Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 5-21-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for May 21, 2026

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

Spring Hill Officials Map Out Budget (MSM)

City leaders are beginning to map out how Spring Hill will spend more than $150 million in the upcoming year as officials work through the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The draft budget, presented by City Administrator J. Carter Napier during a special budget meeting, outlines the city’s expected revenues, expenditures and financial priorities ahead of formal adoption next month. 

Planning for the FY2027 budget has been underway for several months, serving as the city’s financial and operation blueprint for the upcoming fiscal year. The proposed operating budget currently totals $150,775,552, with projected revenues of approximately $138.2 million and a one-time use of $12.7 million from the city’s fund balance. According to staff, the proposed budget was developed using conservative revenue projections while continuing to fund previously approved capital projects. 

Napier also highlighted several key changes impacting the upcoming budget cycle, including property tax revenue, sales tax growth, state-shared revenues, the ongoing sewer moratorium and capital changes across various city funds. 

Property tax revenue is expected to increase by roughly $2 million due to the recent reappraisal process in Maury County. Sales tax growth also plays a role in the city’s projections, with Maury County expected to see a 1.9 percent increase while Williamson County is projected at 4.4 percent growth. Combined, sales tax revenue is anticipated to generate approximately $17 million over the next year. 

Officials were also presented with an overview of the city’s major funds, including revenue projections, operating expenditures, capital expenditures and estimated balances. 

The General Fund is projected to begin FY2027 with a balance of $35.6 million. Proposed revenue totals $65,162,703, with operating expenditures estimated at $62,828,660 and capital expenditures totaling $2,221,627. The projected ending balance for the fund is $35,714,281. 

The Water and Sewer Fund begins the fiscal year with a balance of approximately $126.5 million and is projected to end FY2027 with $121.6 million. Of that total, roughly $93.8 million will be available for use. 

Water rate increases will also take effect throughout the year as part of the city’s previously approved 30 percent rate program beginning July 1. Under the proposed structure, residential Tier 1 usage (0–4 thousand kilogallons) will cost $6.98 per 1,000 gallons, Tier 2 (4–10 thousand kilogallons) will cost $8.72 per 1,000 gallons and Tier 3 (above 10 thousand kilogallons) will cost $10.47 per 1,000 gallons. Non-residential customers will be charged $7.79 per 1,000 gallons. 

For sewer service, all customers will pay a base charge of $25.51, along with a sewer volume charge of $9.56 per 1,000 gallons.

The capital Project Fund is projected to begin and end the fiscal year with an estimated balance of $9.5 million. The fund supports several ongoing and proposed city projects, including improvements to the Port Royal and Buckner Lane intersection, design work for the new library and construction for the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) project. 

Despite the progress on the proposed budget, Napier noted several ongoing challenges and uncertainties that could impact the city’s financial outlook. Among these concerns are the continuing sewer moratorium, the status of the SAFER Grant and questions surround future revenue growth trajectory. 

City leaders say the focus moving forward will include completing the city’s strategic plan, continuing development where possible, addressing concerns related to double taxation and strengthening the city’s enterprise strategy. 

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen will hold the first public hearing on the FY2027 budget ordinance on June 1, when officials will also consider the authorized staffing levels, certified tax rate and first reading of the tax rate ordinance. 

A second and final reading of the budget and tax rate is scheduled for June 15. When approved, the new FY2027 budget will take effect July 1, guiding the city’s spending and priorities for the new year ahead.

Whataburger Opens (CDH)

The wait is finally over for Columbia residents to sink their teeth into a Whataburger as the restaurant chain celebrated its long-awaited grand opening this week at its new 195 S. James M. Campbell Blvd. location.

The Texas-based restaurant, founded in 1950, is the first of three upcoming businesses to open at the former Sloan Ford dealership property, with construction currently underway for a future Panda Express as well as a credit union.

The Maury County Chamber & Economic Alliance hosted an official ribbon cutting May 19 to celebrate Whataburger's grand opening.

"The people here that work are friendly, they're nice and energetic, and this is a revitalization of this street right through here," Vice Mayor Randy McBroom said. "Thank you for being part of Columbia. That's what matters."

Whataburger Operations Manager Clyde VanTassell added that he considers his workers "like family."

