Carter County public meetings in 2025

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider amendments to the general plan for the physical development of the county. The board will also discuss purchasing property at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd and vote on several budget amendments and contracts.

• Public hearing on resolution amending the General Plan for the Physical Development of Carter County
• Discussion on the purchase of real property at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd
• Proposed $150,000 purchase order to Schaus Professional Services for Helene Flood consulting
• Proposed $6,501,818.87 budget amendment for the Helene Bond Fund
• Proposed $326,687 loan agreement with Tennessee Emergency Management Agency

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to update the general plan for physical development and building codes. The board also authorized several budget amendments across various funds and approved payments for professional services related to Helene flood consulting.

• Approved resolution amending general plan for physical development/building codes (20-0)
• Authorized bid process for Aerial Pictometry Services (18-2)
• Approved $59,369.70 payment to Schaus Professional Services (16-4)
• Approved $150,000.00 purchase order to Schaus Professional Services for Helene Flood consulting (15-5)
• Approved County Fund Budget Amendment 101-6 for $165,801.08 (20-0)
• Approved Helene Bond Fund Budget Amendment 180-4 for $6,501,818.87 (20-0)
• Approved Highway Fund Budget Amendment 131-4 for $450,000.00 (20-0)
• Approved Notaries & Bonds as read (19-0)

Budget Committee Regular Meeting

The Budget Committee will discuss the upcoming budget process for the reappraisal year and review several budget amendments. The body will also consider requests for consulting services from Schaus LLC.

• Upcoming Budget Process for Reappraisal Year
• PO Request for Schaus LLC for Consulting Services
• Schaus Invoice check request
• Awards for additional road repairs
• Budget amendments 101 BA 5, 116 BA 3, 127 BA 2, 131 BA 3, 141 BA 4, 142 BA 3, and 180 BA 3

The committee approved several budget amendments, including a $6.5M allocation for the Helene Bond Fund. Members also authorized the issuance of RFPs for a new project and approved payments for consulting services.

• Approved $6,501,818.87 budget amendment for Helene Bond Fund (8-0)
• Authorized sending out RFPs for bidding on Eagle View project (8-0)
• Approved $150,000.00 PO request for Schaus LLC consulting services (8-0)
• Approved $59,369.70 check request and payment to Schaus (7-1)
• Approved $450,000.00 Highway Fund budget amendment (8-0)
• Approved $165,801.08 County Fund budget amendment (8-0)
• Approved $81,000.00 ARP Fund budget amendment (8-0)
• Approved $3,500.00 in monetary and $275.00 in non-monetary donations for Animal Shelter (8-0)

Financial Management

The committee will discuss the renewal of a tourism contract and review a loan agreement for additional HEAL Program funds. Members will also consider a property transfer from the county to ARM.

• Tourism Contract Renewal discussion
• HEAL Program Loan Agreement for additional funds
• Property Transfer from County to ARM
• Review of November 2025 Bid Report

Regular Session

The Health & Welfare Committee will hold a regular session. The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate with no new or old business listed for discussion.

The Health and Welfare Committee met on December 2, 2025. No new business or old business was discussed, and no substantive policy or financial decisions were made.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved the November 2025 meeting minutes

Regular Session

The committee is reviewing the status of the Folsom House, including insurance and archival options. Members are also discussing an interim facility for the UT-Ag Extension office at Judge Don Lewis.

• Folsom House FEMA and insurance status
• Folsom House archive options and hand-off to historic organization
• Attorney Hardin report on Folsom House
• Sound system and courtroom update
• UT-Ag Extension office interim facility contract at Judge Don Lewis

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from November 2025. No substantive decisions were made regarding the UT-Ag Extension office interim facility or the Folsom House options.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved November 2025 meeting minutes

Regular Session

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several road repair contracts and the purchase of a building at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd. The meeting includes reports on disaster updates and a presentation from the Tri-Cities Airport.

• Appropriation of $1,000,000 for a UT Extension Office building at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd.
• Road repair POs including $905,850 for Hampton Creek Road and $819,853.40 for Long Hollow Bridge
• Grant contract for Helene Interest Payment Reimbursements in the amount of $5,497,650.00
• Purchase of a 2026 F-250 for the Landfill for $50,862.00
• Appointment to fill a vacancy in the 5th District on the County Commission

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners appointed William Bridger to fill a vacancy in the 5th District. The board also approved several funding requests, including $1 million for a UT Extension Office building and various road and bridge repair contracts.

• Appointed William Bridger to 5th District vacancy (18-2)
• Appropriated $1,000,000 for UT Extension Office building purchase (20-1)
• Approved $147,500 RK&K addendum for Long Hollow Road bridge repair (21-0)
• Approved $81,000 Mattern and Craig contract for White Rock Tower site access road (21-0)
• Authorized $50,862 purchase of 2026 F-250 for Landfill (20-0)
• Authorized $35,000 purchase of training van for Sheriff's Office (20-0)
• Approved $27,598.73 payment to Baker’s Construction for Heaton Branch repairs (20-0)
• Approved $1,200 payment to Schaus Professional Services (14-6)

Special Called Session

The Board of County Commissioners will receive an update from EMA Director Umrichin regarding disaster recovery. The body will consider action items from the Budget Committee to appropriate funds for disaster response, recovery, and reimbursement efforts.

• Disaster Recovery Update from EMA Director Umrichin
• Appropriation of funds for disaster response and recovery expenditures

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved multiple contracts and payments for road and bridge repairs following the Helene Flood. The board also voted to return to a previous bid-awarding procedure to accelerate project starts.

• Approved $1,134,200.00 purchase order to Summers-Taylor for Poga-Elk Mills Road Repairs (17-0)
• Awarded $905,850.00 Hampton Creek Road Repairs bid to Summers-Taylor (17-0)
• Awarded $819,853.40 Long Hollow Bridge over Doe River bid to Bakers Construction Services (16-0-1)
• Awarded $730,660.00 Laurel Highlands Road Repairs bid to Bakers Construction Services (17-0)
• Awarded $664,920.00 Heaton Creek Road Repairs bid to Summers-Taylor (17-0)
• Approved $312,070.48 payment to Hinkle Environmental Services, LLC (17-0)
• Denied $46,905.62 payment to Schaus Professional Services (6-11)
• Approved return to old bid-awarding procedure for departments and finance (16-1)

Financial Management

The committee will discuss hotel/motel taxes and review various surplus property disposals. Members will also consider a property exchange for Keenburg Elementary and a radio project RFQ for White Rock Tower Road.

• Hotel/Motel Tax discussion with Bridge and NE Tourism Association
• RFQ for White Rock Tower Road Radio Project
• Keenburg Elementary Property Exchange
• Property transfers from County to Loaves and Fishes and ARM
• Surplus property disposals for School Transportation, HVE, EMA, Finance, Highway, and Register of Deeds

Budget Committee Special Called Meeting

The Budget Committee is meeting to review various construction and repair invoices. The body will consider approving contracts for several road projects and addressing flood-related repairs.

• Approval for Mayor to sign contracts for Hampton Creek, Heaton Creek, Laural Highlands, Long Hollow, and Perkins Hollow bid results
• Summers-Taylor paving quote for Helene damaged Elk Mills Roads
• Mikes Auto quote and PO for Animal Shelter Truck flood damage repairs
• Slagle Construction Invoice #220 for County Road Repairs
• Invoices for RK&K regarding Poga Bridge 1, Poga Bridge 2, and Long Hollow Bridge

The Budget Committee approved multiple contracts and payments for road and bridge repairs, including several projects damaged by the Helene flood. The committee authorized the Mayor to sign several high-value construction bids and approved various engineering and environmental service invoices.

