DeKalb Clinic Offers Extended Hours For School Immunizations
The DeKalb County Health Department hosting an immunization clinic Friday with extended hours for students and working families. DeKalb Health Department Director Michael Railing said the department is one of the largest providers of childhood immunizations. He said the goal is to ensure students do not face enrollment setbacks or interruptions once school starts. “We […]
DeKalb Commission Passes Budget Despite Delay Attempt
The DeKalb County Commission approved the 2027 budget and tax levy after a motion to delay the vote for further public review failed. Commissioner Beth Pafford said she wanted to remove the first six items from the agenda to allow more time for the public and commissioners to review the completed budget documents. Pafford said […]
Dekalb Commissioners Approve Zoning Analysis, Study
The DeKalb County Commission unanimously approved a motion Monday to allow the Planning Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of all county zoning options. Comissioners voted down a similar proposal earlier this spring, but growing concern about quarries, data centers and solar facilities seemed to change minds. County Executive Matt Adcock said the planning group […]
DeKalb Coalition Secures Grant To Combat Youth Vaping
The DeKalb Prevention Coalition launching a new initiative to reduce vaping rates among local youth thanks to a multi-year grant from the Tennessee Department of Health. Coalition Director Jennifer Matthews said the organization was one of only ten counties selected to receive the Nicotine-Free Future grant following a competitive application process. Matthews said the funding […]
Researchers Memorialize Hundreds Of Unmarked Graves
Dekalb County Researchers identifying and memorializing some 450 unmarked graves located in the African American section of the Alexandria historic district cemetery. Co-chair Kristina Wheeler said the project is currently in its first phase, which involves dedicating an initial tombstone featuring 100 names. The monument will be unveiled Tuesday. “I think for us it’s an […]
DeKalb Budget Raises EMS Pay, Keeps Current Tax Rate
DeKalb County commissioners have finalized a budget that includes significant pay raises for emergency medical services while avoiding a significant tax increase. DeKalb County Commissioner Mathias Anderson said the county reallocated between $300,000 and $400,000 after the state reduced the amount of money required to be held in reserve for a closed landfill. Anderson said […]
Live And Let Live Shelter Seeks More Volunteers, Growth
Dekalb County’s Live And Let Live Shelter wants to increase community support and facility upgrades to address the growing needs of the local homeless population. Board Secretary Nicole Curtis said the organization served 98 separate individuals over the last year. Curtis said the shelter currently provides basic necessities such as hot meals, laundry facilities, and […]
Dekalb County Mayor Cancels May Meeting Saving Money
County Mayor Matt Adcock canceled the Dekalb County Commission regular May meeting and work session for a lack of business. The move will save the county $3,150 in committee member fees. Adcock said the decision to call off the sessions comes as there is no new business currently requiring the commission’s attention. “We will be […]
Celebration Encourages Seniors To Champion Health
Smithville’s Justin Potter Library is hosting the 46th annual Older Americans Celebration Wednesday to honor local senior citizens. Library Director Kathy Hendrixson said the event has transitioned to the county complex over the last several years to accommodate a growing crowd. Hendrixson said the celebration provides resources and activities that promote active lifestyles for residents […]
DeKalb Clean Up Aims To Boost Local Tourism, Appearances
DeKalb County conducting a countywide cleanup initiative to improve the community’s appearance ahead of the tourism season. DeKalb County Solid Waste Director Chris Chapman said the department is using advertising and community outreach to encourage residents to participate in the effort. Chapman said the county is providing dumpsters in different locations and coordinating with local […]
