by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

The Monteagle Council again played to a full house at the Aug. 26 meeting. The meeting opened with residents appealing to the developers of a proposed truck stop to consider other options. A motel was suggested. Resident Lucy Keeble observed buyers had offered the RBT developers millions more than they paid for the property. The issue before the council: would the RBT truck stop project be required to comply with new rules passed since the site plan was approved in July 2021.

Mayor Greg Maloof announced “threats” and “shouting” would not be tolerated. He apologized for failure to maintain “effective meeting decorum” at the July meeting. Tempers flared during the discussion about the truck stop project. By Tennessee law, the vested property rights of the project expired July 7, 2024, because in the three years since the site plan was approved, the developers had failed to meet required benchmarks. If Monteagle did not grant the project a vested-property-rights extension, rules not in effect in 2021 would now apply to the project, significantly, Monteagle’s stormwater runoff plan. [See Messenger, August 2, 2024].

Attorneys for both the town and RBT developers addressed the council.

RBT attorney Bill Horton cited the lawsuit brought by Monteagle residents against RBT. “It would have been impractical and illogical for RBT to start construction while a case was on appeal,” Horton argued. “What if the court of appeals had reversed? [The lower court ruled in RBT’s favor.] … The proper thing is to recognize their vested property rights and grant an extension ... Having them start all over is not a rational or fair solution.”

Monteagle attorney Sam Elliott said the town had three options: enforce termination of the vested property rights per state law; pass a resolution terminating the vested property rights; extend the vested property rights.

Alderman Nate Wilson made a motion to pass a resolution terminating the vested property rights. The motion died for lack of a second. Alderman Dan Sargent made a motion to extend the vested property rights for 90 days. Audience members shouted, “No. No.” Sargent’s motion also died for lack of a second.

Wilson then made a motion “the vested property rights be deemed expired by operation of law.” Discussion followed. “I don’t want it to have to cost them out the ‘yin-yang’ to do another site plan,” said alderwoman Dorraine Parmley. Explaining the project’s current status, Codes Enforcement officer Travis Lawyer said the February stop work order on the project had not been lifted. “[RBT] is in the process of having the building permit reinstated … As the inspector, I must have acknowledgement [the project] has a vested site plan to issue a permit … I’m waiting to hear from the state.”

In the vote to terminate vested property rights, Maloof, Wilson, and alderwoman Jessica Favaloro voted “yes,” Parmley abstained, and Sargent voted “no.” “This isn’t legal!” said RBT developer Rodney Kilgore.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the Aug. 26 meeting, the Monteagle Council moved forward on two issues with a split vote: the location and definition of convenience stores and terminating the vested property rights of the RBT truck stop project [See “Monteagle Terminates Truck Stop Vested Property Rights.”].

The convenience store ordinance amendment defined hours of operation (24-7), inventory (must include grocery items), and parking, along with other parameters, and forbade convenience stores in C-1 commercial zoning. “That’s basically the business district,” observed Mayor Greg Maloof. Alderman Dan Sargent explained the proposed amendment resulted when the planning commission decided to review rules applying to convenience stores. The commission had rejected Dollar General’s site plan application for a store in C-3 commercial zoning, deciding the business qualified as a retail store, not a convenience store. C-3 does not allow retail stores. Sargent voted “no,” opposing adopting the amendment.

In other business, the council approved Police Chief William Raline’s request to purchase eight tasers financed over five years, cost $45,000. Raline said the department’s tasers were “inadequate,” and he could not get batteries. An officer was seriously injured recently when a taser malfunctioned. Alderwoman Dorraine Parmley pointed out Raline first requested the tasers in July. “We expect you to protect us, and we can’t give you the equipment you need. I’m embarrassed by that.” “It’s always a matter of financing,” Maloof said. “We’ve gotten vehicles, we’ve gotten body cameras … case by case, this is the next item on the list of purchase.”

Taking a question about the water supply, Maloof said Monteagle was buying water from Tracy City. He could not enforce “conservation” measures as long as Tracy City and Big Creek still had adequate water.

Updating the council and community on the town plan crafted by the American Institute of Architects, Alderman Nate Wilson said residents could view the plan on the website. A meeting will be in September to solicit input from the community. Some grant opportunities require the town to have a plan. The council approved printing 100 standard-size copies of the 80-90 page document (cost $750) for reference at the meeting. Resident Lucy Keeble offered to pay for printing larger, more easily readable copies for seniors.

The council also voted to approve the $5,000 match called for in a Tourism Enhancement Grant. Alderwoman Jessica Favaloro said the grant, for up to $100,000, would be used for Christmas lighting. The light poles for displaying decorations had faulty electrical connections. Replacement poles cost $750 each and the new snowflake decorations would cost $800 each. The grant would also be used for a “welcome to Monteagle” constructed from mountain stone.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the Aug. 26 meeting, the Sewanee Community Council learned about the speed humps recently installed on two streets, a new student and employee shuttle service, and homes being used for student apartments. The council also heard an update on the stalled Sewanee Village Ventures (SVV) plan to construct apartments

Provost Scott Wilson said the shuttles would run weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. on campus, with twice weekly trips to Monteagle and Winchester. He speculated insurance rules were why shuttle service was limited to students and employees. A resident asked if the University would be open to a private shuttle service available to everyone. “Sure,” Wilson replied.

