Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 8-10-26

WKOM/WKRM Radio

Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for August 10, 2026

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

We start with local news…

Election Results (CDH)

The Aug. 6, 2026, election concluded Thursday, with voters turning out to name their new candidates and local leaders, including the primary for Tennessee's next governor.

In Maury County, nearly 17,000 voters cast their ballots. It was about 25% of the county's estimated 75,000 registered voters, according to unofficial final results by the Maury County Election Commission.

The Aug. 6 election included many key races, including Maury County mayor, as well as primary races for U.S. Congress, wherein Maury County now rests among Congressional Districts 5 and 9 due to the state's recent redistricting.

The state's gubernatorial primary race resulted in Maury County voters choosing U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn on the Republican side with 5,448 votes, with Jerri Green winning for the Democrats with 2,971 votes.

Among the Congressional primary races, District 5 Incumbent Andy Ogles was defeated on the Republican side with opponent Charlie Hatcher emerging as the victor with 4,831 votes over Ogles' 4,642. Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder swept the Democratic side with 2,167 total votes.

Incumbent Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt secured victory over challenger District 8 Maury County Commissioner Gabe Howard. Final tallies had 9,403 votes for Butt and 7,331 votes for Howard.

Early voting had Butt off to an early lead with 4,933 votes. Howard took 3,639 early votes. Butt sustained her lead as all 22 Maury County precincts delivered voting numbers throughout the night.

After the final results came in, Butt thanked her campaign staff and supporters.

"There is a group of people here tonight who have worked with me and stood with me through all of this and want Maury County to continue being the best place we can live, work and raise our families in Tennessee," Butt said. "We love our culture, what is happening with our farmland. We are just excited about the future of Maury County."

Spring Hill State of the City (MSM)

Top leaders in the City of Spring Hill presented their annual State of the City Address to the Chamber of Commerce last Thursday. The address updated the Chamber’s stakeholders, from local businesspeople to government officials and employees, on the city’s operations, projects and goals for the near and distant future.

“‘History favors the doers, not the critics,'” said Mayor Matt Fitterer, quoting historian Sharon McMahon. “The board thinks the same thing: we’re going to be doers… You’re all doers too, that’s why you’re here… and we’re going to keep being doers together.”

Fitterer first presented the city’s largest and most important initiative, the Pure Water Spring Hill water-supply project. Pure Water Spring Hill consists of three enormous reservoirs holding a combined 200 million gallons of water, drawn from the Duck River and captured rain, that feed into cutting-edge, multi-stage treatment plants which will, the mayor promised, produce better water than what Spring Hill now drinks. The rest of the grounds of the 137-acre facility will become a city park where people can go fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking and other activities once the facility opens sometime in 2029 or 2030.

Fitterer explained that the water-reclamation technology involved is new to the state of Tennessee, and TDEC is interested in the results of Spring Hill’s project because of the potential it holds for other parts of the state. The mayor compared the scale and importance of Pure Water Spring Hill to the coming of the Saturn car factory in 1980.

“Purification is not new in the United States… [and] it is long overdue to come to the state of Tennessee,” he said. “It is not just a technology that’s needed in dry, arid climates, but it’s needed across the country, including in Tennessee, to be good stewards of our environmental resources… You may be able to repeat this project in other communities as well. We’re hearing lots of conversations in East and West Tennessee about water resources and long-term capacity and… supply.”

On the topic of water, Fitterer was also glad to host the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership’s July 13 meeting at the Spring Hill Police Department, where the Partnership voted (on Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt’s motion) to endorse Pure Water Spring Hill for the list of recommendations to the governor. While the vote doesn’t guarantee a final endorsement or funding, it is a meaningful vote of confidence.

Sewer treatment capacity, said Fitterer, will also be augmented with help from another municipality. Spring Hill is at work on an interlocal agreement with Columbia to send 1.5 million gallons per day (MGD) of its sewage through a force main to Columbia’s in-progress treatment plant, which will help free up Spring Hill’s development once the plant goes online.

The cost of the current sewer moratorium, said City Administrator Carter Napier during his budget presentation, shows up in dollars and cents, as lost development fees and sales taxes. Napier pointed out that all categories of business taxes and fees in FY 2026 were down by 59-67 percent apiece from 2025’s returns, and down by 70-75 percent from 2024, before a moratorium took effect.

