What it means to ‘grow’ the penny
Moore County’s property tax rate is worth more – but growth still has to be measured with spending discipline.
Runner returns to thank Moore County EMS
Lynn Collyar addressed the Metro Council to thank those who helped save his life after collapsing during the OBH.
Budget stalls after two failed votes
After proposed 2-cent property tax increase rejected, county faces a tighter timeline before fiscal year begins July 1.
Proposed budget gets first reading Monday
Moore County’s proposed 2026-27 budget projects a 2-cent property tax increase and use of county reserves on the table.
Four teachers earn tenure; school board OKs budget
Board of Education advanced a proposed budget that includes no property tax increase requested by the school system.
Preschool employee charged: assault involving child
Sheriff’s office says investigation remains active; Little Raiders Preschool says staff members were removed from duty.
Brown-Forman rejects reported $15B Sazerac offer
Jack Daniel Distillery remains under family control, with the next public test coming in its June 4 earnings report.
Savings track set for rural water expansion projects
Turkey Creek, Highway 82, County Line public water projects’ cost to be captured outside regular operating budget.
MUD agrees to buy land for new water plant
Purchase from Cumberland Springs Land Company COO Alex Richman would secure land for proposed expansion.
MUD: Unknown water loss may be 29.8%
New meter data is helping explain where finished water is going, but high water loss remains a financial concern.
MUD cuts sewer rate $2 beginning July 1
After months of budget debate, this marks the second consecutive year with a reduction for Lynchburg customers.
Proposed budget includes 2-cent property tax increase
The Metro Council will consider a proposed 2026-27 budget on Monday that raises the property tax rate to $1.7612.
Orange signs signal Highway 55 project
TDOT project will resurface from Main Street to the Coffee County line; bridge repairs, weekday lane closures expected.
Election chief admits ballot error
Administrator of Elections Jim Sanders says he felt “bullied” to open sealed ballot boxes before certification.
Uncle Nearest says time is hurting brand
Company says it is losing visitors, shelf space, customers as court weighs who had power to seek bankruptcy protection.
MCHS Class of 2026 Scholarships Awards
Seniors took their turn in the spotlight Thursday as the Class of 2026 was celebrated during Senior Awards Night.
Light turnout marks Moore County’s first primary
Unofficial results show 120 ballots cast out of 5,531 registered voters; General Election set for Aug. 6.
Gateway plan stalls over townhome definition
Housing proposal in limbo after officials questioned whether the project is truly townhomes or apartments by another name.
Moore County to lose $90K for 911 after Lee veto
Governor’s veto of a 36-cent monthly 911 surcharge increase shifts more pressure onto local public safety budgets
Lender, receiver push back on bankruptcy appeal
Filings argue emergency motion recycles months-old complaints in the ongoing fight over control of Uncle Nearest.
Long graduates Basic Firefighter School
Carson Long completed 10 weeks of classroom, skills, and live-fire training at the Fire Service & Codes Enforcement Academy.
Jack rolls out $600 McLaren-inspired whiskey
Jack Daniel’s has released Halo MK1 – the most premium global release in the Lynchburg distillery’s history.
New EMS truck request heads to Metro Council
Budget Committee advances request for 4×4 pickup after 2010 Ford Explorer pulled from service over safety concerns.
Brown-Forman: No merger with Pernod Ricard
Jack Daniel’s parent company said it could not reach terms with the French heavyweight.
Atmos gifts $10K for swimming pool motor
Mayor Sloan Stewart said the offer came after the Metro Council voted 9-2 to approve capital project funds.
Jack Daniel’s releases limited barrel-proof rye
Small Batch Rye release with five high-proof batches available only at the White Rabbit Bottle Shop in Lynchburg.
Moratorium passes as Council revisits trouble spots
Metro Council dives deeper into cease-and-desist authority, the Retreat at Whiskey Creek, jail bids, and water loss.
Weaver, lawyers: Sanctions request misses mark
Latest filings ask a federal judge to reject sanctions, arguing the real fight is over bankruptcy authority and free speech.