• Approved $1,134,200.00 PO to Summers-Taylor for Poga-Elk Mills Road Repairs (8-0)
• Awarded Hampton Creek Road Repairs bid to Summers-Taylor for $905,850.00 (8-0)
• Awarded Long Hollow over Doe River bid to Bakers Construction Services for $819,853.40 (8-0)
• Awarded Laurel Highlands Road Repairs bid to Bakers Construction Services for $730,660.00 (8-0)
• Awarded Heaton Creek Road Repairs bid to Summers-Taylor for $664,920.00 (8-0)
• Approved $6,762.36 PO to Mike’s Auto for Animal Control Truck flood repairs (8-0)
• Approved $46,905.62 payment to Schaus Professional Services (6-2)
• Awarded Perkins Hollow Road Repairs bid to Beam Construction for $142,054.00 (8-0)

Regular Session

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. There are no items listed under old or new business.

The Health and Welfare Committee met on November 4, 2025. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the October 2025 meeting. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Approved meeting agenda (All in favor)
• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The committee will review options for the Folsom House, including insurance status and a potential hand-off to a historic organization. Members will also discuss an interim facility for the UT-Ag Extension office and the location of archives.

• Folsom House options and FEMA/insurance status
• Potential hand-off of Folsom House to a historic organization
• UT-Ag Extension office interim facility
• Archive location
• Sound system information

The Building and Grounds Committee approved a $1,000,000 offer to purchase the property at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd for the UT Extension Office. The committee also voted to move a motion regarding an ARC Grant for Erik Anderson Park to the Full Commission.

• Approved $1,000,000 offer for property at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd for UT Extension Office (6-0)
• Approved motion to push Parks & Recreation ARC Grant RFQ for Erik Anderson Park to Full Commission (6-0)
• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The Education Committee will meet to review the Carter County Schools Report. No new or old business items are listed for discussion.

• Carter County Schools Report

The Education Committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the October 2025 meeting. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a report on school system updates, including project timelines and student benchmarks. No new business was introduced.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved October 2025 minutes (6-0, 1 abstain)

Regular Session

The Carter County Highway body will meet to discuss the placement of school zone lights. The remainder of the agenda consists of procedural items and reports.

• School zone light placement

The Highway Committee approved the placement of school zone lights at Hunter School. The committee also approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the October 2025 meeting.

• Approved School Zone Light Placement at Hunter School (7-0)
• Approved October 2025 meeting minutes (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved meeting agenda

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners approved several infrastructure payments, including site restoration at Roan Mountain and engineering for Poga and Long Hollow bridges. They also authorized a $5,000 appropriation for a UT Extension Office property appraisal and a $1,000 salary increase for Hayle Davenport.

• Appropriated $5,000 for UT Extension Office property appraisal (20-0)
• Approved $1,000 annual salary increase for Hayle Davenport (16-3-1)
• Approved $202,260.38 to Hampton Construction for Roan Mountain Debris Site restoration (19-1)
• Approved $311,465.27 to Beam Construction for Bank Stabilization (20-0)
• Approved $163,559.86 to Baker’s Construction for Heaton Branch Repairs (20-0)
• Approved $44,000, $62,951, and $60,086.94 to RK&K for bridge engineering (20-0)
• Approved $11,200 total to Landworx for Poga Temporary Bridges 1 and 2 (20-0)
• Approved $8,535.30 total to Straight Path Distributing for drainage pipes (20-0)

Budget Committee Regular Meeting

The Budget Committee will discuss updates on FEMA flood-related projects and review numerous invoices for road and bridge repairs. The body will also elect a Chair and Vice Chair and consider several budget amendments.

• Updates on flood projects including Long Hollow Bridge, POGA 1 and 2 Bridges, and repairs to Laurel Highlands, Heaton Creek, and Hampton Creek roads
• Review of flood-related invoices from Landworx, Hampton Construction, RKK, Slagle Construction, Straight Path Distributing, Sun Belt Rentals, Trilec Products, Martin Marietta, and Summers Taylor
• Certification salary increase for Hayle Davenport
• Funding request for an appraisal for a possible UT Extension Office
• Review of nine budget amendments (101 BA 4 through 180 BA 2)

Financial Management

The Financial Management Committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The body is reviewing requests for proposals (RFPs) for flood-related repairs and a radio project. The Director of Finance will provide an update on FEMA and TEMA reimbursements.

• RFPs for repairs at Hampton Creek Road, Heaton Creek Road, Long Hollow Bridge, Laurel Highlands Bridge, and Estep Bridge over Doe River
• RFQ for White Rock Tower Road Radio Project
• Grant contract with State for reimbursement of bond fees
• Surplus property disposals for Transportation-Schools, HVE, EMA, and Finance
• Maintenance asset transfer to Planning

Regular Session

The committee will review options for the Folsom House and the UT-Ag Extension office interim facility. Members will also discuss a request from John Farrell regarding a property donation for Gap Creek Park.

• Folsom House FEMA and insurance status
• Potential hand-off of Folsom House to a historic organization
• UT-Ag Extension office interim facility
• Property donation request for Gap Creek Park from John Farrell
• Archive location and sound system information

The Building and Grounds Committee voted to coordinate with the Mayor and Budget Committee for an inspection and appraisal of a property at 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd. The committee also elected a Chair and Vice Chair and approved the September 2025 meeting minutes.

• Elected Aaron Frazier as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Thomas Proffitt as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes (5-2 abstain)
• Approved motion to seek inspection and appraisal for 129 Judge Don Lewis Blvd for UT-Extension Offices (7-0)

Health & Welfare

The committee is meeting to elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. No old or new business items are listed on the agenda.

• Election of Chairperson
• Election of Vice Chairperson

The committee elected Keith Range as Chairperson and Angie Odom as Vice Chair. The minutes from the September 2025 meeting were approved. No new or old business was discussed.

• Elected Keith Range as Chairperson (by acclamation)
• Elected Angie Odom as Vice Chair (by acclamation)
• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes (5-2)

Highway Committee

The committee will meet to elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and reports.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Vice Chair
• Road Superintendent Report

The Highway Committee voted to release the county's interest in a parcel on 3rd Street to accommodate improvements by the Roan Mountain Pharmacy. The committee also elected its leadership for the term. No new business was introduced.

• Released county interest in 3rd Street for Roan Mountain Pharmacy (All in favor)
• Elected Steve Burrough as Chair (All in favor)
• Elected Kelly Collins as Vice Chair (All in favor)
• Approved September 2025 minutes (4-0-3)

Regular Session

The Education Committee will meet to elect a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. The session includes a report from Carter County Schools.

• Election of Chairperson
• Election of Vice Chairperson
• Carter County Schools Report

The committee elected a new chairperson and approved the September 2025 minutes. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a report on school repairs, testing, and enrollment. No new business was introduced.

• Elected Lisa Childress as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 minutes (4-0-3)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved numerous expenditures for disaster response, recovery, and infrastructure repairs, including bridge work and road stabilization. Several projects are noted as being funded by the USDA or FEMA. A special called meeting was scheduled for November 06, 2025.

