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PODCAST: Rutherford County Growing Pains Involve Wins with the Opioid Fight, Infrastructure Needs, and First Responders - An Interview with County Commissioner Craig Harris

Mar 16, 2026 at 12:09 pm by WGNS News

Above Left: Rutherford Co. Commissioner Craig Harris (Click Play Below to Listen)


PODCAST: Can Rutherford County balance explosive growth without losing its soul? In this episode of the WGNS Action Line, host Scott Walker sits down with Rutherford County Commissioner and Mayoral candidate Craig Harris for a candid, deep-dive discussion on the critical issues facing one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing regions.

With the county population projected to exceed 500,000 by 2040, the stakes for infrastructure and public safety have never been higher. Commissioner Harris breaks down a partial Blueprint for Rutherford, including:

  • The Opioid Fight: How the county secured millions in pharmaceutical settlements and the 50% decrease in overdose deaths since 2021.

  • Smart School Spending: A radical proposal to save $40 million on new school constructions by building smarter, smaller, and interest-free.

  • Infrastructure & Expansion: The truth about the sewer system debate, the necessity of a new county jail, and the potential for "Choice Lanes" on I-24.

  • Public Safety & Ethics: His stance on across-the-board raises for first responders and restoring transparency to the County Commission.

Whether you are a long-time resident of Murfreesboro or a newcomer to the county, this episode offers an essential look at Rutherford County's future.