by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“You’re probably going to be looking at another mandated rate increase to satisfy the state law,” Alderman Dean Lay warned residents at the May 26 Monteagle Council meeting commenting on the harsh reality of the town’s water-sewer budget for 2026-2027. “You can’t have two consecutive years of a loss without a mandated rate adjustment.” The Enterprise Fund budget for water and sewer showed a $40,000-$50,000 loss in 2025-2026. The town’s accountant initially projected a $600,000 deficit for 2026-2027. By law, the Enterprise Fund and General Fund must maintain separate accounts. After lengthy discussion, the council approved both budgets for the fiscal year beginning July 1.

“The two biggest [expense] items in the Enterprise Fund are depreciation and interest,” explained Mayor Greg Maloof.

Interest expense results from borrowing money to repair or replace infrastructure or to fund projects required by the Tennessee Department of Environment of Conservation, Maloof said. Monteagle’s water plant is 50 years old. The sewer plant is 15 years old.

Depreciation refers to an asset’s decrease in value overtime. To provide for replacing assets, the state has begun strictly enforcing a rule requiring water-sewer utilities to fund depreciation, meaning the utility must set aside money to replace an asset based on its current depreciated value.

The 2026-2027 Enterprise Fund budget calls for setting aside $125,000 for replacing water plant assets and $375,000 for replacing sewer plant assets. An outside consultant recommended a 32 percent rate increase to balance the budget.

“We’re not suggesting a 30 percent rate increase,” stressed Alderman Grant Fletcher. “We’re working other ways to reduce capitalized projects to avoid that kind of increase and also to avoid having the state come in and dictate rates.” As proposed at the April meeting, deferring water-sewer related projects can help avoid a loss, albeit perhaps temporarily, by deferring capital expense and deferring the related capital depreciation. There will be a small rate increase July 1 (3-5 percent) in keeping with recommendations from a rate study conducted in 2023.

Lay argued for finding a way to help people on a limited income deal with rate increases. He proposed offering customers a water-audit to educate them about how to reduce water use. The council will look at options during a workshop.

Lay also pointed to $60,00-$65,000 loss in revenue resulting from the rest area on 1-24 being closed for over a year due to a water leak. “That’s 10 percent of the [projected] loss,” Lay observed. Maloof spoke with a state official about the delay in addressing the rest area problem and learned a statewide study of all interstate rest areas was underway. The police department confirmed the interstate accident rate had increased since the rest area was closed. Fletcher suggested advising state officials of safety concerns might speed up the repair process.

General Fund budget revenue comes primarily from sales tax, as well as hotel-motel tax and building permits. The General Fund budget calls for 5 percent wage increase for hourly employees and a 3.5 percent wage increase for salaried employees.

In other business, the council approved an ordinance enabling Codes Enforcement officer Travis Lawyer to serve as a special police officer. Lawyer requested the designation explaining, “It allows me as a building inspector to be able to serve municipal papers, put them in court, and offer testimony.”

The council also approved the revised concept design for an Imagine Monteagle project which combined a proposed information kiosk and a proposed sculpture, with the sculpture as the center focal point of the kiosk patio in the combined design. Fletcher, who heads up the Imagine Monteagle initiative, anticipates grant funding for both the kiosk and sculpture. For the project to move forward, the town’s engineer must approve the sculpture location. The council approved $1,500 for engineering costs.

Reporting on Fire Department operations, Lawyer, who also serves as Fire Chief, said the first-responder EMS program initiated by the Fire Department made 20 calls last month, with a response time of 30 minutes. The program costs an average of $12.80 per call.

Updating the council on the Fire Recovery program adopted in 2024, Lawyer said the town has realized $26,269 from insurance claims. A third-party organization makes insurance claims on the department’s behalf. The department averages 20 interstate calls per month dealing with big trucks. Lawyer only turns in monetary recovery claims for commercial vehicle accidents, not for accidents involving private individuals.

During the Mayor’s Comments portion of the meeting, Maloof designated Alderman Nate Wilson to serve on the Planning Commission in his stead. He also urged residents to stop putting plastic bags in the plastic recycling bin at the Convenience Center. The bin is only for plastic containers with recycling codes one or two. Franklin County which provides the service may remove the bin if the practice continues.

The Beautification and Tree Board anticipates the Fire Hall mural will be completed by the end of summer, said committee chair Martha Ann Pilcher. Pilcher urged organizations and groups to have a float in the July 4 parade celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.

In response to a request from Linda Brookhart, the town’s representative on the Chamber of Commerce, the council approved $1,455 for the purchase of three banners advertising the Monteagle Mountain Market, with the cost charged against the Imagine Monteagle fund. Addressing an earlier controversy, Brookhart said the event will continue to be called the Monteagle Mountain Market, not the Mountain Market as was proposed.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the May 18 meeting, the Sewanee Community Council revisited two issues raised in March and made plans to take action on both fronts: traffic calming measures to curtail excessive speeding and upgrades to the dog park to address muddy areas and the need for more shade. The council also appointed a representative to serve on the Lease Committee and an election officer to help coordinate the November council member election.

