Local News

Charlotte, TN — The Dickson County Commission has taken a significant step toward improving public health services in the area by approving the purchase of land for a new health department facility. 

During the August 5th commission meeting, it was announced that the state is committing $7.5 million to build the new health department, with the county contributing $1.47 million. 

This contribution has already been accounted for in the county’s budget, ensuring that the project moves forward without additional financial strain on local resources.

After evaluating several potential sites, the commission settled on a 3.2-acre property located at the corner of Hummingbird Lane and Highway 70, directly across from the Shell gas station. This location was chosen over other options, including those in the industrial park, due to its central location and the reduced need for additional infrastructure work.

The property, known locally as the “Orgain Insurance” property, was originally listed for $900,000. However, through negotiations, the county was able to secure the land for $850,000, a move praised as both strategic and cost-effective.

The new health department facility is expected to offer a wide range of public health services in a modern, state-of-the-art building. 

Before finalizing the purchase, the county must complete several due diligence steps, but the commission is confident that these will be completed without issue, allowing the project to proceed on schedule.

The next steps involve finalizing the land purchase and beginning the planning stages for construction, with updates to be provided to the public as the project progresses.

Charlotte, TN - At the August 5th County Commission meeting, Dr. Christie Southerland, Director of the Dickson County School District, provided a comprehensive update on several key infrastructure projects currently underway in the district. 

The projects, which include vital upgrades at Dickson County High School and Creek Wood High School, are designed to improve the educational environment and provide enhanced facilities for students and the broader community.

Dr. Southerland began by addressing the urgent need for new lighting at the baseball field of Dickson County High School. The current lighting system has failed, prompting a necessary upgrade to ensure the safety and usability of the field.

"This project is critical for our student-athletes," said Dr. Southerland. "We need to make sure they have a safe environment to practice and compete in. This lighting upgrade is part of our broader efforts to evaluate and enhance all of our athletic facilities."

The Director of Schools also highlighted ongoing maintenance at Dickson Middle School, where the building's exterior is currently being repainted. Dr. Southerland clarified that this project, which predates her tenure, focuses solely on essential upkeep.

"We are not making any drastic changes like painting the brick," she noted. "This project is about preserving the integrity of the building and ensuring it continues to serve our students well into the future."

One of the most significant undertakings discussed was the design study for a new sports complex at Dickson County High School. The project, still in its early stages, represents a substantial investment in the school’s athletic infrastructure.

Dr. Southerland acknowledged the high costs associated with this type of development, particularly in terms of architectural and engineering services. However, she emphasized the long-term benefits such a facility would bring to the school and the community.

"These are necessary investments that will support our sports programs and provide a venue for events that bring our community together," Dr. Southerland explained.

In addition to the developments at Dickson County High School, Dr. Southerland shared exciting news about a planned Career and Technical Education (CTE) building at Creek Wood High School. This new facility, estimated to cost between $3 million and $4 million, is intended to support vocational training programs, benefiting students in Charlotte and White Bluff.

"This building will be a tremendous asset for our students," Dr. Southerland said. "It’s designed to fit seamlessly with the existing architecture of Creek Wood High School and will provide state-of-the-art facilities for our CTE programs."

"We want to make sure everyone’s voice is heard as we move forward," she said. "These projects are not just about our schools; they are about the future of our community."

Charlotte, TN — The Dickson County Sheriff's Office is mourning the loss of one of its beloved K9 officers, “Deputy Ken,” who sadly passed away after a sudden illness. The K9, known for his dedication and service, did not recover despite best efforts.

Deputy Ken served the community alongside his handler, Deputy Jacob Brake. 

In a statement, the Sheriff's Office expressed their grief and asked for the community's support during this difficult time. "It is a sad day for us as one of our K9 dogs, Deputy Ken, fell ill and unfortunately did not recover. Please pray for his handler Deputy Jacob Brake and the entire sheriff's office as we navigate through this loss."

Deputy Ken's passing is a significant loss not only to the Sheriff's Office but to the entire community. K9 officers like Deputy Ken play an essential role in law enforcement, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege to know and work with him.

The community is encouraged to keep Deputy Brake, the Sheriff's Office, and all those who serve in their thoughts and prayers.

Charlotte, TN — Residents of Dickson County will soon have the opportunity to weigh in on a hotly debated issue: the sale of liquor by the drink in the county’s unincorporated areas. 

During the recent County Commission meeting, commissioners approved a resolution to place the decision on the November general election ballot, allowing voters to decide whether or not to permit the sale of alcohol in restaurants and other establishments.

The push for the referendum originated from a request in District 10, where a local business owner expressed interest in opening a restaurant that would serve liquor by the drink. 

If approved by voters, the measure would allow this and other similar establishments in unincorporated parts of Dickson County to serve alcoholic beverages, a move that proponents argue could boost local business and tourism.

The decision to put the issue on the ballot has sparked a range of reactions from county residents. Supporters believe that allowing liquor-by-the-drink sales would encourage economic growth. "This is an opportunity for Dickson County to modernize and open the door to new business opportunities," said one commissioner said.

