County Mayor’s Notes – July 20^th, 2026
July has been a busy month with a lot going on in our community. I wanted to take a few minutes to share some of the things that have been on my mind and a few highlights from the month so far.

I am still deeply saddened by the passing of my good friend James Mayberry. James was a former Mayor of the City of Crossville and was serving on the Crossville City Council at the time of his passing. I had known James for many years, and I was proud to call him my friend. We shared a love for this community and a desire to see Cumberland County and Crossville succeed. I always appreciated our conversations, his friendship, and his willingness to work together for the people we serve. James dedicated many years of his life to public service, and his impact on our community will not be forgotten. I miss my friend, and I continue to keep his family and all those who loved him in my prayers.

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of reading the Declaration of Independence on the courthouse steps with 56 young people joining me. The Daughters of the American Revolution invited the kids to participate, and after the reading, we all signed our names to a copy of the Declaration. It was a special experience and a fun way to bring a little of our nation’s history to life for the next generation.

With America celebrating its 250th birthday, I can’t think of a better time to share this piece of our nation’s history with the next generation and celebrate the freedoms we have as Americans. I really enjoyed being a part of it, and I hope the kids did too! We scanned the document we signed, so if any of the parents would like an electronic copy, just send me an email and I will be glad to send it to you.

Jennifer and I were honored to attend the investiture of Justice Kyle Hixson this month as he officially took his place on the Tennessee Supreme Court. It was a special day for Kyle and his family, and also a proud day for Cumberland County. Governor Bill Lee administered the oath of office, and Kyle’s children had their own roles in the ceremony. It was great to see one of our own reach this milestone. Congratulations to Justice Hixson and the entire Hixson family!

Finally, early voting is underway and runs through Saturday, August 1. Election Day is Thursday, August 6. Early voting is a convenient way to make sure your voice is heard, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to take the time to vote. Whether you choose to vote early or on Election Day, I hope you will take the time to participate.

Cumberland County Commission Meeting
The monthly meeting of the Cumberland County Commission began with all in attendance except Commissioners Charles Seiber and John Patterson. Commissioner Patterson is in rehab after a fall resulting in eight broken ribs.

Congratulations to the Stone Memorial High School Lady Panthers softball team on an outstanding season! These young ladies won both the District and Region Championships and advanced to the TSSAA State Tournament for only the second time in school history. We are proud of each of you and all that you accomplished this season. Congratulations!

Resolutions
There was only one resolution considered by the Cumberland County Commission this month.  The sponsor of the resolution is in parentheses.  Detailed information for each resolution can be found here.

RESOLUTION 07-2026-1 – URGING T-MOBILE WIRELESS TO PROMPTLY RESTORE RELIABLE WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE TO THE GRASSY COVE COMMUNITY AND REQUESTING THE ASSISTANCE OF STATE AND FEDERAL OFFICIALS (WILSON).  Residents of Grassy Cove have experienced a significant loss of cell phone service following T-Mobile’s acquisition of U.S. Cellular. Because of Grassy Cove’s unique geography, many residents now have little or no reliable cellular service, creating a serious public safety concern, especially when it comes to reaching 911 during an emergency. In response to this issue, I filed a formal complaint with the Federal Communications Commission.

This resolution takes our efforts a step further by asking T-Mobile to work with Cumberland County and our emergency services officials to find a solution and restore reliable service as soon as possible. It also asks our state and federal officials and agencies to assist us in addressing this important public safety issue.  The resolution was approved unanimously.

Financial Update
In June 2026, the Cumberland County Codes Department issued 36 residential and 3 commercial building permits, 23 general mechanical permits, and 28 general plumbing permits.  A total of $60,757 in fees were collected compared to $52,900 the same month a year prior.

Sales tax for the July accrual came in at $1,519,928.  That is $11,876 above the projected $1,508,052.  The final total for sales tax collections for FY 25-26 was $17,615,545 which will result in the Board of Education receiving $662,212 above projections.  There are no additional financial reports this month due to the closing out of the fiscal year.

Thank you for being part of the solution and for the opportunity to serve as your County Mayor.  If you are interested in hearing my thoughts and views on news, events, and activities in Cumberland County, please subscribe to my newsletter, and follow me on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

Thank you.

Allen Foster
Cumberland County Mayor
http://allenfoster.com