Southern Middle TN Today News with Tom Price 8-22-25

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Southern Middle Tennessee Today

News Copy for August 22, 2025

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

We start with local news…

Battlefield Land Saved (MauryCountySource)

Crye-Leike Real Estate Services is proud to recognize Harriet Campbell of its Columbia office for her role in facilitating the sale of 11 acres of historically significant land in Spring Hill. The property was purchased by the Battle of Franklin Trust Inc., ensuring its preservation for future generations.

The 11-acre property was the site of the Battle of Spring Hill on Nov. 29, 1864. Confederate forces under General John B. Hood engaged Union troops led by General John M. Schofield, but the Union army moved through the area overnight, culminating in a larger battle in Franklin. The land is adjacent to other historic sites, including the Rippa Villa plantation and acreage preserved by the American Battlefield Trust, highlighting the importance of maintaining the region’s Civil War heritage.

“This sale is especially meaningful to me,” said Campbell. “I’ve been in real estate for 49 years and have listed and sold countless properties. This one, however, is especially meaningful. I’m proud to have played a part in its preservation.”

Harriet Campbell was born and raised in Columbia, Tennessee, and has been in the real estate industry since 1976. She has been with Crye-Leike for 21 years, following in the footsteps of her parents, who were also in real estate. Serving Maury, Williamson, Davidson, Lawrence, and Hickman counties, she is active in community service, including as Chairman of the Maury County Republican Party, a member of the State Executive Committee, and chairman of the Fine Arts Department at Hillsboro High School in Nashville. Her experience and dedication to the community were instrumental in this historic sale.

Fire Volunteer Shortage (MauryCountySource)

Maury County Fire Department is drawing attention to the realities of volunteer fire service following a tractor fire Monday afternoon at Hampshire First Baptist Church.

Crews were dispatched at 1:44 p.m., with Engines 21 and 22, Tanker 21, Squad 21, and Deputy 20 responding. The first unit arrived about 20 minutes after dispatch from Station 22 in the Cherry Glenn Business Park, with headquarters units from Tom J. Hitch following shortly after. By that time, the fire had spread from the tractor to the baler, destroying both.

Bystanders used garden hoses from the church to keep the flames from spreading further. Farmers on scene expressed frustration that the closest fire engine, located less than a mile away at Station 25, did not respond. According to the department, volunteers assigned to that station were unavailable due to work or other obligations.

The department said the incident underscores a nationwide decline in volunteerism. Employment changes, longer commutes, and increasing call volumes have made it more difficult to maintain coverage. Maury County Fire Department expects to respond to more than 2,000 calls this year.

Currently, the department staffs six full-time personnel, with two on duty per shift at headquarters on Mapleash Avenue, supported by 175 volunteers, about 60 of whom are highly active. Thirteen stations cover 560 of Maury County’s 612 square miles, responding to fires, vehicle accidents, rescues, and high-priority medical calls alongside Maury Regional EMS.

The department noted the support of the county commission and mayor’s office but said continued growth in staffing is necessary to meet rising demands. Citizens may share concerns at county meetings, and the department reports monthly to the safety committee.

Columbia Fall Fest (MauryCountySource)

Columbia Main Street is proud to present Fall Fest 2025, returning to the Public Square on Saturday, October 11th, 2025, from 3:00 to 8:00 PM for an unforgettable autumn celebration in the heart of downtown Columbia.

This free, family-friendly event brings together residents, visitors, and small businesses for an evening filled with live music, local flavor, and festive fun.

Fall Fest has become one of the most anticipated community events of the season. This year’s celebration will feature:

Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off – Sample and vote for your favorite chili recipes in this ticketed tasting event supporting Kiwanis of Columbia and their local initiatives.

Live Entertainment – Enjoy performances throughout the day from talented local bands, including high-energy headliner, Deandra & 46 Story, bringing danceable classics and R&B favorites to close out the night.

Miss Fall Fest Pageant – Hosted by Britts, this beloved tradition returns to the stage, celebrating charm, confidence, and community spirit. Early registration is available now.

Columbia’s Fruit Tea Throwdown – Local restaurants will compete to claim the title of Best Fruit Tea in Town—and your votes will decide the winner!

Kid Zone Fun – Families will love the expanded children’s area, featuring inflatables, face painting, games, and balloon artists, all located safely within the closed downtown square.

Local Vendors & Food Trucks – Discover unique handmade goods from regional artisans and enjoy delicious bites from a curated lineup of food trucks and local favorites.

Photo Ops Galore – Don’t miss festive displays and photo stations, including the return of the Tri-Green Tractor Booth, perfect for family memories.

Fall Fest 2025 is made possible by generous sponsors, and Columbia Main Street is currently seeking partners who want to be part of this impactful event. Sponsorship opportunities are now open and offer businesses premium exposure and meaningful community engagement.

For sponsorship inquiries, vendor registration, or full event details, visit columbiamainstreet.com or contact:

Kelli Johnson

Columbia Main Street Manager

kjohnson@columbiatn.gov

Spring Hill Hen Ordinance (CDH)

Spring Hill's policy for keeping backyard hens has just been updated, following the Board of Mayor and Aldermen's Aug. 18 narrow passage of an amendment that will now allow more than four hens per household.

