’s where we are realistically. If that money is even appropriated, it will take 10 years for feasibility studies, environmental studies and millions of dollars to ever get the go ahead."

Bridenbaugh commented on the feasibility study Tuesday, saying that the next step is seeking assistance from Ogles' office in expediting the process, though it could take influence from even greater leaders to ensure the job gets done.

"The landscape has changed, and we need to make sure this is all done right," Bridenbaugh said. "But I will say this, we have a guy in the White House who believes in getting things done and getting them done now. That's what we are working towards both as a local group and on the federal level as well."

There are also the environmental aspects which contributed to the project halt in 1983 to consider, and if this project would again pose a potential danger to the Duck River's biodiversity.

"We know there are people we can contact ... to be a source where we can get those types of answers," Bridenbaugh said. "One of the suggestions made to us was to get some marine experts possibly from the University of Tennessee or the other institutions around the state who will help us be able to dig into [the environmental impact]."

Gilliam added that the Maury County Archives has collected an extensive number of documents and information related to the project, which is in the process of being reviewed.

"We have eight banker's boxes of paperwork related to the original project, and we are sifting through that now," Gilliam said.

Columbia Dam Now's next meeting will be at 4:30 p.m. on April 22 at the Maury County Water System office at 765 Lewisburg Highway.

New Columbia Mall Taking Shape (CDH)

As the previous Columbia mall site off James M. Campbell Boulevard continues to take shape, developers are now attempting to create better connectivity as the shopping center's first businesses prepare to open.

The site, which had for years remained undeveloped and considered by many to be an eyesore, appeared on the Columbia Planning Commission's agenda earlier this month.

Plans indicate shops in the development, thus far, would include Ulta cosmetics, Wing Stop restaurant, an America's Best eyewear store, Bath & Body Works and Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Property owners Highland Capital also presented a request to use an existing driveway to provide safer access for pedestrians adjacent to the proposed 12,113 square-foot retail center.

"Without having existing sidewalk on Shady Brook Street or any sort of crosswalk at James Campbell leading pedestrians up to that area with nowhere to go was a safety concern," Preston Ayer of SWS Engineering, the principal engineers on the project, said. "Our feeling was how can we add pedestrian safety within the site?"

In addition, the proposed improvements could also provide opportunities for connectivity to future development sites in the area.

"This is essentially getting us a sidewalk that is not as far as what we would require, but on the other hand is actually getting us a sidewalk to connect to the parcels already there in existence," Mayor Chaz Molder said. "So, we are solving a problem that's there today instead of putting sidewalks to a problem that's not there yet."

"This is a long-term goal for us, and we want to make sure this is something that all connects, but we are trying to do it at a time that makes sense," Highland Capital Principal Wyatt Woeltje said. "That's why we are trying to connect it to the main mall property at this time. What I don't want to do is build something only to tear it back up as the developments come in."

During the April 9 meeting, Woeltje spoke about the progress the mall has made since the December 2024 purchase, including shops customers can expect.

"We very much are excited about what is coming," Woeltje said. "We have Academy Sports, Ulta Beauty and Bealls coming in. Wing Stop is legitimate, as is Bath & Body Works, America's Best and Tropical Smoothie. We are pushing very hard to strike while the iron is hot."

In addition, Woeltje said 7 Brew Coffee and Valvoline are among other companies ready to move into the site.

"Those are coming along quickly as well," he said.

In addition to a new sidewalk and shops, the mall's overall visual aesthetic is set to have a few changes.

"We just renovated that pilon sign that was previously at Columbia Powersports, and it is now separated into multi-panel tenant spaces, and so hopefully every single tenant will have panels on that pilon," Woeltje said. "It is now fully finished. That is our goal, to take what's been given to us by Hull property group and make it better."

While there was much discussion about the site's future, much of which remains is unknown in regards to connectivity and development of adjacent Highland Capital-owned properties, Molder concluded the April 9 discussion.

"These guys are clearly invested in this site, and they are going to want connectivity, to be able to require connectivity from their tenants because they know it's going to make better sense for their property as whole," Molder said. "This would provide immediate walkability from a new outparcel that's going to have four tenants, maybe five, to the major property."

Molder later motioned to approve the request, which received a 4-2 vote in favor by the planning commission.

Habitat for Humanity Receives Grant (MSM)

Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury recently announced it has been awarded $46,500 in grant funding from Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee, made possible through a $500,000 grant from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA). These funds will help build two new homes in Maury County, providing a solid foundation for families striving for the American Dream of homeownership.

“We are truly grateful for THDA’s support! This grant represents hope, security and the promise of new beginnings for these two local families. THDA’s loyal generosity reminds us of the power of partnerships, and we are honored to have them join us in this life-changing work,” HFHWM CEO Kim Randell shared.

