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Cheatham County approves MBI jail plans after failed attempt to postpone
Summary
Commissioners voted 7-5 to approve MBI’s Cheatham County Jail plans after a proposal to postpone for an architect work session failed. The board recorded detailed roll-call votes and left open follow-up on facility sizing and cost oversight.
Cheatham County commissioners approved construction plans for a new jail presented by MBI on Aug. 16, 2021, after a motion to postpone action and hold a work session with the architect failed.
A motion by Gary Binkley to postpone consideration and require a work session with the architect was seconded by Tim Williamson and failed on a roll-call vote: 4 in favor, 7 opposed and 1 abstention. The original motion to approve the plans, made by Ed Greer and seconded by David Anderson, then passed 7-5. Commissioners recorded individual votes during the roll call.
The failed postponement would have delayed approval to allow commissioners additional review focused on reducing the facility’s size; proponents said it would allow more cost and program review, while opponents argued the plans should move forward. The final approval allows work to proceed per the plans submitted by MBI, though several commissioners indicated they expect follow-up on scope and budget details.
The action was taken during the County Mayor’s presentation of several items. The meeting record shows the board debated the size of the proposed facility before voting; no amendments to the plan were adopted on the floor. The county will proceed to the next procedural steps authorized by the approved plans.
The meeting record indicates commissioners will continue oversight as project design and implementation proceed; no additional formal direction was recorded at the meeting about revised drawings or new cost limits.
The board adjourned at 8:38 p.m.