• Approved $504,174.22, $296,271.98, and $219,296.75 payments to Bakers Construction for Heaton Branch Repairs (18-0)
• Approved $341,760.60 payment to BEAM Construction for NRCS Bank Stabilization (18-0)
• Approved $97,004.62 and $189,484.43 payments to Summers-Taylor for Shell Creek Road repairs (18-0)
• Approved $40,000.00 for Summers-Taylor asphalt to repair roads damaged by Hurricane Helene (18-0)
• Approved $60,905.58 payment to Schaus Professional Services (14-4)
• Approved $5,600.00 payments to Landworx Construction for Poga 1 and Poga 2 Temporary Bridges (18-0)
• Approved $15,000.00 purchase order to Slagle Construction for shale backfill stone (18-0)
• Scheduled a Special Called Meeting for November 06, 2025 (18-0)

Commission

The Board of Commissioners elected Kelly Collins as Chairperson and Robert Acuff as Vice Chairperson. The commission approved the appointment of standing and financial management committees and authorized Mayor Patty Woodby to accept the Governors Response and Recovery Grant. Several budget amendments and Sheriff's Office authorizations were also approved.

• Elected Kelly Collins as Chairperson (20-0)
• Elected Robert Acuff as Vice Chairperson (13-7)
• Approved publishing ad for 5th District Vacancy (20-0)
• Authorized Mayor Patty Woodby to accept Governors Response and Recovery Grant (19-0, 1 abstain)
• Authorized Sheriff’s Office to apply for TCI Training Equipment Grant up to $15,000 (19-1)
• Authorized Sheriff’s Office to acquire a mobile command center RV at no cost to County (20-0)
• Approved three payments to Summers-Taylor for highway materials totaling $1,930.80 (20-0)
• Approved County Fund Budget Amendment 101-3 for $11,353.62 (20-0)

Regular Session

The board approved the minutes from the August 12, 2025, meeting. Director Shannon Posada provided updates on shelter intake, adoptions, and ongoing cruelty cases. The board discussed facility improvements and upcoming vaccination clinics.

• Approved August 12, 2025 meeting minutes (All Aye)

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will discuss updates to flood-related FEMA projects and a TCI grant application for the Sheriff's Department. The body will also review several budget amendments and invoices from Summers-Taylor Materials Co.

• Update of Flood Related FEMA Projects
• TCI Grant Application for Sheriff’s Dept
• RV Addition for Sheriff Dept
• Invoices 651609, 651657, and 651633 from Summers-Taylor Materials Co
• Budget Amendments 101 BA 3, 131 BA 1, 141 BA 2, 142 BA 1, and 145 BA 1

The committee approved several budget amendments for the County, Highway, and School funds, including a $3.7M school fund amendment. The board also authorized a TCI grant application and the acquisition of a free RV for the Sheriff's Department. Members expressed concerns regarding $1.6M spent on turf football fields.

• Approved TCI Grant Application for Sheriff's Dept for $15k (6-0)
• Approved acquisition of free RV for Sheriff's Dept (6-0)
• Approved three Summers-Taylor Materials Co invoices totaling $1,930.80 (6-0)
• Approved County Fund Budget Amendment 101-3 for $11,353.62 (6-0)
• Approved Highway Fund Budget Amendment 131-1 for $11,161.10 (6-0)
• Approved General Purpose School Fund Budget Amendment 141-2 for $3,713,373.58 (6-0)
• Approved School Federal Projects Fund Budget Amendment 142-1 for $5,108,960.89 (6-0)
• Approved Head Start Fund Budget Amendment 145-1 for $1,268,230.00 (6-0)

Education Committee

The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the August 2025 meeting. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a report on school enrollment, social worker staffing, and health cases at Hunter school. No new business was introduced.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved August 2025 minutes (5-0, 2 abstentions)

Financial Management

The committee will discuss the Tweetsie Trail and the Schaus contract renewal. Members will review the August 2025 bid report and a Highway Right of Way Agreement. The meeting includes updates on FEMA/TEMA reimbursements and surplus vehicle disposals.

• Tweetsie Trail discussion
• Schaus contract renewal discussion
• Review of August 2025 Bid Report
• Highway Right of Way Agreement review
• Surplus disposals for Transportation (Schools), HVE, and EMA

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee is meeting to review various invoices and purchase order requests. The items primarily concern road repairs, bridge work, and professional services.

• RK&K invoices for POGA Rd Bridge #1, POGA Rd Bridge #2, and Long Hollow Bridge
• Purchase requests for plastic pipe from Straight Path Distributing
• Purchase requests for safety barriers from Permatile Concrete Products
• Purchase requests for stone for county roads from Martin Marietta Materials
• Invoices from Landworx Construction Contractors, Schaus Professional Services, and Trilec Products

The Budget Committee approved various payments for road repairs, bridge work, and professional services. The committee denied a request from First Baptist Church Roan Mountain due to a lack of required documentation. One invoice from Cable’s Fencing was deferred before later being approved.

• Approved $85,601.00 and $3,040.00 payments to Schaus Professional Services (8-0)
• Approved $15,860.00, $25,718.75, and $13,928.75 payments to RK&K for bridge work (8-0)
• Approved $40,000.00 PO to Martin Marietta Materials for stone (8-0)
• Approved $11,100.00 and $11,530.00 payments to Cable’s Fencing (8-0)
• Approved $5,600.00 and $5,600.00 payments to Landworx Construction Contractors (8-0)
• Approved $2,880.00 PO to Straight Path Distributing for plastic pipe (8-0)
• Approved $6,500.00 PO to Permatile Concrete Products for safety barriers (8-0)
• Denied First Baptist Church Roan Mountain request (8-0)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved a series of payments and purchase orders to facilitate disaster response, recovery, and reimbursement efforts. These actions include funding for bridge repairs, road materials, and professional services.

• Approved $85,601.00 payment to Schaus Professional Services (16-1)
• Approved $40,000.00 PO to Martin Marietta Materials for road stone (15-0)
• Approved $25,718.75 payment to RK&K for Poga Rd Bridge #2 (15-0)
• Approved $15,860.00 payment to RK&K for Poga Rd Bridge #1 (15-0)
• Approved $13,928.75 payment to RK&K for Long Hollow Bridge (15-0)
• Approved $12,777.76 payment to ECE for Site L (15-0)
• Approved two $5,600.00 payments to Landworx Construction Contractors (15-0)
• Approved $3,040.00 payment to Schaus Professional Services (16-1)

Buildings & Grounds

The Buildings & Grounds Committee will review the status of the Folsom House, including insurance and a potential transfer to a historic organization. The body will also discuss an interim facility for the UT-Ag Extension office.

• Folsom House FEMA and insurance status
• Potential hand-off of Folsom House to historic organization
• Attorney Hardin report on Folsom House
• UT-Ag Extension office interim facility
• Archive location and sound system information

Health & Welfare

The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the August 2025 meeting. A representative from A Secret Safe Place provided information regarding the Safe Haven Law and listed participating facilities in Carter County. No new or old business was conducted.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes (5 yes, 2 abstentions)

Buildings & Grounds

The committee approved the minutes from the August 2025 meeting. Members discussed the Folsom House, the UT-Ag Extension office's need for an interim facility, and potential archive locations. No formal decisions were made regarding these projects.

• Approved August 2025 meeting minutes (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners accepted a $200,000 anonymous Community Reinvestment Donation. The board also approved two payments to Schaus Professional Services and rejected a motion to remove Gary Bailey from the Planning Commission. Other business included disaster recovery updates and the announcement of a Bassmaster Collegiate Tournament in September.

