Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 5-2-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for May 2, 2025

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

We start with local news…

County Deputy Arrested (Fox17)

A deputy with the Maury County Sheriff’s Department is now facing multiple charges including DUI after being arrested Thursday, Fox17 reports.

Authorities report that Sgt. Randy Allen Marrisett, 39, was taken into custody by Columbia Police on April 30.

Court documents show that Marrisett was charged with Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving and Felony Evading Arrest.

His court date is set for June 2 at 2 p.m.

Adient to Close (MauryCountySource)

Adient plc has filed a WARN Notice with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, confirming plans to permanently close its facility in Columbia, Tennessee. The affected facility is located at 2206 Oakland Parkway in Columbia.

According to Adient’s website, the company is an American, Irish-domiciled company that operates as the largest manufacturer of automotive seating for customers worldwide and is based in Plymouth, Michigan.

Layoffs at the Maury County facility began on April 17, and there, 95 workers will be affected. A Henderson County facility began layoffs on April 21, and 320 employees there will be let go. Both facilities will be permanently closed on June 27.

The employees at the Maury County facility are represented by UAW Local 1853 in Spring Hill, so the DLWD said the Southern Middle Local Workforce Development Area rapid response team will coordinate with the affected employees and the employer.

UAW represents more than half of the employees impacted by the layoffs at the Maury County location, and they’re working to get those workers hired by another factory in Spring Hill that is now producing seats for GM, according to UAW chapter president John Rutherford.

As of 2022, Adient employed 70,000 people across 200 manufacturing/assembly plants in 30 countries.

Spring Hill Development (CDH)

A request to rezone property off Port Royal Road is under review by the Spring Hill Planning Commission, but is actually part of a much larger planned development.

In March, Gamble Design Collaborative presented a planned development plan (PDP) for what is being called Eastport Farms, located on 47.28 acres between Derryberry Lane and Jim Warren Road. The proposed plans include concepts for retail, hotel, multi-family and other commercial uses.

However, about 1.92 acres of the property is currently zoned for agriculture, of which the city's Unified Development Code does not allow PDP developments. A request to rezone that portion to C-4 commercial was brought before planners Monday as a means to remedy this issue for original plans to move forward.

The staff report submitted with Monday's request outlined whether the C-4 rezoning would be the appropriate move, or if there could be potential adverse effects.

For one, C-4 zoning would allow much higher density which would also mean a higher demand on utility use.

A June 12, 2024, memorandum issued to the Board of Mayor & Aldermen also states the board use discretionary authority to deny any annexations or rezonings within Spring Hill that would increase sewer demand, unless "substantial progress is made to construct an expansion to the wastewater treatment plant, Advanced Purification project and the reservoir project."

"That's basically saying that we don't have sewer capacity to give everybody whether they are entitled to it through current development approvals or has an opportunity through by-right development," Development Services Director Dara Sanders said. "That puts us in a tricky situation."

The staff report continues stating it recommends the applicant revise its request to rural agricultural (RA) district or the rural residential (RR) district. This would allow for one or two single-family homes to be constructed on the property, though the report indicates the applicant had denied that recommendation.

"There is a big difference between multiple dwelling units above ground, which would be allowed in the C-4 zoning district, then the single-family home being constructed," Sanders said. "There is also a big difference in water demand between a single-family home and a car wash, a drive-thru restaurant."

Greg Gamble of Gamble Design representing the property owner, said the reason for the applicant's denial of the alternative zoning was that it appeared incongruent with the city's comprehensive plan for the area, which includes many C-4 properties.

Mayor Matt Fitterer said he understood the zoning predicament, and that the RA or RR zonings would likely not be the proper final zonings necessary but act as a steppingstone to the project taking momentum.

"It doesn't mean it can't be the intermediate step," Fitterer said. "I don't think the intermediate zoning designation is going to be relevant, because ultimately we are going to approve the PDP or not. What happens to this parcel is tied to the bigger picture."

Since Monday's meeting was a work session, no votes were cast regarding the item.

