Overton Moves From At Risk To Transitional On State Economic Map

Overton County will move from an At Risk to a Transitional classification starting in 2024 based on state economic measurements.

Livingston-Overton County Chamber of Commerce Director Shannon Cantrell reported to the Overton County Commission Monday the county is no longer considered At Risk by the state.

“We are transitioning from a weak economy to a strong economy, and next year, it’s going to put us at a higher level when it comes to our grants,” Cantrell said. “It’s going to put us at a 50-50 level instead of where we’re at now, 70-30.”

The state gets its economic status ratings from the Appalachian Regional Commission. ARC uses a three-year average of unemployment rates, poverty rates and per capita market income to determine each counties economic status.

“It’s a good thing for Overton County, and the fact our economy is getting a lot stronger,” Cantrell said.

ARC categorizes counties as distressed, at-risk, transitional, competitive or attainment. Overton joins Putnam, White, Cumberland and DeKalb as Transitional economies. Van Buren, Fentress, Jackson, Warren, Macon and Pickett are considered At Risk. Clay County is the only county in the Upper Cumberland to be considered Distressed.

In addition, she told the Commission August’s sales tax collection increased 24 percent from last year. She said so far for the year sales tax collection is up 8.5 percent.

Also at the meeting, Commissioners approved paying $671.23 toward county employee’s health insurance, a slight adjustment from the previously set rate. Commissioners approved for the Highway Department to sell a New Holland TS100 Tractor and a 2019 Legend Gooseneck Trailer.