THE STATE Route 437 bypass was recently named to celebrate and honor late county mayor Eugene Ray. His focus and success in fiscal management and increasing higher education opportunities are just two of his accomplishments from his impressive 12-year tenure as mayor. The Bedford County native was the first African American mayor in the county and he also served for 28 years on the County Commission. His legacy lives on in Bedford County.
REMAKING THE COURTHOUSE
The courthouse renovations are underway after some delays.The planning and zoning department will be moved to the third floor of the courthouse and improve access for property owners to connect with other property-related offices, such as the Register of Deeds and the Assessor of Property. Additionally, the public restrooms in the basement are being renovated which will enable them to be used for special events on the square without needing to open the entire courthouse.
There is some temporary inconvenience in the parking lot of the courthouse as utility lines are being moved underground as part of the downtown renovation around the square. Stay in touch on the county website for any temporary location adjustments due to construction.
FISCAL LEGACY
The county recently refinanced school and jail bonds from 2013-2017. Saving 3.38 million dollars over the remaining life of the bonds will support Bedford County’s fiscal health for years to come. This refinancing will enable the county to use those funds in other priority projects without the need to raise taxes or cut services.
SAVING LIVES THROUGH AWARENESS
County Mayor Chad Graham recently signed a proclamation making September 2021 Suicide Awareness Prevention Month. The document acknowledged the troubling statistics about the reality of lives lost to suicide each year, including the disturbing increased risk
SAVING LIVES THROUGH AWARENESS
County Mayor Chad Graham recently signed a proclamation making September 2021 Suicide Awareness Prevention Month. The document acknowledged the troubling statistics about the reality of lives lost to suicide each year, including the disturbing increased risk to veterans. More veterans die by suicide than they do in combat each year. There is hope and action that can be taken, first and foremost through public awareness, education, and treatment.
The State of Tennessee was among the first to develop a suicide evaluation and prevention plan covering the entire lifespan. The proclamation also encourages “all Tennesseans to take the time to inquire as to the wellbeing of their family, friends, and to genuinely convey their appreciation for their existence by any gesture they deem appropriate. A simple phone call, message, handshake, or hug can go a long way towards helping someone realize that suicide is not the answer.” Find more information on suicide prevention at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
CHANGING LIVES THROUGH AWARENESS
October 2021 was the 76th anniversary of disability employment awareness in the federal government. A proclamation signed by Mayor Graham acknowledges, “Workplaces welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community as well as a strong economy.” Bedford County pledges to “continue to take steps throughout the year to recruit, hire, retain, and advance individuals with disabilities and work to pursue the goals of opportunity, full participation, economic self-sufficiency, and independent living for people with disabilities.”-GN
