Bradley County Commission - Finance Meeting 11-03-25

Fourth District Commissioner Howard Thompson opened the meeting by addressing comments he made concerning the deadly shooting at Barku Plastics last week. Thompson said his remarks had been shared online “without full context,” but apologized to the community, the commission, and Barku Plastics for anything he said that was offensive. He also apologized to Commissioner Cindy Slater. Here is a portion of what Thompson had to say. (CLIP)

Commission Chairman Tom Crye reminded commissioners to maintain civility and noted that members can only be removed from office by conviction, resignation, or voters in their district. Crye also announced that Commissioner Mike Hughes will immediately replace Thompson as chair of the Building and Land Committee. Here is a part of what Crye had to say. (CLIP)

Mayor Gary Davis presented a joint proclamation with the commission designating November 4–11 as “Operation Greenlight” to honor veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. Citizens are encouraged to display green lights at homes or businesses that week. That resolution passed unanimously.

3rd District Commissioner and Finance Committee Chairman, Milan Blake, proposed three motions recommended by the Finance Committee. First, commissioners approved reallocating $96,000 from affordable housing funds to help maintain operations at the Cleveland/Bradley Emergency Shelter. The motion passed 14-0.

The commission also approved a resolution authorizing Bradley Health and Rehab Director Scott Oliver to apply for a line of credit of up to $500,000 with First Horizon Bank. 

Finally, commissioners approved the 2026 Opioid Funds distribution, allocating $30,000 to ATS the Bridge, $10,000 to the Boys and Girls Club, $160,000 to the Bradley Prevention Coalition, $30,000 to the Emergency Shelter, $35,000 to Foundation House, $45,000 to the Caring Place, and $20,000 to Willowbend Farms. 

The county will continue employee health insurance through Cigna, with a 5% premium increase and no benefit changes except a minor federal HSA adjustment. That motion passed 12-2.

The commission will meet again on November 17.