County Commission Reviews Budget Amendments, Infrastructure Funding During June 2026 Meeting
By Mark Darnell
The Macon County Commission met in regular session on Monday, June 15, with County Mayor Steve Jones presiding over a meeting that focused heavily on budget amendments, public infrastructure, county operations and preparations for the upcoming fiscal year.
Following the opening of court by Sheriff Joey Wilburn, the invocation was offered by Commissioner Jeff Hughes and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Kevin Wooten. County Clerk Connie Blackwell conducted the roll call of commissioners before the commission proceeded with the evening’s business.
Mayor Steve Jones presided over the June 15 meeting of the Macon County Commission. Commissioners present were Phillip Snow, Keith Newberry, Mike Jenkins, Kevin Wooten, Ethan Flippin, Billy Wilmore, Justin Dyer, Dan Hill, Barry Marshall, Tony Wix, Michael Slayton, Jeff Hughes, Barry King, Bobby Ray King, Kyle Petty, Wendell Jones, Jarhea Wilmore, Helen Hesson and Larry West. Commissioner Todd Gentry was absent.
Mayor Jones welcomed those in attendance and thanked commissioners, department heads and citizens for their continued participation in county government as budget discussions move toward the close of the fiscal year.
Commissioners approved notary public applications and approved minutes from previous meetings, including the May 18 Legislative Body meeting, Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals meetings, budget committee meetings and the June 8 Committee of the Whole session.
A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to budget amendments involving numerous county departments and funds. Amendments were presented for EMS, the Health Department, RBS Fire and Rescue, Loss Control, Recovery Court, the Sheriff’s Department, the School Resource Officer grant program, the County Clerk’s Office, Probation, Animal Control, county libraries, General Administration, the Mayor’s Office and other departments.
Several amendments were related to transfers within existing budgets to cover operational expenses and ensure departments remain adequately funded through the end of the fiscal year. Commissioners also reviewed amendments connected to the county’s ongoing jail addition project, which continues to be one of the county’s largest capital investments.
The commission heard from School Director Shawn Carter regarding a proposed school lease agreement. Education matters remained a key topic as county leaders continue balancing school system needs with broader county budget considerations.
Road Supervisor Ben Cook provided an update on highway department activities and ongoing infrastructure needs. Highway maintenance and road improvement projects continue to be priorities as county officials work to address transportation needs across the county.
The Sheriff’s Department also presented updates concerning departmental and jail operations. Public safety remains one of the county’s largest areas of expenditure, and commissioners reviewed related funding requests and operational updates during the meeting.
Under the County Mayor’s report, commissioners considered several items of county business, including Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) waterline funding opportunities, a proposed FEMA disaster debris drop-off site, road changes, matters involving the county armory, appointments to the library board and updates concerning jail debt obligations.
Mayor Jones also discussed a litter grant opportunity that could assist the county with future cleanup and beautification efforts.
Commissioner Michael Slayton brought forward discussion concerning potential data center regulations. The topic generated interest among commissioners as local governments across Tennessee continue examining how large-scale data center developments may affect infrastructure, utilities and future growth.
The commission also reviewed monthly reports from the Building Codes Department and EMS. Those reports provided updates on permitting activity, impact fee collections and emergency medical service operations throughout the county.
During the public comment period, citizens were given an opportunity to address topics discussed during the meeting. The commission then reviewed upcoming meeting dates, including the July 6 Committee of the Whole meeting and additional budget sessions.
As the county enters the final stages of budget preparation for the upcoming fiscal year, many of the issues discussed during the June meeting are expected to continue receiving attention from commissioners in the weeks ahead.
The meeting adjourned following the completion of all agenda items.