Wilson also pointed to other new transportation and parking enhancements: bike lanes on both sides of University Avenue; parking on the west side; three ADA compliant parking spaces on the east side; expansion of the student bike lending system; bike stalls in some parking lots; and first-year residence assignments further from central campus to encourage students to walk and learn their way around.

Council member Ben Beavers said he usually biked in the traffic lane to avoid car doors opening on the side where parking was allowed. Wilson observed the risk would be worse if the bike lane was next to the curb and a car door opened — “There would be nowhere to go.”

The speed humps on Green’s View Road and Tennessee Avenue appears to be achieving the intended purpose of slowing traffic, Wilson said. Voicing pedestrian approval for the speed humps, a resident said he overheard the comment, “You can put as many speed humps on Green’s View as you want.”

Another resident stressed the need for speed humps on Kentucky Avenue where there were no sidewalks. “It’s not safe to walk,” he said. “I live in fear someone will be seriously injured,” agreed Traffic Committee Chair Michael Payne. “Kentucky Avenue is only 18 feet wide.” Robert Benton, Assistant Vice President for Facilities Management, explained a Student Security Grant financed the project, making it necessary to prove “student need.” As a result, some streets did not qualify. Payne said the committee would look at recommending other streets for speed hump installation.

Taking up students residing in University owned rental housing, Wilson said two dorms were offline for renovation. Three rental units were being used for student apartments, housing 8-10 students each. The homes had been designated Classical Studies, Creative Guild, and Fine Arts theme houses for “highly responsible” students, Wilson noted. “We have 35-40 more students in the entering class than we expected,” said Vice-Chancellor Rob Pearigen, “It’s a great problem to have.”

Updating the council on the proposed SVV apartments, Vice President for Economic Development and Community Relations David Shipps said, “The construction estimates we received were beyond what made sense given the vision for the project. We’re going to rethink the project with regard to other options.” Shipps speculated that might mean four or five buildings instead of six. He hopes to have the next “version of options” by the Sept. 23 council meeting.

Jimmy Davis, Business Service Director, reported on an environmental impact assessment being done at the airport to comply with FAA and TDOT regulations prior to tree removal to clear a flight path. The results of the assessment will be shared at a public meeting.

At the Nov. 5 General Election, area residents will vote to select one council representative for each district and two at-large representatives. Election Officer Ben Tarhan said council representatives whose term expires could not run for the same seat, but a district representative could run for an at-large seat and vice versa. Nominating petitions are available at the post office and Sewanee Market and must be turned in by Oct. 14.

Project Funding Committee coordinator June Weber said details on a new grant cycle would be announced in September. Unspent monies from the last cycle will rollover into the upcoming cycle making more funding available. The Project Funding program offers grants for projects improving the quality of life in the Sewanee community. Go to < https://new.sewanee.edu/office...; for more information.

Sponsored by the Sewanee Civic Association (SCA), the Sewanee Community Chest (SCC) is pleased to announce the beginning of the 2024–25 grant cycle. All nonprofits that benefit the community are encouraged to apply.

The 2024–25 funding application can be downloaded from the website at <https://sewaneecivic.org>;. The application deadline is Friday, Sept. 13, 2024. Grant funds will be distributed starting April 2025, contingent on funding availability.

This year, organizations can apply online with this form
<https://forms.gle/yNUsFqtuEUdbEviHA;. It does require you to have a Gmail email account.

The SCC is a nonprofit organization and relies on funding from the community in order to support charitable programs throughout the greater Sewanee area. As the 2024–25 grant cycle begins, the SCC is also kicking off its yearly fundraising campaign.

The SCA urges everyone who benefits from life in this community, whether you live, work, or visit, to give generously. Donations are tax deductible. Contributions, payroll deductions and pledges are accepted at any time at P.O. Box 99, Sewanee, TN 37375. You can also make a donation through PayPal Giving.

For more information, email <sewaneecommunitychest@gmail.com>.

Investigation into Vandalism and Theft Incident Ongoing

Public access to Franklin State Forest in Franklin and Marion Counties resumed on Aug. 26, 2024, following a temporary closure that facilitated a still-ongoing investigation into vandalism and theft of state-owned equipment on the forest.

“While we are frustrated by the destruction of equipment used to keep our forests and communities safe from wildfire, we are grateful for law enforcement’s thorough investigation and efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice,” State Forester Heather Slayton said. “We continue to pursue our mission to protect, conserve, and enhance the working forest at Franklin State Forest through active management practices. We welcome the public back and hope they will engage with us to understand the importance of active management to ensure healthy and thriving state forests for generations to come.”

Sometime during July 10-14, 2024, five Tennessee Division of Forestry (TDF) dozers and one dozer transport truck and trailer were vandalized, rendering the equipment inoperable and causing at least $1 million in damage. Equipment was also stolen from the vehicles.

Immediately following the incident, TDF temporarily closed the forest to the public to enable law enforcement agencies to collect evidence.

During the active investigation and closure, three individuals trespassed on the forest and attempted to evade law enforcement. Agricultural Crime Unit (ACU) officers apprehended the individuals, and they are now facing criminal felony and misdemeanor charges.

The investigation involving the ACU, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation is ongoing.

A reward for $10,000 is being offered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture for information leading to the apprehension, arrest, and conviction of the person(s) responsible for vandalism and theft on Franklin State Forest.

Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact ACU at 844-AG-CRIME (844-242-7463) or <agriculture.crime@tn.gov>.