FY 2027’s forecasted growth of $500,000 in sales taxes should be swallowed up by interest payments on the city’s capital projects, the city administrator said, but he reassured people that it wouldn’t sink the budget. Property tax revenue increased from $8.65 million to $11.5 million — thanks to the city’s decision to keep its old tax rate, instead of the revenue-neutral “certified rate” proposed by the state, in a reassessment year — and the state legislators representing Spring Hill helped to pass legislation that netted the city another $1.7 million in state-shared taxes. The city’s $151 million budget was also balanced this year and recognized as a “Distinguished Submission” by the Office of the Comptroller. 83 percent of it, Napier said, was allocated to public safety, utilities and roads.

“Which always fare very well when it comes to the… public’s opinion of where those dollars should go,” he said.

Vice-Mayor Trent Linville presented the city’s capital-projects list, which the Board of Mayor and Aldermen began compiling in 2025. First on the list, ranked by order of importance, was Spring Hill Fire Station No. 4, which by reports has already saved lives by its placement in the southeast end of town. The city is also at work widening the stretch of Buckner Lane between Duplex and Thompson Station Roads, and is hoping to wrap up traffic-flow improvements outside the new Battle Creek schools around the start of the academic year.

Upcoming capital projects, Linville said, include improvements to the intersection of Buckner Lane and Port Royal Road, to keep traffic from forming unworkably long lines; the Community Services Annex at Beechcroft Road and Town Center Parkway, to which government offices will be moved over time until it’s complete; and the new Spring Hill Library, to be built around the corner from the current one starting in 2030.

“We have a top-notch library, even though the facilities we currently have don’t currently match the quality of the programming and the community,” Linville said.

Finally, the city leaders praised both their teams and the citizens of Spring Hill. Alderwoman Jaimee Davis recapped the awards that the city bestowed on exceptional organizations: an award recognizing the Well Outreach for giving out food to those in need for 20 years; the Ladies’ Solo Club of Southern Springs, whom Davis called “the most lively residents in Spring Hill,” for donating $85,000 to various charities out of the proceeds from selling their handmade goods since 2021; and the Southern Springs Veterans’ Club for donating $400,000 to charitable organizations since 2018.

“That’s the kind of servant leadership that defines Spring Hill,” Davis said. She also showered praise on Spring Hill’s accomplished young people: the Lady Spartans at Spring Hill High School, for winning their first Division I AAA state volleyball championship; the Battle Creek High School boys’ soccer team for winning their district title and advancing to the state quarter-finals; and Dimitri Georgalos, a 16-year-old who received the city Fire Department’s Phoenix Award for using CPR to save his father, Frank Georgalos, from a heart attack.

“Frank is with us today because of his son’s courage and willingness to act. Thanks to his son for reminding us what true heroism looks like,” she said.

Finally, Davis highlighted the city personnel who made city programs and events possible, including the Citizens’ Academy which has graduated over 100 people since it started in 2024; the Hill Fest, which welcomed 4,000 attendees this year; the Christmas Parade; the Campin’ in the Park event, which hosted over 600 people; Experience Spring Hill which brought in 4,000 people; and the 250th anniversary of the country, which attracted almost 10,000.

“These events continue to grow because our residents show up, our sponsors show up, and our staff works tirelessly behind the scenes to make them happen,” she said. “[The sponsored events] would not have been possible without the incredible partnership between the City of Spring Hill, the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce, General Motors, the Crossings, and our local business sponsors and many volunteers.”

Historic Marker Unveiling (Press Release)

GM Spring Hill will unveil the Haynes Peacock Historic Marker at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12, at Haynes Haven. 

The marker honors Haynes Peacock, the two-time World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse and Tennessee Walking Horse Hall of Fame inductee, while celebrating the rich equestrian heritage of the land that is now part of GM Spring Hill. 

Long before the site became home to one of General Motors' largest manufacturing facilities, it was known for breeding world-class Tennessee Walking Horses. That history parallels GM’s own roots: the company began in 1866 as the Durant-Dort Carriage Company, long before the automobile transformed how people and goods move. 

