Cheatham County approves $3.35 million highway garage project

The Cheatham County Legislative Body voted 9–3 on Sept. 21, 2020 to authorize construction of a new Highway Garage and Office, approving a total project estimate of $3,352,825.50 and identifying General Debt Service as the funding source.

Road Superintendent Robert Hester told commissioners that “once the project was started the Highway Department would catch up the interest and principal payment on the loan and at the end of the project the Highway Department will give the County $100,000.00.” That figure was presented as part of the department’s plan to offset financing costs.

The body’s motion itemized costs: construction $2,160,000.00; fueling station $225,000.00; hot mix $70,952.00; and architect, interest payments and land cost $896,872.70, totaling $3,352,825.50. The motion passed by roll call 9 Yes, 3 No; commissioners recorded as voting No were Walter Weakley, Eugene O. Evans, Sr., and Ed Greer. The roll-call listing shows Commissioner Connie Mayo recorded in the minutes as “Pass/Yes” (the meeting tally counts nine yes votes); the transcript text for that line is ambiguous.

County leadership said the authorization follows discussion about documenting obligations and obtaining professional opinions on future projects. The motion directs county staff to proceed with the construction authorization under the listed budget and funding source.