Further details on the incident can be found in the TDA newsroom at <www.tn.gov/agriculture/news/2024/7/16/state-forest-closed-to-the-public-during-investigation.html>.

Visitors can find more information about Franklin State Forest, including road usage maps, at <www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests/state-forests/franklin.html>.

The Division of Forestry protects Tennessee’s forests by fighting wildfires, coordinating hazard emergency response, providing prescribed fire guidance and contract services, as well as wildland fire training. Additionally, the Division promotes the responsible use of forest resources by assisting landowners, providing quality seedlings, monitoring insects and diseases, improving urban forests, managing state forests, protecting water quality, and collecting forest inventory data. The Division also works to promote primary and secondary forest industries to stimulate the state’s economy. Visit <www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests> for more information.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

When Emerald Hodgson Hospital failed to respond to a notice they neglected to test their backflow prevention devices, SUD policy called for cutting off their water. “I couldn’t do it,” SUD manager Ben Beavers told the board of commissioners at the Aug. 20 meeting, providing background on the Director’s Order and notification of a fine recently received from Tennessee Department for Environment and Conservation (TDEC). The order stated: “Respondent failed to follow its approved cross connection control plan. Test reports for four backflow prevention devices were missing.” As a result of the order and fine, SUD is considering a more stringent cross-connection policy. The policy applies to all customers with backflow prevention devices to prevent contaminants from entering the drinking water supply.

The order also cited SUD for two minor violations: failure to give a step-by-step account of the disinfection process during a line repair and failure to record chlorine residue when installing new taps. TDEC fined SUD $14,690, with $2,938 due now and the remainder forgiven if SUD complies with the directives given in the order.

Beavers proposed a new policy stipulating if a customer failed to test a backflow prevention devices, SUD would test the device and charge the customer $500. “The cost needs to be high enough to get their attention,” Beavers said. “The policy should also state they need to reimburse SUD for the penalty,” SUD President Charlie Smith suggested. “Otherwise, the rate payers pay it.” “I’ll have to ask [SUD’s attorney] if we can pass on the penalty,” Beavers said. Beavers will consult SUD’s attorney Don Scholes and draft a policy revision for the board to review.

Looking ahead to the 2025 budget, the board also considered charging customers with irrigation meters and customers with grinder pumps a monthly base fee and increasing the fee for installing a new tap.

Beavers pointed out SUD read irrigation meters every month even though the meters typically only registered usage a few months out of the year. “I think we should have some means to recover the cost of checking the meters,” Beavers said. SUD charges $5 per month for dry taps not in use.

Suggesting a monthly fee for the 200 customers with grinder pumps, Beavers explained the pumps had an eight-year lifespan and SUD paid for replacing them. Grinder pumps cost $2,000 each. The cost for replacing the pumps was passed on to all customers, whether they had a grinder pump or not. Beavers proposed an $8 monthly fee for customers with grinder pumps, yielding $1,600 in revenue annually, almost enough to pay for one pump.

Beavers also proposed increasing the fee for installing a new tap. The fee had not increased since 2008, Beavers said, but SUD’s cost for installing a tap had increased by approximately $1,000. “It would require a rate study to justify the increase,” Beavers said. “It’s probably due.” SUD has not done a rate study since 2008. “Increasing the tap fee is consistent with our growth-pays-for-growth model,” Smith said. Postponing the tap fee increase until a rate study was done will mean the tap fee increase cannot be included in this year’s budget.

Updating the board on the transition to the new billing software, Beavers said one customer’s address had been inaccurately ported into the new system. He asked customers to phone the office (931) 598-5611 to verify their contact information.

Next month the SUD board will meet on Sept. 10, a week earlier than usual.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At a special called meeting Aug. 15, the Monteagle Council approved on first reading an ordinance allowing unmanned traffic cameras in the school zone during the hours when the children are arriving at and departing from Monteagle Elementary. The council also approved a task order to engage LJA Engineering to conduct the lead and copper survey required by the EPA.

Mayor Greg Maloof stressed the unmanned traffic camera ordinance only allowed the cameras to be used in school zones. “I’m not crazy about the idea,” Alderman Nate Wilson said, “but I’m deferring to [Police Chief] Raline as long as its limited to the school zone. [Raline] thinks it is a good thing.”

A police officer will continue to direct traffic at Monteagle Elementary during arrival and departure times. “The officer directing traffic can’t be the chase vehicle if you go through the school zone and speed,” Maloof explained. “Part of the object of [officers directing traffic] is to get vehicles in and out quickly … Volunteers can’t be used to direct traffic.”

“When other communities in Tennessee are getting rid of their traffic enforcement cameras, why all the sudden does Monteagle need one?” a resident asked. “Is there a problem in the school zone?”

“It’s a staffing issue,” Wilson replied. Monteagle only has two officers on duty and both would need to be at the school to enable police to apprehend speeders.

At the July 29 Monteagle Council meeting, Police Chief William Raline said in a baseline test over five days during school hours, 22,000 vehicles passed through Monteagle’s school zone with 12,000 speeders and 48 mph the average speed [see Messenger, August 2, 2024]. When drivers receive a speeding citation, the $50 fine will be split between the town and Blue Line, the company supplying the unmanned traffic camera service. A ticket issued in error on a day when school is not in session will be voided.

“Every ticket must be approved internally by our police department,” Wilson said. “It provides a check and balance.” Blue Line will pay the wage for police-officer time spent reviewing citations.

