Steve Marion

The grounds at Jefferson City Center are home to a new rain garden with native plants, thanks to a grant and the working hands of three groups Monday afternoon. “The ecosystem here directly affects the Great Smoky Mountains, so anything we can do to make it better is appreciated,” said Julie Elfin, biodiversity program specialist with Discover Life in America, […]

A Kodak man convicted in a 2024 drug-fueled killing was sentenced to 62 years – 50 of it without parole – yesterday morning in Circuit Court. Jonathan Lee Mays, 34, was found guilty in April of opening fire with a 9mm handgun when William Eric Pierce and Shelby Brooks came to the door of the camper on Thorngrove Pike where […]

New debt may be necessary to avert a looming financial crisis for the Jefferson County Landfill, Mayor Randy Bales told County Commission at its work session Tuesday evening. Increased population is driving the need for a new Class I (household waste) cell, which could cost up to $8.7 million, depending on size and other factors. Meanwhile, the county Sanitation Board […]

Her father was the town’s fire chief. Her grandfather was the barber, and her grandmother was the librarian. No wonder Alyson Pack first reported to work at White Pine Town Hall around age 6. “We roamed all over,” she recalled of early travels with big sister, Denise. “We’d spend a little while at the library and then go see what […]

Jefferson County Finance Director Jessica Elder is leaving later this month to take a leadership position at the Knox County Trustee’s Office. Her tenure here was marked by a significant reduction in county debt, the highest bond rating in county history and commendations from the State Comptroller’s Office for county budget preparation. “I am really proud of Jefferson County and […]

White Pine Council will use a military surplus program to obtain a street sweeper and a rollback truck by paying only the shipping costs. Meeting earlier this month, the group approved accepting both units through the military’s Law Enforcement Support Office, with Patrol Officer Kevin Carr and Police Chief Chad Cotter handling the arrangements. The officers, who have been monitoring […]

County Commissioners sent a proposed resolution that would form a mineral tax study group back to work session Monday, but discussion seemed to hold a glimmer of potential for the thrice-failed tax. Representing local zinc mines Crucible ETM, now owned by Korea Zinc, Brian Millington told Commissioners the company would welcome participation in a study group and wants to find […]

Looking for some friends? There’s a place in New Market with “Helpful Hannah,” “Encouraging Ella,” “Bouncy Brooklyn” and even “Wonderful Willow.” Join their group of friends, and you get not just a nickname like theirs, but a chance to be part of a supportive community and improve your running stamina on the track. The new “Girls on the Run” chapter […]

Construction is underway on a new $4.2 million Dandridge Memorial Library after some initial delays — and a newly-announced $500,000 grant will assist with equipment and furniture. “It’s going to be a great addition to the community,” Bob Jarnagin, president of the Library Foundation Board, told Dandridge Council last week. “We’re excited to be moving forward after some site issues.” […]

Dandridge Council approved zoning for a large mixed use development on the south side of Exit 417 last week, but the residential part of the plan is on hold while the Town conducts a utility study. Meeting in regular session, the group gave final reading approval to mixed use development zoning for the 64-acre property off Highway 92 and Sharon […]