Provost Scott Wilson cited a long list of areas with chronic excessive speeding identified by the Traffic Committee: Willie Six Road, the Fowler Center crossing area, Florida Avenue, Lost Cove Road, Breakfield Road, Bob Stewman Road, and University Avenue, especially at the main entrance to campus. Wilson cautioned regulations related to topography such as elevation changes and curves could prevent installing speed humps on some streets. He proposed purchasing two additional sets of speed humps, six speed limit signs, and a flashing sign alerting motorists of their speed, cost $9,000. Wilson said if the council Project Funding program contributed $4,500, the University would match the amount. Council member Michael Payne suggested lowering the speed limit to 15 mph in some places. “That would need to be negotiated with the police,” Wilson said. “There are a lot of places where people don’t even know what the speed limit is.” The council approved the $4,500 allocation for the measures Wilson recommended.

Raising a related concern, council member Katie Gohn called attention to the speed limit on Highway 41A increasing to 55 mph at St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School. In addition to the school entrance, Gohn cited residential roads entering the highway and excessive truck traffic posing safety risks. Council member Phil White observed the speed limit was 45 mph from Cowan to Winchester, but the Tennessee Department of Transportation rejected a previous effort to lower the speed limit to 45 mph between Sewanee and Monteagle. Superintendent of Leases Sallie Green will research the procedure for changing the speed limit on a state highway.

Resident Andrew Cowan who in March argued for upgrades at the Phil White Dog Park, presented a list of specifics: pavement in a heavily trafficked area prone to getting muddy, benches, and a few shade trees. Currently there was only one tree, a persimmon, Cowan said. A climbing vine overtaking the fence also needed addressed. Cowan referred to the Dog Park as a “beloved amenity. It’s wonderful already.” Cowan has received verbal commitments to help with the cost of the proposed upgrades, estimate $18,000.

Green said the $11,000 in the Park’s Budget was likely an inadequate source of funding, since the allocation was for all the Sewanee parks and other parks had maintenance needs, as well. Green suggested the Project Funding program as a possible funding mechanism, with up to $10,000 available annually. “Based on conversations with people around the Domain, I don’t anticipate needing that,” Cowan said.

Wilson said University Farm Manager Carolyn Hoagland reported good results with goats eating the vines on University Farm pasture fences. Hoagland said the goats could be brought to the dog park at specific times set aside for that purpose.

Council member Kevin Cummings volunteered to serve as the council representative on the Lease Committee. Katie Gohn will serve as the election officer for November 2026 council member election.

Council representative Ed Hawkins brought up the need for a ramp to make the Community Center accessible to people in wheelchairs, since council meetings take place there. Wilson said the council was considering meeting at St. Mark’s Community Center next year and that building had a ramp.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“A deal is a deal,” Sewanee Utility District customer Marvin Pate insisted at the May 19 SUD Board of Commissioners meeting. Pate objected to the $8 monthly grinder pump fee SUD began levying on grinder pump customers in January of 2025 to offset the high cost of maintaining and replacing the pumps. SUD manager Ben Beavers said the cost of the pumps had doubled. SUD spent $35,000 on grinder pumps in 2024 when the utility initiated the fee, and Beavers anticipates the cost this year to be $60,000-$100,000. Since the fee was imposed, SUD customer Ron Summers appeared twice before the board objecting. As did Summers, Pate maintained in 2000 when he paid to have the pump installed, he was told by then SUD manager Kevin Gilliam SUD would assume ownership of the pump, as well as all related expenses going forward.

“I don’t doubt either one of you,” said SUD Board President Charlie Smith. Beavers concurred, “I don’t doubt you were told that.”

Pate offered additional historical context to the discussion. In 2000, when Pate built a home on Hat Rock Road, University rules required he connect to public sewer, a policy implemented by Tom Kepple, former Vice President for Business and Community Relations. I.e., no more septic tank sewage treatment systems on the Domain. Connecting to public sewer was mandatory for all new construction, and for existing homes, connecting to public sewer was mandatory if the property changed hands. When gravity flow was insufficient to move sewage through the lines, customers were required to pay for the purchase and installation of a grinder pump to facilitate the flow.

In response to questions by the Messenger, Beavers offered further insight on background. According to Beavers, even before the University required all Domain residents to connect to public sewer, sewer customers had to purchase and pay for installation of a pump when a pump was needed. Cost for maintenance fell to the customer, but local contractors were reluctant to service the pumps. When the pumps failed and sewage spills occurred, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation stepped in and held SUD accountable as the local water-sewer authority. SUD began servicing the pumps even before the requirement to connect to public sewer came into play.

Neither Pate or Summers have anything in writing to support their claim. Likewise, there is no documentation in SUD records.

“If the board agreed, there would have been evidence,” said Commissioner Donnie McBee.

“Just because it’s not in writing, that doesn’t make it not a deal in Sewanee,” Pate said. “It’s the small-town Southern way of doing things.” Pate pointed out when he assumed the role Director of Physical Plant Services at the University in the 1990s, there was no purchase order system.