Wilson cited Tennessee Code Annotated confirming traffic violations recorded by unmanned cameras were categorized as “nonmoving violations” and the fines issued could be enforced.

“If we were having cameras down in front of the Piggly Wiggly I would object to that,” Alderwoman Doraine Parmley said, “but if it’s in the school zone and keeping kids safe, I’m okay with that.”

Blue Line supplies and programs the cameras at no cost to the city. Blue Line’s only revenue is half the amount of the fine when a driver is cited, with the other half going to the city.

“We hope we don’t make any money [from citations],” insisted Alderman Dan Sargent.

Monteagle received a $250,000 grant to cover the cost of the lead and copper survey.

“This is an 80-20 [matching] grant,” Wilson said. “We talked about our utility department workers doing some of the work to cover the 20 percent match. It involves a lot of digging, things our guys could do.”

Maloof pointed out LJA’s primary task would be reports and spread sheets. “I’m not sure it involves a lot of digging,” he said. Clifftops and Cooley’s Rift homes were already known not to have lead pipes because the homes were constructed after using lead pipes became illegal.

The total estimated cost of the project is $219,180. The council deferred discussion on whether utility department labor could count towards Monteagle’s matching contribution.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

The Highlander Folk School site in Monteagle, owned by the Tennessee Preservation Trust (TPT), is being sold. On a June 28 vote, the TPT board weighed the merits of two bidders, the Highlander Research and Education Center and Caverns owner Todd Mayo, choosing Mayo. Due to a complex set of circumstances, the TPT board may revote the decision. The Highlander Center and Mayo agreed to talk with the Messenger about their vision for the property.

The Highlander Folk School opened in the Summerfield community of Monteagle in 1932 to educate the region’s miners and help them organize to win better wages and working conditions. In the 1950s Highlander took up the cause of civil rights, schooling people throughout the southeast in the literacy skills needed to vote and in Monteagle schooling up and coming civil rights leaders in strategies for non-violent civil disobedience. A photo of Martin Luther King, Jr. at a workshop led to Highlander being targeted as a communist training school. In 1961 the state revoked the school’s charter, confiscated the 200-acre site and buildings, and sold the property at auction.

“What they did, the Appalachian coal miners and civil rights leaders is tied to the best parts of our history,” Mayo said. “I want to protect and preserve that history.” The property offered for sale by TPT includes 10-11 acres of the original site, the Highlander Folk School library building, a dilapidated cabin, and two contemporary homes currently being rented. The Highlander Center formed the day after confiscation of the folk school site, reopened in Knoxville and later moved to New Market to escape racial harassment. “We want to preserve our story and our legacy and make sure any museum or monument on that land accurately portrays the history and the work we’ve been a part of,” said Evelyn Lynn, Highlander Center Special Projects Organizer.

Expanding on his vision, Mayo said, “I want to bring school kids here to be inspired by what happened, for every kid in the state of Tennessee to go on a field trip to Highlander.” He envisions tours and exhibits at the site drawing tourists and using the revenue to fund the field trip program.

The Center wants to see “a museum that tells the real story of the movements that grew out of and were connected to the school,” Lynn said pointing to Highlander’s work promoting civil rights and schooling coalminers in organizing. “These are stories about how regular folks have brilliance and come up with solutions that can change the course of history.”

“Highlander should be on the Tennessee Civil Rights Trail and the National Civil Rights Trail,” Mayo insisted. “I want Highlander to be for the people of Grundy County and to celebrate them and to be part of their history.” Mayo hopes to video record local people with a connection to Highlander’s history with stories to tell.

Committed to “participatory design,” Lynn said the Center’s hopes for historic Highlander include traditional folk-school programming, “to bring people together to learn and share skills, everything from crafts, to car repair, to music.” Lynn pointed out folk-school programming would also draw tourists and bring in tourist dollars, putting money in the pockets of the local people teaching the classes.

Lynn stressed the historic role of music in Highlanders heritage and the school’s link to the civil rights anthem “We Shall Overcome.” Asked if he had plans for a music venue at the historic Highlander site, Mayo replied, “No way.” “Nor am I going to build tiny homes,” he added dispelling another rumor.

Is the sale of the original Highlander site a competition between Mayo and the Center? Should it be?

A mutual friend introduced Mayo and historic preservationist David Currey who pulled together funders for TPT’s purchase of the site. Inspired by Currey’s passion, Mayo donated money to finance restoration of the library and put Currey in contact with a local contractor to do the work. Unfortunately, contention marred the relationship between the Center and Currey.

In early December 2023, the Center expressed an interest in purchasing historic Highlander, making a $1.5 million offer. According to Lynn, TPT Board Chair Phil Thomason told the Center, “We’re not contemplating further changes.” The Center learned through an anonymous source soon afterwards TPT asked Mayo if he wanted to purchase the property.

Mayo’s understanding was TPT was selling the property to satisfy creditors. Legalities required the state attorney general to review and approve the sale. Among the criteria the attorney general required was that TPT show they sought multiple bids or had an appraisal done. In late May, Lynn said, Thomason contacted the Center and invited them to bid on the property.

With less than three weeks to submit a purchase offer, the Center scrambled to satisfy the requirements—proof of funding, letters of support, and a detailed architectural conservation plan for the site, an undertaking that normally takes months. The purchase offer stressed the Center’s willingness to negotiate all terms and welcomed collaborating with TPT on the historic Highlander preservation effort. The Center’s bid was $200,000 higher than Mayo’s.

