The Shelby County Commission made significant strides during its July 28, 2025 meeting, notably passing a resolution to appoint Tim Netherton to the Shelby County Beer Board for a four-year term. This decision, which garnered unanimous support with ten votes in favor, highlights the county's commitment to community involvement and governance.
Commissioner David C. Bradford, who nominated Netherton, praised his extensive experience on the Collierville Planning Commission and his active role in local initiatives like Collierville Cares. Netherton himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, dedicating his potential role to the memory of former Shelby County Sheriff and Mayor Bill Morris, who recently passed away. His heartfelt tribute resonated with the commissioners, emphasizing the importance of leadership and community service.
In addition to the beer board appointment, the commission addressed several other items. A proposed ordinance to amend the Shelby County Charter, allowing the Board of Commissioners to hire a legal adviser, was deferred to August 11 for further consideration. This amendment, sponsored by Commissioner Eric Sugarman, aims to enhance the legislative functions of the board and will ultimately be presented to voters.
The meeting also saw the passage of an ordinance to establish an administrative fee for the Shelby County Land Bank's private lot grass maintenance program, reflecting ongoing efforts to manage community resources effectively. Furthermore, a resolution to allocate over $11 million for transitioning operations of the youth justice and educational center from the Sheriff’s Office to the Division of Corrections was introduced, signaling a significant shift in the county's approach to youth justice.
Overall, the July 28 meeting underscored Shelby County's dedication to community engagement, effective governance, and the ongoing evolution of its public services. The commission's decisions are set to have lasting impacts on local governance and community welfare.