New Maury Regional Doctor (Press Release)

Shaza Khalid, MD, an infectious disease and wound care specialist, has joined the medical staff at Maury Regional Medical Center. She is affiliated with Maury Regional Medical Group.

Dr. Khalil received her medical degree at Singh Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences in Karachi, Pakistan. She completed a residency at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, PA. She also completed a fellowship at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in Newark, NJ.

Maury Regional Medical Group, an affiliate of Maury Regional Health, provides Maury Regional’s infectious disease physicians. These physicians are specialists who devote their time and expertise to patients within the hospital setting and often in the Wound Care Center. Infectious disease physicians diagnose, treat and work to prevent illnesses caused by pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites and often work in conjunction with other specialists to develop the best treatment for patients, while also working to help prevent the spread of such diseases.

In other Maury Regional News, Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) has again earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade, the highest possible ranking, for the spring 2025 period from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization driving movement for leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care.

“This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to providing the highest level of care to our community. Maury Regional Medical Center has earned an ‘A’ grade for nearly every reporting period since 2012,” said CEO Martin Chaney. “I’m proud of our teams’ dedication to patient safety, their attention to detail and their commitment to continuous improvement.”

Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to hospitals across the country based on more than 30 national performance measures of errors, accidents, injuries and infections as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them. Leapfrog helps bring transparency to heath care to support informed health care decisions and promote high-value care.

“Achieving an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade reflects enormous dedication to patient safety,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “I extend my congratulations to Maury Regional Medical Center, its leadership, clinicians, staff and volunteers for creating a culture where patients come first.”

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade stands as the only hospital ratings program focused solely on preventable medical errors, infections and injuries that take lives each day in the United States. This program is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. 

To learn more about MRMC’s commitment to quality — including accreditations, certifications and recognitions — visit MauryRegional.com/Quality. Visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org for more information about the Hospital Safety Grade, including details on individual hospital grades and rankings.

Road Closure (Press Release)

The City of Columbia announces the upcoming closure of Baker Road between Bear Creek Pike and North Ridge Road beginning Monday, May 5, 2025, through Friday, August 1, 2025, to accommodate the start of Phase 1 of a major roadway reconstruction project.

This essential improvement project is focused on increasing safety and drivability for all motorists who use this corridor. Phase 1 will address a section of the roadway that has presented challenges due to its narrow lanes, lack of shoulders, and sharp vertical curves. The reconstruction will result in wider lanes, road shoulders, and reduced vertical curves, providing a safer, more navigable route for drivers.

Importantly, this project is being fully funded by private development, not taxpayer dollars. As new development occurs in the area, the City continues to prioritize infrastructure enhancements that keep pace with growth—ensuring that improvements are made in a responsible, forward-thinking manner.

“The safety and long-term benefits of this project are essential to accommodate the continued growth and well-being of our community. It should also be noted these traffic enhancements which will result are being paid by the developers of the underlying residential development—minimizing the impact on our taxpayers, while maximizing safety and security of our residents and visitors alike. Much like the Tom J. Hitch Bridge closure, the short term inconveniences and frustration of this project will lead to long term traffic safety and other financial benefits,” said City Manager Tony Massey.

The City urges motorists to plan for alternative routes during the closure period and thanks the public in advance for their cooperation. Updates regarding the project’s progress will be shared on the City of Columbia’s official website and social media platforms.

The City of Columbia will also close the South Main Street and 8th Street intersection beginning Monday, May 5, 2025, through Tuesday, September 2, 2025, to construct a new roundabout aimed at improving traffic flow and enhancing pedestrian safety in the downtown area. The new traffic feature will also serve as a lasting tribute to the city’s place in civil rights history.

At the center of the roundabout will stand a statue of Justice Thurgood Marshall, donated by the Columbia Peace and Justice Initiative (CPJI), a local organization dedicated to promoting awareness, education, and engagement around civil rights history in Columbia. The statue honors Marshall’s legal work in Columbia following the 1946 unrest. Marshall, who later became the first African American United States Supreme Court Justice, was part of a legal defense team representing local citizens in a landmark case that helped ignite the modern Civil Rights Movement. The events in Columbia also prompted President Harry S. Truman to form the President’s Committee on Civil Rights, which laid the groundwork for civil rights legislation nationwide.

