Minute with the Mayor

As we close out 2025 and step into a new year, 2026, it is a good time to reflect on the progress we have made here in the City of Sparta. At the same time, it is important that we do not become complacent but, instead, move forward into this new year with renewed energy and commitment to our community.

Over the past year, we have seen new stores open, shopping centers come alive with activity, and new restaurants and dining options take root. These businesses provide valuable goods, services, and jobs for our citizens, and they are signs of a growing and vibrant local economy.

Much of the progress happening in Sparta is not always visible. Behind the scenes, the city has made significant upgrades to our water and sewer systems—work that is critical to long-term growth and reliability. We have also paved most of the roads within the city limits and continue to improve these essential, but often unseen, systems.

As we move into the new year, we have many projects planned and - we hope - completed in 2026. We are excited about the new skateboard park area, which will include a pavilion and restrooms across from South Carter Park. Construction has begun on the Sparta Splash Pad and playground, which should be completed in time for summer enjoyment. With the recent purchase of the building on Liberty Square, we are also hopeful to open the new Sparta Conference Center this year.

While we are proud of these accomplishments, we cannot rest on them. We will continue working to attract new businesses and industry to our area. The City is beginning a hotel feasibility study as a step toward bringing lodging options to Sparta. In addition, we have partnered with the State of Tennessee to develop a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which will help guide future improvements and open the door to additional grant opportunities.

As your mayor, I am proud of what we have accomplished together, but I also know we are not finished. The City of Sparta will continue striving to grow, improve, and move forward as we work to make our community a great place to live, work, and play.

God bless, be safe, finish strong, and Happy New Year.

Jerry Lowery, Mayor of Sparta