Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 5-16-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for May 16, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Two Schools Receive Grants (CDH)

Maury County Public Schools recently announced Mt. Pleasant Elementary and Spring Hill Elementary Schools have each won a $10,000 grant through the Tennessee Valley Authority’s EnergyRight School Uplift program.

School Uplift is a year-long energy management training program that helps schools make smart energy choices which improves the classroom learning environment while saving money through decreased energy use.

TVA’s School Uplift program partnered with local power companies across seven states to help 98 public schools tackle energy waste.

“The generous support from the Tennessee Valley Authority represents a significant step forward in our efforts to enhance our facilities while promoting energy stewardship,” said Spring Hill Elementary School Principal, Renata Powell, Ed. D.

“We are deeply grateful for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s and Columbia Power and Water System’s investment in our school’s future and their continued commitment to empowering schools across the region.”

Funding was awarded based on the score each school achieved by cutting energy waste, engaging their school community, and a needs-based assessment that determined which facilities could achieve the greatest energy savings.

“We are very pleased and excited with the effort Spring Hill Elementary put into this program,” said Columbia Power & Water Systems Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Hardin.

“This will enable administrators to improve facilities and make the school more efficient, healthy and comfortable for teachers and students. The faculty, staff, and students committed to prioritizing energy efficiency over the last school year and earned this grant through their hard work.”

“Mt. Pleasant Elementary is extremely honored to be awarded a $10,000 TVA EnergyRight School Uplift grant,” said Mt. Pleasant Elementary School Principal, Julie Tidwell.

“This funding will allow us to extend our STEM gardening program by building a greenhouse on our campus. This will provide an extensive learning environment for our students and staff, while giving students the knowledge of how to grow food for their families . We’re grateful to the Tennessee Valley Authority and Mount Pleasant Power System for investing in our school’s future and helping us take a big step toward greater energy stewardship.”

“The Mount Pleasant Power System congratulates Mt. Pleasant Elementary School for their hard work on winning a TVA Uplift Grant,” said Mount Pleasant Power System General Manager, Al Kerstiens, P.E. “The grant from TVA will enable much needed improvements that will make the school more efficient and healthier for the students and faculty. Great job, Mt. Pleasant Elementary!”

Mt. Pleasant and Spring Hill Elementary Schools join over 323 schools that have completed the School Uplift program. On average, participating schools save nearly 10% on their annual energy bills from behavior changes alone.

“Every dollar invested in our schools helps districts allocate resources to what truly matters – providing quality education for our children,” said Monika Beckner, vice president of TVA’s Energy Services & Programs. "We’re proud of the winners of this year’s School Uplift grants, who are dedicated to reducing energy waste and building a stronger, more sustainable future.”

The mission of Maury County Public Schools is to provide the educational instruction, tools, and environment for every child to succeed in LIFE as Life-long Learners, Independent Thinkers, Fearless Innovators, and Exemplary Citizens.

Spring Hill Discusses Commerce Center Plans (MSM)

For most of its three-and-a-half-hour meeting last week, Spring Hill’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen discussed the city’s prospective Commerce Center with its developer, Richmond Company. Richmond’s president Phil Pastan, counsel Andrew Burek and Scott Cothron of Skipper Consulting represented the developer and fielded questions before BOMA.

The Commerce Center would sit on about 700 acres of land in the southern part of Spring Hill, between Duplex and Jim Warren Roads. It would include 5.7 million square feet of commercial and industrial space and a 285-acre airport. Through a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) arrangement with the city, Richmond Company would be reimbursed by local taxes for installing municipal infrastructure throughout the site, to the tune of $12 million: $1.3 million each year, from the $5.65 million in annual property and sales taxes that the Commerce Center would yield to the city. Burek, Richmond’s in-house counsel, claimed that the project would generate $84 million in taxes over 20 years, as well as $21 million in fees and permits during the building process.

The commerce center has run into difficulties, however, because the plan to improve Jim Warren and Duplex Roads (to make them fit for the expected traffic) was interrupted by new circumstances and laws. Pastan said that the Trump administration imposed a rule requiring federal Build Back Better grants to go only to regions that have above-average rates of births and marriages, equal to or higher than those of the country at large, a metric which Spring Hill doesn’t come close to meeting, despite all its recent growth. Because of that and the traffic going over the nearby June Lake overpass, Richmond is building up the Jim Warren overpass with its own money.

They’ve also had to turn to the county utility district for water and power, relieving Spring Hill of responsibility (and future revenue) for the utility needs of the Commerce Center, and they want to conduct traffic studies as each segment of the Center “comes online,” instead of trying to estimate all the traffic in advance.

