Council hears resolution to block mayor's lease termination of Ajax Turner Senior Center; mayor indicates charter conflict

Councilman Smith read a resolution to the City Council that would require a majority of the full council before the mayor's termination of the lease with Ajax Turner Senior Citizens Center at 953 Clark Street could take effect and would suspend the mayor's March 20, 2026 notice of termination (effective June 30) pending a council vote.

The resolution, introduced as Resolution 69-2025-26, says Ajax Turner has provided services to Clarksville's senior population for about 60 years and argues that termination of a lease for long-standing community use of city-owned property "is a decision of significant public policy" that should involve the full legislative body. It directs that the lease remain in force until the council votes on termination.

Mayor Joe Pitts responded that the city charter vests the mayor with authority to terminate leases and told Councilman Smith the resolution likely would be ruled out of order next week; the mayor said Smith had the right to challenge the chair's ruling. Smith acknowledged the charter language but said he believed an ordinance and attorney guidance supported the council's ability to vote on such matters and asked staff to provide that citation.

Members of the public addressed the council during the public-comment period. Kathy Wallace urged the council to preserve the nonprofit's independence and warned that Parks and Recreation would not duplicate the center's tailored programs for seniors, saying the center is "a second home" for many and citing accessibility, program modifications for health conditions and reliance on volunteers. Her statement: "This nonprofit organization is much more than a building. It's a second home. It's a place where friendships are formed..." Lois Greater said she had been told a relocation site is guaranteed and that the Ajax Turner name will remain with the nonprofit. Lorraine Watkins said the center's participants have been there since 2000 and described a loss of community and compassion under current management, urging action to restore the center's previous environment.

The council did not vote on Resolution 69 at this meeting. The mayor indicated the resolution could be challenged as out of order at next week's meeting; Councilman Smith said he would pursue providing any supporting ordinance or attorney citation. The council scheduled no final action on termination during this session.