Highway department updates bridge schedule, removes inapplicable cemetery statute and hears public concern about subdivision drainage

Highway Director Ken McKee updated the Maury County Commission that the Tom J. Hitch Bridge construction is continuing and remains on schedule for an estimated June 13 completion date. McKee presented four highway budget amendments that the commission approved by voice vote: $2,090 for scrap metal; $785.51 for diesel fuel for the Justice Center generator; $94,146.62 for work at the Inali Archery Range; and $7,848.70 for another highway expense.

McKee also asked to remove an item on the agenda, identified as the "cemetery access road maintenance act of '93," saying it does not apply to Maury County. He explained that the provision referenced a population limitation and had been written for a different county; the statute that applies to cemetery roads in Maury County, he said, is the general provision "40‑46‑107" (as cited in the meeting transcript) and requires the county commission to authorize repairs and to bid work using general funds for dilapidated cemetery roads.

During public comment, resident Harold Elk described a newly built subdivision that had dug a ditch and left a three‑foot hole at the pavement edge, which he said threatened erosion of the county road subbase. Elk said he contacted both county highway staff and the city and that the city planned a redesign with the contractor to remedy the situation. Elk asked the highway department to coordinate more closely with cities and contractors when work affects county right‑of‑way.

Commissioners asked follow‑up questions about the cemetery statute and directed staff to remove the inapplicable item from the agenda. The approved highway budget amendments were recorded for inclusion in departmental ledgers.