• Accepted $200,000 anonymous Community Reinvestment Donation (22-0)
• Approved $62,845.15 payment to Schaus Professional Services for Invoice 70425 (17-5)
• Approved $5,523.80 payment to Schaus Professional Services for Invoice 70325 (16-6)
• Motion to remove Gary Bailey from Planning Committee failed (no second)
• Approved amendment to agenda to remove item 19, B, 2 (22-0)
• Accepted July 21, 2025 meeting minutes (22-0)
• Accepted August 07, 2025 special session minutes (18-0, 4 abstain)
• Approved Notaries and Bonds as read (22-0)

Regular Session

The board approved the amended minutes from the July 8 meeting. Members received updates on the FECCAS S/N Clinic construction and July shelter intake and adoption statistics. No new policies or funding requests were voted upon.

• Approved July 8, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (All Aye)

Budget Committee Meeting Disaster Items

The Budget Committee will discuss FEMA funding for the Unico Industrial Park and various Sheriff's Office requests. The body will also review budget amendments and the July 2025 financial reports for the county and schools.

• FEMA funding for Unico Industrial Park
• Sheriff's Office requests for detention center equipment, emergency weapons replacement, and vehicles
• EMA Director grant funds
• Budget amendments 101 BA 2, 116 BA 1, 117 BA 1, 127 BA 1, and 141 BA 1
• Review of Schaus invoices not previously approved

The committee approved a $200,000 donation for EMA equipment and established a $1,467,625 reserve account for Helene Flood mitigation grants. Two Schaus Professional Services invoices were approved for payment. Several budget amendments and animal shelter donation listings were also passed.

• Approved $1,467,625.00 for Mitigation Reserve Account (7-0)
• Accepted $200,000.00 Wellpoint Corporation donation for EMA (7-0)
• Approved Schaus Invoice 70425 for $62,845.15 (6-1)
• Approved Schaus Invoice 70325 for $5,523.80 (6-1)
• Approved Budget Amendments for Funds 101, 116, 117, 127, 141, and 177 (all 7-0)
• Approved July 2025 animal shelter monetary donations of $4,270.00 (7-0)
• Approved July 2025 animal shelter non-monetary donations of $225.00 (7-0)
• Approved July 14th, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)

Financial Management

The committee will review funding requests for the Sheriff's office and a road to White Rock Tower. Members will also discuss the Purdue opioid settlement and a donation to the Carter County EMA.

• Purdue opioid settlement
• Emergency weapons replacement and vehicles for Sheriff Frailey
• FRP for Road to White Rock Tower
• CBDG Grant for VFD Radios
• Credit applications for Leonard (ARM Grant Purchase) and Monro Commercial Solutions (School)

Budget Committee Meeting

The Budget Committee will review a series of invoices and quotes for county projects. The items include payments for bridge work, school-related FEMA claims, and equipment rentals.

• Hinkle quote for additional road sites
• RK&K invoices for POGA Rd Bridge #1, POGA Rd Bridge #2, and Long Hollow Bridge
• YPA invoices for School-FEMA and Hampton HS contents
• Multiple ECE invoices for Sites G, H, I, and J
• Invoices from Landworx Construction Contractors and Sunbelt Rentals

The Budget Committee approved numerous purchase orders for road sites, bridge work, and equipment rentals. One invoice from Schaus Professional Services was returned for clarification on remote hours and lodging. Several ECE invoices were approved following a brief deferment.

• Approved $103,948.75 Hinkle invoice for additional road sites (8-0)
• Approved four Landworx Construction invoices of $5,600.00 each (8-0)
• Returned Schaus Professional Services Invoice 70425 for updated lodging and remote hour details (8-0)
• Approved $5,523.80 Schaus Professional Services Invoice 70325 (6-2)
• Approved RK&K bridge invoices for $9,320.00, $27,667.50, and $23,987.50 (8-0)
• Approved $3,465.77 Thompson Consulting invoice (7-1)
• Approved four ECE invoices for $12,757.25 each (various votes)
• Approved seven ECE invoices ranging from $12,777.76 to $12,777.86 (7-1 each)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved numerous expenditures for disaster response and recovery, including bridge repairs and debris monitoring. Most motions passed unanimously, though one payment to Schaus Professional Services failed and another was deferred.

• Approved $103,948.75 for Hinkle Environmental Services LLC road repairs (17-0)
• Approved four $5,600 monthly lease payments to Landworx Construction for Poga #1 and #2 temporary bridges (17-0)
• Deferred $64,221.08 payment to Schaus Professional Services back to Budget Committee
• Denied $5,523.80 payment to Schaus Professional Services (12-5)
• Approved $2,900 payment to Trilec Products (17-0)
• Approved RK&K engineering payments for Poga Bridge #1 ($9,320), Poga Bridge #2 ($27,667.50), and Long Hollow Bridge ($23,987.50) (17-0)
• Approved $3,465.77 to Thompson Consulting Services, LLC for March 2025 debris monitoring (17-0)
• Approved four payments to Your Public Adjuster totaling $17,451.51 for FEMA claims and inspections (17-0)

Regular Session

The committee approved the Sheriff's Department's request to purchase an Autopulse CPR machine for the detention center. Members also moved to draft resolutions honoring National Guard soldiers and requested the EMA director's attendance at a future meeting.

• Approved Sheriff Department use of funds to purchase Zoll Autopulse not to exceed $25,000
• Approved request for Attorney Hardin to draft 3 resolutions honoring Sgt 1st Class Norman Mullens, Staff Sgt. Cody Johnson, and the 776 National Guard unit (8-0)
• Approved request for EMA director to attend September 2025 meeting to discuss disaster supply coordination
• Approved July 2025 meeting minutes (5-3 abstain)

Buildings & Grounds

The committee approved the minutes from the June and July 2025 meetings. Members discussed potential interim facilities for the UT-Ag Extension office and possible locations for archives, but no formal actions were taken on these items.

• Approved June 2025 meeting minutes (6 yes, 2 abstain)
• Approved July 2025 meeting minutes (7 yes, 1 abstain)

Highway Committee

The committee approved a resolution supporting the installation of a turn lane and flashing school zone signage on US Highway 19 E/SR 37. The project will be funded by the state, with the school system paying for the electronic signs.

• Approved resolution for turn lane and flashing school zone signage on US Highway 19 E/SR 37 (All in Favor)

Regular Session

The Education Committee met on August 4, 2025, and approved the meeting agenda. No new business or old business was addressed. The committee discussed recognizing Unaka High School students for Skills USA achievements.

• Approved meeting agenda

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners appointed Keith Range to fill a vacancy in the 1st District. The commission also approved funding for Sheriff's Office AEDs and a bank stabilization road project. Several administrative appointments and resolutions were passed.

• Appointed Keith Range to the 1st District Commission seat (12 votes)
• Approved $231,000 for Sheriff's Office AEDs from Opioid Settlement Reserve (22-0)
• Approved $496,955 purchase order to Beam Construction for NCRS Bank Stabilization Road Group 2
• Approved resolution recognizing Carter County Detention Center for three years of no state inspection deficiencies (22-0)
• Appointed Nathan Jenkins to the Siam Utility Board for a four-year term
• Appointed Avery Wynn as County Commission Liaison to the Chamber of Commerce Board
• Deferred appointment for 8th District County Constable due to missing applicant documentation
• Approved Notaries and Bonds (22-0)

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee will discuss the allocation of opioid settlement funds for AEDs and review RFP awards for road stabilization and debris site restoration. The body will also review June 2025 financial reports and budget amendments.

