Category: Updates from the Shelby County Commission

A show of force

We recently had another visit from state officials focused on public safety in Memphis. They proposed a new state constitutional amendment allowing judges to deny bail for a wider variety of violent crimes.

House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson made the announcement at a news conference at Memphis City Hall assembled by Mayor Paul Young, Senator Brent Taylor and other members of the Shelby County state delegation from both parties.

This is one of many proposals state leaders are considering. Their concern for Shelby County is appreciated.

Happy New Year 2024

The New Year has arrived, and it’s also the one year anniversary of this newsletter. Thanks for letting me share a view from county government with you each month.

The Board of Commissioners has not changed, but a new Memphis City government was sworn in today. That brings new opportunities and challenges. Keep praying.

Wishing you a merry Christmas

I hope you had a great Thanksgiving and that the Christmas season brings peace and joy to you and your loved ones.

This is a wonderful time of year to serve others and to lend a helping hand. Even in our giving, we somehow end up getting more back. It’s a miracle.

Step down, Clerk Halbert

Today I am renewing my call for Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert to step down.

We’ve discussed problems in the Clerk’s office multiple times in this newsletter, but the issues are coming to a head once again. Citizen complaints are increasing, and old issues that have faded from public view will come roaring back in the coming days.

As I proposed back in March, Clerk Halbert should do everyone a favor and leave now, while she can still do so on her own terms.

Sheriff ordinances

Last month I mentioned a trio of ordinances seeking to restrict the Shelby County Sheriff’s office. Two of the three have now passed, though in amended form, while the third fell just one vote short and may get another shot at securing a majority.