"I have been looking forward to this for a long time," VanTassell said. "We will be open 24 hours Thursday night, Friday night and Saturday night, and the rest of the week we will close at 2 a.m. and open at 7 a.m.

"We do have breakfast, including the honey butter chicken biscuits, taquitos and fresh-made sandwiches, all great, from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. and then 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. So, whether we are open all night or closing, we will have breakfast at night, breakfast in the morning and then on the weekends, we'll have everything, the whole menu."

Whataburger Field Marketing Partner David Robbins said although the restaurant is brand new to the area, the company feels right at home in Columbia.

"We are a community company, with 20% of sales going back to organizations," Robbins said. "We were at Mule Day, and that was such an amazing event we were a part of. We want to be in the parade next year. It was incredible and seeing Columbia is beautiful, has amazing history and we are just so excited to be here."

While many city and county leaders, as well as Maury Chamber members gathered shortly before the restaurant's opening, they weren't the first to arrive.

Jennifer Turner, of Mt. Pleasant, was one of several customers who showed up eager to be first in line.

"I got here at 4 a.m.," Turner said. "It's really good, and I just love supporting new businesses when they come to town, show them good community support."

Turner added that part of Whataburger's appeal is the customer perks through things like the official Whataburger app.

"They have a great system, like when you get 200-300 points you start getting free stuff," Turner said. "You even get a free Whataburger just for downloading the app, which is pretty cool."

Whataburger is also one of many businesses poised to open in the next year as the James M. Campbell corridor continues to develop. Other offerings include the former Columbia Mall site just up the road, which is expecting Jimmy John's and Wingstop restaurants, a nail salon and other retail businesses.

African American Heritage Society Gets Grant (MSM)

The African-American Heritage Society of Maury County has received a $24,950 grant, from the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial, to fund America 250 activities in Maury County.

The grant award will be used for educational programs for citizens of all ages, including a Speaker Series on major historical events since 1776, the civil rights and women’s suffrage movements, and genealogy classes for adults and students. It will also fund events, including an essay contest on the theme, “What America’s 250th Means To Me,” for grades eight through 12; a commemorative quilt square contest with the theme, “What You Love Most About This Country;” and a county-wide scavenger hunt that will send participants to historically significant sites.

“With this grant, the Maury County 250th Committee will have the funds needed to schedule programs and events that will amplify the diverse voices and connect local and state history to the broader American story,” said Jo Ann McClellan, the Project Director. The 250th Committee includes representatives from the African-American Heritage Society of Maury County, Columbia State Community College’s History Department, the Maury County Archives, the Maury County Historical Society, the city of Mt. Pleasant and the Spring Hill Library.

The Tennessee Commission is disbursing funds for “America 250” activities through the State Museum, and the second round of applications to the grant program was highly competitive. In total, the Commission received 365 applications, totaling $6,364,017 in requests. The Commission has made full or partial awards for 194 grants across the state, representing 73 counties, and awarded a total of $2,267,058. A complete list of second-round grantees, counties and amounts is posted at www.tn250.com.

“I am inspired by the excitement across the state to commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Ashley Howell, Executive Director of the Tennessee State Museum and Chair of the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial. “This year will be filled with exhibitions, programs, festivals, and preservation of our local and state history. We hope that these projects inspire Tennesseans across the state to engage with the anniversary in 2026.”

Harvey Park Getting Accessible Playground (Newschannel5)

Spring Hill is transforming Harvey Park into a fully accessible playground, a project driven by parks and recreation commissioner Mary Ann Lapenta, who turned personal experience into community action.

Lapenta pushed for the change after identifying a gap in accessible play spaces for families.

The renovation will replace all existing equipment and expand the park's footprint, enclosed by a new fence.

It will also include:

• A larger 13,760 sq ft. play area with full turf surfacing

• 15 slides

• 17 climbers

• 15 interactive/ sensory panels

• 2 Mommy & Me swings, a saucer swing, 3 belt swings & an inclusive swing

• 4 musical instruments

• 108' of ramp

• 3,280 sq ft of shade

• 2 wheelchair accessible pieces with movement

• 4 benches: 2 stationary & 2 swinging

• 46 elevated activities

• 34 elevated activities accessible by transfer

• 26 elevated activities accessible by ramp

• Fully fenced

• Toddler play area

"We're going to have a fence around the whole entire park; it's going to be a little larger in area than what you see now, and all the equipment will be replaced," Lapenta said.