Hoffman withdrawing from District 2 race
Hampton Hoffman has ended his District 2 council campaign, citing out-of-state family obligations.
Pernod finds some lift as deal picture tightens
Pernod Ricard still cut its full-year outlook as Brown-Forman talks continue and Sazerac enters the picture.
Report: Sazerac offers $15B for Brown-Forman
Sazerac’s reported bid for Brown-Forman adds a new twist to the future of Jack Daniel’s parent company.
Appraisers appointed for Martha’s Vineyard property
Federal Judge Atchley moved the Uncle Nearest receivership one step closer to selling its Edgartown, Mass., property.
Data centers, landfills top Metro Council agenda
On Monday, officials will revisit two major land-use questions regarding guardrails for high-impact development.
Rain chances are back – modest, but back
Y’all remember rain – that long-forgotten phenomenon when gravity finally wins an argument with a cloud …
‘The numbers are just not connecting’
MUD officials spent much of Tuesday’s meeting trying to determine why 45% of the system’s water is still unaccounted for.
School fund balance takes $56,000 hit
Account dropped after a tax error, while school board members also reviewed staffing changes and OK’d a support position.
Applications open for Pre-K 619 Program
Parents’ handbook details peer-model tuition, enrollment requirements, daily routines, and behavior standards.
Receiver says Uncle Nearest is insolvent
Uncle Nearest could cease operations within 30 days without continued support, according to a new quarterly report.
Receiver targets public comments in Uncle Nearest case
Phillip G. Young Jr. says Fawn Weaver used social media and public remarks to fight the case in public.
Report: Sazerac eyes Brown-Forman
Interest adds another layer to talks surrounding parent company of Jack Daniel’s, highlights Sazerac’s Tennessee whiskey push.
Bill could affect dual service on Metro Council
A bill moving through the Tennessee General Assembly could reshape who can serve on local governing bodies.
Silicon Ranch faces more questions from P&Z
Board presses for answers on buffer distances, unapproved access points, road conditions, and stormwater repairs.
P&Z keeps Retreat Phase 2 on hold
Phase 2 of Whiskey Creek remains under scrutiny as the board presses questions about access, infrastructure, and compliance.
Jack and Coke launch zero-sugar variety pack
New zero-sugar Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola variety six-pack adds cherry and vanilla flavors to the ready-to-drink line.
Deal moving from MCHS to admin office
A former baseball coach at MCHS, Josh Deal was named assistant principal in 2020 before becoming principal in 2023.
Lewis, 24, drowns on Tims Ford Lake
Blake Lewis was the fourth boating-related fatality on Tennessee waterways – and second on Tims Ford Lake – this year.
Arrest at heart of federal lawsuit
A $160 dispute at a repair shop evolved into a federal civil rights suit involving Moore County sheriff candidate William Raline.
‘The Court’s Orders are not suggestions’
Receiver in the Uncle Nearest case ordered to produce evidence by April 9 in a growing sanctions fight involving Fawn Weaver.
Sheriff candidate named in federal suit
William Raline, a candidate in the 2026 Moore County sheriff’s race, is named in a federal civil rights lawsuit in Monteagle.
Jack Daniel’s parent in reported talks
Reports: Brown-Forman had preliminary talks with Pernod Ricard about a possible deal, though the discussions remain uncertain.
Jack Daniel’s unveils new Aged Series releases
New 14-, 12-, and 10-year-old Aged Series whiskeys released – with a White Rabbit Bottle Shop sweepstakes.
Receiver seeks sanctions against Weaver
Receiver: She had no authority to place entities into Chapter 11; separate filing: property appraisal slowed by small pool of appraisers.
Tiny-Home Project Could Pay Off
The 79-home project is drawing attention for its potential tax benefits, tourism upside, and limited public-side risk in Moore County.
Uncle Nearest appeals Chapter 11 dismissal
Fast-moving legal fight over who controls the whiskey company continues while court-appointed receiver remains in charge.