“We’ve spent the last five months preparing a traffic study that meets our requirements, so we’d better understand the true traffic impact based on today’s traffic numbers,” Pastan said.

Making these changes and others to meet the city’s Unified Development Code will take longer than the current deadline allows Richmond, so they and their advocates within the city asked BOMA for a one-year extension to get in compliance. Final build-out would happen by 2035.

“Your back is up against the wall, and you’re fighting a hard battle… You’re not even from here,” new Alderwoman Erinn Hartwell said. “Why are you so invested in Spring Hill? Why are you so adamant about being in Spring Hill, instead of just selling?”

“I have well over $40 million into this project… [and] I’ve never walked away from an investment,” Pastan replied. “That won’t come back until the infrastructure is there and I create that value.”

There’s good reason to expect a return, Pastan revealed, saying that Tennessee has overtaken Austin, Texas, as the No. 1 business environment in the country. Psstan claimed that Gov. Bill Lee personally called him to encourage completing the project.

The prospective Spring Hill airport, which is many years away, would facilitate corporate air traffic, transporting executives and employees to and from the Brentwood offices where they’re clustered; Pastan proposed selling hangars to different corporations. Six companies have reportedly expressed interest in running the “fixed base of operations” (a kind of airport service station) at the airport.

The aldermen mostly questioned the wisdom of swelling traffic on the hilly, residential Jim Warren and Duplex Roads, which wasn’t factored into the equation until phase three of planning. Though Scott Cothron of Skipper Consulting estimated that Duplex Road could handle 15,000 cars per day (over the 3,300 it now takes), aldermen Vincent Fuqua and Alex Jimenez contended that it would be very dangerous to do so.

“Those roads were created and accessed by hay wagons,” Fuqua said, “[and] they barely accommodate that.”

Jimenez asked how they could protect the hundreds of children who travel Duplex Road every day to school.

“You might as well build that [planned] emergency-response center on this corner, because that’s where they’re going to spend the bulk of their time,” he predicted gravely.

City Development Director officials Dara Sanders replied with Pastan that they had been working with Richmond on unspecified plans to make Duplex Road safer, and the developer was willing to pony up $5 million for it. Alderman Brent Murray proposed “just building a different road” and sparing Duplex Road the traffic, but Sanders replied that getting right-of-way for a new road could cost $18 million to start.

Vice Mayor Trent Linville expressed concern that as written, the current agreement would saddle the city with financial liability for $30 million in improvements, leaving them waiting for taxes to make back that money. He wanted more time commitments in the agreement, allowing the city to withhold approval for the next stage until the state agreed to improve the roads in its jurisdiction and the developer had completed the then-current stage of construction.

“If nothing happens from the state and the city doesn’t have the funds… we are creating a traffic nightmare on the south side of the city,” Linville warned. “I would love to see some sort of timing commitment.”

“We can control only what we can control,” Burek replied. “We need some cooperation back as well.”

BOMA voted to grant the one-year extension. Mayor Matt Fitterer reminded everyone that the 500-acre plot was zoned residential until Richmond Company bought & rezoned it, and the Commerce Center would at least limit the city’s further population growth.

“There’s nobody up here who campaigned on promoting additional residential growth,” Fitterer said to his colleagues. “Did Richmond Company rezone this a little too early? Maybe, [but] they did this city a favor… None of us want 500-plus acres of I-2 [zoning] developing without a comprehensive plan.”

BOMA also heard from Assistant City Administrator Dan Allen on the question of water conservation. Allen advocated for passing an ordinance with teeth to protect the city’s water supply from being wasted by residential landscaping during the summer.

Allen argued that the “big non-essential use demands” of residential users is the only real cause of Spring Hill’s summer water shortages. His draft of the ordinance imposed a $50 fine for the first waste offense and sent city personnel to turn off a house’s outdoor water for the third, but he deferred to the sensibilities of the mostly new board members.

“I am all about water conservation, but I think this board needs to be very careful about shutting off people’s water,” Alderman Scott Wernert said.

Allen clarified that only outdoor water would be turned off for landscaping waste offenses, nothing indoors.

“The only time we take action is when the system has gotten so [low]… that we deploy the utility team to shut off meters,” Allen explained. “Which is its own special version of public outreach as well.”

Linville suggested changing the bill to allow regulation before a state of emergency, but to shift emphasis to “encouraging” compliance before “enforcing” it.

