Radio Broadcast Summary: The Roundtable Show (March 24, 2026)

This broadcast of The Roundtable Show, hosted by Rick and Wayne on WGNS Radio, featured an in-depth conversation with Commissioner Craig Harris, who is currently a candidate for Rutherford County Mayor. The dialogue covered a broad spectrum of topics, from personal motivations for public office to the technicalities of county infrastructure and finance.

Key Discussion Topics

• The Opioid Epidemic: Commissioner Harris identified the opioid crisis as his primary reason for seeking the mayoralty, noting that approximately 65% of the county's jail population is incarcerated due to drug-related issues.

• Infrastructure and Growth: The participants addressed the pressures of rapid growth in Rutherford County, stressing the necessity for strategic long-term planning for roads and schools to match development.

• County Finances: Harris highlighted the significance of the county’s Triple-A bond rating. This top-tier credit rating allows the county to secure lower interest rates on loans for major capital projects, saving taxpayers millions.

• School Construction Strategy: A proposal was discussed to build smaller, more cost-effective schools and expand them over time as enrollment grows, rather than building massive facilities with initially empty classrooms.

• Public Safety and Jail Conditions: There is an urgent need for a new sheriff's office and jail facility because the current building is physically deteriorating, with structural settling causing significant plumbing and electrical failures.