Two Public Hearings!

May 3, 2025
By: Dwayne Page

Two public hearings!

The Smithville Mayor and Board of Aldermen, during its regular monthly meeting Monday night, May 5, is expected to adopt a budget amendment on second and final reading to purchase a new rear load sanitation truck to replace an out of service 1997 Freightliner model. Action will follow a public hearing. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. at city hall.

According to city officials, the reason for making the purchase now rather than including it in the new 2025-26 budget is because the city anticipates getting the new garbage truck quicker and cheaper at $215,894.

Meanwhile, the Smithville Mayor and Board of Aldermen will also have a public hearing prior to action on an annexation request of property located at 746 East Broad Street by owner consent.

The owners of Hollingshead Materials, LLC (Smyrna Ready Mix) concrete batching company bordering the city limits of Smithville are seeking annexation of two parcels including one where the SRM company now operates (Map 065, Parcel 073.04) and the adjoining vacant property (Parcel 073.05). The land (9 total acres) is situated between East Broad Street, Midway Road, and Terrell Road.

In March, the Smithville Planning Commission recommended approval of a plan of services for the proposed annexation.

According to City Administrator Hunter Hendrixson the city already has most services accessible to the proposed site.

“Basically, what we have to do is show that city police and fire fighting services are available. He already has (city) water. The sewer is on septic already. He doesn’t need city sewer. He already has electric. He can have sanitation. It (plan of services) just shows that everything with street lighting and everything is fully covered,” said Hendrixson.

“Let me add to that the concrete plant may be on septic but the property next to it could be developed by the owner. I’m assuming they would probably need a pump station,” said Mayor Josh Miller.

The agenda also includes the following:

*Awarding bid for airline replacement project at the wastewater treatment plant (sewer plant)

*1st reading of Ordinance No. 533 amending the 2024-25 budget and adopting the 2025-26 City fiscal budget

Any other business properly brought before the Mayor and Board of Aldermen.

May 2, 2025
By:

The Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree & Craft Festival has received a generous donation of $2,000 from the local Walmart store, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting community traditions and cultural events.

The annual festival, a beloved celebration of bluegrass music and Appalachian heritage, will greatly benefit from the donation as it continues to bring musicians, artists, and spectators together for a weekend of entertainment and competition.

“Walmart is proud to support the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree,” said Steve Able Store Manager of Walmart Smithville. “This event is an integral part of our community, showcasing local talent and preserving traditions that bring people together. We are thrilled to contribute to its success.” The donation was recognized at the “Second Best Day Celebration” on Friday. Associates are celebrating the renovations to Store #4414.

Kim Driver Luton, President of the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree, expressed gratitude for Walmart’s continued support. “We deeply appreciate Walmart’s generosity in helping make the Jamboree a success. Their donation ensures we can provide an outstanding experience for performers and attendees alike, celebrating the rich musical heritage of our region. Also, when you visit the store, notice the new mural on the wall as you enter. It’s the Smithville Jamboree! So, thank you, Walmart #4414, so much”.

The Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree & Craft Festival, scheduled for July 4-5, 2025, welcomes musicians, artisans, and visitors from across the country. The financial support from Walmart and other local sponsors helps maintain the high-quality programming and accessibility that make the festival a treasured event year after year.

For more information about the Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree, visit smithvillejamboree.com or contact 615-597-8500.

May 2, 2025
By:

The Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the completion of phase one of the Alexandria Downtown Project.

Three years ago, the Chamber applied to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for Alexandria to be accepted into the Tennessee Downtowns Program. Following the town’s acceptance into the program, a Downtown Alexandria Committee was formed, consisting of Chamber Director Suzanne Williams, Ria Baker, Judy Sandlin, Pat Parkerson, and Phillip Holmes.

“The news of Alexandria’s acceptance into the program was incredibly exciting,” said Williams. “It marked the beginning of a journey to revitalize the downtown and attract new investment.”

Participation in the program required the steering committee to complete a year of specialized training before qualifying for a $15,000 grant to kickstart improvement efforts. The project’s primary goals were to launch renovations and generate renewed interest in Alexandria’s downtown to attract investors and businesses.

Completed Phase One Projects Include:

At Alexandria Medical Center, the entire building was power washed and all four exterior walls were painted.

At Junk n Jewels, a new front door and a new screen door were installed, and exterior painting and caulking were completed.

At the Tinsley Building, a new metal awning was installed.

At the Alexandria Masonic Lodge, the front brickwork was power washed; all exterior walls and rear doors were painted; the metal-framed windows were repaired, primed, and painted; broken and missing window glass was replaced; a new metal platform for the rear steps and landing was repaired and installed; the platform, steps, and landing were painted; two front plate glass windows were replaced; and the entry glass door was removed and replaced.

“With phase one complete, we’re preparing to apply for a $300,000 Downtown Improvement Grant this June,” Williams shared. “This funding will allow us to make major improvements to the remaining building exteriors.”

Committee member Ria Baker added, “These improvements are already making a visible difference, and we’re excited to see even more progress as we continue to move forward.”

Looking ahead, Williams announced that the committee moving forward into phase two will consist of Judy Sandlin, Pat Parkerson, Phillip Holmes, Dennis Slager, Suzanne Williams, Emily Bell, and Jamie Bates.

Williams also noted the growing interest from new investors in downtown Alexandria. “We’re excited about the momentum that’s building. Our state consultant, Bridgett Jones, has been instrumental in guiding us to make informed, impactful decisions.”

“We’re grateful to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for this opportunity to breathe new life into Alexandria’s downtown,” Williams added. “These improvements not only boost our local economy but also enhance our appeal as a tourism destination.”

For more information about the Alexandria Downtown Project, contact the Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce at 615-597-4163.

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