Fuqua, the owner of a farm in Smyrna, agreed with Allen that an enforceable ordinance is needed to deal with the water crises already hitting Middle Tennessee.

“If you are watering three times a week for more than a minute or two, you are wasting water to evaporation, as are most people,” Fuqua stated. “Some things take a little courage, and I understand this is a hot topic in the city.”

“This will be an unpopular vote and an unenjoyable vote,” Fitterer said, “but a [bill] that nonetheless we need to… pass [in some form].

BOMA heard from Eric Jacobson, of the Battle of Franklin Trust, asking Spring Hill to split the cost of a regional-history museum at the Rippavilla plantation site. The Trust wants a ten-year contract to plan and build a museum, which would deal with not only the history of the Cheairs family that owned Rippavilla and the surrounding 300 acres, but the history of all of Middle Tennessee.

“We believe we have an opportunity to do something in spring Hill that can be done nowhere else in Middle Tennessee… The only place in Middle Tennessee [where] they’re even coming close to this is at the State Museum in Nashville,” Jacobson said to the Board. “We want to tell the early history of the Cheairs family… of Spring Hill and Maury County… [and] of Middle Tennessee, which is really the early history of America.”

Since Rippavilla stands at a kind of intersection of state highway 31 and interstate 65, the museum could become self-supporting, even pay for itself in just a few years. The aldermen and -women who spoke were very supportive of the idea; Hartwell asked the Battle Trust to stay with the project long-term, given their vision and commitment.

The BOMA also accepted several Rippavilla artifacts on behalf of the city, which were discovered and donated by Spring Hill Holdings. The most recent dig (of about seven) on the property yielded artillery shell fragments, bullets, buckles, and buttons from the Civil War era, and Indian artifacts including pottery and an arrowhead dated to about 6,000 B.C.

CSCC Graduates Lewis County Students (Press Release)

Columbia State Community College is pleased to announce that five Lewis County High School students who graduated in Columbia State’s Spring 2025 Commencement were the college’s first class of Lewis County High School Middle College graduates.

Jaxon Cagle, Lane Cunningham, William Rogers, Jeremiah Wiebe and Faith Wishaw walked across the stage during Columbia State’s commencement ceremonies and received their associate degrees. Cagle earned a general transfer/university parallel Associate of Science degree; Cunningham earned a general transfer/university parallel Associate of Arts degree; Rogers earned an Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in history; Wiebe earned a general transfer/university parallel Associate of Arts degree; and Wishaw earned an Associate of Science degree with an emphasis in social work.

As part of the Middle College program, they will also be graduating with their Lewis County High School diploma on May 16.

All five students began the Middle College program in their junior year and took dual enrollment classes toward their degree in a hybrid-class structure, taking both online and in person courses at the Columbia Campus and at Lewis County High School.   

Middle College is a partnership between a high school and a community college. Through this partnership, high school students beginning their junior year, have the opportunity to pursue an associate degree. Students are required to maintain a 3.0 GPA to remain eligible in the program. Upon completion of the program and after graduating from high school, they will receive an associate degree and are prepared to transfer as a junior to a four-year institution.

“Columbia State is so proud of these students and their commitment to being full-time college students while in high school,” said Cissy Holt, Columbia State vice president for Student Affairs. “These students continued to engage in activities at their high school and participated at the college level as well. We are equally proud of the partnership with Lewis County Schools and Dr. Tracy McAbee, director of schools. The collaboration with Dr. McAbee and his senior-level staff has been amazing.”

Middle College students are full-time college students who are degree-seeking. Approved students can receive up to $2,000 a semester in state funding while taking courses in the program. Columbia State also accepts students using the Middle College Scholarship through the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation.

“This program is an exceptional opportunity built through a Lewis County High School and Columbia State partnership for high school students to achieve two years of college credit, their associate degree, as they receive their high school diploma,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “It's exciting, my congratulations to the graduates!”

For information on Columbia State’s Middle College partnership program, email Admissions@ColumbiaState.edu.

Lister Hill Gives to Spring Hill Library (CDH)

Listerhill Credit Union proudly marked its one-year anniversary April 29 in Spring Hill with a community-focused event highlighting growth, partnership, and giving back to local education.

The celebration featured member testimonials and remarks from community representatives. In addition to the dozens of contributions Listerhill has already made to the community throughout the year, the credit union celebrated its impact by providing special contributions to Spring Hill Elementary and Spring Hill Public Library.

 It was a celebration not only of Listerhill’s growth in the area but also of its deepening connection with the community, according to Listerhill Chief Operations Strategist Alanna Sullivan.

