Commission adopts resolution opposing proposed federal immigration detention facility near Lebanon

Wilson County’s Board of County Commissioners on March 16 approved Resolution 26‑3‑4, which expresses formal opposition to a proposed federal immigration detention facility near Lebanon, Tenn.

Commissioner Denton said he signed the resolution and supported the county’s proactive stance, emphasizing he did not align with "the insane lunacy" he said occurred at a previous meeting and that his support was based on what he believes is right for the county. "I signed this resolution because we were being proactive here as a commission," Denton said.

Commissioner Gentry stated he did not sign the resolution and wanted that recorded. Other commissioners, including Commissioner Smith, thanked county staff and law enforcement for managing a heated public meeting and noted the professional conduct of deputies. Commissioner Franklin said he supported the resolution on economic and recruitment grounds, raising concerns about the impact on local business recruitment and law enforcement staffing.

The resolution was moved and seconded; the recorded vote was 23 yes, 1 no. Commissioners also discussed crowd control and structural capacity at the historic county building after a large public presence at a prior meeting; the commission said it will consider rules and capacity issues in a rules committee meeting.

The resolution is a formal expression of the commission’s opposition; it does not itself change county law or appropriations but signals the county’s position to state and federal officials and local stakeholders.