Tomorrow, September 1, marks my first officially sworn-in meeting for the 2026–2027 term! You can review tomorrow’s agenda on the county website to see what is on the docket as we begin this new legislative year. Tomorrow’s primary purpose is to organize the commission members into the various committees to carry out the county’s business.

In the coming days, I will also post my specific committee assignments, along with an overview of the purpose and responsibilities of each county committee. The county’s website shows this information, but I will put it all in one place for you.

Water Matters

“When the well is dry, we learn the worth of water.”

Benjamin Franklin

While a person can survive for weeks without food, our bodies can only last a few short days without water. It is the single element we cannot compromise on—making water not just another public utility, but our most fundamental, non-negotiable human need.

As our region grows, securing reliable, affordable water remains one of our most critical challenges. I’ve written about this before in previous editions of Craig’s Notes.

Furthermore, unless a property owner has a functional private well, residents have only one choice when it comes to the entity supplying water to their home. Because families cannot simply switch providers if rates spike or service declines, responsible, transparent oversight of our water utilities is an imperative duty to our community.

Regionalization – A Growing Trend (and for good reason)

This is why communities across Tennessee are increasingly turning to regionalized water districts to meet the demands of expanding populations and make the best use of shared water resources. Consolidating system capacity allows utilities to improve operational efficiency, increase sustainability, and protect ratepayers from runaway individual costs.

In November, the City of Crossville will hold municipal elections for city council members alongside a water-related referendum. Sample ballots will be available soon to review the exact names and ballot language.

The Community is talking – and RUMORS abound!

Before getting too caught up in rumors being spread by keyboard warriors, I suggest this excellent resource providing facts on the Cumberland Plateau Water Authority (CPWA) website: Water Matters

To explore long-term options for regional water management, the City of Crossville Charter requires a referendum of city voters before municipal utility real property (such as land around Meadow Park Lake and the treatment plant) can be conveyed.

It is important to clarify that this ballot measure
is not a simple vote for or against a merger.

As City Attorney Randy York explained, it is simply a charter-required procedural step that grants the incoming city council the legal authority to negotiate, evaluate options, and determine whether a partnership or asset transfer with the Cumberland Plateau Water Authority (CPWA) is in the best interest of the city and its ratepayers.

Streamlining infrastructure operations and protecting resources across shared systems helps protect every rate-paying family. I have closely tracked regional water developments and encourage everyone to stay informed as these decisions move forward.

The Current State of Regional Water Discussions

• Utility Consolidation: Several area utility districts (including Crab Orchard, South Cumberland, and West Cumberland) have already transitioned under the CPWA umbrella to streamline services and reduce operational overhead.
• City Exploration: Studies and financial models have evaluated how potential partnerships between municipal systems and regional authorities could protect local ratepayers from steep future rate increases.
• Council Guidance: Approval of the ballot initiative does not automatically trigger a sale or merger; it grants the council the legal authority required under the charter to negotiate, evaluate asset usage, and chart the best path forward.

Addressing Rate Disparities & Accountability

Public utilities should operate strictly on ratepayer revenue, maintaining a separation from municipal tax funds so that rates accurately reflect the true cost of service.

Fair, transparent rate structures protect all residents regardless of dwelling within or outside city limits. Ensuring clear financial accounting and independent auditing remains crucial whenever wholesale contracts or rate structures come up for review.

Looking Ahead

Navigating regional water needs requires cooperation across municipal and county boundaries. Water infrastructure is far too vital to be caught up in political delays or unnecessary fragmentation. I will continue advocating for fair representation, transparent auditing, and sustainable water management for every resident in our district.