On this edition of the WGNS Action Line, host Scott Walker sits down with Rutherford County Commissioner Craig Harris for an in-depth discussion on some of the most pressing issues facing county government.

A major focus of the conversation centers on long-term capital projects expected to impact the county budget over the next five years, including the need for new schools and a new county jail. Harris explains that the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center on New Salem Highway is currently operating at or near capacity. Inmates housed there include those awaiting trial or sentencing, individuals serving local sentences of 11 months and 29 days, and convicted felons awaiting transfer to state prisons for sentences ranging from one to two years—or, in some cases, life.

The discussion turns to the significant uncertainty surrounding the cost of a new jail. A previous interview with the county mayor suggested construction costs could reach as high as $400 million. Harris outlines the key questions county leaders must answer moving forward: how such a project would be funded and whether a new facility would be built at a different location or added onto the existing jail and Sheriff’s Office complex.

Harris also addresses recent ethics complaints filed against County Mayor Joe Carr and County Property Assessor Rob Mitchell, noting his role on the county’s Ethics Committee and the process involved in reviewing such matters.

Another topic of interest involves county-owned property and future office space. Harris discusses the status of the former Goldstein’s building on the historic square and the proposal for the county to purchase the former Bank of America building on East Main Street, located roughly 350 feet from the Rutherford County Courthouse. If approved, the plan would include an $8 million purchase price and an additional $8 to $9 million renovation, bringing the total investment to approximately $16 to $17 million to relocate multiple county offices. That move would leave the Goldstein’s building available for sale or potential reuse by county government.

Listeners can hear the full conversation and gain a clearer understanding of where Rutherford County is headed by tuning in to this episode of the WGNS Action Line—delivering a comprehensive look at local government issues in 45 minutes or less.