On July 8 TPT’s attorney contacted the Center. TPT rejected their offer. The reasons: TPT preferred staying with the current contract with Mayo to expedite the process; Mayo had already acquired conservation easements on the property; and Mayo had agreed to future partnerships with TPT. Dismayed by the news, especially since the Center had also stressed partnering with TPT, the Center subsequently learned the board never saw their 89-page proposal, only a brief summary of their offer, and when presenting the summary, Thomason questioned the Center’s ability to pay.

Lynn said the proof of funding submitted clearly demonstrated the Center’s financial viability. In retrospect, she questions the sincerity of TPT’s invitation to submit. Although the Center was aware of the attorney generals’ multiple-bidders requirement, Lynn insisted, “We hoped the invitation was authentic. Don’t invite the original organization whose land was stolen by segregationists to have us running around on a fool’s errand. It adds insult to injury.”

Word has gotten back to the Center that having learned they never saw the Center’s full proposal, some TPT board member want to revote the decision.

“It’s not about Todd Mayo. It’s not about 100 percent ownership,” Lynn said. “We want a seat at the table. We want to make sure those who fought and died for the place are respected.”

“I 100 percent believe the New Market folks should have a voice,” Mayo said. “The Highlander Center is doing the work of social justice. What they started in the 1930s is awesome. It should be protected and honored and that can raise awareness and benefit what they’re doing now. If they get it and want to meet with me, I’m good with that. I want to fight forward, not back.”

Mayo hopes the past contention between Currey and the Center can be mediated.

“We’re willing to put that behind us and go forward,” Lynn said. “If we own it, we want to partner with Mayo, and if he owns it, we want to partner with him.” Looking to economics, having two Highlanders confused donors, she pointed out.

Mayo and the Center were on the verge of setting a date to meet, but Mayo contacted them August 16 and wanted to postpone. “It’s awkward,” he said, citing the uncertainty. “There’s no reason to meet about it, until there’s a reason to meet.”

“We’ve heard different things about Todd,” Lynn said, “but most of it’s been good. Most people believe he wants to do good things. We’re trying to figure out a way to make this work that doesn’t cause conflict.” The Center has already initiated grassroots level conversations with local people in Grundy County. “We’re going to be there regardless of how this turns out,” she insisted. “How do we get Todd to talk to us?”

Both TPT and David Currey declined to talk with the Messenger for this story.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

The Franklin County School Board approved new policies on Artificial Intelligence and Therapy Pets at the Aug.12 meeting, with one board member voting against adopting the therapy dog policy. The policy amendment on homeschoolers participating in public-school interscholastic sports also passed but without full consensus of the board.

Board member Erik Cole submitted the Therapy Pet policy for adoption, prompted by a March presentation to the board and his personal experiences. When therapy dogs visited his children in ICU, “It made a huge difference,” Cole said.

Director of School Cary Holman said at present the state had only approved the use of therapy dogs in several schools “as a pilot.” In response, the Tennessee School Board Association (TSBA) drafted a policy on therapy pets. Holman stressed the policy stipulated, “There must be a presentation of evidence that says this is why you’re wanting to have a dog in the schools.”

Board member Linda Jones who voted against adopting the policy said, “We need to consider [children’s] fears.” Jones wanted more information on the parameters regulating therapy dogs use in the schools.

In the discussion about homeschooled children participating in interscholastic athletics, Board member Sandy Schultz questioned the statement, “home-school students that are zoned for the school shall be permitted to participate.” “Does that mean [students] have to participate in the school they’re zoned for?” Shultz asked. Board Vice Chair Lance Williams replied, “We aren’t zoned. We have bus zones, but our schools aren’t zoned.” Holman explained, if no bus was available to the school a student wanted to attend, the student could attend that school if the parents provided transportation and provided the school had sufficient teachers to take on additional students. In regard to where homeschooled children participated in athletics, Holman said, “They could go anywhere.”

Objecting to the zoning language, Shultz voted against approving the Interscholastic Athletics policy amendment on homeschooler participation.

Introducing the Artificial Intelligence policy, Human Resources Supervisor Roger Alsup said, the TSBA required districts to adopt an AI policy. The policy states, “Staff may use AI in the completion of their own work. This may include, but not be limited to, drafting communications, notes, images, and the development of content for instruction … Generative AI programs may not be accessed by students.”

“What does this mean for students outside of school?” asked board member Sarah Marhevsky.

“There are programs to scan student work and tell you the likelihood it’s been done through AI,” Alsup said.

In response to the comment that these types of assessments produced “a lot of false positives,” Holman said, “Teachers are going to know a student’s verbiage and their vocabulary usage. They could have students write a rebuttal to support what they turned in. Teachers would pick up very quickly if it was generated by AI.”

Citing a beneficial use of AI generated text in instruction, Schultz said, “It’s a learning tool to see how something can be written.”

In other business, the board approved the long-discussed mutual agreement between the city of Huntland and the Board of Education allowing Huntland School to use the Huntland City Park fairground for soccer games and practice, free of charge. The agreement has no end date. “The city of Huntland recommended revisiting the agreement every five years,” said Huntland Principal Lisa Crabtree. “Right now, there are no facilities such as electricity on site that would create a bill, but sometime in the future there might be. That was the reason for leaving it open.”

