The Walker County Board of Commissioners faced sharp criticism from residents and local officials during last Thursday’s meeting, amid controversy over two major rezoning approvals. The board unanimously approved requests to rezone nearly 100 acres of farmland along Glass Road—adjacent to the Walker County Industrial Park—from agricultural to industrial use. This move was proposed by the Industrial Development Board but came despite a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Board to deny the rezoning. Commissioner Robert Blakemore supported the rezoning, adding a condition for a 200-foot vegetative buffer around the property, except along the Industrial Park’s easement. However, neighbors expressed deep frustration, saying their concerns were ignored. David Boyle from the Noble Neighborhood Association questioned why the board would approve development on farmland when six existing industrial sites remain vacant in the county. Tension also flared between commissioners and Rossville’s new interim pro tem Mayor Jonathan Lassiter, who criticized the board’s denial of the city’s request to use the old Rossville Middle School building for volunteer firefighter training. Commissioners pushed back, clarifying that the request had not been formally presented. Chairperson Angie Teems acknowledged delays in communication but said a decision on the matter would be forthcoming after further consultation with the county fire chief. The next Walker County Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled for July 10th at 6 p.m.
Yesterday the Dade County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a missing 15-year-old female from the Sand Mountain area. Authorities say the juvenile left her home during the night with an adult male she had been communicating with online. Dade County Officers, detectives, and 911 operators quickly launched a coordinated search, believing the pair were traveling toward Oklahoma. Working closely with law enforcement in Arkansas and Oklahoma, the individuals were located in a vehicle on Interstate 40 near Little Rock, Arkansas. Both were taken into custody without incident. The juvenile is now safely reunited with her family. The adult male is being held on a felony charge of Interstate Interference with Custody.
The town of Trion is accepting bids to build a fence for the town’s dog park. Bids will be accepted until June 23rd. Specifications and bid documents can be obtained from the town of Trion.
GNTC is hosting free application week. GNTC will waive the $25 application fee for all incoming students during this week. Admission deadline for the fall semester is August 4th. Classes start August 18th.