An additional amendment was also introduced by Alderman Vincent Fuqua that will eliminate the distance required for additional hen enclosures located within property lines.

The initial proposal amended the existing ordinance, which allows a maximum of four hens per household regardless of lot size. The new amendment of the ordinance will now allow a maximum of hens based per 5,000 square feet of landowner property.

An updated version of the proposed changes was presented during the Aug. 18 regular meeting.

The new changes for backyard hens would allow:

• Four hens for the first 10,000 square feet

• One additional hen for every additional 5,000 square feet

"It was never my intention to overcomplicate this," said Fuqua, who first proposed the changes to the existing ordinance. "The neighbors that are opposed to this, I think we worked through it."

Then, during the vote, Fuqua made the motion to amend the ordinance further by not having additional distance requirements beyond 25 feet for enclosure placements for each additional hen. His motion passed without discussion.

The ordinance read, "enclosures containing more than four hens shall be constructed or placed no less than 25 feet from any property line plus an additional five feet per hen."

Fuqua's amendment eliminated the requirement to place an additional five feet per hen for enclosures backing up to neighboring properties.

"It may even convolute it when it comes to policing, which I don't think is fair for folks like Mr. (Jose) Periut, who might have neighbors counting chickens," said Fuqua, who said he owns property near the properties in question.

Jose and Jaime Periut, two Spring Hill landowners who raise chickens and also describe themselves as "the source of this 'chickengate,'" spoke in favor of the ordinance changes during the public hearing ahead of the vote.

"I do support being more strict than the original [proposal], which was one chicken per 1,500 square feet," Jose Periut said. "It's industry standard, but I would be willing to compromise and make it even stricter than that at 3,000 square feet, because I don't want there to be an odor issue."

Tom McClennan, a neighbor of the Periuts, added that he believed the changes are "reasonable and can make everyone happy."

"I think the proposal that is out there right now is a viable compromise," McClennan said. "The only other thing I would say is that I hope there is no grandfather clause enacted where things can just stay the same before the date this is voted on."

Residents in the Hunter's Pointe subdivision initially spoke out about the ordinance due to concerns about the increase in the number of chickens permitted, odor, and lack of enforcement of the existing code.

They explained that smaller plat subdivisions like Hunter's Pointe that back up to larger plats of land in rural areas could be disrupted by a high number of chickens.

Jean and Raymond Tamburello of Hunter's Pointe said they were "surprised" at the last minute amendment pertaining to enclosures.

“I am surprised everything changed after all the homeowners seemed to be on the same page, after all the research and discussion with board members and Dara Sanders’ hard work on the amendment,” Jean Tamburello said.  

“When codes aren’t clear, it only creates problems, and we want to see what's best for the city of Spring Hill."

Ray Tamburello encouraged the city to enforce the ordinance during Aug. 19 public comments, especially for abutting neighborhoods to maintain use and enjoyment of their properties.

Resident of Hunter's Pointe Mike Horvath said he was "disappointed" in the last minute amendment to the ordinance.

"It was that change I was most curious about. All speakers on both sides seemed to agree that the amended ordinance, created by experts, was reasonable. The alderman introducing a change that late didn't allow time for discussion."

The final vote, however, was a 5-4 split, with Mayor Matt Fitterer and Aldermen Erinn Hartwell, Scott Wernert, Brent Murray and Fuqua voting in favor, while Vice Mayor Trent Linville and Aldermen John Canepari, Jaimee Davis and Alex Jimenez opposed.

Breakfast with the Mayors (Press Release)

Join Maury Alliance for a special morning of breakfast, conversation, and community insight with our local mayors!

This annual gathering brings together local leaders for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and a shared vision for Maury County’s future. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear updates on local initiatives, ask questions, and strengthen connections that impact our region.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast provided by Puckett’s Restaurant.

Speakers:

• Moderator – Maury Alliance President Wil Evans

• Maury County Mayor – Sheila Butt

• City of Columbia Mayor – Chaz Molder

• City of Mt. Pleasant Mayor – Bill White

• City of Spring Hill Mayor – Matt Fitterer

The event will take place at the Memorial Building located at 308 W. 7th Street on Tuesday, September 9th from 7:30-9:00am.

The cost is $25 for Chamber members and $30 for non-members.

SH Safe Exchange Zone (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department is reminding residents about its Safe Exchange Zone, located at department headquarters at 800 Hathaway Boulevard.

The zone offers a secure, well-lit area for people to meet when completing legal transactions, such as buying or selling items from online marketplaces. By using the Safe Exchange Zone, residents can reduce the risks often associated with meeting strangers in unfamiliar locations.

Police encourage the community to take advantage of the service as an added layer of safety and peace of mind.

Street Resurfacing (MauryCountySource)

The City of Columbia will resurface Public Square along with sections of South Main Street, North Main Street, East 7th Street, and West 7th Street from Sunday, August 24, through Thursday, August 28. All work will take place overnight from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. to reduce daytime traffic disruptions.