Testing Coordinator Amy Sanders provided the board with an overview of TCAP testing data trends. Board member Sarah Marhevsky questioned the decline in scores from elementary school to middle school. “We attribute some of that loss to the upheaval of moving to middle school,” Sanders said. “I can’t look at the test, so I don’t know exactly.” “Who does look at the test?” Marhevsky asked. “The state and students,” Sanders said. “We’re at the mercy of what the state decides,” Holman said. “The number of questions will vary from one year to the next … There are variances in standards, in question type, as well as test time.”

Get ready for a weekend packed with fun and purpose for the Friends of South Cumberland State Parks, with a fundraiser and the annual meeting and picnic.

The Boots, Baubles and Bubbly Fundraiser will be 5–7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21. Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration and philanthropy, at the Clifftops home of Susan Thomas. As we mark our 30th anniversary, we invite you to join us in raising a glass to the beauty and preservation of our beloved parks.

Indulge in delicious hors d’oeuvres, sip on handcrafted cocktails and mocktails, and enjoy live music as we celebrate our accomplishments and look ahead to an exciting future. Don’t forget to dress to impress for our “Outdoor Couture” theme! The most creative combination of outdoor attire and elegance will win a special prize (think Patagonia and pearls, boots and blazers, Chacos and Chanel)!

Your support is essential to our continued success in protecting the plateau for generations to come. Thanks to generous sponsors, all proceeds from this event will directly benefit Friends of South Cumberland State Parks. Tickets are $125 per person (100 percent tax-deductible). Go to <https://friendsofscsra.app.neo...;.

We’re excited to invite you to our Friends of the Parks annual meeting and picnic on Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Ayres Center at St. Mary’s Sewanee. Join us and learn about the future of our parks.

Help us kick off our 31st year of protecting the plateau by joining us for our annual meeting where you’ll hear exciting updates. Learn about the progress of the new visitor center and campground at Savage Gulf, the development at Woodland Preserve, and the expansion of the Mountain Goat Trail. We’ll also discuss the possibility of adding a third park to our system!

The free meeting will begin at 12:30. Optional box lunches will be available starting at 11:30 A.M., but you must pre-order below if you want lunch.

Please RSVP and pre-order your box lunch. Lunch orders must be in by Sept. 8. Go to <https://friendsofscsra.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events#/events/6726;.

Gov. Bill Lee and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced the creation of the Office of Outdoor Recreation to further the state’s conservation efforts and to help residents and visitors have more access to Tennessee’s great outdoors.

Lee made the announcement at the second annual Tennessee Conservation Summit in Nashville, where key stakeholders gathered to align priorities and develop further strategies around conservation. Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly have made record investments in Tennessee’s great outdoors. This new office will help to ensure the state delivers meaningful returns on those investments. Brian Clifford has been appointed director to lead the office, headquartered at TDEC in Nashville.

“This office will help us leverage Tennessee’s unparallelled natural resources and beauty to improve our quality of life and create lasting memories for Tennessee families and visitors,” Lee said.

“The governor and the legislature have given us the means and leadership to make conservation a priority across the state,” said TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. “We want this office to be as effective as it can be, and we’re excited about what this means for Tennessee. The office will play a vital role in our mission.”

“Conservation is a team sport, including federal, state, local, and private partners,” Clifford said. “We’re already making great strides to protect and share Tennessee’s great outdoors, and this new office will capitalize on that momentum. The office is one of, if not the most, comprehensive offices of outdoor recreation in the nation, with a strong focus on actually getting things done on the ground.”

The office was created with existing resources to further state conservation efforts without expanding government.

High on the agenda for the Office of Outdoor Recreation is the governor’s Tennessee Blueways initiative – focusing on developing high-quality water trails across the state. The plan is to ensure that Tennessee has the cleanest and most accessible system of recreation waterways in the nation.

“Tennessee is blessed with world-class rivers and fisheries, and our communities across this state, particularly rural areas, want better access to these unique waterways,” Clifford said.

Lee has spearheaded a Conservation Strategy to create new parks, improve state waterways, and welcome more Tennesseans to enjoy the state’s beautiful natural resources. Conservation is a driver of economic prosperity, especially in rural communities. The strategy protects natural resources, improves health, and enhances quality of life.

“Governor Lee and the agency leads from the Tennessee Outdoor Partnership who helped generate today’s announcement are showing the nation what the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy means for states and communities,” said Jessica Wahl Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “The new office will take Tennessee’s $11.9 billion outdoor recreation economy to the next level and help promote strong relationships between agencies and with communities of all sizes to connect Tennessee’s residents to the great outdoors. We can’t wait to support their future work and watch the economic, health, and community benefits this new office will create.”

To learn more about the new Office of Outdoor Recreation visit <https://www.tn.gov/environment/outdoorrec.html;.

The University Art Gallery is delighted to present “The Essence of Their Ticking,” a retrospective celebrating the work of Arlyn Ende (1932-2022) and Jack Hastings (1925-2013), in collaboration with Tinney Contemporary, Nashville, from Aug. 28 through Oct. 13, 2024.

The opening reception will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, in Convocation Hall.

Local artist Cass Gannaway will lead an Introduction to Rug Hooking workshop in Convocation Hall on Saturday, Aug. 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is free, and supplies will be provided, but spots are limited. Please reserve your place by emailing Shelley MacLaren <sjmaclar@sewanee.edu> before Aug. 23.

Arlyn Ende and Jack Hastings were remarkable people and artists, and beloved community members.

