Rutherford County Commissioners Wrap Up 2025

The Rutherford County Board of Commissioners closed out 2025 at their Dec. 1 meeting with a full agenda that included leadership elections, a major property sale, public input on zoning and fees, and a detailed year-end report from the Department of Social Services (DSS).

Bryan King was re-elected chairman and Alan Toney vice chair for the 2025–26 term after multiple nominations and split support across the board. Commissioners also approved the sale of a 2.6-acre county-owned property at Gateway West for $660,000. The buyer plans an $8–$9 million retail development expected to bring 25–30 new jobs.

Public comment focused on local zoning and water concerns, including a proposed 300-unit tiny-home development and the county’s solid-waste fee structure. One resident questioned school-system funding levels relative to general county operations.

The board also recognized the Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy men’s soccer team for its first-ever 1A state championship after a 26-1 season. Multiple board and committee

appointments were approved, though some seats, including on the Farmland Preservation Advisory Board, remain vacant.

DSS reported a year marked by rising caseloads, disaster response to Hurricane Helene, and a staffing shortage, with child-welfare turnover exceeding 50%. Officials highlighted ongoing efforts to recruit local foster families and return out-of-county children to Rutherford homes. The department also addressed questions about SNAP error rates, noting their historical rate is around 1.6%.

Looking ahead to January 2026, the board will return on January 5 to continue discussions on zoning, housing, DSS staffing, and remaining board vacancies. Residents will also learn who is filing to run for three commissioner seats, with candidate filings open through Dec. 19.

You may watch the full meeting and review the agenda packet here.