If the measure passes, it would mark a significant shift for Dickson County, which has traditionally been more conservative in its approach to alcohol sales. Currently, liquor-by-the-drink is only permitted within the city limits of certain municipalities, and this vote would extend those rights to the county’s unincorporated areas.

The decision will also set a precedent for how the county balances economic development with maintaining its cultural and social values. As the November election approaches, both supporters and opponents of the measure are expected to outspoken, making this one of the most closely watched issues on the ballot.

Whether in favor or against, voters will have the final say on whether to allow liquor-by-the-drink sales in unincorporated Dickson County. The decision made in November could pave the way for new business opportunities—or preserve the status quo.

Charlotte, TN — In a significant move during their June24th meeting, the Dickson County Commission voted to abolish the office of constable, a position that has been part of the county’s law enforcement structure for many years. The decision, finalized with a unanimous vote, will take effect at the end of the current term of office.

The resolution, which required two rounds of voting, passed its second and final vote during the June meeting. This marks a notable shift, historically constables have played a role in maintaining public order, particularly in rural areas.

One county commissioner stated that the move was necessary to streamline law enforcement duties and ensure that the county’s resources are used effectively. The role of constables has become increasingly redundant with the expansion of the county’s sheriff’s department and other law enforcement agencies.

The Mayor echoed these sentiments, noting that the office of constable has not been as critical in recent years due to advancements in law enforcement capabilities and changes in the legal landscape. "While the role of constables was once vital, we believe that our current law enforcement agencies are fully equipped to handle the needs of Dickson County residents," the Mayor explained.

With the office set to be abolished at the end of the current term, current constables will continue to serve until then.

Charlotte, TN - In a decision that sparked both debate and controversy, the Dickson County Commission voted at the June 24th meeting to approve a property tax increase, citing the need to maintain essential services in the face of rising costs and inflation. The rate went from $1.57 to $1.69 per $100 of assessed property, a 12 cent increase. 

During the meeting, commissioners discussed the financial pressures facing the county, including the increased cost of salaries, health insurance, and other essential services. 

"Inflation has driven up the cost of everything from tires to insurance," said County Mayor Bob Rial, who presented the budget. "We have done our best to keep expenses down, but the reality is that without this increase, we would be forced to cut services that residents rely on."

“Am I excited about a property tax increase? Absolutely not. But, it’s done on a measured basis,” Rial continued.

The mayor emphasized that the decision to raise taxes was not made lightly. "We know this is not what anyone wants to hear, but it's necessary to ensure that we can continue to provide the level of service our residents expect," he said. "We’ve made every effort to manage our resources efficiently, but we’ve reached a point where additional revenue is necessary."

The new tax rate will affect homeowners across the county, though the impact will vary depending on individual property assessments. 

For some, the tax increase will come on top of higher property valuations due to the recent countywide reappraisal, which saw an average increase in property values.

Several Commissioners expressed concern about the burden on residents, especially those on fixed incomes. "I understand why we need to do this, but it’s tough to ask our residents to pay more, especially when they’re already feeling the pinch from inflation in other areas of their lives," one commissioner said.

Despite these concerns, the majority of the commission agreed that the increase was necessary to avoid cuts to vital services, including public safety, education, and infrastructure. "We’ve worked hard to keep taxes low, but we also have to ensure that we’re providing for our community's needs," another Commissioner said. "This increase is about sustaining the quality of life we all value."

The commission also discussed the long-term financial outlook for the county, noting that this increase should stabilize the budget for the next several years. "We don’t anticipate needing another increase for at least four to five years, provided that our economic growth remains steady," said Mayor Rial. "We’re committed to managing our finances responsibly and only asking for more when it’s absolutely necessary."

The public reaction to the tax increase has been mixed. Some residents have expressed frustration, particularly those who have already seen significant increases in their property assessments. Others, however, have voiced understanding for the decision, recognizing the need to maintain the county's services and infrastructure.

As the county moves forward, maintaining a balance between fiscal responsibility and providing essential services will be a delicate task—one that requires careful planning and, at times, difficult decisions.

Dickson, TN– A proposal to extend the hours for live musical performances in the downtown district met an untimely end at the recent city council meeting. Ordinance #1558, which aimed to allow live music until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays from March 1 to October 31, failed to advance due to a lack of support from council members.

The ordinance, introduced by Councilperson Stacey Levine of the 3rd Ward, sought to amend the current noise regulations that prohibit the playing of instruments or amplification of music after 10 pm every night. Levine's motion was intended to boost local businesses and enhance the downtown nightlife, providing a longer window for entertainment during the warmer months.

However, the motion died when no other council member would second it. This lack of support highlights the ongoing debate between fostering a vibrant downtown atmosphere and maintaining a peaceful environment for residents.

Several downtown business owners have voiced their support for the proposed change, citing the positive impact of extended live music hours at their businesses. On the other hand, some residents in the downtown area have raised objections to extending the live music hours.

With the motion now dead, the city council will need to revisit the issue if any changes to the noise ordinance are to be made in the future.

For now, the 10 pm restriction on live music and amplified sound remains in effect.