Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 7-27-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for July 27, 2026

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

Man Trampled by Bull (WSMV)

First responders rushed to a rural area of Maury County after someone was trampled by a bull Saturday.

According to the Maury County Fire Department, they were dispatched to Luke Moser Road for the incident shortly after 7 p.m.

Three different units, including Brush 21, Captain 20, and Support 20, responded to the call. They assisted Maury County Emergency Medical Services and set up a landing zone for a Vanderbilt LifeFlight helicopter to respond.

No further information was immediately released.

County Votes Moratorium on Data Centers (CDH)

The Maury County Commission has approved a temporary moratorium preventing the accepting, reviewing and approving of any new data center proposal within unincorporated areas of the county.

The moratorium, approved July 20 by a unanimous vote, will be in effect for up to 12 months, or until the county can properly update its zoning ordinance standards and regulations.

In June, the Maury County Planning Commission voted to recommend the moratorium. The county's zoning ordinance currently defines data centers as "facilities containing one or more large-scale computer systems used for data storage and processing for off-site users.” 

During the June 22 meeting, County Planning Commission attorney Kristi Ransom said Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt had asked her and County Attorney Mark Dobies to look over the current zoning ordinance to determine "the best path" to update it given advancements in technology, such as AI, as well as the increased size and scope of modern-day data centers.

"We talked about data centers, and we do have some standards for data centers in the zoning ordinance now, but what it doesn't necessarily anticipate is these really large data centers we are seeing across the country," Ransom said. "It seems like land use is a good path to address where and how, if these are going to happen and if they should happen in Maury County."

Ransom added that the updates would properly identify the different kinds of data centers, rather than using a more broader definition as it currently exists.

"The intent is to just press pause," Ransom said. "We don't have any [data center proposals] pending right now, which is also good that that's the case, and figure out through our current processes where they should go and how to best address the infrastructure and utilities that are needed for these to operate safely in the community."

Also at the June 22 meeting, Maury County Democratic Party Chairman James Dallas, who also works as database administrator in his profession, shared his thoughts on data centers' potential impacts in rural communities.

Dallas said he supported the moratorium, that it is a good time to gain a deeper understanding of how data centers are defined and how they operate, especially when it comes to establishing proper land-use ordinances.

"The potential harm caused by data centers is a serious public issue," Dallas said. "Rapid growth of AI, crypto and other aspects has caused many harms for communities across the country, as well as power and water problems, noise pollution and other social harms.

"We need to review our existing zoning ordinances, the comprehensive plan, etc. to ensure data centers are created in a way that balances the needs of industry, as well as the needs for our community as a whole."

Dallas added that the moratorium recognizes each category of data centers and environmental impacts.

The positive impact of having data centers is also something to consider, Dallas said.

"While data centers themselves may not employ many people directly, there are positive impacts on our economy," Dallas said. "First, data centers and their initial construction does employ people with skilled trades. Second, data centers like the one my employer uses enable hundreds or thousands of jobs, and not just IT people such as myself, but coworkers we support, such as doctors, nurses, researchers, billing staff, and of course our patients benefit."

Prior to the July 20 commission vote, District 8 Commissioner Gabe Howard motioned the moratorium be sent back to the planning commission to reconsider extending its timeline to two years, rather than one.

The amendment failed ultimately in a 3-18 vote.

Ransom told commissioners that the one-year timeline was considered "a reasonable amount of time" when discussing potential moratoriums, and that anything further could "start getting sketchy."

"Any time you pass a moratorium on any type of development, it has to be considered reasonable," Ransom said. "Twelve months is generally considered reasonable, and I think it might be a struggle for two years."

Ransom added that an extension can be approved during the course of the one-year timeline if needed, as long as it can be proven to be within reason.

The amendment, had it been approved, would also require another Maury County Planning Commission recommendation, which could take an additional two months before reaching the full commission for approval.

"That is two months open season for anything that anybody wants to try and jump in and do," District 2 Commissioner Eric Previti said. "This is something we should enact tonight, and then in the 11 months and 29 days, if it needs to be worked on and extended, or in 10 months and 29 days, the next commission can sit here and say, 'Let's extend it.'"

TN Orthopedic Alliance Grand Opening (WKOM 4:21)

On Friday, Tennessee Orthopedic Alliance opened their new facility in Spring Hill. Our own Delk Kennedy attended the ribbon cutting and spoke to Dr.’s Zach Farr and Cason Shirley to learn more about what the new facility will offer Spring Hill residents.