“We are proud this project not only enhances our infrastructure and provides a needed improvement to East 8th Street, a long-time Council strategic initiative, but also reflects our community’s commitment to recognizing our place in the history of the modern Civil Rights Movement,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. “The Thurgood Marshall Roundabout will stand as a powerful symbol of Columbia’s role in the broader struggle for civil rights in America and will hopefully encourage others, residents and visitors alike, to learn more about this piece of our community’s history.”

Trent Ogilvie, co-founder and President of the Columbia Peace and Justice Initiative (CPJI), remarked, "CPJI is excited to partner with the City of Columbia to be a catalyst for historic revitalization downtown on East 8th Street. This visionary project features a magnificent statue of Thurgood Marshall and a tribute to the heroes of 1946, which will serve as a landmark in our journey to explore the past, redeem the present, and inspire the future."

"Our city made a significant contribution to the early Civil Rights Movement, and I'm excited to see this project come to completion. I believe it will introduce even more people to the story of 1946 and the heroic stand for justice," added Russ Adcox, co-founder and Vice President of CPJI.

The roundabout is a vital part of Columbia’s ongoing commitment to improving traffic circulation and pedestrian safety, while also promoting a more walkable and accessible downtown.

“This is an exciting and meaningful project for our city,” said City Manager Tony Massey. “It reflects a smart infrastructure solution while providing an opportunity to honor a pivotal figure in American history whose work in Columbia had national impact.”

The City of Columbia appreciates the public’s patience during the construction period and encourages motorists to use alternate routes. Additional details regarding detours and traffic control measures will be shared in the coming weeks.

The City looks forward to celebrating the completion of the Thurgood Marshall Roundabout in September.

Meredith’s Toy Box (MSM)

Faith Fellowship Cumberland Presbyterian Church is scheduled to once again host Meredith’s Toy Box, an annual toy drive that runs from April 24-May 31, focusing on collecting teen boy and girl items for Kid’s Place Child Advocacy Center. This marks the fifth year of the toy drive, created to honor the legacy of the beloved Meredith Campbell-Bybee. 

Campbell-Bybee was a vibrant and beloved member of the Faith Fellowship community. She served as a Christian Education Director for 30 years, coordinated Vacation Bible School for 25 years and was a founding member and active elder at Faith Fellowship CP Church. Her heart for service extended beyond the church — she volunteered for Kid’s Place, served on multiple boards and was a shining example of Christian love and leadership. 

During a Leadership Maury bus trip in 2020, Meredith formed a friendship with the former executive director of Kid’s Place, where she shared her dream: to provide every child served by Kid’s Place with a Barbie or a Hot Wheel — something they could hold onto for hope and comfort during difficult times. Though Meredith passed away at the age of 47 before seeing this dream realized, her church family and Kid’s Place brought her vision to life through Meredith’s Toy Box. 

Since its creation, Meredith’s Toy Box has collected 2,644 toys and raised almost $11,000. A cedar toy box, lovingly crafted and inscribed by church members, now stands at Kid’s Place’s Columbia location, serving as a tribute to Meredith’s spirit. Above it, a plaque honors her life and mission — a reminder to every child who visits that they are loved and never alone. 

The items requested this year reflect a shift in focus to support older children and teens. Suggested donations include: new journals and pens, games, sporting equipment, mini-tools, DIY crafts, bracelets, beauty products and mini legos. 

“We just continue the mission Meredith started, and pray that each child will feel her love and compassion through the gifts they receive,” said Terrie Bradley, one of the event organizers. 

An Amazon wish list has been created to make it even easier for supporters to donate online. Online orders can be placed through the special events tab at kpcac.org. Items ordered online or shipped manually should be sent to: 614 West Point Road, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464. Monetary donations are also welcomed. Please make checks payable to Faith Fellowship Cumberland Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 2025, Columbia, TN 38402 and memo “Meredith’s Toy Box.”

