Association of County Mayors Regional Meeting
I recently represented Cumberland County at the regional meeting of the Association of County Mayors in White County. As a member of the executive board, I joined fellow leaders in discussing key issues ranging from emergency services to water infrastructure and regional growth. Thank you to White County Executive Denny Wayne Robinson for hosting and helping lead these important conversations that impact all of us across the region.
Local Matters with Ben Rodgers Interview
I had the opportunity to join Ben Rodgers on News Talk 94.1’s Local Matters to talk about the work happening here in Cumberland County. We discussed the county budget, emergency response, road needs, and what a typical day looks like in the life of a County Mayor. Always grateful for the chance to share our progress and priorities with the public. Click the link to listen to the full conversation.
https://iono.fm/e/1582541
UCDD Economic Development Strategy Session
I was proud to represent Cumberland County at the annual UCDD Economic Development Strategy Session. This event brings together state, county, and city leaders to discuss the issues that shape our region’s future. Working together is key to building lasting success for our communities.
MTIDA Annual Economic Development Seminar
I was proud to represent Cumberland County at the MTIDA Annual Economic Development Seminar. Connecting with leaders from across Tennessee to share ideas and build partnerships than can help bring fresh opportunities back home. Economic development is more than numbers. It’s about building a stronger future for our families and our communities.
Fire Department Upgrades
I recently stopped by the Cumberland County Fire Department’s open houses to check out the impressive renovations at both the Mayland and Tansi firehalls. In Mayland, a new bay was added to house a fire truck, an important upgrade that improves response capability in that area. The Tansi firehall underwent a complete remodel, including the earlier renovation of the EMS portion a few years ago. Together, these projects represent a strong investment in the safety and readiness of our first responders. Thank you to everyone who made these improvements possible and to all who came out to show their support.
Cumberland Trail
Cumberland County is proud to play a big role in the history and future of the Cumberland Trail. Our county has the largest section of this scenic trail, which stretches more than 300 miles through Tennessee, connecting the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. The vision for the Cumberland Trail began in the 1960s, and over the decades it has grown into one of Tennessee’s premier long-distance hiking trails. It preserves the natural beauty of the Cumberland Plateau while also showcasing the unique history and culture of our region. This month, the Highway Superintendent and I signed an agreement to allow trail crossing in Cumberland County, supporting continued access and enjoyment of this remarkable resource for generations to come.
Tennessee Women’s Open
I stopped by the Tennessee Women’s Open at the beautiful Stonehenge Golf Course in Fairfield Glade. This is the 27th year of the tournament, and it’s always exciting to see top amateur and professional women golfers from across the country competing right here in Cumberland County. Events like this not only showcase the level of talent in the game but also bring great energy and visibility to our community. A big thank you to the Tennessee Golf Association, the team at Fairfield Glade, and all the volunteers whose hard work makes this event a success.
Plateau Creative Arts Center
I had a great time visiting the Plateau Creative Arts Center in Fairfield Glade. I enjoyed talking with Manny Manual, President of the Plateau Creative Arts Center, and John Wedgworth during my visit. This community treasure offers something for everyone, from monthly gallery openings to special events like the Juried Open Show in April, Art in the Park in June, Glitz and Glitter in October, the Peoples Choice Art Show in November, and creative exhibits year-round. One of the highlights is the Endless Possibilities gift shop, filled with beautiful handcrafted items made by Art Guild members, including jewelry, pottery, cards, stained glass, wooden decor, leather bags, and seasonal creations. It is like a mini art gallery where you can find something special to take home. Many pieces are available for purchase right at the center. If you have not been, I encourage you to stop by to experience the incredible talent, welcoming atmosphere, and discover a unique treasure while supporting local artists. Learn more at www.plateauarts.org.
Upper Cumberland Republican Update with RNC Co-Chair KC Crosbie
It isn’t often you get the opportunity to meet with national party leadership right here in our region. I attended the Upper Cumberland Republican Update with RNC Co-Chair KC Crosbie, alongside my friend Van Hilleary, who I’m proud to support for U.S. Congress, and Congressman John Rose, who I’m supporting for Governor. It was a great discussion about the future of Tennessee and how we can keep our communities strong.