2027 Midstate Classic Announced (Press Release)

 The City of Columbia is excited to announce that the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers will take on the Belmont University Bruins at the 2027 Midstate Classic on Tuesday, April 13, 2027, at Ridley Sports Complex. 

University of Tennessee Head Coach Karen Weekly said her team is looking forward to returning to Columbia.

"We’re excited to once again be coming to Columbia, TN for the Midstate Classic. Laura Matthews has done a fantastic job building Belmont into an excellent program and we know it will be a great game!”

Belmont University Head Coach Laura Matthews shared her enthusiasm for the opportunity.

"We are so excited to head to Columbia to face Tennessee. It’s a unique experience, and we are excited to compete in front of a community who has really gotten behind softball.”

Now in its 12th year in Columbia, the Midstate Classic has become one of Middle Tennessee's premier spring softball events. 

City Manager Tony Massey said the featured matchup reflects Columbia's continued commitment to hosting premier sporting events.

"The Midstate Classic has become a tradition our community looks forward to each year. Welcoming nationally recognized programs like Tennessee and Belmont showcases the quality of Ridley Sports Complex while creating an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors."

The annual tournament continues to attract outstanding collegiate competition, and the 2027 featured matchup between Tennessee and Belmont promises to be one of the event's most anticipated contests yet.

Mayor Chaz Molder said the event strengthens Columbia's reputation as a destination for high-caliber athletics.

"Hosting programs of this caliber is an exciting opportunity for our community. The Midstate Classic continues to highlight Columbia as a destination for exceptional athletic competition, and we're proud to welcome these outstanding teams to Ridley Sports Complex."

Parks and Recreation Director Mack Reagan said the tournament has become one of the department's signature annual events.

"Hosting the Midstate Classic for the 12th year is a testament to the dedication of our Parks and Recreation team and the outstanding reputation of Ridley Sports Complex. We look forward to welcoming athletes, coaches, and fans for another memorable day of competition."

Additional event information will be shared closer to the tournament date on ColumbiaTN.gov and the City's Facebook and Instagram pages, @CityofColumbiaTN.

Sweetwater Park Grand Opening (WKOM Audio 3:06)

On Saturday morning, the Maury County Parks System opened Sweetwater Park in Culleoka. With more, is Front Porch Radio’s Delk Kennedy who spoke to former County Commissioner Debbie Turner about the new park and what it will offer local citizens…

Columbia 101 (Press Release)

Have you ever wondered how the City of Columbia operates or wanted to learn more about the people and services that keep our community running? The City of Columbia is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 session of Columbia 101, an interactive civic engagement program that gives residents an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at their local government.

Designed to educate, engage, and inspire, Columbia 101 offers participants the opportunity to meet City leaders, tour municipal facilities, and experience firsthand how the City's 12 departments work together to serve the community. From public safety and infrastructure to parks, planning, and public services, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the essential work happening every day to make Columbia a great place to live, work, and visit.

The Fall 2026 session will take place Tuesday, September 22, and Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Participants will begin each morning at City Hall before visiting City departments and facilities throughout Columbia, with opportunities to ask questions, engage with City staff, and learn about current projects and future initiatives.

"Columbia is an incredible community because of the people who call it home," said Mayor Chaz Molder. "Columbia 101 gives residents a chance to see firsthand how their local government works, meet the people behind the services they rely on every day, and discover new ways to get involved. Whether you've lived here your entire life or recently made Columbia your home, this program offers a unique opportunity to connect with your city."

A Spring 2026 participant shared their experience, saying, "I loved everything about Columbia 101! It absolutely filled me with community pride to learn all about not only the departments that keep us all running, but to meet the people who are so passionate about what they do. Such an honor!"

Columbia 101 is open to all City of Columbia and Maury County residents and is offered twice each year. Whether you're simply curious about local government, interested in becoming more involved in your community, or looking to build relationships with fellow residents and City leaders, Columbia 101 provides an engaging and informative experience for participants of all backgrounds.

"Columbia 101 creates meaningful conversations between citizens and City staff while helping participants better understand the services, planning, and teamwork that go into serving our community every day," said City Manager Tony Massey.

Program Director Lexi Dearborn added, "Participants consistently tell us they leave with a greater appreciation for the work being done across the City and a stronger connection to their community. If you've ever wanted to know more about how Columbia works, this is the perfect opportunity."

A $25 program fee is required for accepted applicants to help cover the cost of meals, transportation, and program materials.

Applications are available now at www.ColumbiaTN.gov or at the reception desk on the third floor of City Hall. The application deadline is Friday, August 7, 2026.

