Seven-Person Committee To Lead Tornado Relief Fund

The Cookeville-Putnam County Tornado Relief Fund now has a committee to begin the process of how funds will be distributed.

Former Tennessee Tech President Dr. Bob Bell will chair the seven-member committee, formed jointly by Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton and Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter. It’s main task will be to define the process and procedures by which storm victims will be helped.

“We want it to be open and transparent but we also want it to be completely separate from the government,” Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton said. “We wanted the checks and balances properly done.”

Shelton said he hopes to raise at least $3 million dollars. As of Friday morning, the total stands at $1,030,000.

“We’re hearing there are corporate and company people (who want to donate),” Shelton said. “I intend to make sure we get that message out and share our need.”

As the donations continue, Shelton said the committee will get to work on its structure and its decision-making structure. Shelton said he wants to have money disbursed to the storm victims in 90 to no later than 120 days.

The committee members include Lillian Hartgrove, Leon Burns, Katelyn Steakley, Micah Johnson, Ben Rodgers and Mark Miller. Cookeville Regional Foundation Executive Director John Bell and Cookeville Economic & Community Development Coordinator Melinda Keifer will assist the group in a non-voting administrative role.