Drop-off locations in Columbia for donations include: 

• Betty’s Parkway Restaurant, 912 Riverside Dr. 

• Campbell and Lovell, 815 Hatcher Ln. 

• Columbia Farm Supply, 170 Bear Creek Pk. 

• Faith Fellowship CP Church, 920 Bear Creek Pk. (Wednesdays from 6-8pm)

• Periwinkle Boutique, 510 N. Garden St., Ste. C 

• Town and Country Realtors, 803 Hatcher Ln.

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

Terry Martin Voss, 80, retired dairy farmer and a resident of Voss Road in Columbia, died Saturday, April 26, 2025 at NHC Maury Regional Transitional Care Center.

A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. A private inurnment will be at a later date at Pleasant Mount Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Saturday from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Joan Singlaub, widow of Maj. General John Singlaub, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025, surrounded by her family at her daughter’s home. She was 91 years old.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 3rd at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. Visitation will begin at 1 PM, with the service following at 3 PM.

She will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery alongside her husband.

Jesus Arturo Lezama Munoz, 24, resident of Columbia, died Monday, April 28, 2025 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

The family will visit with friends on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 4:00 PM till 6:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

And now, news from around the state…

Oracle Expands Land Holdings (Tennessean)

Oracle Corp. purchased $42 million worth of East Bank land this month, adding to the sprawling Nashville property slated to become the tech company's world headquarters.

The tech giant now owns about 70 acres of downtown riverfront property, where it plans to build a massive campus valued at more than $1 billion.

The new 2.7-acre parcel at 2161 Waterside Dr. neighbors land already owned by Oracle in the River North area of the East Bank, directly adjacent to a development known as The Landings at River North. The previous owner paid $16.3 million for the land in 2019, Metro records show.

The seller was identified in a deed document as NRN Parcel C owner, LLC, with a mailing address linked to The Landings developers MRP Realty and Creek Lane Capital. The first development phase of that project included 651 apartment units across multiple buildings, offices and retail/restaurant space.

Currently vacant, the land may end up being used for part of Oracle's tech campus, which will accommodate 8,500 workers. Construction has not yet begun on the tech campus, which is just across the Cumberland River from the Germantown neighborhood. A pedestrian bridge is planned to connect the two areas.

The sale comes just a month after the company acquired $60 million worth of land in the same vicinity. The seller in that deal was Brentwood-based GBT Realty, which had previously revealed development plans for one parcel of the 3.7 acres purchased by Oracle.

The $42 million transaction in addition to last month's $60 million deal means the company has spent more than $335.7 million on East Bank real estate alone.

Meth Bust in Robertson County (Tennessean)

Robertson County Sheriff's deputies made their largest methamphetamine bust in history this week after nearly a half-million dollars worth of the drugs were found during a home search in Cedar Hill, officials said.

The search warrant was carried out April 25 by deputies, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives at a home on Fykes Grove Road, according to a release from the Robertson County Sheriff's Office.

Law enforcement found and seized 19 pounds of meth during the search, they said.

Robertson County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Jessica Drake confirmed the seizure as the largest of its kind for the agency.

Robertson County Sheriff Michael Van Dyke noted that the street value of the drugs was about $400,000.

He called it, "a significant disruption to illegal drug distribution in this area," adding, "Illegal drugs will not be tolerated in our community. Our families deserve the peace to live in a community that is free from these illegal activities, and I am proud of the hard work of our Sheriff’s Office team and the working relationship with the other law enforcement agencies to make this happen."

A 61-year-old suspect has been charged in connection with the case. Thomas Clinard was arrested and booked into the Robertson County jail without bond.

Clinard faces possession of methamphetamine with the intent to sale and conspiracy to sell methamphetamine charges.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Columbia Farmers Market will celebrate its seasonal opening with a day of locally grown produce, handmade items and a lot of outdoor fun.

The Farmer's Market Springtime Jamboree will kick off starting at 8 a.m. Saturday at the Riverwalk Park pavilion, which will run until noon.

Join for a celebratory Opening Bell which will chime at 10 a.m.

Stick around with the kids for a Touch-a-Truck event starting at 2 p.m.