For questions about Columbia 101, contact Program Director Lexi Dearborn at LDearborn@ColumbiaTN.gov. Follow the City of Columbia on Facebook and Instagram at @CityofColumbiaTN for additional updates and program information.

And now, news from around the state…

Three Year Bachelors Now Possible (MSM)

Three-year bachelor’s degrees could be an option for Tennessee students under a new policy approved by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission on Thursday, July 23.

The policy establishes the approval process for “Focused Bachelor’s Degrees,” which are designed to streamline baccalaureate degrees into a 90-hour program that would reduce the number of elective courses required for students to graduate from an accredited institution. 

“Tennessee’s new Focused Bachelor’s Degree policy gives our institutions the flexibility to redesign a century-old model while preserving the high standards that define a bachelor’s degree,” THEC Executive Director Dr. Steven Gentile said in a news release. “The true measure of a degree is not the amount of credit hours it takes to earn it, but the knowledge, skills and opportunities it creates.”

In a discussion at the Tennessee State Capitol on Monday, July 20, Secretary of State Tre Hargett said the initiative aims to reduce costs and student debt by up to 25 percent by allowing students to enter the workforce sooner. 

“If we can lower the amount of debt that people are taking on, then we’re speeding up the process to be able to buy a first home, or buy their car, or moving out or starting their own business,” Hargett said. 

He explained that the program is not intended to replace the traditional 120-hour path but to offer an alternative. 

“This is not going to be a path for everybody, but we do think this is another viable path,” he said. “Especially once somebody has been out of the workforce and realizes perhaps that they want to go back and get their degree.”

The University of Tennessee System’s five campuses – Knoxville, Chattanooga, Martin, UT Southern and UT Health Science Center – has previously announced its intention to begin exploring and implementing three-year, 90-credit-hour degree programs in the fall of 2026. 

Ideal candidates for a “Focused Bachelor’s Degree,” according to Secretary Hargett, would primarily include non-traditional students, such as returning servicemembers, those who have delayed their education due to financial reasons or individuals enrolling after starting a family or working a full-time job. 

“The bottom line is, if we can help get these people in and out of college and ready to go pursue their careers, they’re going to take on less debt. They’re going to be earning better income. They’re going to get their careers started or they’re going to have a new phase of their career that they’re going to be able to enter into,” Hargett emphasised.  

Hargett said that the program is intended to initially target high-demand fields, such as business, social work and nursing. He claimed this will be a good option for small to mid-size business owners looking to fill positions with suitable candidates whose education has focused primarily on the core skills employers are looking for. 

“The more that we can help build a good workforce for those businesses to help grow, as well as the larger ones, the better off our economy is going to be,” Hargett proclaimed.  

Tennessee State University currently offers a “Degree-In-3” program. To qualify, students must enroll in one of the 22 eligible majors, have at least a 3.25 GPA and either earn a minimum ACT score of 22 or complete at least 12 college credit hours.

Other public regional universities, such as Middle Tennessee State University and Austin Peay State University, are still considering adopting the three-year bachelor’s degree program but, as of this time, have not committed, Hargett said. 

Utah was the first state to introduce a three-year degree program in 2023, followed by more than 60 institutions nationwide implementing their own accelerated degree programs in states such as Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Michigan. 

Following last month’s approval of a pilot program for two institutions in Massachusetts, the American Association of University Professors issued a statement warning of the potential threat three-year bachelor’s degree programs would have on academic integrity, calling it a “stripped-down curriculum that prioritizes speed over essential intellectual development.” 

“A bachelor’s degree should both prepare students for the workforce and provide them with deep learning, broad intellectual development and sustained engagement with faculty and peers — not simply the fastest possible route to the labor market,” the organization stated in a news release. “Compressing or reducing the curriculum threatens to narrow students’ education at precisely the moment when society needs graduates with stronger critical thinking, communication skills, scientific literacy and civic understanding.”

Welcome back to Southern Middle Tennessee Today!

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

Little Big Town will return to Ryman Auditorium this December for a three-night holiday residency. 

“The Christmas Shows” will take place Dec. 8-10 and feature a mix of holiday classics and fan favorites from the Grammy Award-winning group, which includes Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet and Jimi Westbrook.

The upcoming run marks the second year Little Big Town has hosted its Christmas residency at the Ryman following a series of holiday performances in 2025. The group also made history at the venue in 2017 with the Ryman’s first yearlong artist residency.

Tickets are now on sale through Little Big Town’s www.littlebigtown.com. Before returning to Nashville for the holiday shows, Little Big Town will release its 12th studio album, It’s a Dying Art, on Aug. 28 through MCA.