Friday, July 17, 2026

The Rutherford Roundup

In Today’s Episode:

• Tennessee’s unemployment rate fell to 3.5% in June, its lowest level of 2026, as health care, hospitality, and manufacturing added jobs.
• Rutherford County’s latest unemployment rate remained below the statewide average, with Smyrna at 2.5% and Murfreesboro at 2.7%.
• Rutherford County Schools prepares to open enrollment for the 2026–2027 academic year and welcome students to the new Poplar Hill Middle School.
• The nearly $60 million Poplar Hill campus on Blackman Road will serve approximately 850 students under Principal April Sneed.
• Property Assessor Rob Mitchell raises questions about public spending, professional training payments, and the legal status of the Tennessee Association of Assessing Officers.
• Rutherford County property owners continue seeking corrections and filing appeals following the 2026 reappraisal, with hearings scheduled through early August.
• More than 300 teams and 7,000 players arrive for the 2026 Youth Soccer Girls National Championships in Murfreesboro and Smyrna.
• Tourism officials expect the national tournament to benefit local hotels, restaurants, retailers, attractions, and other businesses.
• Nashville police recover a stolen vehicle with a one-year-old child safely inside and charge a 43-year-old suspect with vehicle theft and child neglect.