Summers said three or four years ago his pump failed and SUD replaced it. “I never got a bill. Why did I get a pump at no cost if that wasn’t the policy?” Summers asked.

Pate argued since SUD assumed ownership of the pumps, the pumps were part of overall SUD infrastructure and all costs related to them should be spread among all customers, as was the case with other infrastructure costs.

Smith noted SUD was currently conducting a rate study. “The rate study may change the way we approach charges for services.”

SUD has 700 sewer customers, 200 with grinder pumps. Spreading the cost among all SUD sewer customers would result in each having a $3 monthly fee. No one on the SUD board has a sewer connection requiring a grinder pump.

“I’m torn,” conceded SUD Commissioner Amanda Bailey. “A deal is a deal. But I don’t want to pay.”

In other business the board approved water service to the 14-lot Oaks residential development in Deep Woods. The developer will pay for all costs related to the line extension, and after one year, SUD will assume ownership. All lots will be charged a $5 monthly dry tap fee until water service and regular billing begins.

Smith observed potential customers further down Deep Woods Road might want to pay for extending the service line further. McBee said 14 people wanted taps. “The line is about 40 percent of the way there,” Beavers said.

The board also approved extending the contract with LTS Construction from May 1 to Aug. 7 to allow LTS to continue sewer rehabilitation work. Beavers applied for and received permission to redirect unused American Rescue Plan Act funds from the Lead and Copper Survey to the Sewer Rehabilitation project.

Accountant Buddy Petty, principal for the firm RateStudies, has resumed work on the SUD rate study. Petty paused working on the study to allow the auditor to determine if figures logged in the wrong categories by the software required a correction to the audit. All totals were accurate. The auditor said updating the audit was not necessary. Beavers will supply Petty with data showing corrected category entries.

Updating the board on drought concerns, Beavers said March rainfall was 3.36 inches, 1.5-2 inches below normal. “We usually get a good 5 inches. Ten inches for the year is also low. It’s been dry,” Beavers acknowledged. “We’re rated abnormally dry, and we’re surrounded by exceptionally dry, verging on official drought. Unfortunately, I expect it’s not going to get a whole lot better. We’re preparing for that, making sure all meters are working. We only have two small leaks we know of.” Regional water utility managers will begin meeting weekly to assess conditions.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“As you know, rural Tennessee has been invaded by various things,” said Grundy County Mayor Michael Brady addressing the Grundy County Commission on May 18, calling for a moratorium banning high-impact data processing facilities. “We have not had any data mining or anything of that nature, but doing our due diligence, I feel this is something we need to do.” The commission voted unanimously to approve the Data Mining Moratorium resolution Brady introduced, distinguishing Grundy County as only one of two counties in the state to call for a temporary moratorium on high impact data processing facilities. Metropolitan Lynchburg in Moore County enacted a moratorium in April. A Hawkins County resolution calls for a permanent ban, but the county faces a lawsuit challenging the resolution.

The Grundy County resolution reads: “A temporary moratorium is hereby imposed for a period of two (2) years from the effective date of this Resolution on the establishment, construction, erection, alteration or expansion of any data center, cryptocurrency mining facility or other high-impact data processing facility in Grundy County.”

“This moratorium is a temporary halt on any action or detrimental thing impacting water usage and things of that nature,” Brady said.

Expanding on the meaning of “high-impact data processing facility,” Brady cited the following characteristics: “extremely high energy consumption and strain on existing utility infrastructure; significant noise generation from cooling systems and backup generators affecting adjacent residential areas and general quality of life; substantial water usage for cooling purposes; potential environmental impacts, including hazardous material storage and electronic waste disposal; and land use compatibility concerns, particularly in rural or agriculturally zoned districts.”

Artificial Intelligence, especially generative AI, largely drives the demand for high-impact data centers. The financial institution Goldman Sachs projects AI workloads will make up 28 percent of the global data center market by 2027, up from 13 percent in 2025, doubling in two years.

Asked why Grundy County did not ban high-impact data centers permanently, Brady said, “We stretch into the legal limits, but it [a moratorium] can be renewed.”

Introducing the resolution, Brady made reference to Grundy County’s effort to regulate sand and rock quarries with the County Powers Act. Facing a legal challenge, Grundy County prevailed in Chancery Court and Appellate Court, but the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled against the county. “We were well within our rights. The ruling came back from the supreme court describing limits. State law does [however] give us the ability to have a moratorium. It’s for a two-year period, May 18, 2026, to May 18, 2028. We can renew the moratorium on that date.”

