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 […]
Clay Leaders Studying Various Medical Options For County
Clay County leaders exploring the development of a freestanding emergency room to restore local medical services following the closure of the county hospital. Clay County Mayor Dale Reagan said the initiative began with a recent tour of a similar facility in Fentress County. Reagan said leaders wanted to study how that community addressed its own […]
Putnam Commissioners Appoint New Library Trustees
The Putnam County Commission appointed Dr. Gail Myers and Mary Lee Bucher to the Putnam County Library Board of Trustees during its Monday meeting. The appointment followed a public comment period where residents expressed differing views on the board’s nominating process and the types of materials available in the children’s section. Commissioner Gene Mullins said […]
Overton Budget Moves Forward; Raises, No Tax Increase
The Overton County Board of Commissioners adopted the new budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year Monday night, maintaining the current property tax rate. Board Co-Chair Darwin Clark said the financial plan includes a three percent starting salary increase for non-emergency personnel and a one percent across-the-board raise for all county staff. Clark said the commission […]
Livingston Board Approves Final Fiscal Year Amendments
Livingston Board of Aldermen approved final budget amendments for the current fiscal year during a special called meeting Monday. CPA Joel Parks said the 11-page document reconciled the budget from a year ago with actual year-end figures. Parks said the adjustments account for unforeseen differences in materials costs, revenue items, and various departmental expenses that […]
Celebrate Recovery Offers Free Support For Those In Need
Celebrate Recovery is offering support to community members through a Christ-based program designed to help individuals overcome various personal challenges and habits. Celebrate Recovery Leadership Team member Tammy Zitzka said the organization serves as a recovery group for anyone suffering from a hurt, hang-up or habit that has hindered their ability to move forward. Zitzka […]
Overton Budget Committee Approves New 4-H Position
The Overton County Budget Committee approved $51,000 in funding to establish a new 4-H and Agriculture extension position to support youth programming throughout the county. Budget Committee Chairman Darwin Clark said the county will fund the entirety of the position’s cost for the current year to ensure the program can expand its reach. Clark said […]
Cookeville Modernizing City Hall To Meet ADA Requirements
Cookeville allocating $40,000 in its new budget for the design and renovation of the City Hall customer service area. City Manager James Mills said the project represents the final phase of a multi-year effort to modernize the municipal building. Mills said the current customer service space remains the only section of the facility that has […]
DA: Deadly Force Still Requires Imminent Life Threat
District Attorney Bryant Dunaway said it will be important residents understand the legal requirements for the use of deadly force as a new law takes effect July 1. Public Chapter 1100 addresses the use of force to protect real or personal property. Dunaway said he issued a formal clarification because several media reports have inaccurately […]
Putnam Shelter Lowers Fees To Combat Over Population
The Putnam County Animal Shelter is significantly lowering adoption fees this week to offset overpopulation as a surge of kittens and puppies push the facility toward its maximum capacity. Shelter Director Jennifer Tracy said the facility is currently housing approximately 110 cats and 70 dogs. Tracy said the shelter typically experiences a spike in animal […]