Today, GM Spring Hill carries that mobility legacy forward by building Cadillac vehicles including the all-electric LYRIQ and VISTIQ, alongside the gas-powered Cadillac XT5. The site also builds V8 and 4-cylinder engines used in many GM vehicles, connecting the region’s past with the technologies powering its future. 

Event Details 

What: Unveiling of the Haynes Peacock Historic Marker 

When: Wednesday, Aug. 12, 5:30 p.m. 

Where: Haynes Haven Historic Lawn

*Several local Mayors (Spring Hill, Maury Co and Mt. Pleasant) and members of the Tennessee Walking Horse Hall Association will be in attendance

Pelkey Named Assistance Principal (MSM)

Maury County Public Schools has announced the appointment of Philip Pelkey as assistant principal at Columbia Central High School.

Pelkey brings more than 15 years of experience in education, coaching, and school leadership to his new role. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in leadership from Bethel University.

His career in education began at Page Middle School, where he taught seventh-grade science from 2009 to 2014. During his time there, he also coached wrestling, football, and softball, helping students grow both academically and athletically.

In 2014, Pelkey joined Centennial High, where he taught biology while serving as assistant athletic director and supporting student discipline efforts. In addition to his instructional and leadership responsibilities, he coached wrestling, cross country, and soccer until 2022.

For the past four years, Pelkey has served as assistant principal at Mt. Pleasant High School, where he worked alongside staff, students, and families to foster a positive school culture, support student achievement, and strengthen school operations.

“Mr. Pelkey has demonstrated a passion for student excellence, both academically and athletically, with a strong commitment to building positive relationships with students, staff, and families throughout his career,” said Maury County Public Schools Superintendent, Lisa Ventura. “His leadership experience and collaborative approach will be a tremendous asset to Columbia Central High School.”

“I look forward to working with some amazing staff members and students at Columbia Central High School,” said Pelkey. “I want to learn as much as I can about the history and community that supports Columbia Central High School and get involved as much as possible.”

Bank Takes Over Former Restaurant (MSM)

Before long, the former fast-food restaurant at the Shops at Campbell Station could become a

new U.S. Bank branch.

The proposed renovation was presented to the Spring Hill Planning Commission during its

Monday night work session. The approximately 1.06-acre property at 4907 Main St. is zoned for

General Commercial and would be converted into a bank with an ATM drive- thru.

The renovation would include interior and exterior improvements, restriping and sealing the

existing parking lot and reducing the number of parking spaces from 49 to 35 to accommodate

future road expansion.

The project would also significantly reduce the site’s impact on the city’s sewer system. The

former restaurant generated an estimated 2,380 gallons of wastewater per day, while the

proposed bank is expected to generate 300 gallons per day, approximately an 85% reduction.

Planning staff also raised concerns about the proposed landscaping plan. Staff noted that the

Anthony Waterer Spirea is considered an invasive species in Tennessee and recommended

discussing if it’s appropriate for the site. Staff also requested that the proposed Lacebark Elm

trees be replaced with species approved under the city’s Unified Development Code.

The applicant told the board that alternatives for each plant have been provided, as well as

changed and updated the staff concerns. The potential proposal was moved to the consent

agenda.

Spring Hill License Kiosk (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department has introduced a new Driver License Self-Service Kiosk in the lobby of its headquarters at 800 Hathaway Blvd. The kiosk is open to all Tennessee residents—regardless of county—and offers a convenient alternative to visiting the DMV.

Available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the kiosk allows users to:

* Renew a driver license

* Obtain a duplicate license or state ID

* Change their address

* Pay reinstatement fees in full

The kiosk does not accept cash or checks; payment must be made using a credit or debit card.

No appointment is necessary. For more information about the service, visit www.tn.gov/content/tn.

Maury County Clerk Satellite Office (Press Release)

The Maury County Clerk’s office can now help residents with renewals of license plates or placards each Wednesday from 8am to 3:30pm at the Maury County Senior Center located at 1020 Maury County Park Dr.

Please drive around to the back of the building and look for the car tag renewal sign near the back door.

Forms of payment include credit/debit card or check – no cash.

Any Maury County Resident can use this office.

All other transactions will still need to be done through the main office located at 10 Public Square.

Also, you can renew online at TNCountyClerk.com or at kiosks in Spring Hill City Hall or Mt. Pleasant Courthouse.