At the state level, several bills before the General Assembly require electric and water utilities that supply service to data centers to report usage and rates to the Tennessee Public Utilities Commission. Far more aggressive legislation under consideration (HB 1827 and SB 2053) “requires the appropriate local legislative body to approve the location for … a quarry or digital asset mining facility being located in a city or county.” Significantly, the house version of the bill was introduced by Rep. Gary Hicks, former Hawkins County commissioner who represents portions of Hawkins County — the county whose permanent ban of high-impact data centers is being challenged in federal court by the nonprofit Beacon Center on behalf of Exotic Ridge Crypto Company which planned to build a facility in Hawkins County. Hicks introduced the bill on Jan. 21, 2026. The bill applies to any proposed quarry or digital asset mining facility that will be constructed on or after July 1, 2026. The bill has been placed on the House calendar four times and the Senate calendar seven times but has yet come to the floor for a vote in either chamber. Beacon Center filed the federal lawsuit against Hawkins County March 31, 2026. For Hawkins County it is a wait-and-see game. It remains to be determined if the county ban will hold up in court and if the local-approval bill will be voted into law.

The Grundy County resolution stipulates: “This moratorium shall apply to all unincorporated areas of Grundy County.” Brady cautioned, “It [the moratorium resolution] has no authority inside the city limits of Altamont, Palmer, Tracy, and Monteagle. If you know people in those cities, you might encourage them to pass a moratorium on the same grounds.” Brady can supply interested city officials with language for a resolution.

The Sewanee Fourth of July Committee is now accepting pre-orders for the G.O.A.T Show T-shirts. There are two color options, red or grey. Onesies and toddler sizes cost $10 each. Youth sizes cost $15 each. Adult sizes S-2XL cost $20 each. Adult sizes 3XL-5XL cost $25 each.

Deadline to order is June 15. Pick up will be at the Sewanee July 3rd Street Dance, Angel Park, from 5–7 p.m. Orders are payable by Venmo: @Sewanee-FourthCommittee, or by check payable to Sewanee 4th of July, 138 Lake O'Donnell Rd., Sewanee, TN 37375. Questions? Text Dylan McClure at (931) 636-5711 or email <jdmcclure323@gmail.com>. There is a Google Order form at <https://forms.gle/4FiZ1fE9QPQ2qiad7>.

Earlier this year, clearing and timbering took place on the site designated for the new University apartment community in downtown Sewanee. During the first week of June, site work is scheduled to resume in preparation for building construction.

A prominent feature of the University’s April 2022 Urban Land Institute study, as well as numerous studies conducted in the past decade, was the recommendation to increase population density in Sewanee, and in particular, in Sewanee Village. While new single family home initiatives remain an important pursuit, renting an apartment remains a preference for a number of employees and seminary students. Creating additional housing options on the Domain will also aid in recruiting, hiring, and retaining both faculty and staff.

Features of the apartment project include:

Forty-eight total apartments constructed in two, three-story buildings

Arlington Construction out of Birmingham as project lead

A single entrance to the apartment community on Highway 41A

The Heritage Trail is extended south from its current termination point at the St. Mark’s Community center to the sidewalk at 41A adjacent to the new apartment buildings

Construction to be completed in September 2027

Additional details about the project can be found online at the University’s website <https://new.sewanee.edu/offices/university-offices/economic-development/sewanee-village-ventures/apartments-project/>.

The University of the South announces the return of the South Cumberland Plateau Summer Meal Program, which will provide free grab-and-go meals for children across the region from June 1 through July 31, 2026. There will be no service on July 4.

The program will operate at multiple community sites throughout the South Cumberland Plateau, ensuring children ages 2–18 continue to have access to nutritious meals during the summer months when school is out of session. Meals are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, and either a child or guardian may pick them up.

In 2025, the program distributed nearly 92,000 meals to children and families throughout the region. Organizers anticipate distributing approximately 100,000 meals this summer due to the addition of an extra week of programming, weather permitting.

“The Summer Meal Program represents the very best of community collaboration,” said Mandy Bouldin, the University’s Director of Community Development. “Every summer, we see firsthand how important reliable food access is for children and families across the Plateau. We are grateful for the volunteers, partners, and organizations that make this effort possible.”

Meal distribution operations are being facilitated by AmeriCorps volunteers serving with the South Cumberland Plateau AmeriCorps program. Volunteers assist with logistics, site coordination, meal counting, and community engagement throughout the summer. When not at meal sites, the Volunteers work at local summer camps and with other nonprofits in the area, providing direct service.

“We could not accomplish this work without the dedication of our AmeriCorps members and the incredible support from the team at McClurg Dining Hall,” said Bouldin. “Their commitment ensures thousands of children receive healthy meals throughout the summer.”

The 2026 Summer Meal Program sites include:

Palmer Library, 2115 Main St., Palmer. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Grundy Safe Communities Coalition, 14399 US-41, Tracy City. Mondays, 3–6 p.m.

Trinity Episcopal Church, 213 1st Ave., NW, Winchester. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pelham United Methodist Church, 2440 SR 50, Pelham. Wednesdays, 3– 6 p.m.

Coalmont Elementary (UT Extension), 7862 TN-56, Coalmont. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Beersheba Springs Medical Clinic, 19592 TN-56, Beersheba Springs. Thursdays, 3–6 p.m.