Legislature passes hunter education bill
Schools to offer hunter education to students in grades 5-12, with Gov. Bill Lee now set to sign the bill into law.
Judge dismisses Uncle Nearest bankruptcy filing
Federal bankruptcy judge dismisses filings, ruling founder Fawn Weaver lacked authority while the company was in receivership.
BZA backs Whiskey Creek appeal
A 4-1 vote by the Board of Zoning Appeals clarified that disputed porch space should not be counted as heated square footage.
Receiver seeks sanctions after bankruptcy filings
The legal fight over Uncle Nearest deepened as a receiver asked a federal judge to sanction CEO Fawn Weaver over Chapter 11 filings.
When a Company in Receivership Files Chapter 11
Nearest Green’s filing does not end the legal fight. Here’s why the first battles over control, cash, and authority matter most.
Weaver: Chapter 11 bankruptcy filed
Uncle Nearest has entered Chapter 11 and filed a lawsuit against Farm Credit Mid-America, according to founder Fawn Weaver.
Metro Council approves Gateway legal fees
Also, a proposed two-year data center moratorium and the quarry proposal were among the top items on Monday night.
Council OKs formal letter demanding compliance
Officials warned of possible action after hearing solar farm construction traffic has damaged roads and created safety concerns.
Judge pauses proposed Martha’s Vineyard sale
Property in the Uncle Nearest receivership case is on hold after federal judge rules required appraisals, notice, and hearing must come first.
What’s on the Agenda?
Metro Council to discuss Atmos Energy agreement, data center moratorium, quarry rezoning, and budget amendment tied to Gateway lawsuit.
Why a Meet the Candidates forum?
Q&As still matter in rural counties, where local elections have immediate impact, and voters benefit from hearing directly from those on the ballot.
Metro Council to consider data center moratorium
The proposal would stop new approvals in Moore County through 2028 while local officials craft rules for future projects.
Judge to decide sale of Martha’s Vineyard home
Fawn Weaver and related parties fight to block or delay the Edgartown, Mass., home sale in the ongoing receivership battle.
Junior Chef challenge: Whip up a winning recipe
Open to Tennessee students in grades 6-12, winners earn invitations to the 2026 Wilson County-Tennessee State Fair.
Moses’ mayoral bid focused on spending, oversight
Retired FBI supervisor and former Council member says county must better protect taxpayers and improve communication.
MUD presses vendor over meter, billing concerns
Board members said more than 1,300 meters needed correction and demanded clearer answers from the Core & Main team.
Council to consider Atmos franchise agreement
Officials to review proposed agreement that would outline terms for natural gas infrastructure, renewals, and relocation requirements.
SCHRA Head Start now taking applications
Moore County families can now enroll eligible children ages 3 to 5 in the Head Start program for the 2026-27 school year.
School board reviews stronger budget outlook
A stronger funding outlook driven by enrollment growth highlighted Monday’s meeting, along with votes on tuition and the district’s strategic plan.
School board weighs security screening options
A possible school security screening system came up during Monday’s meeting, with leaders discussing cost, funding, and next year’s budget.
DREMC to host free Home Energy Workshops
Free workshops at five locations in April are geared to help residents cut energy use, lower utility bills, and learn about available rebates.
Farm Credit disputes Grant Sidney claims
Lender says new filings from Grant Sidney and other Uncle Nearest affiliates strengthen the case for expanding the receivership.
Moore County honors volunteer firefighters
Moore County is recognizing its Jakes during National Volunteer Firefighters Week while highlighting their training and the need for new recruits.
Receiver accuses Weaver of defying court warnings
Filings: Uncle Nearest CEO discussed the case despite an NDA, and related companies’ filings support expanding the receivership.
Data center moratorium sent to Metro Council
A two-year moratorium on new data centers and crypto-style data facilities is proposed, citing water, power-grid, and land-use impacts.
