Lone Oak Community Civic League Meeting Minutes
Meeting called to order at 7:35 pm. Opening prayer by Bob Tucker and Pledge of Allegiance led by Tommy Johnson.
Treasurer’s Report
Mona presented the Treasurer’s Report. The 127 Yard Sale generated $28,352 in net proceeds to date, bringing total sale revenue to $31,218. Barn sales contributed $21,568.
The Community Center is approximately $70,000 in the black for the year, including a $50,000 donation designated for the fire department, of which $35,000 remains available for expenditures.
A motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report was made by Bob Tucker, seconded by David Adams, and approved unanimously.
127 Yard Sale
Tommy commended Mark, Kim, and Andrea for their efforts with space rentals and organization, noting that this was the most successful 127 Yard Sale to date. The kitchen staff was also recognized for providing excellent food and service, with no complaints reported.
Planning for the 2027 sale has already begun, with several spaces pre-sold and prepaid. Ralph reported that more than $800 in remaining large items from this year’s sale have since been sold.
Fire Department
Greg reported that the department responded to eight medical calls, one carbon monoxide alarm, and one automobile accident during August.
The department has acquired a Ford 7.3 diesel mini-pumper brush truck for fire suppression. A larger truck is expected to arrive by the end of October.
An ISO evaluation was recently completed. Greg expressed optimism that improvements in training and management documentation will result in a favorable rating.
Cindy reported on the upcoming Christmas Cash Bash raffle. Four hundred tickets are available at $50 each, with a $5,000 grand prize. The drawing will be held December 5 during Breakfast with Santa.
Upcoming events include:
- Free breakfast and cruise-in — September 26
- Community cookout and food drive, including a bounce house and free smoke detector sign-ups — October 10
Building and Community Center Maintenance
Tommy announced that groundbreaking took place for a new insulated and concrete building to house the fire trucks. Zach Brown is handling the groundwork. Building materials are expected to arrive during the third week of September, with the construction schedule adjusted slightly to accommodate the preferred builder.
The septic fill line collapsed during the 127 Yard Sale. Kim repaired the clean-out, but the line still needs to be scoped to confirm that it is clear.
The board discussed establishing an annual septic maintenance policy requiring the tanks to be pumped approximately 30 days before the 127 Yard Sale.
Mark proposed replacing the clinic’s $75-per-month alarm system with network-based motion detectors, as the clinic no longer stores high-value items. The proposal will be reviewed.
School Board and Social Services
Debbie reported that the estimated cost of the high school Ag Barn project has been reduced from approximately $1.7 million to $845,000.
The school district continues to experience a significant shortage of substitute bus drivers. The county will cover certification costs for qualified individuals interested in applying.
The backpack program distributed 82 backpacks this year and ended with a $23.90 surplus, with assistance from Walmart grants in Hixson and Dunlap.
Mark promoted the Tech Goes Home adult computer classes held on Tuesdays. Participants who complete 15 hours of training may receive a free Chromebook.
County Commission and Sanitation
Tommy reported that the county budget was approved without a property tax increase. The budget provides $40,000 to each fire department and $25,000 for standardized data collection software intended to assist with improving countywide ISO ratings.
A new $256,000 Peterbilt garbage truck was purchased with cash and will soon enter service.
The county is addressing illegal dumping by out-of-county residents at Sequatchie County convenience centers. Cameras will be installed beginning at the Cagle location, and residency stickers will soon be required on vehicles.
Law Enforcement
Constable Tim Lewis reported 40 calls in the district during August, including three traffic stops, one burglary, civil processes, and welfare checks.
Sheriff Bill Phillips reported that the new budget includes a 12% pay increase for deputies, with starting pay of approximately $22.78 per hour. Corrections officers will also receive increased compensation, bringing pay to approximately $18 per hour, with the goal of improving employee retention.
The jail’s dog therapy program continues to be successful, with two puppies currently available for adoption through a rescue partnership.
Sheriff Phillips also discussed the use of Flock license plate reader technology, emphasizing its potential value in locating abducted children and stolen vehicles while stressing the importance of strict safeguards against improper personal use.
Sheriff Phillips was recently elected to the Tennessee Sheriffs’ Association board and will serve as liaison for the state’s dangerous drugs task force.
Action Items
- Tommy — Contact Sonia regarding clinic faxes being sent to the Community Center fax machine.
- Kim — Have the repaired septic fill line scoped to verify that it is clear.
- Andrew — Show Kim the electrical box missing a key so a replacement can be obtained.
- Tommy — Obtain a PDF or photograph of the new fire department building plans for posting on the community website.
- Bill Hill and David Adams — Display the updated Cruise-In banner.
- Board — Review Mark’s proposal to replace the clinic alarm system with network-based motion detectors.