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Calls for Action Grow Amid Rising Pressure on Maury County Animal Services

Issue #437

May 15, 2025

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

🌤️ Columbia’s Weather - Partly cloudy, high of 86 & low of 73

📰 Calls for Action Grow Amid Rising Pressure on Maury County Animal Services

📰 Columbia Celebrates Graduates of 2024–25 Mayor’s Youth Council

📌 May 15-17: Franklin Rodeo at Williamson County AG Expo Park

🗓 List of Upcoming Events

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

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

Calls for Action Grow Amid Rising Pressure on Maury County Animal Services

Maury County Commission Special-Called Meeting on May 6

The ongoing debate over funding for Maury County Animal Services intensified this month as city and county leaders weighed competing demands, public pressure, and a proposed $7.3 million shelter expansion.

During its May 8 meeting, the Columbia City Council approved a 10 percent increase in its contribution to the animal shelter, raising its annual funding from $220,000 to $242,000. This marked the second consecutive year of increases, prompted by rising animal intakes and public calls for more support.

City officials acknowledged the need for more information and collaboration before committing further resources. Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder and City Manager Tony Massey have participated in joint management board meetings alongside county leaders to improve coordination between jurisdictions.

Maury County’s animal shelter has seen surging demand, with many stray animals reportedly originating from Columbia. Shelter director Kim Raffauf recently presented a $7.3 million expansion plan to the County Commission, citing data showing current capacity is far below recommended levels. A needs assessment study indicated the county should have 108 kennels but only has 55, putting stress on staff and animals alike.

At a May 6 special-called Budget Committee meeting, commissioners, volunteers, and residents discussed the growing strain on the shelter. Public comments emphasized the urgency of expansion and called on both the city and county to prioritize animal welfare. Several citizens spoke about their volunteer work and the shelter's overwhelming public support.

Despite the city’s recent increase, some county officials argued it falls short of what’s needed, especially given the city’s growing population and its long-standing partnership with the county after ending its own animal control services nearly two decades ago.

Commissioner Gabe Howard, who has been vocal both in meetings and on social media, expressed frustration over the city’s historical contributions. He suggested that fully funding the shelter’s $7.3 million request without stronger support from Columbia would limit the county’s negotiating position.

Columbia officials pushed back, noting that city taxpayers already contribute significantly to county services—an estimated 38 percent of the county’s tax base—and emphasized that the animal shelter remains a county department. They also expressed concern over the tone of public criticism, especially online, arguing it complicates collaboration.

Meanwhile, discussions around other county priorities further complicate the issue. The Budget Committee is evaluating $165 million in capital project requests for the upcoming year, requiring tough decisions and prioritization.

As public interest in the animal shelter remains high, both sides acknowledge the need for joint efforts. An open house and potential joint session between the city council and county commission have been proposed to move discussions forward.

Columbia Celebrates Graduates of 2024–25 Mayor’s Youth Council

The City of Columbia has announced the graduation of the 2024–25 Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council (CMYC), a group of high school students who have spent the past academic year learning about local government and participating in civic initiatives.

Over the course of the year, the student council attended city meetings, connected with department heads, and engaged in conversations about Columbia’s growth and future. Their participation aimed to strengthen the relationship between young residents and their local government, while encouraging long-term civic engagement.

The students were recognized at the May 8 City Council meeting for their contributions and commitment. Many of this year’s participants were graduating seniors, and city leaders expressed optimism about their futures and the experiences they’ll carry with them.

One of the defining projects of this year’s class was the Riverwalk Park Sign Replacement Project. This initiative involved planning sessions, research, and teamwork to develop nine new educational signs highlighting the historical, cultural, and ecological significance of the Duck River and surrounding areas. The signs will replace older ones that were installed when the park was originally developed.

The first three signs will be unveiled at a public ceremony scheduled for June 3 at 4 p.m. at the Farmer’s Market Pavilion in Riverwalk Park.

