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Sales tax for Shelby County Jail construction one step closer | Tennessee

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www.thecentersquare.com – By Kim Jarrett | The Center Square – (The Center Square – ) 2025-04-02 12:54:00

(The Center Square) – The Senate State and Local Government Committee advanced a bill that would give Shelby County voters a chance to decide on a sales tax increase that would fund a new jail.

But Tennessee lawmakers cautioned that similar requests from other counties could be forthcoming.

Senate Bill 337 by Sen. Raumesh Akbari, D-Memphis, would raise the local sales tax from 2.75% to 3.75% if voters approve a referendum. The increase would expire in eight years.

“There are currently 2,500 inmates at the 201 Poplar, a facility that was made to house 2,400 inmates at any given time,” Akbari said. “The conditions there are not only a danger to those who are incarcerated but to those who work in the facility. Many of the escalators don’t work. Many of the elevators don’t work.”

The 43-year-old jail needs $16.5 million a year just to keep it in working order, Alicia Lindsey, chief administrative officer for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, told the panel.

The bill is supported by the Shelby County Commission, according to Commissioner Amber Mills.

“This is asking for a sales tax increase because we do not want a property tax increase,” Mills said. “If we fund the jail with a property tax increase, we are looking at a 74 cent property tax increase for the highest taxed county in the state of Tennessee.”

Sen. Todd Gardenhire, R-Chattanooga, said the picture lawmakers are seeing now is going to play out all across the state because of an upcoming constitutional referendum that would allow judges to deny bail for certain criminal offenses.

“Nobody is against putting away people for those types of crimes but somewhere you’ve got to pay for the jails to put those people in,” Gardenhire said.

Sen. Adam Lowe, R-Calhoun, and Sen. Kerry Roberts, R-Springfield, voted against the bill. Roberts said he acknowledged the problem but was concerned about the solution.

“I am willing to bet that if we do this, that probably four of my five counties will have a resolution for me next year to sponsor similar legislation,” Roberts said. “And we’re going to wind up with a piecemeal solution to a problem that may be more egregious in Shelby County than maybe in other counties but nonetheless exists in all the counties.”

Roberts also questioned whether or not the higher sales tax rate would drive consumers to the bordering states of Mississippi and Arkansas, which have lower sales tax rates.

The bill passed 7-2 and moves to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee.

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News from the South - Tennessee News Feed

Cuts begin in a Tennessee school district as federal funding fight looms

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www.wkrn.com – Kelly Milan – 2025-08-08 22:32:00

SUMMARY: Tennessee schools face losing nearly $2.5 billion—about 20% of funding—if President Trump’s plan to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education proceeds. Some districts, like McNairy County, have already cut programs such as after-school activities, impacting students and parents alike. Tennessee ranks 16th nationally in per-pupil federal funding. A Joint Federal Education Deregulation Cooperation Task Force recently convened to evaluate the potential effects. Democrats doubt the state can replace federal funds, while Republicans assure no child will be left behind. Educators warn cuts could worsen teacher shortages, increase class sizes, and reduce enrichment programs. The task force must propose solutions by year-end.

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News from the South - Tennessee News Feed

Tennessee redistricting lawsuit still pending amid Congressional map battle in Texas

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www.wkrn.com – Tori Gessner – 2025-08-08 18:07:00

SUMMARY: Tennessee is embroiled in a redistricting battle similar to Texas, where Democrats fled the legislature protesting new Republican-favored congressional maps. In 2022, Tennessee faced lawsuits accusing the Republican supermajority of partisan gerrymandering by splitting counties and misnumbering Senate districts, violating the state constitution. A federal judge dismissed the House map suit, but a three-judge panel ordered the Senate map redrawn; this was paused by the Tennessee Supreme Court, which heard arguments in October 2024 with no ruling yet. Sen. Jeff Yarbro criticized partisan redistricting for undermining fair representation and harming voters, linking Tennessee’s conflict to national struggles over political power.

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Spice Up Your Summer Parties With These Perfect Pairings

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www.youtube.com – WKRN News 2 – 2025-08-08 16:03:02

SUMMARY: Chef Marisol Salazar shares tips to elevate summer gatherings beyond burgers and beers. She recommends having signature punches and refreshing cocktails like the Gray Whale Coast crafted with sustainable botanicals. For spontaneous beach or pool days, Josh Cellars wines, especially their crisp Sauvignon Blanc and new non-alcoholic sparkling options, are perfect. For alfresco dining, she suggests pairing warm-weather dishes like grilled fish and shrimp kebabs with The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, known for its tropical fruit and citrus notes. These selections ensure stress-free, delicious summer moments with friends and family. More info at joshcellars.com or local retailers.

Summer isn’t over just yet and there is still time for those summer barbecues & pool days. We have got some perfect food & drink pairings that are sure to make your next summer gathering amazing!

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