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Smith On The Fifth
January 2026
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"Happy New Year"
"Zoning, County Growth & Hospital Sale Revisited"
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Message from the Commish...
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This weekend I shared a sweet moment with my daughter and grandson at the new TriStar ER in Nolensville during their Teddy Bear Clinic. My grandson proudly made sure his lion, Leo, got checked out—and watching families, healthcare workers, and first responders care for our kids was a beautiful reminder how important these services are to our community.
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This past Friday, January 9, we recognized National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Our law enforcement officers—local, state, and federal—serve our families every day. Scripture tells us to honor those who serve, and prioritizing public safety must always remain a top priority.
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At the County Commission, our focus stayed on the real issues families are facing. In Parks & Recreation Committee, we discussed how to best support volunteer youth athletics—programs built by parents and neighbors stepping up to serve. We must be careful not to place unnecessary rules in their way and instead help these programs continue to thrive.
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We also met as a Tax Study Committee after hearing directly from residents. This issue is being discussed across Tennessee as counties grow, and it reinforces the need for cooperation, transparency, and wise stewardship. Existing residents should not be responsible for funding new development, which is why Resolution 1-26-29 asks state legislators to address this concern.
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Finally, as conversations continue around the potential sale of Williamson Health, I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and doing what best serves our community. Several resolutions before the Commission this Monday will impact this discussion.
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Yours in service,
Mary Smith
#ActaNonVerba
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Williamson County’s debt continues to rise and is now among the highest in Tennessee. With debt per person at $4,432 — 2nd highest statewide, according to the Tennessee Comptroller, any hospital proceeds must remain under County Commission oversight to ensure fiscal discipline and protect taxpayers.
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County Commission Meeting - 1/12/2026
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At the January 12th Williamson County Commission meeting, Commissioners will consider a combination of appointments, recognitions, and policy decisions that impact how our county operates, grows, and serves residents. Below is a clear summary of what’s on the agenda.
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Nominations & Appointments
Storm Water Appeals Board
This board hears appeals related to stormwater and drainage issues affecting property owners across the county.
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- Environmental Rep
• Expiring Appointment: Liz McLaurin
• New Nomination: Liz McLaurin
- HOA Rep
• Expiring Appointment: Steve Westerman
• New Nomination: Steve Westerman
Audit Committee & Appeals Board
The Audit Committee plays a critical role in financial oversight, accountability, and transparency within county government.
• Vacancy: Kenneth Chote (deceased)
• New Nomination: Bo Childress
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Beer Board
The Beer Board reviews and approves permits related to the sale of beer, ensuring compliance with county regulations.
• Expiring Appointment: Tom Wilson
• New Nomination: Matthew Baldree
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Why this matters:
Boards and committees make decisions that directly impact residents, businesses, and taxpayers. Appointments help maintain continuity, fairness, and proper oversight in county operations.
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Proclamations
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Celebrating Student Achievement & Community Pride
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The Commission will recognize outstanding accomplishments by local student-athletes who have represented Williamson County with excellence:
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• Page High School Patriots Football Team — 2025 State Champions
• Summit High School Girls Volleyball Team — 2025 State Champions
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These proclamations honor the hard work of our students, coaches, families, and schools, and reflect the strength of our community.
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Resolutions Overview
🏗️ Zoning & Development Transparency
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Resolutions 1-26-5 and 1-26-6
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These resolutions amend Article 3 of the Williamson County Zoning Ordinance and address how zoning changes and development approvals are evaluated and communicated.
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• 1-26-5 strengthens public notice requirements for zoning map amendments, including mailed notice to impacted property owners
• 1-26-6 clarifies infrastructure availability requirements, ensuring adequate water, sewer, and wastewater capacity before development approvals
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Why this matters:
Zoning decisions directly affect traffic, schools, infrastructure, and neighborhood character. These changes aim to improve transparency and ensure growth does not outpace available resources.
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🏥 Hospital Sale Representation
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Resolutions 1-26-1, 1-26-2, and 1-26-17
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These resolutions authorize legal and professional representation related to hospital sale considerations.
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Why this matters:
Williamson Medical Center is a critical community asset and one of the most valuable assets the county has direct interest in. Any actions connected to representation and transaction planning deserve careful review to protect patients, employees, and taxpayers.
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🏘️ County Growth Plan & Annexation Protections
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Resolution 1-26-29 (with amendments)
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This resolution requests changes to Tennessee’s Comprehensive Growth Plan and municipal annexation statutes to strengthen transparency, consent, and county oversight.
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- Requiring written, mailed notice to property owners before land is included in an Urban Growth Boundary
- Prohibiting inclusion in a UGB without property owner consent
- Limiting non-contiguous annexation by municipalities
- Requiring county review and approval of Plans of Service when county infrastructure is impacted
- Mandating impact studies addressing effects on schools, roads, and county services
Why this matters:
Growth decisions can permanently affect taxes, infrastructure costs, and rural character. This resolution seeks to ensure property owners and counties have a meaningful voice before boundaries and obligations are changed.
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📅 Stay Engaged
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Citizens are encouraged to attend Commission meetings or follow online to stay informed about the decisions shaping our county’s future.
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All of the following meetings will be held at:
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Next County Commission Meeting - February 9th @ 6:00PM - Main Auditorium
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If you like what you see, please be sure to share with your friends. The more we educate ourselves, the more we can become active participates in our amazing community. You can subscribe here. Also, if you are interested in supporting my efforts to preserve and protect Conservative values in Williamson County, please consider making a donation.
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County Primary Election season is here, and I’m excited to share that I have officially filed my petition to run for Williamson County Mayor.
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I’m incredibly thankful for this dedicated team and the many volunteers, supporters, and neighbors who believe in a campaign focused on solutions over slogans, stewardship over spending, and people over politics.
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This is just the beginning — and I’m looking forward to a great campaign season ahead as we work together on better solutions for a brighter future for Williamson County.
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Appearance in uniform does not imply endorsement by the Department of Transportation or the Department of Homeland Security.
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