• Opioid Settlement Funds for AEDs for Sheriff and Schools
• RFP Award for NCRS Bank Stabilization Road Group 2
• RFP Award for NCRS Bank Stabilization Road Group 4
• RFP Award for Roan Mountain Debris Site Restoration
• Budget Amendments 101 BA 1 and 141 BA 1

The committee authorized up to $231,000 for AEDs using opioid settlement funds and awarded three RFP contracts for road stabilization and debris restoration. It also approved budget amendments and bonuses for jail employees following a Tier 1 accreditation.

• Approved spending up to $231,000 from Opioid Settlement Reserve for 74 AEDs (8-0)
• Awarded $496,955.00 for NCRS Bank Stabilization Road Group 2 (8-0)
• Awarded $351,555.00 for NCRS Bank Stabilization Road Group 4 (8-0)
• Accepted RFP for Roan Mountain Debris Site Restoration at $246,712.00 (6-2)
• Approved bonuses for jail staff: $2,500 for Captain, $1,500 for Lieutenant, $1,000 for Sergeants, $250 for full-time, and $150 for part-time employees (8-0)
• Approved Fund Balance 101 Budget Amendment #1 at $368,149.29 (8-0)
• Approved Fund Balance 141 Budget Amendment #1 at $11,000 (8-0)
• Approved resolution recognizing Sheriff's Department Tier 1 Accreditations (8-0)

Regular Session

The Animal Shelter Board approved the minutes from the June 10, 2025, meeting. Director Shannon Posada provided updates on shelter intake numbers, facility maintenance, and upcoming law enforcement training. No other substantive policy or financial decisions were made.

• Approved June 10, 2025 meeting minutes (All Aye)

Regular Session

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from June 2025. No new business was introduced, and no votes were taken on road projects.

• Approved meeting agenda (All in Favor)
• Approved June 2025 minutes (All in Favor)

Financial Management

The committee will discuss employee insurance changes, handbook updates, and debris site restoration. Members will also review a June 2025 bid report and a contract for Burleson Construction as a school project manager.

• Review of Burleson Construction Project Manager (School) contract
• Update on bond sale
• Review of June 2025 Bid Report
• Discussion on Hampton and Roan Mountain Debris Site Restoration
• Disposal of Mayor’s Office Surplus Property

Budget Committee

The Budget Committee is meeting to review several invoices for construction, professional services, and bridge work. The agenda includes requests for purchase orders related to school projects at Happy Valley High School and Happy Valley Middle School.

• Invoices for Landworx Construction Contractors
• Invoices for Schaus Professional Services
• RK&K invoices for POGA Rd Bridge #1, POGA Rd Bridge #2, and Long Hollow Bridge
• PO requests for Burleson Construction and Thompson & Litton Architect fees for schools
• Carter County School Nutrition invoice for meals during flood

The Budget Committee approved multiple purchase orders for construction, professional services, and disaster-related expenses. The largest expenditure was for a school project manager funded by the Governor's Office. Other approvals included bridge work and flood-related meal costs.

• Approved Burleson Construction Project Manager (School) invoice for $15,767,780.00 (7-0)
• Approved Carter County Landfill debris invoice for $617,211.90 (7-0)
• Approved Hampton Construction and Development project proposal for $246,712.00 (7-0)
• Approved School Nutrition invoice for flood meals for $75,970.74 (7-0)
• Approved Schaus Professional Services invoices totaling $56,040.00 (7-0)
• Approved RK&K bridge invoices for POGA Rd and Long Hollow Bridge totaling $73,121.25 (7-0)
• Approved Thompson & Litton Architect Fees for Happy Valley MS for $17,440.00 (7-0)
• Approved Landworx Construction Contractors invoices totaling $11,200.00 (7-0)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved multiple payments and purchase orders for disaster response, recovery, and bridge repairs. The largest expenditure was a contract for the Hampton High School Restoration Project. Several other payments were approved for debris removal and school roof replacements.

• Approved $15,767,780.00 purchase order for Burleson Construction Company for Hampton High School Restoration Project (13-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved $617,211.90 payment to Carter County Landfill for debris removal (13-0)
• Approved $75,907.74 payment to Carter County School Nutrition for disaster relief meals (13-0)
• Approved $27,500.00 purchase order for Thompson & Litton Engineers for Happy Valley High School roof replacement (13-0)
• Approved $17,440.00 purchase order for Thompson & Litton Engineers for Happy Valley Middle School roof replacement (13-0)
• Approved RFP award to Hampton Construction for Roan Mountain Debris Site restoration (13-0)
• Approved $45,601.25 payment to RK&K for Long Hollow Bridge engineering (13-0)
• Approved $11,200.00 in combined lease payments to Landworx Construction for Poga #1 and #2 temporary bridges (13-0)

Buildings & Grounds

The Building and Grounds Committee inspected the property at 409 Gap Creek Road. Following the inspection, the committee determined there were too many issues with the property to pursue.

• Decided not to pursue property at 409 Gap Creek Road due to flooring, heating/cooling, structural, and roofing issues

Regular Session

The committee approved the meeting agenda. No other business was conducted, and the minutes from the June 2025 meeting were not available for approval.

• Approved the agenda

Budget Committee Special Called Meeting

The Budget Committee will meet to review and approve final budget amendments for the 2024-2025 year. The body will also hold a discussion regarding the 2025-2026 budget prior to a Full Commission Meeting.

• Public comments regarding the 2025-2026 year budget
• Review and approval of final 2024-2025 budget amendments
• Discussion of the 2025-2026 budget

Budget Committee 2025-2026 Budget Public Hearing

The Budget Committee is conducting a public hearing regarding the proposed Carter County budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The meeting provides an opportunity for public comment on the spending plan.

• Public hearing for 2025-2026 Proposed Carter County Budget

The Budget Committee approved eight budget amendments across various county funds. The largest allocation was $11,920,118.76 for the General Fund, sourced from the Unassigned Fund Balance.

• Approved General-Purpose School Fund amendment 141-11 for $126,493.00 (8-0)
• Approved Highway Fund amendment 131-10 for $444,852.00 (8-0)
• Approved Special Revenue Fund amendment 127-2 for $2,692,045.98 (8-0)
• Approved Special Revenue HEAL Fund amendment 121-1 for $7,000,000.00 (8-0)
• Approved Health Department Fund amendment 117-1 for $1,000.00 (8-0)
• Approved Solid Waste Fund amendment 116-10 for $198,200.00 (8-0)
• Approved General Fund amendment 101-15 for $22,945.00 (8-0)
• Approved General Fund amendment 101-16 for $11,920,118.76 (7-1)

Hearing/Meeting

The Carter County Budget Committee will vote on the 2025-2026 department budgets across multiple funds. The body will also review requests for funding and budget amendments.

• Vote on 2025-2026 Department Budgets for Fund 101, Funds 141 and 143, and Funds 151 and 177
• Two RFPs for the restoration of temporary debris sites
• Letter of Agreement for Direct Appropriation Grant for Governmental Entities
• Purchase order for Burleson Construction School (Flood Damage) Fund 141
• Budget amendments for Funds 101, 131, 116, 141, and 143

The committee approved numerous department budgets for the 2025-2026 cycle and several fund revenues and expenditures. Multiple budget amendments were passed, and a purchase order for Burleson Construction was approved. The committee deferred a decision on RFPs for temporary debris site restoration.

