Bradley County Quorum Court convened Monday, June 16, addressing updates on local healthcare initiatives, new legal guidelines, and ongoing discussions about the county jail project.
The meeting opened with the approval of the previous month's minutes and the treasurer’s report, both receiving unanimous support from the court.
Leeanna Williams, representing Bradley County Medical Center (BCMC), shared important developments regarding the hospital’s future plans. She announced a community health needs assessment initiative aimed at gathering resident feedback on healthcare gaps in the area. The first public meeting is scheduled for July 10, with a follow-up meeting planned for August 27. A form will soon be mailed to residents to collect their input.
Williams also announced the launch of a new cardiopulmonary rehabilitation service in the coming months. The program will support individuals dealing with chronic breathing conditions such as COPD.
“We feel this will be a real asset to have this locally because the closest one is in Magnolia,” she added.
Following her presentation, the court approved the Sheriff’s report.
County Judge Klay McKinney then updated the court on recent legislative changes impacting how quorum court members and judges may conduct business. According to the new regulations, which go into effect in August, any discussion and action taken outside official court sessions could result in fines of up to $1,000. Conversations about bond issues held privately could lead to court investigations and possible nullification by a circuit judge.
The court then turned to new business, with McKinney presenting updated figures related to the ongoing jail bond project. Discussion centered around the financial feasibility of the jail’s construction and its potential tax implications.
“The only way that Bradley County can see any path of daylight is to build this jail,” McKinney said. “The Sheriff would use the extra income to help supplement it to keep it on trajectory to sustain itself.”
The court proceeded to vote on a series of resolutions before adjourning. The next meeting of the Bradley County Quorum Court is scheduled for July 21 at 6 p.m.
