Sparta’s Lester Flatt Celebration Hosting Several Performances And Firework Show
One of the biggest events in the city of Sparta returns this Saturday. The Lester Flatt Celebration at Liberty Square begins at 12:45. Mayor Jeff Young said Sparta is the home town of the Bluegrass legend. Young said the annul event keeps the music tradition alive. “Bluegrass has always just been a big part of […]
Sparta Amends Political Sign Code, Giving Property Owner Choice Of Size
The Sparta Board of Aldermen has approved a change to its municipal code removing a size limit for political campaign signs. The original ordinance says signage can not exceed four square feet in area. City Administrator Brad Hennessee said he recommended simplifying the code to give private property owners the choice on signage. “There are […]
Sparta Aldermen Agree To New 4 Year Contract With City Administrator
The Sparta Board of Aldermen has given City Administrator Brad Hennessee a four year extension. Mayor Jeff Young said Hennessee has earned the new employment agreement through his work over the past two years. “We felt like four years was a good arrangement to have with Brad doing the job that he’s done and the […]
Sparta Selects Design Of Gateway Monument, Clock Starts To Complete
Sparta picked its final design for the gateway monument project Thursday night. The Board of Mayor and Aldermen selected a granite stone with a matte black metal lettering. City Administrator Brad Hennessee said the monuments should be something the city’s proud of for generations. “It’s timeless and that’s one of the considerations that need to […]
Sparta Projecting A $5.6 Million Budget For Next Year
Sparta’s proposed budget will be about $200,000 more than last year. The Board of Aldermen got its first glimpse of the $5.6 million 21-22 fiscal year budget Tuesday during a work session. Mayor Jeff Young said the budget is a conservative one but the funds are there for some needed additions in the city. “You […]
Two Sparta Gas Stations On One Year Probation After Sting Operation
Two Sparta convenience stores have been put on a one year probation for selling alcohol after being caught in a sting operation. Sparta Police Department conducted the compliance checks. Alcorn’s Market and Dixie Mart both sold alcohol to an undercover officer without checking for identification. The managers of each establishment told the Sparta Beer Board […]
Sparta Green Market Asks City For Clarification On Food Trucks
The Sparta Green Market is asking Sparta officials for clarification on its established food truck ordinance. The monthly farmer’s market attracts customers from across the state, but options for food for vendors is limited. Manager Amanda Dunsmore said the ordinance’s special event exemption should allow her to invite food trucks without city involvement. “I’m actually […]
Electric Car Charging Stations Coming To Sparta
Two electric car charging stations are coming to Sparta’s farmer’s market. Mayor Jeff Young said the location will encourage car owners to visit the downtown area while waiting for their vehicle to charge. “Hopefully, it is close enough to the downtown and the square area that they will be able to go to one of […]
Repairs Coming To Sparta Senior Center Roof
Roof repairs for Sparta’s Senior Center are on the way after receiving storm damage last month. The Board of Alderman unanimously approved the $19,900 bid Thursday. Mayor Jeff Young said the building’s insurance will cover about half of that cost. “We did half of that building, which is actually two buildings up there,” Young said. […]
Sparta Approves Tourist Rental Zoning Change
Sparta could soon have new small home rental spaces on North Church Street designed for tourists. The Board of Alderman Thursday approved a zoning change for roughly two acres to allow multiple dwellings on one parcel. Mayor Jeff Young said the homes will be marketed to visitors. “What the intention is behind that property is […]
