RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WGNS News) - On this episode of the WGNS Action Line with host Scott Walker he begins the conversation with Congressman John Rose, who discusses the rapid growth of Tennessee and the pressing need to improve infrastructure and road conditions. Congressman Rose also dives into serious national issues affecting our local communities, specifically focusing on border security and the fentanyl crisis.
Following the first commercial break, the show comes together with a highly engaging studio conversation with Rutherford County Commissioner Craig Harris. Despite tackling heavy topics, Commissioner Harris remains incredibly upbeat and passionate about his service to the community. He proudly highlights the county's new numbers surrounding opioid abatement, sharing the incredibly positive news that local overdose death rates have dropped in half since 2021.
In the second half of the show, Walker and Harris transition into a deeper dive regarding the area's explosive growth and the logistical challenges that come with it. They focus extensively on the pressing need for a new county jail within the next five to ten years and the looming landfill, which currently sits at an estimated four to six years of remaining life.
Later, the show takes a turn that highlights a missed opportunity involving a $12 million grant program that could have strengthened the fight against drug use, increased recovery rates and provided additional resources to the community.
Commissioner Harris, who previously ran against Mayor Joe Carr for county mayor, explains how Carr allegedly refused to sign the grant application because Harris’ name was included in the proposal as a potential program director. Harris said he later asked for his name to be removed for the betterment of the community. However, the application missed the required deadlines, leaving Rutherford County out of the running for the funding.
- Hear more from Commissioner Harris by clicking play above this description.