P&Z sends quarry proposal to Metro Council
Plans to reopen the former Tolleytown quarry moved forward to the Metro Council, where rezoning and karst-groundwater risks will be weighed.
Tiny-home project hits permitting snag
Officials say unclear R-3 wording on “structure” vs. heated square footage could force an ordinance rewrite for The Retreat at Whiskey Creek.
‘Concerned Citizens’ calls for continued input
Moore County Focus Group plans its next public meeting in June and is expanding its website with new data and community information.
2025-26 T2 Honor Rolls
Moore County High School has released the second trimester honor rolls for A and A-B students.
Uncle Nearest receivership fight widens
Farm Credit, court-appointed receiver ask judge to expand Uncle Nearest receivership, while founders press to end court control.
Statewide TACN system transforms county comms
The Tennessee Advanced Communications Network brings upgrades and long-term redundancy to Moore County first responders.
Goodwin seeks Metro Council, District 5 seat
Candidate Brady Goodwin emphasizes transparency, long-term planning, and economic development without sacrificing Moore County’s character.
Uncle Nearest Suit: Asset liquidation underway
Receiver seeking court approval to sell a $2.5M Martha’s Vineyard property, as separate foreclosure moves forward in Shelbyville.
TDEC files report from solar farm inspection
A Feb. 13 TDEC inspection of the 1,548-acre Moore County Solar project prompts corrective action and follow-up by state regulators.
Judge orders Hatfield certified, placed on August ballot
Chancellor J.B. Cox has set March deadlines for responses from the state, the election office, and fellow candidate William Raline.
Fletcher named Master Distiller of the Year
Chris Fletcher named Master Distiller of the Year, while Jack Daniel’s 14-Year-Old Tennessee Whiskey Batch 1 earned World’s Best Tennessee Whiskey.
Deadline dispute triggers Hatfield lawsuit
Did an incorrect election notice cost sitting sheriff a spot on the ballot? Tyler Hatfield asks court to order certification after disputed filing deadline.
Commercial pesticide applicator renewal open
The 2026 renewal period has a June 30 deadline. Here’s what applicators must do now to avoid a lapse in certification.
Moore County EMS earns statewide honor
Metro Moore County Ambulance Service has been named the 2026 TASA ALS Service of the Year, earning statewide recognition for its impact across the area.
Council hears plans for jail improvements
Sheriff Tyler Hatfield outlines needed jail upgrades as county prepares to issue bids for kitchen renovations, intake improvements, and structural repairs.
VFD awarded $47K for firefighter air packs
A $47K state grant will help Metro Moore’s volunteer firefighters upgrade their breathing apparatuses as part of a $20M state investment.
Officials outline burden of property tax freeze
A proposed property tax freeze in Moore County could require new staff and local funding, according to information presented to the Metro Council.
Silicon Ranch addresses TDEC inspection
A recent TDEC inspection of the local solar project is not expected to result in violations, and the Metro Council voted to reduce the speed limit in the construction areas,
Hazard Mitigation Plan outlines risks, priorities
EMA’s Jason Deal will present the updated Hazard Mitigation Plan to the Metro Council on Monday, outlining long-term safety strategies.
‘Jackson Law’: landfill decisions in local hands
From rural counties to major cities, Tennessee’s Jackson Law requires local approval and public input before landfill development can proceed.
Council to review property tax freeze program
Tennessee’s Property Tax Freeze program includes eligibility rules, income limits, and how qualifying homeowners can lock in their tax bills.
Raline details agenda, goals, accountability
Sheriff candidate discusses servant-first approach, transparency, staffing, discipline and a decade-old controversy he says shaped his leadership.
CDBG funds eyed for Hurdlow water line
Moore County could target high water loss in the Hurdlow community, with a decision on the CDBG expected by year’s end.
Simple guide to property tax relief
Learn who qualifies, how much help homeowners can receive, and how Moore County Trustee Lynn Harrison can assist residents with applying.
MUD to keep residential sewer rates as-is
A proposed $2 rate cut narrowly failed after board members raised concerns about budget stability, rising treatment costs, and upcoming financial obligations.
