The Roane County Commission convened its regular session on July 14, 2025, at the Kingston courthouse, addressing several key issues. The commission passed a resolution mandating a five-day notice for special called meetings, requiring all agenda items to be published in a local newspaper to ensure transparency.

This decision, approved by a majority vote after discussion, was prompted by confusion over unspecified items at the previous month’s meeting, leading the county attorney to clarify regulations. The commission also appointed Scott Gwenn to serve as Magistrate, filling Kathy Mount’s unexpired term, which runs until March 2026. Additionally, they approved purchasing land near the courthouse and the new Dollar Tree store to provide parking for county employees.

A contentious rezoning request for property along Loser Lane and Highway 70, east of Rockwood, was approved in a 10-4 vote, converting the land from mixed A1 and C2 zoning to fully commercial, despite the planning commission’s denial.

During public comments, Rocky Joe Houston was escorted out by sheriff’s deputies after becoming disruptive within 30 seconds, as directed by the chairman. Representatives from M Bridge Company presented plans for a natural gas line to the TVA Kingston power plant, which is transitioning from coal to gas by 2027, with the line originating in Trousdale and Knox counties and requiring drilling under the Clinch River.

County Mayor Creswell reported collaboration with the city of Kingston to install a traffic signal at Swan Pond Road and Highway 70 to accommodate increased construction traffic for the TVA plant’s conversion, with installation expected within months. The hour-long meeting is available for viewing on the county government’s YouTube channel.