Sherwood/Crow Creek Community Center, 10225 Sherwood Rd., Sherwood. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Altamont Public Library, 1433 Main St., Altamont. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Morton Memorial UMC Food Distribution, 322 W. Main St., Monteagle. Saturday June 13 and Saturday, July 11, 8–10 a.m.

For site schedules and additional information, families are encouraged to follow the South Cumberland Summer Meal Program on social media to view the official Summer Meal Program flyer.

Every summer the School of Letters invites our acclaimed faculty and other prominent, nationally recognized writers and scholars to read their work and speak about the writing life. The 2026 session will be from June 7 to July 17.

Readings are in Naylor Auditorium at 4:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted, with a reception following in Gailor Atrium.

Wednesday, June 10, 4:30 p.m. Faculty Reading with Nickole Brown & Alice Bolin.

Wednesday, June 17, 4:30 p.m. Guest Reading with Eliana Ramage in Convocation Hall – Co-sponsored with the Friends of the Library.

Thursday, June 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 20th Anniversary Seminars with Adam O’Fallon Price, Dr. Pamela Royston Macfie, & Jamie Quatro - Quatro’s event will be at noon in Stirling’s.

Wednesday, June 24, 4:30 p.m. Faculty & Friends Reading with Meera Subramanian, Travis Eisenbise, & Eric Smith.

Wednesday, July 1, 4:30 p.m. Faculty Reading with Justin Taylor & Emily Adrian.

Wednesday, July 8, 4:30 p.m. John Grammer Fellow Reading with poet Joy Priest.

Wednesday, July 15, 4:30 p.m. Faculty Reading with Daniel Hornsby & Tiana Clark.

Friday, July 17, 5:30 p.m. MFA Candidate Reading in Biehl Commons.

For questions regarding this event, accommodations, or access, please contact <sletters@sewanee.edu>.

Go to <https://letters.sewanee.edu/&g...; for more information.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

More than 300 people joined together to sing “Happy Birthday” and celebrate Sewanee Elementary School, the guest of honor at the 100th birthday fête on May 8 at the school. In anticipation of the celebration, for the past two years SES students met with former students who talked about their experiences at the school. They shared stories about friends, teachers, and things they learned. But one theme recurred in all the former students’ memories. Said SES librarian Kathryn Bruce, who coordinated the event, “Mostly they remembered the love.”

Bruce welcomed the birthday party guests with a mini-history lesson. “Although Billy Goat Hill School had served the community’s children for a number of years, it needed repairs. It needed running water. The people of the community decided they wanted more for their children. The Sewanee Civitan Club said, ‘let’s raise the money and build a school.’ That commitment to children continues today, whether it be the community offering educational experiences through the Friday School, bringing college students to engage students in creating Asian art, or donating supplies and clothing. The love is shown in little things, like that smile given every day, and in big things like the community raising money to build more classrooms so the school could integrate without anyone using lack of space as a reason not to.”

Two former students spoke about their years at SES, Barbara Reed Bedford, who attended SES in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and Erik Taylor, who attended in the 1990s. Both spoke about how SES changed their lives.

“Phoebe Bates came to my class and taught French as a volunteer. That brief weekly encounter made me keep studying French through college. I travelled to France many time and continue to travel all over the world,” said Reed. “SES means family, friends, and community all helping to shape me in a positive way.”

“My father came to Sewanee in the 1950s working for the dining hall,” Taylor said, commenting on his family’s origins as among the African Americans in the Sewanee community. “Mr. Baird was my first basketball coach in the fourth grade. He put me on the team and taught me the game. It catapulted what I was able to do in sports in my career. I played at the University of Memphis, graduated from there, and went on to play professional football for 11 years. Sewanee Elementary was the hope that allowed me to do that, because Mr. Baird took a chance on me.”

The birthday party paid special tribute to three former teachers. Dedicating the stage and cafeteria to music teacher Teresa Brown, Bruce said, “She was more than a music teacher. She was a champion for every student who stepped into the spotlight.” The celebration also paid tribute to former principal Kim Tucker, naming the trail leading to the school’s outdoor classroom “Tucker Trail.” “Kim Tucker looked at the beauty the school was set in, and said, ‘How do we get our children out there more?” Bruce observed. “Kim Tucker was a champion of children being outside and learning through their senses.” The final tribute went to David Gilliam. In naming the gym after Gilliam, Bruce said, “He made fitness feel like an adventure.”

Stationed throughout the school, children dressed in period costumes charmed the birthday party guests with displays and stories about the eras in SES’s history they represented.

The celebration closed with the unveiling of the new sign, an elegant monument made from local mountain stone and crafted by Belvidere Monument. Plans call for a plaque on the back of the sign footnoting the school’s history.

Special thanks went out to the Sewanee Civic Association, the later iteration of the Civitan Club. The SCA, through its nonprofit the Sewanee Community Chest, has donated more than $250k to SES programs and needs in the last decade.

“Community members have always been the backbone of this school since 1926,” said SES Principal Allison Dietz. “Sewanee Elementary isn’t just a building. It’s a place where curiosity is sparked, where friendships are forged, and where every child is truly known and loved by their neighbors. Thank you to the Sewanee community for being our village.”

