On September 22nd, the Lawrence County Commission met in Regular Session to address a number of agenda items. Several of those items were of great importance to our county, our citizens and our future. Below is a recap of some of the more significant items addressed at the meeting.

First, the commission approved earmarking 7 cents in the county's Debt Service Fund to go towards the future construction of new high schools in Loretto and Summertown. This means approximately $385,000 will be set aside each year going forward strictly for future school construction.

If all goes according to plan, we could break ground by the end of this term.  Once the two new high schools are completed, the county can then transition to a middle school concept which will finally level the educational playing field in our county by allowing students to be offered equal academic opportunities no matter where they live or attend school. It will also allow for more advanced and targeted courses to be offered to students, better preparing them for the 21st Century workforce that awaits them when they graduate.

Second, the county commission stepped up to the plate for local low income seniors, disabled citizens and disabled veterans by supplementing the state's property tax relief program. In this year's State budget, the state legislature cut a portion of the funding for their tax relief program due to rising costs. In doing so, that meant that anyone on the program, which consists of the groups mentioned above, would see an additional increase in their property taxes if local governments did not act. I am proud to say that by working with Trustee Kiley Weathers, the commission came up with a proposal that will ensure those vulnerable citizens will not see an additional property tax increase this year, allowing them to save more of their hard earned money.

The commission also approved funds to complete a waterline extension on OK Road, which will help get those citizens the water they have needed for years. Under the agreement reached, the county will purchase the pipe and materials for the project and the Lawrenceburg Utility System will install the pipe.

It is longstanding county policy that if a citizen needs water, the county will purchase the pipe and materials for the project if another entity will install the line and the corresponding utility district or municipality will take on the extension. The commission is committed to addressing water projects that are feasible both in cost and logistics. 

As you can see, your county commission is working hard to solve long standing problems all the while keeping an eye to our future. If you ever need assistance, please visit our official website at http://lawrencecountytn.gov/commissioners-2014 or visit our official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lawcotncommission where you can find the contact information for your district's representative. We are here to serve you.