These grants will support the construction of 20 homes across Tennessee for first-time homebuyers who are working toward financial independence. THDA’s funding will empower Habitat affiliates to continue their mission of offering a hand up — not a handout — to families willing to invest their time and energy into achieving homeownership.

“THDA is a vital partner in making homeownership attainable for more Tennesseans,” said Colleen Dudley, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Tennessee. “This grant is an investment in families who are working hard to achieve homeownership. It also strengthens local economies by fostering stability and growth, ensuring that communities continue to thrive.”

Since 2006, THDA has directed more than $117.3 million in grants to programs that strengthen homeownership and self-reliance in Tennessee.

“Habitat for Humanity has a long history of helping families achieve the dream of homeownership, and we are pleased to continue supporting this effort,” THDA Executive Director Ralph M. Perrey said. “This grant allows us to partner with Habitat affiliates across the state to build homes that strengthen families and communities.”

Habitat for Humanity is a Christian-based organization that believes in empowering families through homeownership. Future homeowners invest in their own success by contributing sweat equity — helping build their own homes alongside volunteers — and then purchasing their homes with an affordable mortgage. This approach ensures personal responsibility and financial commitment, reinforcing values of hard work, faith and family.

Habitat for Humanity Williamson-Maury (HFHWM) was fully incorporated as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International in 1992 and has built and repaired more than 300 homes in Williamson and Maury Counties, while continuing to build eight to 10 new homes per year.

Home construction, critical repair and neighborhood development services are funded through tax-deductible financial contributions, in-kind donations from local businesses, churches, civic

organizations and individuals; and profits generated from our affiliate’s ReStore. For more information about the homeownership program, volunteering or sponsorship opportunities, please visit hfhwm.org.

Short-Term Rental Rules Change (CDH)

Columbia City Council has updated its ordinance for short-term rentals, a topic which has drawn strong and differing opinions, particularly how the changes could affect current operators.

The topic has been under discussion for several months, which came to a conclusion at the council's April 10 regular meeting after nearly an hour of citizen comments.

"I am glad that we have this problem, that we have a community that has a demand for short-term rental needs," Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder said. "That, to me, tells me we have a community that has people who want to come here, a community that has vibrancy and that people are earning income off of these short-term rentals."

The ordinance previously allowed STRs — or properties typically used for Airbnb or alternatives to traditional hotel/motel-type housing — in commercial district zonings of CD-4, CD-4c and CD-5. The ordinance also included a stipulation that those units were to be owner occupied.

The new ordinance now allows the same STR zonings, but without the owner occupancy requirement.

The ordinance to establish STR regulations was first approved in 2022, wherein STRs currently operating outside of the allowed zonings would be grandfathered in, per state law. This would also be the case with the new amendment as long as the STR has operated prior to the 2022 ordinance and is operating with a proper license, though an updated license must be acquired by the end of the year.

"The only thing that this amendment is doing is in addition to allowing short-term rentals without the owner occupancy requirement in CD-4, CD-4c and CD-5, this is saying if you are operating in any district ... preceding this date, that you will be grandfathered in and not have to cease to exist, so long as you follow the city's permitting requirements," Molder said. "You would have to provide that evidence to the city and come get your permit prior to the end of the calendar year, Dec. 31, 2025."

Prior to the April 10 meeting, the topic of STRs had been discussed at multiple council meetings, as well as the Columbia Planning Commission, wherein citizens also had the opportunity to weigh in.

Arguments presented addressed the benefits STRs provide as a business, as an alternative to the traditional hotel/motel experience and as a way to encourage tourism.

However, several STR owners currently under the CD-2 and CD-3 zonings shared concerns about how the new amendment could affect their abilities to operate, while also creating a potential double-edge sword to the city's revenue.

"There are 92 STRs that the city knows about ... and those 92 I assume are spread out throughout the city and not too many on top of each other," Eric Glass, one citizen said. "I urge everybody to really understand this situation, and that there is a lot of benefit. The city relies on revenue, and so why are we trying to cut off revenue?"

Stacy Glass, another citizen concerned about the proposed regulations banning CD-2 and CD-3 zonings, added that it could also affect jobs.

"We create jobs for people who are going in and cleaning houses, maintaining houses, that are going in and supporting some of our STR operators," she said. "We do this for the ratings, for the hospitality and we do this because we love this town, and we want others to love this town."

Prior to the April 10 vote, Councilman Charlie Huffman commented that, much like it is doing with the new amendment, the council can consider future amendments to the ordinance if needed.

