April 15, 2008

It is another sad day for Benton County. I just learned that the secrecy that has surrounded the Decatur/ Benton Special Sewer District for the past decade has begun to bear fruit. Former County Mayor Thornton and current Commissioner Randy Patton, among others, are to share the spotlight for the possibility of businesses closing at Exit 126. It seems that the price to hook on to the new sewer system will cost about $2,500 and the monthly bill will be so high for some that they will be forced out of business. The original cost of the project has tripled. The last money approved for the project was a million dollars in March of 2007. One thing is for sure if the State of Tennessee does not come and rescue Benton County by forgiving all or part of the debt we are going to lose at least $365,000 in tax revenue and endure a property tax increase to pay for this mess.

Thank you
Henry Berry