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Maury County Leaders Weigh in on Duck River, Road Funding, and School Vouchers

Issue #364

26 Feb

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

🗓 List of Upcoming Events

☀️ Columbia’s Thursday Weather - Sunny w/ high of 63 & low of 36

📰 Maury County Leaders Weigh in on Duck River, Road Funding, and School Vouchers

👉 3/1 - 3/2: Meet the Stars at Nashville Celebrity Comic Con

📌 Friday: Painting Party at Columbia Aquatics & Rec Center

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

⛑ Looking For Ways to Help Victims of Hurricane Helene? Click Here

🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Thursday, February 27th

Friday, February 28th

Saturday, March 1st

Sunday, March 2nd

Maury County Leaders Weigh in on Duck River, Road Funding, and School Vouchers

Senator Joey Hensley, Representative Scott Cepicky & Representative Kip Capley (credit: Maury Alliance)

Maury Alliance recently hosted a "State Eggs and Issues" breakfast on Feb. 21, where state legislators representing Maury County discussed key challenges facing the county and Tennessee as a whole. Each legislator focused on areas aligned with their expertise, covering topics such as finance, education, and infrastructure.

Protecting the Duck River

One of the major issues addressed was House Bill 895, which threatens protections for the Duck River by removing a ban on landfills near Class II Scenic Rivers. Representative Scott Cepicky emphasized that studies confirmed the bill would pose risks to the river’s ecology, potable water, and recreational use. The bill, which faced strong opposition from local lawmakers when a similar measure was proposed two years ago, has now been withdrawn by its Senate sponsor. However, Cepicky and Representative Kip Capley remain committed to ensuring it is fully rejected in the House this legislative session.

Governor Bill Lee has also shown support for preserving the Duck River, dedicating $125 million to conservation efforts and forming a committee, including Senator Joey Hensley and Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt, to evaluate its importance across the state. In addition, Hensley suggested that a proposed Cumberland River pipeline to Maury County could help reduce dependence on the Duck River, though the billion-dollar project would require substantial funding beyond the governor’s current commitment.

credit: Maury Alliance

Addressing Transportation Challenges

Transportation issues were a major topic of discussion, particularly the impact of declining gas tax revenue due to increased use of electric and fuel-efficient vehicles. This shortfall has contributed to a $38 billion backlog in Tennessee road projects. Additionally, the state is facing a shortage of skilled road workers, making infrastructure improvements even more challenging.

To address these issues, Governor Lee’s Transportation Modernization Act aims to enhance funding and prioritize necessary road projects. Lawmakers encouraged local governments to invest in infrastructure projects, citing the success of securing $230 million in state funding for improvements to Highway 31 after local governments took the initiative. Efforts are also being made to expand Bear Creek Pike and I-65, with officials urging continued advocacy to secure funding.

To alleviate congestion on I-65, Tennessee is considering implementing “Choice Lanes,” which would add extra non-toll lanes funded largely by private companies. Additionally, TDOT is exploring options to widen I-65 between Franklin and Spring Hill, as existing improvements have not significantly reduced traffic congestion.

Advancing Education Initiatives

Education was another focal point, particularly the state’s private-school voucher program, which provides families with up to $7,000 per year for alternative schooling options. Lawmakers clarified that the program is funded through taxes on legal sports betting rather than the general education budget, ensuring that public schools do not lose resources. The same funding source could also support Tennessee Promise if its financial reserves dwindle.

Concerns from private schools about potential state control over curriculum were also addressed, with legislators emphasizing that Tennessee law explicitly prevents state interference in private school operations. The state’s education initiatives have yielded notable improvements, particularly in third-grade literacy rates, which have risen from 29% to 40% over two years. This progress is largely attributed to a structured phonics program that has also contributed to improved math scores.

Looking ahead, lawmakers hope to continue boosting literacy rates, with aspirations for Tennessee to rank among the top 20 states in third-grade reading proficiency. Additional education efforts include expanding recess time in elementary schools, implementing a classroom cell phone ban, and securing funding to provide direct bonuses to teachers.

Preserving Tennessee’s Farmland

Concerns over farmland preservation were also discussed, as increasing development threatens agricultural land. A previous bill aimed at restricting excessive farmland conversion was rejected due to concerns about government overreach. However, lawmakers warned that without intervention, the state may become more reliant on foreign food sources. They emphasized the importance of balancing development with farmland preservation to maintain Tennessee’s agricultural independence.

Other Legislative Priorities

Additional legislative efforts include directing a portion of real-estate transfer taxes back to counties, expanding workforce training programs through TCATs and colleges, and strengthening laws related to self-defense and law enforcement protection. Notably, Capley has championed a bill elevating assault on law enforcement officers from a misdemeanor to a felony and is working to extend similar protections to parole officers and prison guards.

A Vision for Maury County and Tennessee

Throughout the event, legislators expressed pride in representing Maury County and emphasized the region’s significance in shaping state policies. They reinforced their commitment to keeping Tennessee business-friendly while ensuring that infrastructure, education, and environmental conservation remain top priorities for future growth and development.

3/1 - 3/2: Meet the Stars at Nashville Celebrity Comic Con

Get ready for the Nashville Celebrity Comic Con at The Fairgrounds Nashville on March 1-2, 2025. Meet the greats in a gathering of galactic proportions!

WHO: Pop culture enthusiasts, movie buffs, and comic fans unite at Nashville Celebrity Comic Con!

WHAT: Shop for rare collectibles, meet your favorite celebrities, snag autographs, pose for epic selfies, and be part of exclusive Q&As. Come as your favorite character or just as you are!

WHERE: The Fairgrounds Nashville, 625 Smith Ave, Nashville, TN 37203.

WHY: Capture unforgettable moments with your heroes and make memories that last a lifetime.

WHEN: March 1-2, 2025. Clear your calendar for the ultimate fan experience!

HOW: Tickets are your gateway! Grab yours now and ensure your spot in this epic pop culture extravaganza.

Who are some of the names you’ll see there??

Actors from the casts of Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, Christmas Vacation… Chevy Chase, Randy Quaid, Gaten Matarazzo, Mckenna Grace, RJ Mitte, voice actors & artists from your favorite shows and lots more! See the full list here.

Friday: Painting Party at Columbia Aquatics & Rec Center

Get ready to unleash your inner artist at our Painting Party this Friday, February 28, from 4 to 6 PM at the Columbia ARC! Whether you're a seasoned painter or just picking up a brush for the first time, this event is for all ages and experience levels.

Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of creativity, laughter, and community spirit! All supplies will be provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and a smile!

ARC members can join in for free, while drop-ins can grab a day pass to join the fun. Don’t miss this chance to create, connect, and celebrate the joy of painting!

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Thursday, February 27th

Todd Ciprian, Tito's Spring Hill, 6-9 PM
Josey Clay, Puckett’s, 6-7:30 PM
Kirwan, McCreary's Irish Pub, 7-9 PM

Friday, February 28th

Open Mic, Grinder's Switch, 6-8 PM
Yonder Grove, McCreary's Irish Pub, 7-9 PM
Hobo Cane, Puckett’s, 7:30-9 PM
Jacob Frish, Fozzy's Bar & Grill, 8-11 PM

Saturday, March 1st

Tom Saffell & Robert Johnson, McCreary's Irish Pub, 7-9 PM
Bella Lam & Company, Puckett’s, 7:30-9 PM
Nashville Yacht Club Band, The Mulehouse, 8 PM

Sunday, March 2nd

Jay Hoppus, Puckett’s, 6-7:30 PM

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