Their lives and work together spanned decades and places, from their meeting in New Orleans in the 1950s, to New York and Boston, to Rhode Island and Arizona. They made Tennessee their home in 1972, first on a farm in Bradyville, and then, after 1994, in Sewanee at their homestead Deepwoods.

In some ways, their work could not be more distinct. Ende worked extensively with textiles, while Hastings sculpted in concrete and metal. Ende explored liminalities and ephemeral states, while Hastings embodied archetypes.

Both were inventive and adaptable, expansive and generous. They thought, dreamed, and worked at a community-wide — and sometimes even universal — scale. Embracing different media, and constantly experimenting, both were ingenious — designing looms to accommodate the scale of her work in Ende’s case, working out how to transport and install so many tons of concrete or metal in Hastings’. Both thought very carefully about how their work would be embedded in a place, about how it would change over time, and about how it could be responsive.

Arlyn Ende studied pre-med and fine art at Louisiana State University, as well as design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and drawing at the Tulane School of Architecture. Throughout her career she worked with textiles — designing dresses for her clothing line FogEater (1966-1972), creating large scale “tapetas” to warm and humanize commercial and institutional spaces (1979-2010), and hooking inventive, playful rugs. In the early 2000s she moved towards printmaking and collage, with specific attention to ecologically friendly methods. For many years Ende’s competition-winning wall textiles (commissioned 1980) offered wayfinding and comfort for eleven floors of Vanderbilt Medical Center in Nashville. From the earliest days of her career in New Orleans and New York, Ende also used her expertise and know-how to foster the work of others. Here in Tennessee she was first president of the Cannon Association of Craft Artists, and was instrumental in launching the Arts Center of Cannon County, including acting as their first Program Director from 1992 to 1994. At the University of the South, she was Director of the University Art Gallery from December 2000 until mid-2007.

Jack Hastings trained at Louisiana State University, and at the Escuela de Pintura, Escultura y Grabado in Mexico City. Inspired by Conrad Albrizio and Diego Rivera, he began as a muralist, then cast bronze, carved cement, cold-formed steel, and shaped and painted sheet metal. Throughout his practice he integrated his artwork into architectural settings, into the landscape, and into the communal experience of a place. For many years his monumental steel mobiles Homage to Calder (1986) and Dancing on Air (1999) graced and enlivened TVA Headquarters in Chattanooga and the Nashville International Airport.

Outdoor installations of Hastings’ work in concrete can be found nearby the exhibition in the University Art Gallery — in the Jack Gooding Memorial Garden at St. Andrew’s-Sewanee School (1998) and the Environmental Garden at the I-75 Welcome Center in Chattanooga (1982). Hastings’ painted steel sculptures (Standing Ovation (1992) and Logos (2000) act as landmarks for The Arts Center of Cannon County, and at Stirlings’ Coffee House on the campus of the University of the South.

This exhibition builds on Tinney Contemporary’s prior exhibitions of Arlyn Ende and Jack Hastings’ work, folding in work generously loaned by the Tennessee State Museum, the William R. Laurie University Archives and Special Collections of the University of the South, and a private collector.

The University Art Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and noon until 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the Aug. 6 meeting, the Monteagle Planning Commission took action, making recommendations in response to two issues grappled with at the July 29 Monteagle Council meeting: campground location and site plan expiration. The commission also proposed Monteagle adopt an ordinance amendment more clearly defining convenience stores and prohibiting them in C-1 commercial zoning.

At the July meeting, the council rejected an ordinance amendment that would have allowed campgrounds only as a special use in C-2 commercial and R-3 residential zoning. The council wanted to see an ordinance amendment that allowed campgrounds as a special use in C-3 zoning as well.

Speaking to the background of the council’s request, Alderwoman Dorraine Parmley said a resident requested locating a campground on C-3 property months ago. Town planner Jonathan Rush said campgrounds were not allowed in C-3, and at the time of the request, the council voted not to change that rule and to restrict campgrounds in C-2 to special use on review. “I’m not big on campgrounds on Highway 41,” said Commission Chair Ed Provost. “If we look at each case stand alone, we get better results. Special use per incident is the way to go.” Commissioner Dan Sargent pointed out the proposed C-3 campground was in a forested area on Trussell Road. “Ninety percent of the community will never see it,” Sargent said. A resident suggested rezoning the Trussell Road property to C-2. “That would be spot zoning,” Rush replied. “We need to do something,” Provost said, noting the original request was made six months ago. “Time is of the essence.” Rush will draft an ordinance amendment allowing campgrounds as a special use upon review in both C-2 and C-3 zoning for the council to vote on at the Sept. 3 meeting. Currently campgrounds are allowed as a special use in R-3 and in C-2 with no review required.

At the July 29 meeting, the Monteagle council also struggled with a request to reinstate a building permit for a proposed truck stop, when according to Tennessee law, the site plan had expired. [See “Monteagle Truck Stop Controversy Flares Up Again,” Messenger, August 2, 2024]. In June of 2023, the planning commission recommended the council approve an ordinance amendment establishing criterion for expiration of building permits. “Due to clerical error, it [the recommended amendment] never came before the council,” Provost said.

The commission voted again to recommend adoption of the ordinance amendment addressing building permit expiration, adding a restatement of the provision stipulating, “Site plans lapse when the vested period provided by the TCA, Tennessee Code Annotated, has expired and no extension has been granted, and there is no active building permit when the vesting period expires. The project site plan must be updated and resubmitted to the planning commission prior to issuance of a new building permit if the project has not made progress in 12 months.” Provost stressed, “This is Tennessee Code. This is not something we have any leeway in.”

