Tag Archives: Gov. Bill Lee

The Upper Cumberland will be announced as a pilot grant winner by the state Thursday that changes how help is delivered to those in need. A press conference has been called for at the state capitol at 10:45 a.m. Governor Bill Lee will announce that UCDD/UCHRA will be one of seven entities that receive up to $25 million of funding ... Read More »

Learning gaps and BEP funding are the main concerns in education leading into next month’s 112th Tennessee General Assembly. Governor Bill Lee has reportedly considered calling a special session to address these pandemic related challenges before the main session begins. House Speaker Cameron Sexton said learning loss is a point of concern. “I think there are some things out there ... Read More »

Should the Upper Cumberland county leaders come together and issue a region-wide mask mandate. At least one county executive believes the time has arrived. Van Buren County Mayor Greg Wilson said he will try to gather county leadership together early this week to suggest such an approach. “I am going to urge my fellow county mayors in the Upper Cumberland ... Read More »

Gov. Bill Lee and Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn have called for legislation to suspend accountability measures for state student assessments. Clay County Director of Schools Matt Eldridge said this is a step in the right direction. “We are happy with that decision,” Eldridge said. “Because especially last spring happened so much, that was kind of thrust upon us all quickly. ... Read More »

Gov. Bill Lee’s Law Enforcement Reform Partnership has recommended updates to the use-of-force policy and increased officer training. Cookeville Police Chief Randy Evans is a board member of the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police. That group is a part of the reform partnership. He said the recommendations are a step in the right direction. “You look at those changes, ... Read More »

State Representative Cameron Sexton expects a date for a special called legislative session by the end of the month. While Governor Bill Lee has said the session would focus on COVID liability issues, Sexton said other issues might also be discussed. Protests and public property damage could be among them. “We are also talking about these monuments that are being ... Read More »

Gov. Bill Lee appointed Cookeville Mayor Ricky Shelton to the Tennessee Homeland Security Council. Shelton was one of three new members appointed to the council. Shelton will work with the Tennessee Office of Homeland Security in planning and directing statewide homeland security activities and interacting with federal and local officials in promoting security interests. Shelton said he looks forward to ... Read More »

Much needed upgrades to the Buck Mountain water system are coming thanks to state grant. Algood City Administrator Keith Morrison said the city plans to increase pump capacity and place the pump station above ground with a new system. The upgrades are a necessity to continue to provide water to Buck Mountain. “The pumps there were put in several years ... Read More »