News Flash

July 17 - August 1 is the Early Voting period for the August 6, 2026 State Primary / County General / Alcoa, Friendsville, Maryville & Townsend Elections. You can stop by any of the following locations to cast your vote early and avoid Election Day lines.    

The following locations are available for Early Voting from July 17 - August 1:  

Blount County Public Library (508 N. Cusick Street, Maryville)Monday - Friday 11a - 7p Saturday 8a – 2p

Everett Recreation Center (318 S. Everett High Road, Maryville) Monday - Friday 8a - 4p ***NEW HOURS*** 

Pellissippi State Campus (2731 W. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Friendsville) Monday - Friday 8a - 4p 

A fourth Early Voting location will be available from July 24 - August 1:  

Providence Baptist Church Annex (5766 Sevierville Rd, Seymour)Monday - Friday 11a - 7p Saturday 8a - 2p

If you vote during the Early Voting period, you can vote at the location of your choosing.  If you vote on Election Day, you must vote at your assigned precinct. You can use this tool to look up your precinct https://web.go-vote-tn.elections.tn.gov/ or download the GoVoteTN App (https://sos.tn.gov/elections/services/download-the-govotetn-app ), which is the easiest way for Tennessee voters to find their Election Day polling locations, view and mark sample ballots, see their elected officials, districts and county election commission information as well as access online election results.  

If you have any other questions, please visit the Election Commission’s webpage (https://www.blounttn.gov/447/Election-Commission ) or reach out to them at 865-273-5920. 

The Blount County Commission approved the FY 2026-27 budget with a vote of 19-0 on June 18, 2026. The Tax Rate Resolution, Appropriation Resolution and Capital Outlay Resolution (the three documents that make up the Budget) are available for viewing on the County's Accounting and Budgeting page here https://www.blounttn.gov/152/Budget. Every hearing, including the Budget Workshops where each department presents a proposed budget, are available to watch online.  

The good news for Blount County is that this adopted budget includes reducing the tax rate to $1.29 (which is below the certified rate) and no new debt incurred, accomplishing another year of a balanced budget for Blount County.  Each year, Elected Officials and Department Heads make a commitment to the responsible stewardship of taxpayer money - and that is reflected in this budget.  

As always, I would like to thank my staff, especially our Director of Accounts & Budgets, Brian Baldwin, and the entire Accounting & Budgeting team for the hard work put into this process. I want to also thank our Elected Officials and Department Heads for their continued due diligence and intentional planning of department budgets year after year.  Our focus has always been to provide the best services possible while being conservative in all aspects of Government spending.  

- Mayor Ed Mitchell 

April 15 to April 30 is the Early Voting period for the May 5, 2026 County Primary & Rockford Municipal General Election. You can stop by any of the following locations to cast your vote early and avoid Election Day lines.    

The following locations are available for Early Voting from April 15 to April 30:  

Blount County Public Library (508 N. Cusick Street, Maryville)Monday - Friday 11a - 7p Saturday 8a – 2p

Everett Recreation Center (318 S. Everett High Road, Maryville) Monday - Friday 11a - 7p 

Pellissippi State Campus (2731 W. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Friendsville) Monday - Friday 8a - 4p 

A fourth Early Voting location will be available from April 22 to April 30:  

Providence Baptist Church Annex (5766 Sevierville Rd, Seymour)Monday - Friday 11a - 7p Saturday (April 25) 8a - 2p

If you vote during the Early Voting period, you can vote at the location of your choosing.  If you vote on Election Day, you must vote at your assigned precinct. You can use this tool to look up your precinct https://web.go-vote-tn.elections.tn.gov/ or download the GoVoteTN App (https://sos.tn.gov/elections/services/download-the-govotetn-app ), which is the easiest way for Tennessee voters to find their Election Day polling locations, view and mark sample ballots, see their elected officials, districts and county election commission information as well as access online election results.  

If you have any other questions, please visit the Election Commission’s webpage (https://www.blounttn.gov/447/Election-Commission ) or reach out to them at 865-273-5920. 

Blount County Government Budget Workshops for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026 and Friday, March 27, 2026, beginning at 9:00am.  

This is an excellent opportunity for every citizen to see what our departments have accomplished this past year and what their plans are for the future. The Budget Workshops are presentations from Elected Officials and Department Heads given directly to our Budget Committee regarding upcoming plans for the allocation of tax dollars for the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year.  

The Workshops are open for the public to observe live at the Blount County Courthouse, Commission Room 430, and will also be available to watch remotely via live stream (https://www.youtube.com/@blounttngov/streams). A Public Hearing regarding the FY2026-2027 Budget will take place on June 11, 2026 at 5:00pm specifically for the purpose of public comment.  

For more information about the current year’s preliminary budget or for information regarding past budgets, please visit our website at https://www.blounttn.gov/152/Budget.  

The Blount County Primary and Rockford Municipal General Election will be held on May 5, 2026.  Early Voting will take place from April 15 – April 30.  To be eligible to vote in the May election, the last day to receive a voter registration is April 6, 2026. 

Residents can check their voting status and register at www.GoVoteTN.gov or use the GoVoteTN phone app. You can also download a paper application from the www.GoVoteTN.gov website.  The completed form can be mailed or brought in person to the Blount County Election Commission office located on the first floor of the Courthouse at 383 Court Street in Maryville. Office hours are Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mailed applications must be postmarked by April 6.  

If you have any questions or need more information, you can reach the Blount County Election Commission at (865) 273-5920 or visit the website at https://www.blounttn.gov/447/Election-Commission

Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett said, “When you don’t vote, you turn over the keys of power to those that do vote. In Tennessee, we want every eligible Tennessean to vote, but first, you must register to vote.”