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

William Fred “Bill” Shouse, 75, of Columbia, passed away Thursday, August 6, 2026, at NHC Murfreesboro. Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, August 11 at 11:00 A.M. at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Monday from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Mrs. Ella Pearl Clark Anderson, 93, of Columbia, passed away Friday, August 7, 2026. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, August 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will visit with friends Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mr. Alan Kerry Bridges, 43, a resident of Hohenwald, TN, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at his home. A graveside service will be conducted Wednesday, August 12 at 3:00 p.m. at Mount Nebo Cemetery.

And now, news from around the state…

Trump Endorses Blackburn for Governor (CDH)

Despite no endorsement before the primary, President Donald Trump is now publicly backing U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn to be Tennessee's next governor.

"Congratulations to our Great Senator from Tennessee, Marsha Blackburn, who had a tremendous WIN for Governor last night, against a very strong and talented opponent, John Rose," Trump posted on Truth Social Aug. 7.

Blackburn had a comfortable victory over U.S. Rep. John Rose and Tennessee Rep. Monty Fritts to secure the Republican nomination Aug. 6. Blackburn will face Democratic nominee Jerri Green in the Nov. 3 general election, marking the first time two women face each other for the position.

"Marsha will decisively win, and Tennessee, under her leadership, will go on to set Records in every category," Trump said. "I know Marsha well, and she has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of the Great State of Tennessee."

Blackburn declared victory in a post on X around 8:30 p.m. election night then spoke to those in attendance at her Knoxville party.

“I am so honored, humbled, grateful to accept your Republican nomination for the office of governor.
This night really does belong to the people of our great state,” she said, surrounded by family.

Blackburn is not the only person Trump endorsed the day after the election, flipping a previous endorsement.

"Congressman Andy Ogles is doing a fantastic job representing the incredible people of Tennessee's 5th Congressional District," Trump said at 11:20 a.m. Aug. 6. "Andy is a Conservative Warrior who has strong support from his Community."

Less than 24 hours later, Trump publicly backed former agriculture commissioner Charlie Hatcher, the man who defeated Ogles for the Republican nomination.

"Last night was another good night for Endorsements, 8-1, and the 1 was a person who I remained loyal to even though he had virtually no chance of winning, and was running against a Great 'Trump' Candidate, and former Agricultural Commissioner of Tennessee, named Charlie Hatcher," Trump said. "Good luck Charlie! Run tough and hard. You have my Complete and Total Endorsement!"

Martha Ingram Passes (Tennessean)

Martha Ingram, a longtime business leader and philanthropist who was the driving force behind the Schermerhorn Symphony Center and other major Nashville arts initiatives, died Aug. 6 in Nashville, surrounded by family. She was 90.

Ingram became chairman of Nashville-based Ingram Industries, a river barge transportation and book publishing company, when her husband, business magnate and philanthropist E. Bronson Ingram, died in 1995. Ingram also served on the boards of Vanderbilt University, The Harpeth Hall School and several publicly traded businesses.

"There's hardly an area of Nashville life where she was not a force," said Phil Bredesen, who served two terms as Tennessee governor and mayor of Nashville.

"Martha left everything she touched better for her having passed that way," Bredesen said in a statement. "I can think of no finer epitaph for a great Nashvillian, Tennessean, and American."

"Very few have accomplished as much and contributed as much to help Tennesseans as Martha Ingram did," Lamar Alexander, former Tennessee governor and former U.S. senator, said in a statement. "She did all of this with grace, a smile and compassion for others."

Ingram and her family landed at No. 261 on Forbes' 2025 list of the 400 Richest People in America. The magazine listed the Ingrams' net worth at $5.8 billion, the third highest in Tennessee, behind health care magnate Thomas Frist Jr. and Flying J truck stop chain chairman Jimmy Haslam.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum celebrated the opening of its newest exhibition, Kenny Chesney: Living in Fast Forward, presented by Blue Chair Bay Rum on Wednesday evening. The exhibit chronicles Chesney’s path to stardom, from his early years playing in his university’s bluegrass band to becoming one of the top touring acts of this century. Included with museum admission, the exhibit is now open and runs until June 2027.

The exhibit includes instruments, memorabilia, manuscripts, awards, photographs and more.

Learn more by visiting www.countrymusichalloffame.org.