“Today marks an important milestone in our journey – one year of service, growth, and connection," Sullivan said. "Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege to become part of this community, not just as a financial institution, but as a trusted neighbor and partner. We have been inspired by the people and partnerships that have defined our experience here. This branch reflects our long-term commitment to making a difference – by valuing people over profit.

"As we move forward, our focus remains on growth for our members and for the community. We are excited for the opportunities ahead to innovate, strengthen our partnerships, and ensure that we continue to meet the evolving needs of those we serve.”

Isaac Siddiqui, Spring Hill Branch Manager, continued the ceremony stating that it has been an incredible year since Listerhill first opened the doors.

“We’ve had the privilege of getting to know so many of you, helping with your financial needs, and being a part of this wonderful community," he said. "It’s been truly rewarding to see how we have been able to make a difference, whether it’s through supporting local events, helping families with their financial goals, or just being here when you need us.

“We are excited to keep growing with you, and we will continue to strive and uplift our community."

As part of the celebration, Listerhill presented two surprise contributions totaling $17,000, with $10,000 presented to Spring Hill Elementary School and $7,000 to the Spring Hill Public Library.

“We are thrilled to receive support from Listerhill,” said Spring Hill Library Director Dana Juriew. “It’s inspiring to partner with an organization that shares our vision for community enrichment."

Dr. Renata Powell, Principal of Spring Hill Elementary School, expressed appreciation for the continued partnership by stating, “Listerhill’s generosity and genuine investment in our students’ success has made a real difference.”

“This support helps us create more opportunities for learning and growth, and we are incredibly grateful,” added Powell.

Listerhill Credit Union is a nonprofit, member-owned financial institution dedicated to improving lives in the community. For more information, please visit www.listerhill.com or call (256) 383-9204.

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

Marion Delbridge Warren, 85, longtime resident of Santa Fe Community, died Wednesday May 14, 2025 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday at 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Hilltown Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Sunday from 12:00 noon until 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. 

Helen M. Atkinson Deen, 89, resident of Columbia, died Thursday, May 15, 2025 at her residence surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Mary Carolyn Norman Turnmyre, 82, passed away on April 29, 2025 at The Gardens of Poplar Estates in Columbia.

Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

And now, news from around the state…

Haslam Appointed to UT Board (Press Release)

Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton today released a statement following his appointment of former Governor Bill Haslam to the University of Tennessee Board of Trustees:

“Governor Bill Haslam’s appointment to the University of Tennessee Board is a significant win for higher education in our state. Few leaders understand the importance of education and workforce development the way he does. From launching Tennessee Promise and Drive to 55 during his time as governor to working closely with both K–12 and higher education systems, Governor Haslam has always been committed to opening doors of opportunity for Tennesseans.

His appointment comes at a time of strong growth and innovation across the UT System,” Speaker Sexton added. “His deep understanding of state government, his passion for education, and his results-driven approach will complement the outstanding work President Boyd and the board have already accomplished. Together, I believe they will continue to elevate the UT System as a national leader in higher education.”

Under the leadership of UT System President Randy Boyd, the University of Tennessee has achieved record-breaking enrollment, expanded research funding, and increased access to higher education across all campuses. Major milestones include the successful launch of UT Southern, investments in cutting-edge research facilities, and a renewed focus on student success and career readiness.

“Governor Haslam has been a mentor and an inspiration to me throughout my career in public service. His leadership, vision, and deep commitment to education make him an extraordinary addition to the UT Board of Trustees. It’s an honor to have him join the board—and I’m excited to officially call him boss again.” -Randy Boyd

The University of Tennessee Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance and strategic oversight of the UT System, which includes campuses in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Martin, Pulaski (UT Southern), and the UT Health Science Center in Memphis. 

Gas Prices (MSM)

Gas prices across the state held steady over last week and we’re starting the week with the same state gas price average as last week. The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.72 which is a penny less expensive than one month ago and 52 cents less than one year ago.  

“Lower crude oil prices and gasoline demand are helping to make gas prices in the state over 50 cents cheaper than this time last year,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “This is great news for those planning a road trip for Memorial Day.”

Tennessee is currently the fourth least-expensive state in the nation for gas prices.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Columbia Farmers Market will celebrate its annual spring kickoff this Saturday at Riverwalk Park.

The Springtime Jamboree event, originally scheduled at the start of the month but was postponed due to rainy weather, will take place from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Riverwalk Farmers Market pavilion.

Start the season off by stocking up on locally grown produce, as well as handmade goods, soaps and other items.