PODCAST (Above) - WGNS' Scott Walker has a reflective and positive conversation with Rutherford County Mayor Joe Carr, who is preparing to leave office after a successful four-year term. The show opens on a lighthearted note, highlighting the self-proclaimed workaholic mayor’s recent two-week vacation out West, where he visited several national parks and finally took a much-needed break. The discussion maintains an optimistic tone as Mayor Carr praises the phenomenal team of directors he has worked alongside and expresses full confidence in handing over the reins to Mayor-elect Randy Allen.

In the second half of the show, following, the conversation shifts toward regional growth and the massive investments required for educational infrastructure. Mayor Carr explains the complexities of school funding, noting that building a new high school can now cost up to $200 million, while elementary schools range from $60 million to $80 million. He also details the financial relationship between the county and Murfreesboro City Schools, explaining that the city receives a 15% share whenever the county issues a bond for a new elementary school.

The WGNS Action Line episode concludes on a remarkably high note, with Carr assuring listeners that the county's robust financial health means there is no need for tax increases in the foreseeable future. Hear the full podcast by clicking the play button above this description, or right click to save the show to your computer or phone or other device and listen later.