• Approved Sheriff Department budget of $7,173,502.46 (7-0)
• Approved Jail budget of $4,591,464.84 (7-0)
• Approved Fund 101 revenue of $25,263,236.00 (7-0)
• Approved Fund 141 revenue of $47,427,263.16 and expenditures of $47,427,263.15 (7-0)
• Approved Burleson Construction PO for $750,850.00 (7-0)
• Approved General Fund Budget Amendment 101-13a for $10,411,542.12 (6-1)
• Deferred approval of RFPs for restoration of temporary debris sites (7-0)
• Accepted Letter of Agreement for Direct Appropriation Grant for Governmental Entities (7-0)

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners approved several budget amendments, including a $4.8M increase for the General Purpose School Fund. The board also authorized funding for Sheriff's Department equipment and road repairs following flood damage.

• Approved $4,867,133.22 General Purpose School Fund Budget Amendment 141-8 (19-1)
• Approved $321,413.96 County Fund Budget Amendment 101-11 (20-0)
• Approved $155,651.89 Solid Waste Fund Budget Amendment 116-7 (20-0)
• Approved $66,975.20 Highway Fund Budget Amendment 131-8 (20-0)
• Approved $24,346.30 School Federal Projects Fund Budget Amendment 142-9 (20-0)
• Approved $200,000 from restricted funds for Sheriff's Department equipment (20-0)
• Approved $21,000 PO for Slagle Construction for road repair stone (20-0)
• Approved $20,000 PO for Maymead Materials for road repair stone (20-0)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved numerous expenditures and contracts for disaster response and infrastructure recovery. Key actions included funding for bridge repairs, road resurfacing, and school reroofing. Most items were approved unanimously by the 17 members present.

• Approved $2.27M contract with Summers and Taylor Inc for Shell Creek Road repairs (17-0)
• Approved $714,067.20 for Hampton Creek Road resurfacing via Summers-Taylor (17-0)
• Approved $634,179.00 for Shell Creek resurfacing via Summers-Taylor (17-0)
• Approved $524,216.00 for Heaton Creek resurfacing via Summers-Taylor (17-0)
• Approved $570,778.20 contract with Baker’s Construction Services for Heaton Branch Road slope rebuild (17-0)
• Approved $711,940.00 and $275,750.00 NRCS contracts for Shell Creek streambank stabilization (17-0)
• Approved $333,400.00 and $216,200.00 for Happy Valley High and Middle School gym reroofing (17-0)
• Approved various payments to RK&K, Landworx Construction, and Schaus Professional Services for bridge and engineering work

Regular Session

The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from the May 2025 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made during the session.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 2025 meeting minutes (4-3)

Buildings & Grounds

The committee approved a motion for Commissioner Charlene Thomas to investigate the Watauga Point Methodist Church on Old Gap Creek Road as a potential county purchase. Members also discussed options for the Folsom House and potential locations for the archives.

• Approved motion for Commissioner Thomas to explore purchase of Watauga Point Methodist Church (All in favor)
• Approved May 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-3)

Regular Session

The Education Committee approved the agenda and May 2025 minutes. Chairwoman Lisa Childress announced that no committee meetings will be held in July or August due to the school system being on summer break.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved May 2025 minutes
• Cancelled July and August committee meetings

Regular Session

The committee reviewed a request to split an unopened road on Williams Street and received an update on a potential bid process bypass for county projects. No formal votes were taken on new business or infrastructure projects.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved May 2025 minutes

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners approved a change in medical insurance from Blue Cross Blue Shield to Cigna Healthcare effective July 1, 2025. The board also appointed a new 7th District Commissioner and approved several budget amendments and tax resolutions.

• Appointed Carol Whaley as 7th District Commissioner (19-0)
• Authorized medical insurance change to Cigna Healthcare (20-0)
• Approved Resolution 887 to increase mineral severance tax rate (19-1)
• Approved Resolution 888 to request unclaimed property balances (20-0)
• Approved County Fund Budget Amendment 101-10 for $2,032,184.27 (19-0-1)
• Approved Special Revenue Fund Budget Amendment 127-1 for $893,484.31 (20-0-1)
• Approved $13,600 in architect fees for Happy Valley school roof replacements (20-0)
• Approved $1,800 payment to Sidekick Excavation for septic cleaning (20-0)

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee approved a motion to have the County Attorney draft a resolution recognizing Commissioner Angie Odom as the area's remarkable woman of the year. The vote was 5 yes, 1 no, with 1 abstention. The committee also heard an update on a donated CPR device for the Elk Mills/Poga communities, with training requirements and a potential law change discussed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to draft resolution honoring Commissioner Odom (5-1, 1 abstain)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (5 yes, 2 abstentions)

Buildings & Grounds

The committee approved a motion for County Attorney Josh Hardin to contact the descendants of the Folsoms regarding their interest in the Folsom House property. Members also authorized the pursuit of estimates for new sound equipment for the Commission, committees, and courts. Discussions were held regarding potential locations for the Archives.

• Approved motion for County Attorney Josh Hardin to contact Folsom descendants (8-0)
• Approved motion for Ron Kirby to seek estimates for new sound equipment (8-0)
• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (6-0, 2 abstentions)
• Approved meeting agenda

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee approved a request for the County Attorney to draft a resolution honoring Commissioner Angie Odom as the area’s remarkable woman of the year. The committee also approved the April 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (5 yes, 2 abstained)
• Approved request for County Attorney to draft resolution for Commissioner Angie Odom (5-1-1)

Regular Session

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from March 2025. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a report on school system updates, including grade reassignments and upcoming graduations. No new business was decided by the committee.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved March 2025 minutes (4 yes, 2 abstentions)

Regular Session

The Education Committee heard a report from Dr. Diana Bowers on school system changes, including moving Central 6th-8th grades to Happy Valley Middle School and Unaka 6th-8th grades to Hunter Elementary, making both elementary schools Pre-K-5th. No formal decisions were made by the committee; the meeting was informational. The committee approved the agenda and previous minutes.

• Approved meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved March 2025 minutes (4 yes, 2 abstentions)

Regular Session

The committee discussed a proposal to split a non-county alleyway behind the Roan Mountain Pharmacy property via quit claim deed. No formal action was taken on the proposal, as signatures from adjoining landowners are required first.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved April 2025 minutes (4-0, 2 abstentions)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved 11 payments and purchase orders for disaster response, recovery, and reimbursement efforts. These actions include funding for temporary bridge leases, engineering work, and equipment replacement following the Helene Flood.

• Approved $5,600 payment to Landworx Construction for Poga #1 temporary bridge lease (18-0)
• Approved $5,600 payment to Landworx Construction for Poga #2 temporary bridge lease (18-0)
• Approved $74,174.69 payment to Schaus Professional Services (15-3)
• Approved $11,910 payment to RK&K for Poga Bridge #1 engineering (18-0)
• Approved $16,805 payment to RK&K for Poga Bridge #2 engineering (18-0)
• Approved $17,602.98 payment to RK&K for Long Hollow Bridge engineering (18-0)
• Approved $184,558.11 payment to Santander Bank for Gradall XL4100 Excavator lease (18-0)
• Approved $9,000 payment to Hampton Construction and Development, LLC for football field topsoil and hydroseeding (18-0)

Regular Session

The Board approved a resolution to issue up to $40 million in general obligation capital outlay notes for disaster response and recovery. They also authorized several opioid fund disbursements and payments for bridge and debris removal projects.

