Debra Maggart: 2012 Legislative Preview

State Rep. Debra Maggart offers a preview of the 2012 legislative session. Of note are attempts to end the inheritance and Hall Income Taxes (costing the state millions in revenue each year) and a possible overhaul to Workers' Compensation.

Maggart also noted that the proposed new legislative districts will be unveiled in the first week of the legislative session.

More on Belcher vs. Isbell for Property Assessor

Or, in this case, a lot more about Isbell...

Alternative Energy Options in Sumner

They're expanding, with Electric Vehicle charging stations and discussions about a Solar Farm project.

TBI Proceeds with McDougal Investigation

The fallout from the politically engineered removal of Darlene McDougal as Sumner County Administrator of Elections continues to mount as the TBI is now proceeding with an investigation.

McDougal was ousted on a party-line vote and the former Treasurer of the Sumner County Republican Party was installed to the taxpayer-funded job on November 15th.

Since that time, the office has been embroiled in scandal as allegations of election tampering have resulted in more politically-charged actions and an investigation into computer records and practices at the Election Commission.

Upon obtaining the job, Lori Atchley acknowledged she received it based on politics, not merit. Since then, she's had to manage an office that's focused not on elections but on handling an onslaught of investigations that have no doubt interrupted the normal course of business.

Belcher v. Isbell for Property Assessor

Incumbent John Isbell faces challenger Brian Belcher in the race for Property Assessor on March 6, 2012. Both are Republicans.

Vol State Search Committee Meets

State Rep. Mike McDonald is among the applicants for the Presidency of Volunteer State Community College. The committee will discuss how to move forward at its meeting on Thursday, December 15th.

Street Lights Slow Down

The Public Works Committee agreed to continue studying the issue ... but for now, they're not recommending a street light ordinance to the full Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

Apathy Not Acceptable When it Comes to Schools...

A well-written column by Hendersonville's Kim Venable encourages more community involvement in and support for our schools.

Sumner County Seeks Solar Farmers

so says Silicon Ranch and a committee of the County Commission.

District Attorney Gets McDougal Case

After heated debate and a 3-1-1 vote, the Sumner County Election Commission has referred the matter involving Darlene McDougal's alleged misconduct to District Attorney Ray Whitley.

McDougal Under TBI Investigation

Former Sumner County Elections Administrator Darlene McDougal, removed from office in a politically-motivated ouster, is now under investigation by the TBI.

School Board Settles with ACLU

Here are the key details.