Sherrill: how county taxes Airbnb properties
Moore County Property Assessor Shaun Sherrill highlighted challenges in identifying short-term rentals and ensuring fair rates.
Judge denies Gateway request for judgment
Chancellor J.B. Cox rejected a motion for judgment in a challenge to proposed Moore County zoning changes, keeping the future of local apartment development uncertain.
DREMC warns of phone scam
Duck River Electric warns about a scam that threatens immediate disconnection and urges residents to verify accounts only through official channels.
DISCUS: Spirits volume up as revenues fall
Distilled spirits remain the largest segment of the U.S. alcohol market, driven by rising volume, economic impact, and growth in ready-to-drink products.
Board of Education OKs $75K tutoring grant
The Moore County Board of Education approved a state tutoring grant for LES, along with policy updates and student travel plans during its Monday meeting.
2026 Moore County Elections
The 2026 Moore County ballot is shaping up with a competitive mix of local leaders and public servants vying for key offices.
Solar farm scrutiny grows at citizens meeting
During Thursday’s Concerned Citizens Focus Group meeting, residents questioned how the Silicon Ranch solar farm was approved and what the community gained.
Focus group highlights financial trends
Moore County’s Concerned Citizens Focus Group spotlights spending trends, infrastructure, and quality-of-life issues across the community.
Weavers again seek to end Uncle Nearest receivership
Founders of whiskey brand are asking a federal judge to terminate the company’s receivership, arguing assets exceed debts and operations remain viable.
Receiver flags real estate in Uncle Nearest case
Real estate in Tennessee, Martha’s Vineyard, and Cognac at center of new Uncle Nearest court filings as insolvency, receivership questions intensify.
Major concerns rise on Majors Cemetery Road
Residents raise safety concerns over blind spots and road width as a five-home concept on Majors Cemetery Road moves slowly through county review.
Citizens group to unveil tax, spending analysis
Citizens group to unveil Moore County tax and spending analysis Thursday, citing costs rising faster than inflation and calling for greater transparency.
Dance backs push for dedicated wildlife funding
Legendary angler Bill Dance joins Gov. Bill Lee in urging lawmakers to secure long-term funding for Tennessee’s fish, wildlife, and public lands.
Grow: solar farm not in compliance; county’s hands tied
Environmentalist Tony Grow said the solar project is not meeting stormwater requirements, prompting discussions of enforcement and ordinance changes.
Jennings explains conservation easements
As development pressure grows in Moore County, Todd Jennings explains how conservation easements can preserve farms and reduce future land-use conflicts.
Uncle Nearest owes FCMA more than $120M
Loan payoff statements filed in federal court show Uncle Nearest carrying over $120 million in debt across four major Farm Credit loans.
Weaver pushes back in message to investors
Late-night email challenges Receiver, with Uncle Nearest’s founder laying out bank records, board approvals, and a detailed defense of her integrity.
Uncle Nearest receiver warns of insolvency
Young: Uncle Nearest’s finances cannot be reconciled without expanding the receivership, citing extensive commingling, missing bank records, mounting debt.
Uncle Nearest dispute to be public record
Judge rejects attempt by Uncle Nearest-affiliated companies to delay key hearing, and refuses to seal filings, keeping financial and legal records open to the public.
Receivership fight escalates over timing, transparency
A federal judge is being asked to intervene in dispute over whether affiliated businesses should be pulled into the Uncle Nearest receivership.
Uncle Nearest draws bidder with SEC history
Uncle Nearest receivership continues with no approved sale or refinancing, even as a potential buyer with a past SEC judgment draws scrutiny.
DREMC crews push into hardest-hit areas
Extensive ice damage, downed lines, and blocked access routes are slowing final repairs as crews work to fully restore service across the region.
Ice drives outages as DREMC crews respond
Heavy ice from Winter Storm Fern has left thousands without power. Duck River Electric urges residents to stay away from downed lines and to use generators with caution.
