County officials debate purchasing camper amid rising rental costs

The General Operations Committee of Sumner County, Tennessee, convened on June 2, 2025, to address pressing issues regarding the county's use of temporary housing solutions and the associated costs. The meeting focused primarily on the ongoing rental of a camper trailer, which has raised concerns about fiscal responsibility and long-term planning.

The discussion began with a review of the financial implications of renting versus purchasing a camper. Committee members noted that the current rental costs have exceeded $36,000, with estimates nearing $38,000. The option to purchase a used camper was presented, with a price tag of approximately $47,000 for a model featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms. This choice was criticized for being unnecessarily expensive, especially when a more economical option could have been acquired for around $36,000.

Concerns were raised about the lack of a clear plan for the camper's use and the financial burden it places on taxpayers. One member emphasized the need for a more fiscally conservative approach, suggesting that the committee should take advantage of the current rental arrangement funded by Millersville while exploring long-term solutions.

The conversation shifted to the practicalities of the camper's setup, including questions about water and sewer hookups. Members expressed uncertainty about whether the bathrooms in the trailer were being utilized, as there were no records of sewer disposal services being billed. This raised further questions about the necessity of maintaining two bathrooms in the camper.

A motion was proposed to purchase a trailer, with a focus on finding a model that meets the county's needs without exceeding a budget of $38,000. However, the committee decided to postpone any decisions until further information could be gathered regarding the costs and logistics of establishing permanent water and sewer connections for the camper.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the topic in July, allowing time for the necessary investigations into the current rental situation and potential purchase options. The committee aims to ensure that any future decisions are informed and financially sound, prioritizing the needs of the county while minimizing taxpayer expenses.