"I know this is not going to suit everybody, but this council has got to start somewhere," Huffman said. "We can always amend what we are doing tonight, but if you start at the top, you can't bring it back. But if you start at the bottom, you can add."

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

Jo Carolyn Allen Lovell, 81, died Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Michael Lee Dale “Big Daddy”, 60, Truck Driver for Marlene’s Express, and resident of Williamsport, died Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at Maury Regional Medical Center.

A visitation will be held Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date. 

And now, news from around the state…

Tennessee Paster Saved from Kidnapping (Tennessean)

East Tennessee pastor Josh Sullivan was found "miraculously unharmed" in South Africa after a shootout following days in captivity.

The kidnapped missionary was found April 15, the South Africa's elite police unit Hawks said in a statement. Three suspects were killed in a high-intensity shootout during the rescue, according to a Reuters report.

"The victim was found inside the same vehicle from which the suspects had launched their attack. Miraculously unharmed, he was immediately assessed by medical personnel and is currently in an excellent condition," police said.

Sullivan, a missionary from Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, was kidnapped last week while preaching. Sullivan was seized by armed men as he led a prayer service at his church in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape Province, according to the Reuters report.

Franklin Main Street Festival (MauryCountySource)

The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County presents the annual Main Street Festival Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27. The two-day event attracts more than 120,000 guests each year and celebrates the arts and culture of Williamson County.

“Each year, we look forward to welcoming spring with the Main Street Festival,” said Bari Beasley, President and CEO of the Heritage Foundation. “For the last 40 years, this event has been a cornerstone of Downtown Franklin, welcoming locals and visitors to experience the magic of Main Street. Without the help from our community and supporters, none of this would be possible.”

This year’s event is proudly sponsored by First Horizon Bank and will offer more than 150 art and craft vendors, food and beverage from local favorites, live music and performances. The family-friendly arts and crafts street festival is free to the public. Activations include Main Stage presented by Nissan & Acoustic Stage presented by Price Printing, KidsZone presented by Hope UC Nashville, PetZone presented by Animalia Health & Wellness and Collaborative Public Art Exhibits, which will take place throughout downtown.

During the event, there will be a lineup of special features for guests to enjoy, including:

150+ Arts & Crafts Vendors: Discover unique, handcrafted treasures.

30+ Food & Beverage Vendors: Indulge in delicious treats from local favorites.

Main Stage presented by Nissan & Acoustic Stage presented by Price Printing: Enjoy live music from talented performers.

Art and Culture Performances: Be captivated by dance, spoken word, music, and more.

KidsZone presented by Hope UC Nashville: Let the little ones unleash their creativity with games, crafts, and activities.

This year, Heritage Foundation is offering an exciting new way to experience the festival – introducing the Main Street Picnics on the Lawn VIP Experience in partnership with Picnic PopUp. Set against the picturesque backdrop of St. Philips Church lawn, this limited offering gives guests the chance to indulge in a truly unique and luxurious festival experience. Sign-up information can be found on the festival website.

“First Horizon is proud to again partner with Heritage Foundation to sponsor Main Street Festival,” said Carol Yochem, Central Region President, First Horizon Bank. “Every year we look forward to contributing to this special festival that celebrates the people and places that make downtown Franklin the best Main Street in the U.S.A.”

All Downtown Franklin merchants will be open throughout the event, celebrating with specials, features, and promotions for enhanced shopping, dining, and entertainment throughout the historic district.

Franklin Transit will offer shuttle services to and from the festival. The shuttle will run from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. each day, the last shuttle will leave the last 15 minutes of the festival. Shuttle rides are $1 per

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Now in its 11th year at Harlinsdale Farm in Franklin, Pilgrimage Festival revealed its lineup for the 2025 festival, taking place September 27-28.

Performers include John Mayer, Kings of Leon, Turnpike Troubadours, Young the Giant, Father John Misty, Sam Barber, Sam Fender, Grace Potter, Better Than Ezra, Colony House, Sam Grisom Project, Maggie Rose, The Heavy Heavy, The American Acquarium, Taylor Hunnicutt, Eddie 9V, Angel White, and VeryGently.

Americana Triangle performers include Ben Chapman’s Peach Jam featuring JD Clayton & Meg Mcree, and Sam Grisman Project featuring Vince Herman & Lindsay Lou.

Tickets go on sale on Thursday, April 17th at 10 am, but you can buy now with presale code LETSGO. General admission two-day tickets start at $199. Find tickets here. 

Living up to its name, Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival allows fans to hear live music for hours at the picturesque Harlinsdale Farm, showcasing different genres. 2025 will continue this tradition with first-time performances from artists and returning artists to the festival. Franklin will be the place to be this September.