Putnam Budget Committee Approves Property Tax Rate
The Putnam County Budget Committee recommended a new certified property tax rate of 1.6392 during its Tuesday meeting. Budget Committee Chairman Ben Rodgers said the rate was adjusted slightly from an initial estimate of 1.61 following hearings held by the Board of Equalization. Rodgers said the certified rate is a product of the state-mandated reappraisal […]
Survey Data Reveals Declining Youth Marijuana Use In Putnam
Recent youth survey data shows marijuana use in Putnam County significantly less common than many people perceive, reflecting a national trend of decreased youth substance use. Power of Putnam Director of Youth Engagement Morgan Tate said the organization is highlighting these findings during National Marijuana Facts Week. Tate said it is important to combat misconceptions […]
Chamber Coffee Series Connects Voters With Local Candidates
The Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce launching a “Coffee with a Candidate” series this week to provide residents with direct access to local candidates. Director of Membership Karlyn Reel said the organization prioritizes providing opportunities for citizens to stay informed about local government and politics. Reel said the chamber represents the entire county and felt […]
Cookeville Gaming Lounge Fosters Community Connection
A new video game hub hopes to foster community connection near Tennessee Tech by providing an affordable, family-friendly space for residents to gather and interact. Zoned Out Gaming Lounge Owner Emisha Gay said the facility located on Gainesboro Road features a variety of entertainment options from modern video game consoles and retro arcade machines to […]
Severe Storms Cause Putnam Tree Damage, Power Outages
Severe storms moving through the region toppled power lines at the intersection of Cookeville’s Jefferson Avenue and Interstate Drive Friday. A storm moved through around 2:30pm. The downed lines forced the closure of the roadway in both directions as thousands of residents remain without power. UCEMC officials said at least 4,000 people are without power […]
Putnam Rescuers Help Lift Semi After Highway Chase
Putnam County emergency officials involved in a rescue just over the Smith County line Friday morning following a high-speed police pursuit on Interstate 40 Friday morning. Smith County Rescue Squad officials said the driver of a Chevrolet Silverado was being pursued by law enforcement when the vehicle struck the rear of a flatbed semi-trailer. The […]
Cookeville Considers Motel To Housing Zoning Change
The Cookeville City Council approved the first reading of a zoning amendment Thursday that would allow developers to convert existing motels into affordable multi-family housing units. The proposal stems from a request by the owners of HomeBridge Extended Stay off Highway 111. Owner Michael Bowie said the motel has largely served long-term renters in recent […]
Putnam Man Arrested After Relative Found Severely Malnourished
A Putnam County man faces multiple charges after officials discovered his 84-year-old relative living in a home with caved-in flooring and suffering from severe malnutrition. Brandon McBroom faces charges of Aggravated Neglect of an Elderly Adult, Theft of Property, and Financial Exploitation of an Elderly Adult. Bank records showed McBroom allegedly transferred approximately $4,460 from […]
Putnam Fire Officials Warn Caution With Home Fireworks
Fire officials advising residents to prioritize supervision and awareness when using fireworks during this weekend’s celebrations. Putnam County Fire Chief Jeff Hicks said adults should always supervise the use of fireworks and never allow children to handle them alone. Hicks said individuals should use lighting sticks to keep their hands at a safe distance from […]
Putnam Family Tragedy Leads To New State Suicide Law
New felony penalties for coercive suicide went into effect this week across Tennessee to protect citizens from individuals who use manipulation to encourage others to take their own lives. State Representative Ryan Williams said the state previously only maintained an assisted suicide statute. Williams said the new legislation was crafted with specific language to protect […]
