Updates Across the Board at County Commission

Smith News

April’s County Committees were full of divisive topics. The continuing discussion on the Sales Tax referendum soon to be voted upon, the sign for the David Culley Recreation Complex, and more news about the soon-to-open convenience center, as well as about Waste Management, were the largest topics during the various committees Monday, April 6. The Sales Tax even had a motion to work towards lowering the property tax, contingent on sales tax passing.

The Sales Tax Referendum was brought up once again as the commissioners wanted to discuss what the funds could go to. Commissioner Austin wanted a plan on where the money would go, such as lowering property tax, road pavement funds, or some other form.

“It’s got to include a property tax break,” said Commissioner Kyle Goff. “That’s the only way it’ll carry any weight at the ballet.”

The Committee looked to make a resolution that claimed what the Commission will do if the referendum passed, that way voters would feel confidence in voting for it. However, the commissioners worried about binding themselves in the future on something they do not have control over.

Commissioner Austin believed making some statement, motion, or resolution was better than nothing. He said, “My whole thing with this whole deal is people are paying this already. Every time they buy anything in the city limits, they are paying this tax. This is not a new tax. They are paying this tax and getting nothing for it.”

The Committee then passed a motion to recommend the Budget Committee lower the property tax rate if the referendum passes.

The David Culley sign has seen a lot of back and forth during these commission meetings. While the Commission wants to honor the complex with a good, solid sign, there have been previous concerns both from some commissioners and audience members about the cost of the sign.

Commissioner TK Austin said, speaking with Don Lambert, that the sign could cost somewhere around $4,000 to $5,000 total for a sign near the football field, similar to the Ethan Roberts sign at the baseball field.

During Solid Waste, it was asked where the new convenience center’s progress is at. Executive Denny Wayne Robinson said, “Construction wise, as far as operation of the center, is completed. We’re waiting on the building and electricity.”

While Executive Robinson did not give an exact date for opening, he expects it to be soon once Caney Fork Electric finishes the electricity for the site.

Tom Brandon with Waste Management was present for yet another update on the landfill and their operation, claiming they are bringing “about 600 tons per day to the landfill.” He said they plan to increase that to about 1,200 tons a day in the future.

“Our phase one is completed, and we’re filling that up,” said Brandon. “Phase two is under construction, so we have plenty of capacities as we move forward in the year. The new entrance is under construction, so if you haven’t been out there and taken a look at it, its uh, its coming along.”

Full Court Commission is scheduled for April 20 at 6 p.m., on the third floor of the Courthouse. All Commission meetings are open to the public and streamed on their YouTube at White County TN Commission.