City leaders praised the group for delivering a tangible product with long-lasting impact. The project not only reflects the students’ dedication to public service but also marks a milestone for the program, as it is believed to be the first time a Youth Council class has completed a physical improvement to the community.

The 2024–25 Columbia Mayor’s Youth Council graduates include:
Allen Basurto, Brylie Blade, Alexa Bowins, Zacharias Burgess, Sam Fuller, Amiya Gardenhire, Brooke Gibbs, Lollie Jo Greene, Mary Claire Griffith, Catherine Henson, Ariana Johnson, Zareena Jones, Madie King, Riley Krimmel, Carter Lawrence, Ke'Veontae Martin, Tre'Veontae Martin, Presly Miller, Melanie Recalde, Tyler Sparks, Addison Thomas, and Caleb Wallbrech.

Applications for the 2025-26 school year will open on August 1, 2025, and will be accepted through August 22, 2025. To be notified when applications open, find more information and sign up on this page.

May 15-17: Franklin Rodeo at Williamson County AG Expo Park

The Franklin Rodeo, proudly produced by the Franklin Noon Rotary is a cornerstone of Middle Tennessee’s charitable events and one of the largest rodeos east of the Mississippi. Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), it draws world champions and top-ranked competitors each year, delivering an electrifying rodeo for all to enjoy.

Doors Open at 5:30pm.

Stop by the Fan Zone, open each night before the rodeo!

The Fan Zone is the perfect place for families to enjoy some pre-rodeo fun. Kids can climb on and explore Kubota Equipment, while adults check out the latest campers from Nashville RV. The Franklin Fire Department and Williamson Health will have vehicles on display, adding to the excitement.

Don’t miss out on the fun—stop by before the rodeo each night… then head inside and check out all the amazing vendors!

Explore a variety of unique booths featuring our Official Franklin Rodeo Merchandise, Cowboy Hats & More - Western gear, handmade crafts, and more. Whether you're looking for the perfect rodeo souvenir, a tasty snack, or something special to take home, our vendors have something for everyone.

Don't miss out—stop by and see what’s in store!

Upcoming Local Events

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

Thursday, May 15th

Friday, May 16th

Saturday, May 17th

Sunday, May 18th

*More Events Coming Soon!

📌 Mark Your Calendars…

May 29 - 31: Music City Rodeo

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Thursday, May 15th

Austin Byrd, Puckett’s, 6:00-7:30 PM
Todd Ciprian, Tito’s Spring Hill, 6:00-9:00 PM

Friday, May 16th

Music in May, The Awaken House, 5:00-8:00 PM
TBA, The Spot Burgers & Beers, 5:00-8:00 PM
Rob Harris, Tito’s Spring Hill, 6:00-8:00 PM
Nick Duhe, Buck and Board, 6:00-8:00 PM
Jennifer Leigh & Cody Hunt, Grazie Italian Eatery, 6:30-9:30 PM
Open Mic Night, Grinder’s Switch, 7:00-9:00 PM
Cross Bridges, Puckett’s, 7:30-9:00 PM
5x5, Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 8:00-11:00 PM

Saturday, May 17th

Miles Damaso Group, Puckett’s, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Don Phillips, Amber Falls Winery, 3:00-7:00 PM
Trevor Clark, Buck and Board, 5:00-8:00 PM
Rob Higginbotham, Grazie Italian Eatery, 6:30-9:30 PM
Scotty Inman, Todd Tilgham & After Grace, The Mulehouse, 7:30 PM
Lisa Law & The Fab 3, Puckett’s, 7:30-9:00 PM
Michael Farren, Joe Leathers, Damien Boggs, The Bourbon Gospel, 7:30 PM, Reservations For Patio
Box of Rox, Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 8:00-11:00 PM

Sunday, May 18th

Jay Rin, Amber Falls Winery, 1:00-5:00 PM
CJ Conklin, Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 4:00-7:00 PM
Jay Hoppus, Puckett’s, 6:00-7:30 PM
DNR, The Rebel, 7:00 PM

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