• Authorized issuance of up to $40M in General Obligation Capital Outlay Notes (20-0)
• Approved $500,000 Opioid Funds disbursement to NETN Recovery Center (20-0)
• Approved $300,000 Opioid Funds disbursement to Families Free (20-0)
• Approved $65,000 Opioid Funds disbursement to Child Abuse Prevention Agency (20-0)
• Approved two Landworx POs for temporary Poga Bridges #1 and #2 at $123,000 each (20-0)
• Approved $299,737.75 PO to Hinkle Environmental Services (20-0)
• Confirmed appointment of Gary Smith to the 911 Board of Directors (20-0)
• Approved County Fund Budget Amendment 101-9 for $199,831.57 (20-0)

Regular Session

The Highway Committee held a brief procedural meeting, approving its agenda and the March 2025 minutes. No substantive decisions were made, as there was no old or new business. The meeting adjourned after a report from the Road Superintendent.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 2025 minutes (4 yes, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The Carter County Commission Education Committee met on April 7, 2025, and approved its agenda and the minutes from March 2025. No old or new business was discussed, and no substantive decisions were made. The committee heard a report from Dr. Diana Bowers on school updates, including a special called school board meeting about Hampton, summer school numbers, kindergarten registration, TCAP testing, and budget work.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved March 2025 minutes (4 yes, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The Education Committee approved the minutes from the March 2025 meeting. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a school system update regarding summer school, kindergarten registration, and TCAP testing. No new business or legislative decisions were made.

• Approved March 2025 minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Highway Committee met for a brief session to approve the agenda and the previous month's minutes. No new business or public comments were recorded.

• Approved meeting agenda (All in Favor)
• Approved March 2025 minutes (4 yes, 1 abstain)

Special Called Session

The Board of Commissioners approved numerous expenditures for disaster response and recovery related to the Helene Flood. Decisions included funding for debris removal, bridge engineering, and road repairs, with several items funded via the HEAL Loan or FEMA portal.

• Approved $1,939,750.54 payment to TFR Enterprises for debris removal (20-0)
• Approved $419,750.00 for Summer and Taylor for Heaton Creek Road bridge repairs (20-0)
• Approved $306,696.55 for Summer and Taylor for Hampton area paving and road repairs (20-0)
• Approved $164,323.46 payment to TFR Enterprises for debris removal (20-0)
• Approved $90,734.58 payment to Thompson Consulting Services for debris monitoring (20-0)
• Approved $70,014.75 payment to Schaus Professional Services (20-0)
• Approved $11,654.65 payment to Maury County Government for TEMA response team (18-2)
• Approved engineering payments to RK&K for Poga Bridge #1 ($48,456.56), Poga Bridge #2 ($42,056.22), and Long Hollow Bridge ($22,499.57) (20-0 each)

Regular Session

The committee discussed a potential land donation from the city of Elizabethton for an animal shelter dog park. Members also discussed the acquisition of a Lucas chest compression device for EMS use. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved the March 2025 meeting minutes

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee approved its agenda and March 2025 minutes, but took no formal votes on substantive matters. Members discussed a potential land donation from the city of Elizabethton for a dog park at the Animal Shelter, and explored options for acquiring a Lucas CPR device, with follow-up actions assigned.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved March 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Discussed land donation for Animal Shelter dog park (no action)
• Discussed acquiring Lucas CPR device (no action)

Regular Session

The Building and Grounds Committee approved a motion to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for audio/visual system recommendations for the commission and courtrooms. The committee tabled discussion of options for the Folsom House historic site until next month. Members also heard that the UT-Ag Extension office's interim facility at TCAT is ready, with keys to be picked up the next day.

• Approved RFP for audio/visual updates for commission and courtrooms (7-0)
• Tabled Folsom House options until next month
• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes with corrections
• Approved meeting agenda

Regular Session

The Building and Grounds Committee approved a request for proposals for audio/visual updates. The committee tabled discussions regarding the Folsom House until next month. Agriculture Director Rachael Dean reported that the UT-Ag Extension office has an interim facility at TCAT.

• Approved RFP for audio/visual update recommendations for commission and courtrooms (7-0)
• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes with corrections
• Tabled Folsom House options until next month

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners approved several budget amendments for school, drug, and solid waste funds. They also authorized specific payments for disaster recovery, including a generator for Hampton Elementary and vehicle up-fits. Additionally, the board passed resolutions recognizing law enforcement officers and the Treaty of Sycamore Shoals.

• Approved $309,121.60 from Highway Fund 131 for Ridgefield Estates paving (20-0)
• Approved $4,818.89 payment to Osborne Electric for Hampton Elementary generator (19-1)
• Approved $11,724.00 payment to High Country Communications for vehicle up-fits (20-0)
• Approved General Purpose School Fund Budget Amendment 141-5 for $646,790.95 (20-0)
• Approved County Fund Budget Amendment 101-8 for $71,664.60 (20-0)
• Approved MOU between Our Rescue and Carter County Sheriff’s Office (20-0)
• Approved Inmate Communications agreement with Combined Public Communications, LLC (20-0)
• Approved resolution recognizing CCSO Lt. John Blevins and Deputy Isaac Lyons (20-0)

Regular Session

The Animal Shelter Board established a new policy regarding pet adoptions for clients receiving food donations. The board also reviewed February shelter statistics and discussed facility maintenance and staffing.

• Approved policy prohibiting adoptions for six months after receiving food donation (All Aye)
• Approved minutes from 11 February 2025 meeting (All Aye)

Special Called Session

The Board approved multiple payments for disaster response and recovery, including two large consulting invoices totaling over $767,000. The commission also voted to use volunteers and the County Unassigned Fund Balance to pay $11,500 for debris removal from several homes.

• Approved $11,500 from County Unassigned Fund Balance for debris removal (14-4)
• Denied waiver of landfill fees for homeowners (10-8)
• Approved $392,992.79 payment to Thompson Consulting Services (12-6)
• Approved $374,762.26 payment to Thompson Consulting Services (13-5)
• Approved $92,658.99 payment to Schaus Professional Services (13-5)
• Approved $5,500 payment to Your Public Adjuster (18-0)
• Approved $6,518.27 payment to Cokeville Police Department (15-3)
• Denied payments to Crawford & Company, YA Engineering Services, and Unified Building Sciences (10-8 each)

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee voted to ask Sheriff Fraley to consider placing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in all department patrol cars and to investigate funding. Sheriff Fraley stated that 40 AEDs would be a safe number. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved request for Sheriff Fraley to consider adding AEDs to all patrol cars and investigate funding (7-0)
• Approved February 2025 meeting minutes with corrections

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee voted unanimously to ask Sheriff Fraley to consider adding automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to all patrol cars and to investigate funding if approved. Sheriff Fraley noted some vehicles already have AEDs and estimated 40 would be a safe number. The committee also approved its February 2025 minutes with a name correction and discussed Active 911 and a possible Certificate of Need repeal.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 minutes with name correction (unanimous)
• Approved motion to ask Sheriff to consider AEDs in all patrol cars and investigate funding (7-0)

Regular Session

The Building and Grounds Committee approved a motion to solicit proposals to update the sound and livestream system, with discussion about partnering with courts on costs. They also approved pursuing personal contacts to educate commissioners on needed equipment. The committee approved the February minutes with corrections and discussed the Folsom House and UT-Ag Extension office interim location, but took no formal action on those items.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 minutes with name spelling corrections (unanimous)
• Approved motion to get proposals for updated sound and livestream system (7-0)
• Approved motion to pursue personal contacts for equipment education (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:43 PM (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Building and Grounds Committee voted to obtain proposals to modernize the sound and livestream system. Members also agreed to contact individuals who can provide education on the necessary equipment. No decisions were reached regarding the Folsom House or the UT-Ag Extension office facility.