Lapenta's push for the project grew out of her own family's needs. After identifying the gap in accessible play spaces, she moved quickly.

"Right after that, I already set up to meet with the Parks and Rec board and presented to them," Lapenta said.

She then joined the board to keep advocating for families with different needs, saying the community deserved a dedicated space.

Harvey Park visitors have welcomed the news. Kathie Higgs, who visited the park, said the change is long overdue.

"All children deserve a place where they can go and feel welcome and like they fit in and there's something for them to do," Higgs said.

Lapenta said the project reflects a broader commitment to the people who call Spring Hill home.

"This effort is an example of just really prioritizing community spaces for people who live here and call Spring Hill their home," Lapenta said.

The city has already contracted with a company to build the playground. The project needs final review in June.

Columbia City Employees to Receive Raises (CDH)

As the city of Columbia nears the end of another fiscal year, city employees could receive another pay increase, pending approval of a proposed City Council ordinance.

At a recent study session, council members reviewed an ordinance in which all full- and part-time city employees would receive a 4% pay increase.

"I want to applaud city leadership for ensuring that we once again have an increase for our city employees," Mayor Chaz Molder said. "We have an obligation to take care of the people taking care of us, and so I appreciate this increase."

Molder added that annual increases have "set a precedent" as a Columbia budget goal over the last several years.

Assistant City Manager Thad Jablonski said that, since 2024, the increases have cumulatively totaled close to 14%

"We are doing 4% this year, did 4% the previous year and then 3.5% the year before that," Jablonski said.

Molder concluded that he hopes the increases will continue annually.

"There is always work to be done, and I hope that work will continue," Molder said. "I am appreciative of this, and I hope our employees will appreciate it and that we will continue with our recruitment and retention of quality employees that we have now and will continue to have in the future."

The council would need to vote on the ordinance in order for it to take effect.

Hampshire School Helps Maury Regional Foundation (Press Release)

For the fourth consecutive year, the business management and accounting classes at Hampshire Unit School have donated $1,000 to support the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation’s Breast Center Fund by designing and selling breast cancer awareness T-shirts.

“These classes are designed to give students hands-on experience in areas like entrepreneurship, budgeting and business operations, while also teaching the importance of community involvement,” said Business Management Instructor Webb Williams. “Supporting the Breast Center Fund through the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation was especially meaningful because breast cancer has touched so many families in our area, including my own. Our students wanted their efforts to make a direct impact locally, and this partnership gives them the opportunity to see how their hard work can truly help others in their community.”

The Breast Center Fund supports women who are battling and recovering from cancer. It provides funding for supplies such as wigs, various headpieces, camisoles and lymphedema garments, educational resources and programs that improve the quality of care for patients. The fund ensures women in the community receive personalized care and support during their health care journey.

“Hampshire Unit School’s continued support for the Breast Center Fund helps to make a meaningful impact for patients and their families facing breast cancer,” said Foundation Executive Director Rita Thompson. “Breast cancer affects one in eight women, and support for the fund allows the Foundation to help ease some of the financial and emotional burdens that come with the diagnosis. Thanks to the support from Hampshire Unit School and others, we are able to provide comfort, support and hope to patients during their cancer journey.”

The Maury Regional Health Care Foundation manages a variety of funds and endowments designed to meet the unique health care needs of individuals and families in southern Middle Tennessee. By contributing to any of the funds, donors are able to directly impact lives by improving access to resources, treatment and education. Since 2006, the Maury Regional Health Care Foundation has funded more than $5.8 million in programs and services benefiting community members in need. Learn more about the Foundation at MauryRegional.com/Foundation.

Spring Hill Expo (Press Release)

The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to one of the city’s most anticipated events of the year as the Experience Spring Hill Business Expo & Job Fair returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Battle Creek High School.

Free and open to the public, Experience Spring Hill is more than a business expo, it is a high-energy event designed to showcase the people, businesses, services, and growth shaping one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing cities.