DREMC preps as winter storm brings ice threat
Duck River Electric has nearly 200 workers on standby as Winter Storm Fern brings ice, freezing rain, and the potential for power outages across service area.
Feb. 9 hearing in Uncle Nearest receivership case
A federal judge will hear arguments on whether receivership should continue and whether additional affiliated businesses could be placed under court control.
LES janitor fired; parents question school’s silence
A former LES employee has been charged with misdemeanor assault. Parents are questioning the school’s decision not to publicly announce the termination.
Selling the Exit Before It Existed
Uncle Nearest’s early fundraising highlighted a clear exit strategy. Later documents raise questions about balancing marketing with securities law.
Uncle Nearest: Receivership eroding value
An emergency motion argues that the court-ordered receivership of Uncle Nearest is driving sales declines, damaging brand value, and risking long-term losses.
New judge sought in Blackburn case
General Sessions Judge Terry Gregory has recused himself from an animal cruelty case involving Metro Council member Peggy Sue Blackburn.
Carson urges long-term budget planning
The Metro Council discussed long-term budgeting, ongoing problems tied to the solar farm, and whether Moore County should move to restrict AI data centers.
‘Concerned Citizens Focus Group’
Group will share findings and outline goals at a Feb. 5 public meeting to dissect county finances, engage voters, and encourage more sustainable budgeting.
Uncle Nearest Debt Crisis
Uncle Nearest’s financial troubles go beyond the $108M Farm Credit lawsuit. Records obtained by the Observer shed new light on the receivership and financial strain.
Jan. 20: Sealed-filings hearing in Uncle Nearest lawsuit
Magistrate Judge Christopher H. Steger has scheduled a videoconference as court weighs confidentiality tied to receivership, motion for reconsideration.
Water meter replacement project nears completion
MUD board discussed system performance, leak detection, billing delays, and possible upgrades as the department works toward full implementation by the end of January.
MUD considers lowering residential sewer rates
Metro Moore Utility Department board debated a proposed cut to residential sewer rates, weighing short-term relief and the risk of future rate increases.
Uncle Nearest receiver seeks to seal court filing
Phillip G. Young Jr., the court-appointed receiver overseeing Uncle Nearest Inc., warns that public disclosure could jeopardize refinancing, potential asset sales, and company value.
Atchley at the center of high-stakes litigation
Charles E. Atchley Jr.’s history of handling major corruption, civil rights, and national security cases continues to shape how consequential litigation unfolds.
Small county, big costs for Moore County parents
The 2025 State of the Child in Tennessee report shows Moore County families are feeling the squeeze as wages lag, while child care bills top $8,000 a year.
Judge takes zoning challenge under advisement
Chancellor J.B. Cox is weighing whether a 2025 zoning amendment is legally valid after Gateway argued Moore County failed to follow required procedures.
Zoning lawsuit could shape county development
Gateway is suing Moore County over zoning changes that could block a 42-unit apartment project. Here are the key events that led to Monday’s court hearing.
Blackburn issued criminal summons
A Moore County council member and two relatives have been charged with animal cruelty. Peggy Sue Blackburn denies neglect and disputes the allegations.
Gatekeeping fight intensifies in Uncle Nearest receivership
Weaver-linked entities slam the receiver over “commingling” claims while a mystery investor’s court filing draws sharp pushback from the receivership team.
Group interested in acquiring Uncle Nearest assets
An investor group has formally notified a federal judge of its interest in acquiring Uncle Nearest’s assets and resolving more than $108M in debt.
Young wants Weaver-linked companies in receivership
Receiver: Millions in transfers, commingled finances and a surprise fraud lawsuit justifies pulling more Fawn Weaver-linked companies under court control.
Data Center vs. AI Data Center
Data centers are a familiar sight – but AI data centers are a different animal altogether. There are differences, and here’s why it matters for local communities.
Moore County weighs data center moratorium
The Planning & Zoning Commission on Tuesday took the county’s first formal step toward regulating data center land use and AI-related development.
