.jpg)
Wlaf1450The town is being proactive with regard to data centers
CARYVILLE, TN (WLAF)- Monday night, the Caryville Board of Mayor and Aldermen failed to pass the first reading of Ordinance 2026-08 which was a first reading of the 2026-27 budget. Vice Mayor Josh Monday made the motion to pass the first reading; however the motion failed for lack of a second. Mayor Beth Lawson opened the floor for discussion, but there was none. On Thursday night the board met in a workshop for the budget where Town Administrator Craig Bennett went over the budget at length explaining the budget in its entirety. At that time, there appeared to be no questions.
Ordinance 2026-04 had a second reading. The ordinance is a budget amendment for fiscal year 2025-26. Ordinance 2026-05 had a first reading; this ordinance was for approximately $107,000. The ordinance places appropriate funds in each line item. Two ordinances pertaining to data centers were passed. Those ordinances were Ordinance 2026-08 defining a data center and Ordinance 2026-07 states where data centers can be placed. Those centers would only be allowed in M-1 zones which are located in planned industrial parks. Bennett told the board there were no active proposals or intent at this time. The town is being proactive with these ordinances.
Resolution 2026-10 authorizing the dissolution of the policy that states employees have to be employed for 90 days by the town prior to receiving health insurance was passed. Resolution 2026-11 was passed. This resolution demonstrates the town’s commitment to phase two of the Caryville Cares Park.
The board approved the purchase of two items for the police department. The first is a new radar gun for $1,894.63 and a Toughbook Panasonic laptop for $3,500.
The beer board met after the regular meeting and approved a beer permit for Instant Replay Bar, 375 John McGhee Blvd. Town Attorney Elizabeth Burrell explained that the establishment does not meet the required 100 foot distance from a residence, it is approximately 65 feet. She continued that another bar located in the same area appeared to not meet the 100 foot requirement either, which would be a violation of the current ordinance. Due to questions about the distance, the board approved a license for Instant Replay Bar. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-05/12/2026-6AM)