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

With the goal in sight of amending ordinance to foster a walkable, high-density downtown corridor, at the May 7 meeting the Monteagle Planning Commission bumped up against the unexpected challenge of deciding on the best mechanism to delineate the use of specific sectors in the corridor. As presented, a color-coded map delineated the boundaries. Commissioner Dan Brown pointed to a boundary division running through a parking lot. “I don’t want ambiguity to resolve later on,” Brown stressed. The commission discussed a written description based on streets and parcel boundaries as alternative mechanisms for locating boundaries. The ordinance amendment under consideration delineated three use-specific categories: Primary Commercial; Secondary Commercial; and Residential Overlay.

“In the primary the focus is on commercial development with limited residential,” explained Monteagle Alderman Nate Wilson who worked closely with the planning consultants who drafted the ordinance changes. In the sector designated as Primary Commercial, residential is only allowed on the second story or at the back of the lot. “Secondary Commercial allows some residential uses,” Wilson said. “The difference between primary and secondary and the rationale behind that is they [the planning consultants] didn’t think we have enough rooftops to support pure commercial all the way through the corridor.” The Residential Overlay proposed applies to all residentially zoned property touching the C-1 commercial corridor, Wilson said. Residential property within the proposed overlay designation allowed homes on smaller lots and more housing options such as connected residences. “We’re not changing the zoning,” Wilson insisted. The rules for residence size would remain the same: 800 square feet minimum for R-1 and 600 square feet minimum for R-2 and R-3.

“The purpose is to increase residential density close to downtown,” said town planner Jonathan Rush. “What do you want from this as a town?” he asked. “You should be able to have walkable all the way to the interstate.” As initially proposed, the residential overlay extended to the interstate, which offered a clear cut boundary. The idea was rejected, Wilson said, because of complaints it incorporated too large an area. Wilson pointed out, however, if a larger residential overlay area was desirable in the future, “The outer boundaries of the residential overlay can move.”

The commission supported the goal of increased density and a walkable downtown to foster economic development. “I want the growth,” Brown said.

Regarding the color-coded map delineating a parcel partially in one sector and partially in another, Wilson observed that was sometimes the case with zoning as well. Ordinance provided for the owner requesting the property be all in one zone or the other.

Commissioner Alec Mosley proposed parcel boundaries be used to delineate sectors. Rush cited a problem with that mechanism. “A parcel could change in the future if somebody divides a parcel,” Rush observed.

Mayor Greg Maloof spoke in favor of delineating the boundaries by streets, with commissioners’ comments largely in agreement. Wilson and Rush will work on drafting a street-based boundary mechanism.

Revisiting the newly adopted checklist for developers to keep them informed about what needed done for a project to move forward, Rush suggested clarifying the sequence followed when a site plan was submitted. “A site plan can’t be reviewed until the engineering fee is paid,” Rush said. He proposed adding the engineering fee to the checklist as the first step and stipulating that, following payment of the engineering fee, the site plan would then go to the engineer and town planner for review, as well as to any other professional staff with a stake in the project; following review by professional staff, the site plan would go to the commission. Rush will draft language for the zoning code to reflect the sequence he proposed.

Asked about the controversial fence on Main Street property, Wilson said the codes officer granted permission for the fence based on the relevant ordinance, but there was “an error in the language,” causing misinterpretation. The error has been corrected, and the council is seeking “an amicable solution” with the property owner.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“Can we do better?” asked Franklin County School Board member Sarah Marhevsky at the May 11 meeting, arguing for higher salaries for certified staff. After long discussion, the board approved the 2026-2027 budget as presented without increases in teachers’ wages beyond the standard years-of-experience increase. The board also approved a more restrictive communication devices policy.

“We could do better, but we would be broke,” said Vice Chair Lance Williams in response to Marhevsky’s appeal for higher wages for teachers. “Seventy-nine to 80 percent of the budget is salaries. We would need to cut from somewhere else.”

Human Resources Supervisor and rising director of schools Roger Alsup concurred. “I would like the bottom line to be better, but I don’t want to bankrupt the school.”

“It will be interesting to see what other schools are doing,” said board member Sara Liechty. “I think we’ll be in line.”

At the request of Deputy Director of Finance Jenny Phillips, the budget was approved unconditionally, with or without the county commission allocating growth from property taxes to the schools. “We always put this [stipulation] in,” said Phillips. Marhevsky abstained from the vote.

Franklin County High School Principal Brittney Butner and North Middle School Principal Holly Eslick led the discussion about the communications devices policy. The previous policy allowed principals discretion in disciplinary actions for violation of the policy. “Each school created their own [disciplinary procedures],” Eslick said. Butner and Eslick served on a committee tasked with standardizing the policy and disciplinary procedures for violating the personal communication device use rules.

The policy applies to all personal communication devices and personal electronic devices, from cellphones to gaming devices. Students in grades K-5 are not allowed to have PCDs unless their individual education program, health care needs, or managing a disability call for PCD use.