“Do we take into consideration the 17 months of litigation where nothing could have been done?” Parmley asked referring to the RBT truck stop project and a possible reason for granting leniency in determining site plan expiration. “I’m not commenting on RBT,” Provost said. According to Provost, he and Mayor Greg Maloof recently received a communication from the city attorney pertaining to the legal status of the project. The commission will review the attorney’s position at a workshop at 4 p.m., Sept. 3, immediately prior to the regular commission meeting. The commission will then make a recommendation to the council.

The amendment to the ordinance governing convenience stores established rules for size, parking, hours of operation (24/7 unless waived), and what products must be offered. The required product list includes “grocery type items,” as well as “beverages and snacks.” Rush said the entire central business district was zoned C-1, and the amendment would prohibit convenience stores there. The amendment will go to the council for approval.

The commission revisited a tabled request by Jessie Goodman to rezone a tract across from the National Guard Armory from C-2 to R-3 to build townhouses. In addition to rezoning, to move forward Goodman would need a connection to public sewer and an easement to cross public land to make the connection. Maloof said both the capacity of the line and easement across public land called for consultation with the city engineer. Commission rules only allow tabling a request twice. Rather than table the request a second time, Goodman withdrew the site plan on the advice of Rush. Following discussion with the engineer, Goodman will be allowed to resubmit without paying a second fee.

Drawing Closer to God, an iconography retreat led by Sewanee artist Martha Keeble, will take place Sept. 13–15, at the historic Franklin House in Cowan.

Iconography is a contemplative spiritual practice, a meeting place between the divine and the human. Part of its symbolism is transmitted through the step-by-step technique used to create it, including style, materials, and actions. Icon writing is primarily conducted in prayerful silence while listening to Gregorian chants, so participants engage in this holy discipline both meditatively and creatively.

At the retreat, participants will learn about the history of icons and create their own icon of an archangel with step-by-step instruction from Keeble. No prior art experience is necessary and all materials are provided.

The retreat begins at 3:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 13, continues all day on Saturday, Sept. 14, and concludes at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 15. The retreat will take place in the Firefly Gala Room in the Franklin House located at 108 Cumberland Street E., Cowan. Six meals are included in the cost of the retreat and overnight lodging is also available.

To register or for more information, call Keeble at (931) 598-0640 or email her at <sewaneeartworks@gmail.com>.

by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

The Monteagle Council tackled several controversial decisions at the July 29 meeting. Tempers flared in a two-hour discussion about the future of the proposed Petro truck stop, with the council divided in its final vote. [See “Monteagle Truck Stop Controversy Flares Up Again.”] Two other contested issues confronted the council, as well: whether to allow unmanned traffic cameras, and where to allow campgrounds.

At a July 17 special called meeting, the council had voted down an ordinance allowing unmanned lidar traffic cameras, questioning where the cameras would be used and the financial benefit.

By state law unmanned cameras were allowed “only in school zones,” said Ryan Moore, Blue Line Solutions representative, who addressed the council at the request of Police Chief William Raline. If approved, the contract with Blue Line would also provide the police department with a free handheld lidar camera. Raline explained the handheld cameras would aid officers in places like Laurel Lake Road and construction areas where pursuing speeders was dangerous for both motorists and officers.

The school zone cameras will have three signage mechanisms, including a sign telling the motorist their speed, Moore said. Only speeders exceeding the speed limit by 11 mph will receive citations. Blue Line will set the cameras to only monitor speeding on school days. If, in the case of an unanticipated school closure, a motorist was ticketed, the citation would be revoked.

In a baseline test over five days, 22,000 vehicles passed through Monteagle’s school zone with 12,000 speeders and 48 mph the average speed, Raline pointed out. In cities that implemented cameras, speeding decreased 80 percent. “A citation does not go on your driving history or insurance,” Raline said. “It’s a civil thing.” The $50 fine will be split between the city and Blue Line. “If we get revenue [from the cameras] that’s great. But ideally the traffic slows down.”

“It’s the price of a child’s life,” said a resident voicing approval for the cameras.

The council will vote again on the ordinance after amending the language to reflect the limited use parameters outlined by Moore.

Taking up an ordinance amendment that would have restricted campgrounds in C-2 commercial zoning to a “use on review” decision by the Board of Zoning Appeals, the council voted down the ordinance and will ask the Planning Commission to draft an ordinance allowing campgrounds in both C-2 and C-3 “upon review.”

Planning Commission member Katie Trahan explained that with the American Institute of Architects planning process still underway, the C-2 ordinance amendment was intended to give the town “more control until we know what direction the town wants to go. We’re not doing any drastic rezoning right now.”

Randy Hill, who six months ago requested permission for a campground in C-3, never received an answer. Currently campgrounds are not allowed in C-3.

“What do we need to do to help him?” asked Alderwoman Dorraine Parmley.

Noting the site of Hill’s proposed project, on Trussell Road across the interstate from the business district, Wilson suggested the C-3 property in that area might be a good location for campgrounds. Monteagle’s rules on campgrounds “did a good job of making sure campgrounds are an asset to the community,” Wilson stressed.

“We’ve had campgrounds here for 50 years,” said Alderman Dan Sargent.

At present, campgrounds are only allowed in C-2 and R-3 residential and only upon the Board of Zoning Appeals review.