• Approved motion to get proposals to update sound and livestream system (7-0)
• Approved motion to pursue personal contacts for education on sound system equipment

Regular Session

The Education Committee approved the meeting agenda and the February 2025 minutes. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a report on school make-up days, graduation dates, and band equipment. No new business was introduced or decided.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved February 2025 minutes

Regular Session

The Highway Committee met for 10 minutes to conduct procedural business. No new business or substantive policy decisions were recorded.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved February 2025 meeting minutes

Regular Session

The Carter County Education Committee met and approved the agenda and previous minutes. No old or new business was discussed. Dr. Diana Bowers reported that the school year cannot be extended due to scheduled summer school, so spring break days will be used for make-up days. Graduation dates were announced for all county high schools.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved February 2025 minutes (all in favor)

Regular Session

The Carter County Commission approved a $3,000,000 Tennessee Emergency Management Agency Helene Emergency Assistance Loan (HEAL) for additional debris removal expenses, and a $1,358,098.00 payment to Carter County Solid Waste and Recycling for debris taken in at no charge. The commission also approved numerous other Helene-related expenses, including payments for debris removal, road repairs, temporary bridges, and consulting services. All other agenda items, including budget amendments, the tourism contract, and the EMA Director job description, were approved.

• Approved $3M HEAL loan for additional Helene debris removal (19-3)
• Approved $1,358,098 payment to Solid Waste for Helene debris (22-0)
• Approved $2,461,581.15 payment to T.F.R. Enterprises for December debris removal (22-0)
• Approved $400,000 for landfill expansion preparation (22-0)
• Approved $240,188 road repairs for Bluegrass Road and Bear Branch Road (22-0)
• Approved $300,000 purchase order to Schaus LLC for consulting (19-3)
• Approved $6,426.42 in payments to elected officials for salary adjustments (18-4)
• Approved tourism contract with Elizabethton-Carter County Chamber of Commerce (21-1)

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners approved a $3 million TEMA HEAL program loan to cover additional debris removal expenses from Hurricane Helene. The board also authorized a $1.36 million payment to Carter County Solid Waste and Recycling and $400,000 for landfill expansion preparation. Several budget amendments and a resolution honoring two deputies were also approved.

• Approved $3,000,000 TEMA Helene Emergency Assistance Loan (19-3)
• Approved $1,358,098.00 payment to Carter County Solid Waste and Recycling for debris removal (22-0)
• Authorized $400,000.00 for landfill expansion preparation (22-0)
• Approved monthly Budget Committee/Full Commission meetings for Helene emergency spending (21-1)
• Approved $6,426.42 in payments to elected officials from Unassigned Fund Balance (18-4)
• Authorized County Mayor to sign Opioid Abatement Fund Disbursement Agreement (21-1)
• Approved resolution recognizing CCSO Deputies Dalton Taylor and Matthew Lyle (22-0)
• Approved Budget Amendment 101-7 for $417,620.85 (22-0)

Regular Session

The Animal Shelter Board approved spending $2,000 to ship a pet food donation from Chattanooga via a commercial trucking company. The board also approved the minutes from the January 14, 2025, meeting. Director Shannon Posada provided updates on shelter intake numbers, vehicle needs, and facility maintenance.

• Approved $2,000 to ship pet food from Chattanooga (Voice vote, all Aye)
• Approved January 14, 2025, meeting minutes (All Aye except Danny Deal who abstained)

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee approved the updated EMA Director job description, which includes state-law requirements, with an 8-0 vote. The committee also added an update on the Active 911 system to old business and heard public comments about transparency. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved updated EMA Director job description (8-0)
• Approved agenda as amended to include Active 911 update
• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes

Regular Session

The Building and Grounds Committee met on February 4, 2025, and approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from January 2025. The committee also approved a motion to pursue personal contacts for education on sound system equipment. No substantive decisions were made regarding old business items like the Folsom House or the UT-Ag Extension office interim facility.

• Approved meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved motion to pursue personal contacts for sound system equipment education (all in favor)

Regular Session

The committee approved an updated job description for the EMA Director that meets state law requirements. Members discussed the residency distance for the director and the inclusion of specific training classes. The committee also received an update that the Active 911 system is expected to start within a few days.

• Approved updated EMA Director job description (8-0)
• Approved meeting agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Regular Session

The committee approved a motion to use personal contacts to educate commissioners on necessary sound system equipment. Discussions were held regarding the Folsom House and an interim facility for the UT-Ag Extension office, but no formal actions were taken on those items.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to pursue personal contacts for sound system equipment education (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Highway Committee reviewed the status of Shalom Drive. Attorney Hardin presented a plat indicating the road is private and the county has no ownership in it.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes

Regular Session

The Education Committee met and approved its agenda and January 2025 minutes. No old or new business was discussed. Dr. Diana Bowers provided an update on county schools, including that spring break was cut to make up flood days and summer school will be held May 27-June 18 at Happy Valley Elementary School. No substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved January 2025 minutes (6 yes, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The Education Committee approved the agenda and the minutes from January 2025. Dr. Diana Bowers provided a report on school operations following a flood, including adjusted spring break dates and summer school scheduling.

• Approved meeting agenda (All in favor)
• Approved January 2025 minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The Board of Commissioners appointed Bud Hazlewood to fill a vacancy in the 7th District. The board also approved the meeting agenda, the December 16, 2024, minutes, and a list of notaries and bonds.

• Appointed Bud Hazlewood to 7th District County Commissioner vacancy (22-0)
• Approved amended meeting agenda (22-0)
• Approved December 16, 2024, meeting minutes (22-0)
• Approved Notaries & Bonds (23-0)

Regular Session

The Health and Welfare Committee met and approved its agenda and December minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the main discussion concerned a possible resolution to request fluoride removal from county water, with the attorney to draft a resolution for the full commission. Updates were given on LED lighting complaints, flu cases, and recovery efforts in Poga/Elk Mills.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 2024 minutes (7 yes, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

This is a procedural agenda item presenting aerial imagery and map information for various roads in Carter County. The map details are provided by requestor Linda Whitehead, with federal and state project numbers. No decisions or votes are scheduled; the item appears informational or for consent approval.

• Aerial imagery and map data for roads including Bill Helmer Dr., Sparks Rd., SR359 (Milligan Hwy.), Oakmont Dr., SR067 (W. Elk St.), Warpath Ln., Powder Branch Rd., Fox Meadow Rd., Quail Hollow Rd., Wedgewood Cir., Nancy St., and Buck Van Huss Dr.

The committee discussed potential temporary locations for the UT Extension Office, including TCAT space and a former TLC Center. No final decision was made on a location, and the matter was tabled pending further information on TCAT availability.

• Approved December 2024 meeting minutes (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Removed Herman Robinson Property from the agenda
• Tabled UT-Ag Extension office interim facility decision

Regular Session

The committee approved the agenda and December 2024 meeting minutes. Members discussed drafting a resolution to request the removal of fluoride from county water and reviewed recovery efforts in the Poga and Elk Mills areas.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 2024 meeting minutes (7-0, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The committee approved the December 2024 minutes and received a report from Road Superintendent Shannon Burchett. No new business was decided during the session.

• Approved December 2024 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)

Regular Session

The Education Committee met for a brief session where no new business was introduced. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from December 2024.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 2024 minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)