During work hours, affected roads will be closed to through traffic, sidewalks within the work zones will be closed for safety, and parking will be prohibited in the construction area between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. Temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted in advance.

Residents and property owners who need access during the closures will be assisted by the on-site contractor. The work will involve milling and paving, which may cause increased noise and dust. Property owners are asked to remove personal items from sidewalks before work begins.

The schedule is weather-dependent and may change. City officials thank the community for their patience as the project aims to improve safety and street quality downtown.

Mayor’s Youth Council (Press Release)

The City of Columbia is now accepting applications for the 2025–26 Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council (CMYC). Open to all high school juniors and seniors in Maury County—whether public, private, or homeschooled—the CMYC offers students a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of local government and gain valuable leadership experience.

The program provides students with a behind-the-scenes look at how elected officials and municipal departments serve the Columbia community. Participants will engage with all 12 City departments and tour select municipal facilities, such as the Columbia Police Department, Fire Department and Public Works. Through these hands-on experiences and guided discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of how city services are delivered and how local government impacts their daily lives.

“Columbia is a growing city that values the voice and energy of its youth,” said Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder. “The Mayor’s Youth Council not only gives students a seat at the table but also empowers them to play an active role in shaping the future of our city.”

Students accepted into the program will attend monthly meetings throughout the school year, typically held on the second Tuesday of each month. Each session will include interactive learning opportunities and direct engagement with city leaders and staff.

“Providing students with a first-hand look at how our departments work fosters meaningful civic engagement,” said City Manager Tony Massey. “The Youth Council helps connect young residents to the everyday operations of city government and strengthens the shared commitment we all have to our community.”

Applications will be accepted from now through August 22, 2025, and must include a completed application form, photo ID, and current high school transcript with unweighted GPA. Selected participants will be notified by September 1.

To learn more and apply, visit the City of Columbia’s website at: www.columbiatn.gov

Drug Dropbox (MauryCountySource)

The Spring Hill Police Department has partnered with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and the Tennessee Dangerous Drugs Task Force to provide a prescription drug drop box at their headquarters building at 800 Hathaway Blvd.

This drop box is available from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Drop-off is free and no forms are required – just place the items in the box.

Acceptable items include:

• Prescription Medications (including prescription narcotics)

• All over-the-counter medications

• Pet medications

• Liquid medications in leak-proof containers

• Inhalers

• Pills in any packaging, including glass, plastic container, baggie (Ziploc) or foil

• Items NOT accepted include:

• Illegal drugs/narcotics

• Needles/sharps or syringes with needles

• Blood sugar equipment

• Thermometers

• IV bags

• Bloody or infectious waste

Personal care products (shampoo, lotions, etc.)

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…

James Wesley Dickey, 79, lifelong resident of Columbia, died Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Randy Kersey officiating. Burial will follow at Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends Monday, August 25, 2025 from 4:00 PM till 8:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Now, news from around the state…

Hummingbird Migration (Tennessean)

For those who enjoy seeing hummingbirds in their yards each year, now is the time to start preparing.

Annually, the migration period for the ruby-throat hummingbird is when the Southeast sees the greatest number of hummingbirds on a daily basis. The best places to spot them are in suburban areas with mature trees. Thankfully, for those in Tennessee, they are found in all counties throughout the spring and summer. In Nashville, there's even a Hummingbird Happy Hour event at Warner Parks.

"In the fall it flies nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico, a distance of nearly 500 miles and taking 18 to 20 hours under favorable conditions, to winter in southern Mexico or northern Central America," the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency writes. "To accomplish this tremendous migration, a hummingbird will double its body mass by fattening on nectar and insects in the weeks prior to departure."

Here's when to expect hummingbirds in Tennessee and how to attract the highest number to your yard.

Late summer is when the hummingbird population increases the most in Tennessee, according to the University of Tennessee's Institute of Agriculture. The fall migration is much more leisurely compared to the spring migration, so when the birds move into the area, they tend to hang around for a more extended period of time.

The migration period for hummingbirds in Tennessee often peaks between mid-August and early September. The ruby-throat hummingbird tends to stick around the area through October before it flies further south for the winter.

Gas Prices (MSM)

The Tennessee Gas Price average is now $2.74, three cents less than last week, two cents less than last month and almost 30 cents less than one year ago.  

“The Tennessee average has been in the $2.70’s for more than six weeks now with prices fluctuating little week to week,” said Stephanie Milani, spokeswoman for AAA — The Auto Club Group. “As we get closer to autumn, we typically see gas prices hold steady before falling gradually as the year comes to a close.”

Tennessee has the fifth-lowest gas price average in the country.

Final Story of the Day (Maury County Source)

The Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off is set to take place on Saturday, October 11th, 2025, from 3-5 pm at the Public Square in downtown Columbia.

Sample and vote for your favorite chili recipes in this ticketed tasting event supporting Kiwanis of Columbia and their local initiatives.

To purchase chili tasting tickets or register your team for the chili competition, visit the Kiwanis of Columbia TN Annual Chili Cookoff page on Eventbrite.com.