With more than 4,000 attendees expected, the event brings together local businesses, restaurants, healthcare providers, nonprofits, home services, retailers, fitness studios, financial professionals, City departments, and employers, all under one roof for a Saturday filled with entertainment, interaction, and local connection.

“This event gives people the chance to truly experience Spring Hill,” said the CEO of the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce. “Whether you are looking for your next favorite local business, a new job opportunity, family activities, or simply something fun to do on a Saturday, this event was designed for you.”

NEW for 2026, the Experience Spring Hill Job Fair will connect job seekers with employers actively hiring across a variety of industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with local companies, explore career paths, and learn more about the businesses investing in the future of Spring Hill.

Those attending with children can enjoy the Family Fun Zone featuring kid-friendly activities, interactive booths, Touch-a-Truck experiences, games, giveaways, and hands-on fun designed to keep children entertained while parents explore the Expo.

One of the most popular areas of the event is the City Hall corridor, where attendees can meet representatives from City departments including Parks and Recreation, Police, Fire, and other public services. Residents will have the opportunity to ask questions, gather information, and better understand the resources available throughout the city.

The Expo also gives attendees the opportunity to support local businesses in a meaningful way through face-to-face conversations and real connections that go beyond social media and online searches.

“This is the kind of event where you walk in expecting to stay an hour and end up spending the day,” organizers shared. “You leave with new connections, new favorite businesses, and a deeper appreciation for the city you live in.”

Experience Spring Hill 2026 is presented by TriStar Spring Hill ER.

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

Margaret Morton Parsons, 77, longtime resident of Williamsport, passed away Tuesday, May 19 at Willow Springs Assisted Living Facility in Spring Hill.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday, May 22, 2026 at 12:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Friday from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.  

And now, news from around the state…

Cohen Drops From Race (WPLN)

Incumbent U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen is ending his re-election campaign after Tennessee Republicans approved President Donald Trump’s mid-decade redistricting plan.

The new congressional map splits Cohen’s home city of Memphis into three districts. Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District, which Cohen has represented for nearly two decades, now stretches 300 miles from Memphis to the edge of Nashville.

The Tennessee Democratic Party is suing to block the redistricting plan on behalf of Cohen and other candidates, but a federal judge has allowed the maps to go into effect while multiple legal challenges go forward.

Cohen has said he would rejoin the race if the map were struck down in court. State lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have joined the race ahead of Friday’s filing deadline, hoping to take his spot in Washington.

Candidates had a little over a week to pursue a spot on the ballot after the state approved the new map.

Nateland Plans Revealed (WSMV)

New details are revealing the clearest picture yet of what comedian Nate Bargatze’s proposed Nashville-area theme park could actually look like.

A new rendering of “Nateland” comes from Storyland Studios, the California-based entertainment design firm behind the proposed park.

Nateland CEO Felix Verdigets confirmed to WSMV4 that details first reported by The Wall Street Journal about the project are accurate and current.

The design is still evolving, but current plans for the park include roller coasters, stunt performances, live entertainment and interactive attractions spread across multiple themed areas inspired by Bargatze’s life and career. One Tennessee-themed section would feature a 1990s-style mall entrance and a “Donkey Dive” ride, while another New York-inspired area would include street performers and a simulated Times Square experience.

The team says it picked a site somewhere in the Metro Nashville area, but is not revealing where yet.

Storyland Studios first announced its partnership with Bargatze on the project in November. At the time, developers described the project as being in the “blue sky” phase, with designers still studying demographics and searching for a location.

The firm’s founder, Mel McGowan, previously told WSMV the project was inspired in part by Bargatze’s childhood memories of Opryland USA.

“They took Opryland from me, so I’m going to bring it back,” Bargatze told WSMV early last year.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

To mark 16 years of partnership with Folds of Honor, Budweiser is hitting the road with the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales on a cross-country tour, honoring the nonprofit organization that provides life-changing educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders, and will be in Nashville on June 1st at First Horizon Bank Stadium for the Folds of Honor Rock n’ Jock Celebrity Softball game. 

Together, Anheuser-Busch, its industry-leading brands, and wholesaler partners have donated $37 million, which has funded 7,400 educational scholarships for Folds of Honor recipients.

Learn more by visiting www.foldsofhonor.org.