Cumberland County Commission Meeting – August 18
The monthly meeting of the Cumberland County Commission began with all in attendance except Commissioners Sherrill, Holbrook, and Patterson.
Resolutions
The following resolutions were considered by the Cumberland County Commission. The sponsor of the resolution is in parentheses. Detailed information for each resolution can be found here.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-1– TO APPOINT MEMBERS TO THE CROSSVILLE-CUMBERLAND COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS’ BUREAU (FOSTER). Valorie Douglas and Christy Dolinich were reappointed to the Crossville-Cumberland County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau in a 15-0 vote.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-2 – TO APPOINT MEMBERS TO THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY “E-911” EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS (FOSTER). I recommended and the Commission unanimously approved reappointment of Casey Cox and Gary Adams to the E-911 Emergency Communications District Board of Directors.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-3 – TO APPOINT MEMBER TO THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION (FOSTER). John Stubbs was reappointed to the Regional Planning Commission in a 15-0 vote.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-4 –TO APPOINT TWO (2) JUDICIAL COMMISSIONERS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY, TENNESSEE (GIBSON). Michaela Smith was appointed to a two-year term, and Joseph Moodey to a six-month term on the recommendation of Judge Amanda Worley and Judicial Commissioner Director Jennifer Phillips-Cross. The appointments were approved unanimously.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-5 – TO APPOINT MEMBERS TO THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY LIBRARY BOARD (FOSTER). Kay Randolph resigned her position on the Cumberland County Library Board, and Linda Weis was appointed to serve the remaining term that expires June 30, 2027. The vote was approved 15-0.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-6 – ADOPTING A SPEED LIMIT ON BRECKENRIDGE DRIVE (DAVIS). A 35 MPH speed limit was adopted on Breckenridge Drive. It will take effect and be enforceable upon installation of speed limit signs, with the cost of the signs incurred by the resident of Breckenridge Drive. The resolution was approved unanimously.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-7 – ACCEPTING AND EXECUTING THE NEW ACT AMENDING TENNESSEE CODE ANNOTATED, TITLE 67, CHAPTER 7, PART 2, RELATIVE TO THE MINERAL SEVERANCE TAX (SHERRILL). State law was amended allowing county legislative bodies to set a tax rate on sand, gravel, sandstone, chert, or limestone severed from the ground. This is called the Mineral Severance Tax. All money from this tax is to be spent on county roads for construction, maintenance, and repair of the county road system. The current rate is 15 cents per ton. This resolution raises the rate every five years until it gets to thirty cents per ton after July 1, 2035. The total of this tax budgeted to be collected this fiscal year is just over $88,000. The intention of the fee is to give more funding to the roads without all of the responsibility falling on the property tax payers. The resolution failed in a 8-7 vote (motions require 10 votes to pass) with Commissioners Isham, Gibson, Seiber, Davis, Lowe, Baldwin, and Cooper voting against.
RESOLUTION 08-2025-8 – TO AMEND THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS BY ADDING FEES ASSOCIATED WITH PLAT APPLICATIONS AND OTHER REQUESTS (PATTERSON). This resolution was set to amend the fees paid to the Regional Planning Commission to cover the costs of the planner, attorney, etc. The thought is that currently, these costs are incurred by the property tax payer instead of those needing and using the service. It would have set the following rates:
Preliminary Plat Fee: $100 with an additional $25 paid per lot
Final Plat Approval: $100
Variance Request Fee: $50 per variance
Request to Place Roadway on the Official County Road List: $300 per road request
The resolution failed 7-8 with Commissioners Potter, Isham, Gibson, Seiber, Davis, Lowe, Baldwin, and Cooper voting against.
Financial Update
In July 2025, the Cumberland County Codes Department issued 38 residential and 2 commercial building permits, 42 general mechanical permits, and 44 general plumbing permits. A total of $56,365 in fees were collected.
Since the budget was just passed, there was no financial report of significance.
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 