MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) — The Rutherford County Commission voted Thursday night to appoint Rick Hall to the vacant District 3 seat, following the recent resignation of Commissioner Michael Wrather. In a 14-6 vote, Hall secured the majority over fellow nominee Wesley Smith.

Two former commissioners, Will Jordan and Wayne Blair, spoke in support of Hall’s appointment, as did several current commissioners. Hall previously served on the commission from 2006 to 2010 representing District 12, before moving to District 3 following redistricting. He has expressed concerns about growth, the landfill, and other pressing issues facing the county, noting there is a limited window to address them before the next election season.

Wesley Smith, who received the other six votes, was unable to attend the meeting due to business obligations out of town. Despite efforts to rearrange his schedule, he could not be present. Commissioners granted a special vote to replay remarks he made earlier before the Steering Committee so all members could hear them prior to Thursday’s decision.

The vacancy was created when Wrather stepped down last month after nearly seven years of public service. First elected in 2018, Wrather played a key role in major county initiatives, including the development of public safety and health facilities, the construction of two new schools, and infrastructure planning.

Hall, who co-hosts the Tuesday WGNS Roundtable program with Blair, will serve in the District 3 seat until next year’s county elections.

PREVIOUSLY REPORTED

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) — With the departure of longtime Commissioner Michael Wrather, the Rutherford County Commission Steering Committee Monday night (August 4th) recommended Rick Hall to fill the vacant District 3 seat. In a 4-2 vote, Hall received the majority support, while Wesley Smith garnered the remaining two votes. A third applicant, Mary Ann Young, did not receive any votes from the committee.

Hall previously served on the Rutherford County Commission from 2006 to 2010, representing District 12. There has been redistricting since he served as well as his move to the current District 3 several years ago. He mentioned concerns about growth, the landfill and other issues currently facing the commission and a short window for the group of leaders to get things accomplished before election season:

Hall’s name now advances to the full County Commission for final approval later during their August meeting. While the Steering Committee’s endorsement carries weight, commissioners can still make nominations from the floor before casting a formal vote. The person appointed will serve until next year, when the county will hold election for several districts, including District 3.

Hall, along with Wayne Blair, host the Tuesday WGNS Roundtable program from 9-10am, where he joins local leaders to discuss a variety of local issues.

Wrather’s resignation last month closes nearly seven years of public service. First elected in 2018, he played a central role in key county initiatives, including the development of public safety and health facilities and the construction of two new schools. His leadership as vice chair of the Public Safety Committee earned recognition for his contributions to infrastructure and growth planning.