Benny Bills for State Rep?

It's a question on the minds of many community leaders. Will former Superintendent/Director of Schools Benny Bills -a Gallatin Democrat -- make a run for the 44th District House seat being vacated by Mike McDonald of Portland.

Bills previously indicated interest in the 45th District seat currently held by Debra Maggart of Hendersonville. However, he has spent his life in Gallatin and once served as principal at Westmoreland Middle School -- both in the 44th District.

He would likely draw a strong Gallatin vote and could be a competitive campaigner in the district's Hendersonville precincts. As of today, he's not yet picked up a petition.

Brewer Pulls State Senate Petition

Former Sumner County Democratic Party Chair Maria Brewer has pulled a petition to run for the State Senate from District 18. Brewer becomes the second Democrat to pull a petition -- long-time County Clerk and former County Commissioner Jimmy England has also pulled a petition and has indicated he's actively seeking signatures.

Brewer begun calling Democratic leaders this week and expressing the sincerity of her desire to run. It is not yet clear whether she will challenge England if both qualify.

The deadline is April 5th.

County, School Board Keep on Fighting

Now, it's about funding for proposed projects -- some of which the County Commission approved and one of which was promoted from 38th to the top of the priority list -- in a procedure that may have violated Board protocol.

Assante May Seek 44th District House Seat

In the wake of State Rep. Mike McDonald's announcement that he won't seek re-election to his 44th District House seat, Vol State Professor Len Assante has indicated he may make a run as a Democrat. Assante serves as Executive Vice Chair of the Sumner County Democratic Party and ran for County Commission in 2006.

McDonald Eyes State Senate Bid

44th District State Rep. Mike McDonald of Portland announced that he will not seek re-election to his seat in 2012. He indicated he may be a Democratic candidate for state Senate from district 18 -- a new, open seat that includes Sumner County and Trousdale County plus a portion of Davidson.

There are currently 5 Republicans vying for the nomination.

Sumner County Commission Meets Tonight

Here's the agenda.

Competition Comes to Hendersonville Taxi Business

Currently, there's only one taxi company in Hendersonville. And that means long wait times and little resolution for complaints.

But the Board of Mayor and Aldermen have approved a second franchise to an operator who currently does business in Nashville.