Students in grades 6-12 can have PCDs but they must be stored (for example, in a backpack or locker) and may be taken out only during lunch.

Butner observed many students had jobs or other commitments they needed to check on. “We wanted to allow them some time to do that,” Butner said.

For the first offense, the device is confiscated; for the second offense, the device is confiscated and a parent must pick it up; for the third offense, a parent must pick up the device, and the student is assigned two days of ASD (After School Detention), one day of ISS (In School Suspension), or one week of lunch detention; for the fourth offense, the device is not allowed back on campus, the student serves two days of ISS, and the student may be suspended or lose driving privileges.

Eslick stressed the committee wanted the same disciplinary actions to apply in middle school and high school.

Both Butner and Eslick said with use restricted to lunch, “the cafeteria was loud.” Even though phone use was allowed, instead of staring at their phones as might have been expected, students were talking and interacting.

The board also approved amendments to three other policies. Employees’ sick leave and vacation time will be prorated if the employee works less than the specified hours to account for less time on the job. The Attendance Policy was amended to allow a principal to excuse a student to attend a course in religious moral instruction for up to one class period per school day.

Marhevsky updated the board on recent legislative action related to the public schools. The Tennessee legislature voted to increase the number of Education Freedom Scholarships to 35,000, instead of the increase to 25,000 called for when the program was adopted last year. Other legislation established an oversight board to manage the Memphis-Shelby County Schools to counter the district’s lagging behind in academic performance. The oversight board has broad authority, which could include firing and hiring a superintendent, textbooks, and classroom curriculum, and will have final say over the district’s $1.7 billion budget.

Franklin County High School graduate and former student school board representative Cason Orr advised the board of a unique educational opportunity in conjunction with the Remote Area Medical clinic to take place June 6-7 at FCHS. The clinic will offer free medical, dental and vision care. Ten spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis for students to shadow medical professionals during the clinic, gaining valuable experience and a useful credential for college applications.

Rock Creek Elementary hosted the May 11 board meeting to celebrate the unveiling of the “Rocket Chair,” a creation of world-renowned mosaic artist Sherri Hunter. The chair with a rocket ship motif design symbolizes the school’s pride, community, and ambition.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

“Beginning in 1908, the Sewanee Civic Association’s primary purpose was to raise money for municipal improvements,” said Sewanee Civic Association President Kiki Beavers welcoming members and guests to the May 4 annual awards ceremony. “The town could not raise money with taxes because it was unincorporated. The SCA is a testimony to what happens when you work together.” Most recently, the community has the SCA to thank for the Sewanee Welcome Center at the old depot site. Current headwind projects include the Stock the Pantry Supply Drive in conjunction with Community Action Committee and the School Supply Drive to ensure children at Sewanee Elementary School have what they need for a rich and rewarding school experience. Among projects worthy of tradition status, the SCA sponsors Sewanee Classifieds, an email based subscription service for sharing news and needs; the Community Chest fund drive which supports a vast array of programs ranging from aid to senior citizens to childcare to animal welfare; and the tradition giving rise to the evening’s gathering, the annual awards ceremony celebrating behind the scenes movers and shakers who do without being asked and then do more.

Kathryn Bruce and Bentley Cook shared the honor of the 43rd annual Community Service Award for their outstanding contributions to the community. Awardees are selected by community nomination. The SCA board selects Summa Cum Laude award recipients. This year Patrick Dean and William Shealy shared the honor.

Bruce, Sewanee Elementary School librarian, rose to the challenge of coordinating the birthday celebration of SES which turns 100-years-old this year. Through guiding student research, collecting oral histories, and showcasing photos and memorabilia, Bruce brought to life the story of a school built by the community and rooted in the belief of education for all, regardless of race, social class, or economic standing. The official birthday party takes place Friday, May 8, at SES from 5-7 p.m. Said Bruce in receiving the award, “It’s an honor to be a part of a school who has such a rich history, to work with kids and to help them realize this place really cares about what happens at the little school across the street. To help tell its story has been fun.”

In delivering the award to Bentley Cook, member-at-large David Michaels summed up Cook’s contributions to the community in 10 words: “He’s the first one to raise his hand to help.” Cook has volunteered as Sewanee Classifieds Administrator for a decade and for the past four years as treasurer. He led the rewrite of the SCA bylaws and authored many of the association’s policies. Cook also serves as treasurer of Housing Sewanee, is a member of the Sewanee Volunteer Fire Department, and coordinates the July 4 Sewanee Dog Show.

The SCA honored Dean and Shealy for their invaluable contributions to the Sewanee Welcome Center project. Dean, Mountain Goat Trail Alliance executive director, and Shealy, University Director of Economic Development, took a lead role in sharing and communicating the project’s story and historical significance to the community and grant partners. They also worked to coordinate the MOU with the University and offered advice on outdoor amenities and finishing touches such as paint, lighting, flooring, and counters. In receiving the award, Dean deflected honor to the SCA. “It was the SCA who stood up and took a stand and agreed to be the people in charge of the Welcome Center project,” Dean stressed. He also thanked the SCA Community Chest for the generous funding given to the Mountain Goat Trail Alliance, pointing to the e-bikes the Sewanee Police recently began to use to patrol the trail.

