It has been a busy and productive July here in Cumberland County, and I want to take a moment to share some of the highlights from recent events and activities before I get to the details of the monthly meeting of the full County Commission.
With all the activity in the office, I always enjoy the chance to visit with people who stop by. I recently had a great visit from two young leaders and their dad. It is always a joy to welcome families into the office and meet kids who are curious about how their community works!
Pro Troop Rally – July 4th
I was honored to speak at this year’s Pro Troop Rally, which I believe marked its 17th year. It is always inspiring to stand alongside so many patriots as we celebrate freedom and those who defend it. A special thanks to Debbie Towns for her hard work and patriotism in organizing this event year after year. As I told the crowd, patriotism is not just about fireworks on the Fourth. It is about how we live the other 364 days of the year, supporting those who serve and their families.
Cumberland County Archives Grand Opening – July 11th
After years of hard work, collaboration, and determination, we officially opened our newly renovated County Archives. This facility stands as a testament to preserving our history and honoring those who made Cumberland County what it is today. My thanks to everyone who played a role in making this happen, including former Commissioner Rebecca Stone, whose dedication helped see this project through. I also want to recognize former County Mayor Brock Hill for his work in securing the building and helping to get this effort off the ground. His leadership was critical in moving this project forward, and we are all better for it.
DCI Grant Announcement – July 16th
I was proud to attend the recent announcement by Downtown Crossville Inc. as they were awarded a $15,000 Flagship Grant through the 2025 AARP Community Challenge. This competitive grant will support the continued restoration of Veterans Memorial Park in the heart of our downtown. It is a meaningful investment in preserving the legacy of our local veterans while also enhancing this important space for future generations. I appreciate the hard work of DCI and everyone involved in making this vision at our county park a reality.
Rotary Club Remarks – July 17th
At the Noon Rotary Club, I provided an update on several key projects across the county. I shared progress on our courthouse remodel, the broadband grant work that must be completed by the end of 2026, and the growth in our Codes Department with expanded responsibilities. I also discussed the ongoing development at Flatrock Motorsports and the work to come at the Community Complex. Investments in EMS equipment and services continue. We are planning for a new fire station, continuing efforts to work with the water utilities, and making meaningful upgrades to Veterans Memorial Park. These are just a few examples of how we are working together to strengthen our infrastructure and improve services for our residents.
Cumberland Medical Center Remarks – July 18th
It was my privilege to welcome Covenant’s marketing team to Cumberland County and share what makes our community unique. We are growing fast with over sixty-seven thousand residents projected in 2025 and projects like Buc-ees, Flatrock Motorsports, and our other assets that are positioning us well for the future.
I also shared some very personal reflections. Cumberland Medical Center holds a special place in my heart. Many of my family and friends have worked there and continue to work there. My late wife Rebecca worked there for many years, and served as Chief Nursing Officer during the transition to the Covenant system. I have worked there myself. My family has been born there, and I have experienced the loss of loved ones there. I have seen all the stages of life at CMC, and its impact on me is deeply personal.
CMC is more than a healthcare facility. It is one of the largest employers in our county, providing careers that support local families and playing a key role in our economic development. It also gives Cumberland County a competitive edge when recruiting new businesses. Beyond all of that, CMC is part of the heart of this community. The doctors, nurses, and staff are not just healthcare professionals, they are our neighbors, our friends, and our fellow church members. They care because they are part of this community too.
I encourage everyone to take a moment to appreciate what CMC means to our county. It is a beacon of health, a driver of opportunity, and a vital part of our future.
Cumberland County Commission Meeting – July 21
The July 2025 meeting of the Cumberland County Commission began with all in attendance except Commissioner Patterson.
Resolutions
The following resolution was considered by the Cumberland County Commission. The sponsor of the resolution is in parentheses. Detailed information for each resolution can be found here.
RESOLUTION 07-2025-1 – TO GRANT BTC COMMUNICATIONS, LLC AN EASEMENT (Foster). This resolution granted an easement on the Big Lick Fire Hall property to Bledsoe Telephone for placing a remote station for delivering fiber service to the community. In addition to the service they will provide in that area of the county, the fire hall will receive free broadband service. The easement was granted unanimously.
Financial Update
The Cumberland County Codes Department issued 40 residential and 4 commercial building permits, 27 general mechanical permits, and 33 general plumbing permits in June 2025. A total of $52,900 in fees were collected.
The Finance Department is in the process of closing out the fiscal year, so there was no financial report. A public hearing and special called meeting are set for August 12 for consideration of the budget. More details will follow concerning the proposed budget.
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
allenfoster.com 
With the Windom timeshares pulling out at the end of the year and the C & R argument dividing the residents of Fairfield Glade I feel that there is more going on here that could use your office’s inspection.
PS There is a definite need for a 4-way stop instead of the present 2-way stop at the corner of Cappshire Rd and Malvern Rd. Since every road seems to be a county road I’d like your office to do something about it.