Lee Johnston

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen discussed the hiring of a new Parks and Recreation department employee. Significant agenda items included the acceptance of property conveyance from the Industrial Development Board regarding land at Walker East Industrial Park, the approval of a deed of dedication for Walker East Drive, and the consideration of a purchase and sale agreement with Project Bion. Additionally, the Board reviewed a clean financial audit for the period ending June 30, 2025, and approved legal action against a former police officer for the recovery of unreturned equipment and pro-rated training costs.

The Board discussed and approved the next phase of a fiber-to-the-premise expansion project, estimated at approximately $640,000, with funding to be sourced from reserves. Additionally, the Board approved the endorsement of a check issued by State Farm that was incorrectly made payable to the Power Board rather than the City of Ripley.

The board discussed departmental updates, including public safety reports regarding the recent holiday and upcoming events, water infrastructure project completions, and the success of the recent park festivities. Key agenda items included the scheduling of an election board workshop and a detailed proposal for a data mining operation at the Walker Industrial Park, contingent upon TVA approval. The proposal involves property acquisition and potential capital investment, which could lead to significant job creation and economic growth for the community.

The Board discussed various city and power board operations, including inquiries regarding the integration of the power board into city meetings, the hiring of a legal firm, and the need for separate meeting times. The Mayor honored a deceased former city hall employee. Department reports were presented, covering recent holiday incidents, a homicide investigation, and employee health updates. Furthermore, the Board approved an engagement letter for outside counsel, a cybersecurity policy, and the purchase of equipment through a government source.

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen discussed several topics, including a report on new local industry developments, a proposed micro-route bus plan for the city of Ripley, department reports covering code enforcement and infrastructure, and the consideration of a beer permit application for 731 Market. Additionally, the board heard a resolution proposal to designate a ladder as the official tool of the city. A guest speaker from the University of Tennessee at Martin Ripley Center introduced herself, provided an update on the center's programs, and announced an upcoming open house.