Drew Beeler Selected McKenzie Vice Mayor

McKENZIE (January 9) — During the January meeting of the City of McKenzie Board of Mayor and Council, newly elected council person Drew Beeler was selected from the sitting council members as the new Vice Mayor. Beeler replaces long-time Councilman and Vice Mayor Jessie Townes. Both Townes and Beeler were nominated for the position, which resulted in a 3-3 tie vote. Mayor Ryan Griffin broke the tie.

Beeler was originally appointed to the Council in May 2024 before running and winning a seat in November 2024. He previously filled the unexpired term held by the late Charles Pruneau.

The Mulberry Park Soccer Complex was discussed. In the plans, there are six fields which equates to a field for each age group in the local youth soccer league. There is an area plotted for restrooms and concessions. A pledge of $50,000 has been made for additional lighting. The plan is to be run through the Parks and Recreation Committee in February before final approval comes from the Council. The Tennessee National Guard will be on-site during the summer months to help with construction.

The Council approved the placement of a library box sponsored by United Way. The box, constructed by TCAT-Newbern, will resemble the food pantry/blessing boxes stationed in town. Jennifer Medford, who is chairing the partnership, stated that McKenzie is receiving the first box but there will be 15 boxes coming in the near future to other locations.

Medford said families who can not afford books now have an opportunity to take ownership of books. Having increased access to text will help a family improve reading levels. Currently, Martin has a similar box located near its housing authority.

Each box will have a charter number that will be stocked in part by the United Way. The little libraries will be periodically monitored making sure that content is appropriate for the readers. It was noted that the books donated do not have to be child-based reading as the little library is designed for everyone.

Before the regular meeting, SAI of McKenzie Corporation, dba: Food Mart, 17525 Highland Drive, McKenzie was granted an Off Premise Beer Permit. It was noted by City Attorney Beau Pemberton that there is a lease agreement that allows for the transfer of the beer permit.

In other business, LaDonna Herrin and Jennifer Travis were appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission.

The next regular meeting of the McKenzie City Council is February 13 at 6 p.m.