The 2025-2026 Community Chest surpassed the $118,500 goal by $35. The expenses are $2,873, making the total to be raised at $121,408. This year’s fund drive is short by $2,838. Donations may be sent to Sewanee Community Chest, PO Box 99, Sewanee, TN 37375, or via PayPal Giving <https://www.paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/119597>. In the last decade, the Community Chest brought in over $1.7 million for projects enhancing the quality of life in the Sewanee community.

The SCA budget increased next year’s operating expenses, which are slightly above anticipated revenue due to the addition of $1,600 to the 2026-2027 budget for Welcome Center supplies, incidental items such as toilet paper and cleaning products.

The membership approved the slate of officers for 2026-2027: Ben Trahan, president; Will Reynolds, vice president; Sarah Edmonds, secretary; Ben Austin, treasurer; Kate Reed and Laura Sonderman, members-at-large. Justin Closs will serve as Classifieds Administrator. Beavers will continue to serve as Sewanee Community Chest Administrator.

The Franklin County School District is proud to announce that Dr. Barbara King, Principal of Rock Creek Elementary, has been named a state semifinalist for the 2026-2027 Tennessee Principal of the Year award.

This honor, awarded by the Tennessee Department of Education, recognizes school leaders who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to excellence, and a significant impact on student achievement. Dr. King is one of a select group of leaders across the state to advance to this stage of the competition.

“The Franklin County School District is fortunate to have Dr. Barbara King as principal of Rock Creek Elementary School,” said Dr. Cary Holman, Director of Schools. “Dr. King’s commitment, knowledge, and passionate leadership are pivotal characteristics exhibited each day, ensuring our students achieve their potential in an environment conducive to optimal learning. We are FC Strong.”

Dr. King’s leadership focuses on collaborative success and student-centered growth, translating the district’s mission into daily excellence.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be recognized as a semifinalist,” said Dr. Barbara King. “This honor truly reflects the collective dedication of our entire Rock Creek Elementary community; our exceptional educators, staff, and families. I am inspired daily by our students, and I remain steadfast in my commitment to fostering an environment where every one of them has the opportunity to thrive.”

As a semifinalist, Dr. King will move forward to the next round of the selection process, which includes a rigorous review of professional accomplishments and interviews. The state finalists will be announced by the Tennessee Department of Education later this year.

The Principal of the Year program highlights the vital role school leaders play in shaping the future of the state. Dr. King’s advancement recognizes her visionary leadership, career-long dedication, and ability to drive systemic improvement in Tennessee’s public schools.

Sewanee Elementary School is turning 100 and we want you to help us blow out the candles! We warmly invite all former students, teachers, staff, families, and community supporters to join us on Friday, May 8, from 5–7 p.m., for a special Centennial Celebration.

The evening will feature student-led tours where our current Tigers will share the rich history of our halls. At 5:45 p.m., we will gather for an assembly featuring a special recognition of our new school sign, a dedication of the gym, and a spotlight on our beloved forest trail. Refreshments will be served. Come reconnect with old friends and celebrate the legacy of SES!

The Sewanee Arts and Crafts Association will host its spring crafts fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 9, in Shoup Park on University Avenue. Exhibitor’s include: Faith Vaughn, jewelry; Cheryl Lankhaar, oil, acrylic paintings; Laurel York, hand printing, weaving; Alessandro’s Italian bakery, baked goods; Jim Gadra, wood; Ronald Van Dyke, metal and stone; Bob’s Wood Art, wood; Luise Richards, sewing, crocheting; Cardinal Lake Pottery, clay; Jeanie Stephenson, bronze sculpture; Salem Lexie Farms, Goat milk soap; Patricia Goubeaud, floral art; Community of St. Mary’s, candles, stationery; Sherry Brock, weaving, sewing; Connie Hornsby, fiber art; Danny Phifer, watercolor etchings; Randy McCurdy, stained glass; Dennis Jones, jewelry; Claire Reishman, pottery; Colleen Kay, textile, crochet; Emily Morgan, sewing; Susan Cordell, pottery; Kinion Asmus, Amelia and Adeline Pond, sewing, jewelry, paintings; J.Denise Miller, bookmaking, printing; Marcus Hilden, forged copper and iron; Leo Chang, pottery; Kathryn Bruce, paper angels; Brazier Moon, Copper art and jewelry; Ben Paty, woodturning; Sam Prickett, collage; Ryan Ghertner, pottery; Mike and Mary McElwain, jewelry; Margo and Meridian Cloniger, weaving, jewelry; Debbie Blinder, candles; Bill Mauzy, wood; Rustic Greenhouse, plants; Pate Sisters, jewelry, quilting, embroidery; Susan Parry, glass blown art; The Marugg Company, wood garden tools.