We are ready to kick off this holiday season!  Our Hometown Christmas is set for Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at the Blount County Courthouse.  The program will kick off at 6:30pm with the official tree lighting for the Festival of Trees, followed by Mayor Mitchell's presentation of the annual Pride of Tennessee Award to a local resident who has gone above and beyond in their commitment to community service.  Choirs from Carpenters Elementary School, Carpenters Middle School, and Blount County Schools Employees will close out the program.    

Then at 7:00pm the Courthouse lobby and grounds will be open for refreshments, Santa visits, and hayrides in the street.  In the lobby, you’ll be blessed by music from Eagleton Elementary’s 4th and 5th Grade Choir and the Clayton Bradley Academy Orchestra while enjoying treats provided by Blount County Commissioners and Parks & Rec staff.

Outside, you can grab a hot chocolate provided by the Salvation Army while you admire the Festival of Trees entries. The Festival of Trees is a unique Blount County tradition organized with the help of Maryville-Alcoa-Blount County Parks & Recreation.  Over 30 businesses, organizations, churches, schools and individuals have signed up to provide and decorate a Christmas tree for this upcoming season!

Oh and we can’t forget the guest of honor - SANTA!  He’ll be available for anyone who’d like to get a photo with him before the “Big Day”! 

Join us for this special event to start off the Christmas season!  If you aren’t able to make it on December 4, the Festival of Trees will remain on display at the Courthouse until December 31.

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

LOCAL AND STATE PARTNERS TO CONTINUE SUPPORT FOR GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK OPERATIONS DURING FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN THROUGH EARLY 2026

Blount County, Tennessee (October 31, 2025) – Joint Statement

Since the federal government shutdown began in early October, state and local partners have provided funding to maintain full operations of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the shutdown enters November, these partners have agreed to continue supporting the park to ensure that key areas remain open to the public through Sunday, January 4, 2026, if the shutdown continues.

Working closely with Acting Superintendent Sellars and the National Park Service, partners have identified ways to adjust operations in line with normal seasonal changes that occur during late fall and winter months while maintaining visitor access and essential services. Some positions will be furloughed to concentrate on visitor services and operations. This continuation allows the park to remain open beyond the current agreement, which was previously set to end on November 2.

Under the agreement, visitor services will operate as normal, with traditional seasonal closings of certain facilities taking place throughout the months of November and December. All four visitor centers will remain open through January 4, with the exception of Kuwohi Visitor Center, which normally closes on November 30. Additionally, Cades Cove Campground and Smokemont Campground will remain open, with Elkmont Campground closing as normal on November 30. The Cades Cove Picnic Area, Deep Creek Picnic Area, Greenbrier Picnic Area, and Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area will remain open, while Chimneys Picnic Area will close as normal on November 30.

The effort to keep Great Smoky Mountains National Park accessible continues to be supported by Sevier County, the Cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Friends of the Smokies, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Additionally, beginning with this new agreement, Smokies Life has joined in the effort to support the national park. This funding from local partners is partially offset by revenues from the Park It Forward parking tag program.

Partners will continue to monitor the status of the federal government and plan to meet again in mid-December to discuss next steps if the shutdown remains in effect.

 This collaboration ensures that Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park, remains open and accessible to residents and visitors while maintaining essential services and prioritizing public safety during this period.

To assist the staff of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with promoting what is open and operational during this agreement, here is the full listing of facilities and trails. Always check the park website before your visit: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/conditions.htm

Visitor Centers

• Cades Cove (Cable Mill) Visitor Center, Oconaluftee Visitor Center, and Sugarlands Visitor Center are open year-round
• Kuwohi Visitor Center and Kuwohi Road are open until November 30, subject to closure due to snow, ice and other hazardous weather events

Roads and Motor Nature Trails

• Anthony Creek Horse Camp - open until November 8
• Newfound Gap Road, Cades Cove Loop Road, Upper Tremont Road, Wear Cove Road, Cataloochee Road, and the Foothills Parkway - open year-round, subject to closure due to snow, ice and other hazardous weather events
• Kuwohi Road - open until November 30, subject to closure due to snow, ice and other hazardous weather events
• Forge Creek Road - open until December 31, subject to closure due to snow, ice and other hazardous weather events
• Parson Branch Road and Rich Mountain Road - open until November 9
• Little Greenbrier Road - open until November 29
• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail - open until November 29, subject to closure due to snow, ice and other hazardous weather events

Hiking Trails

• Most hiking trails remain open year-round; however, some trailheads may be inaccessible to motor vehicles due to seasonal or weather-related road closures. Numerous trails remain closed in the Cataloochee area due to damage from Hurricane Helene. Check the park website for the latest status on all trails : https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/temproadclose.htm

Park Concessions

• Smokemont Riding Stable - open until November 22
• LeConte Lodge - open until November 25
• Cades Cove Riding Stable and Sugarlands Riding Stable - open until December 6
• Cades Cove Campground Store and Bike Rental - open until December 13

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**PRESS RELEASE**

UPDATE: LOCAL AND STATE PARTNERS COMMIT TO KEEPING GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK OPEN THROUGH NOVEMBER 2

AGREEMENT EXTENDED TO FUND CONTINUED OPERATIONS OF GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK DURING FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN

Blount County, Tennessee (October 17, 2025) – Joint Statement

Our local and state partners support keeping Great Smoky Mountains National Park open and in full operation through Sunday, November 2, 2025, amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. 

The effort to keep the national park open is supported by Sevier County, the Cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Friends of the Smokies, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Through this agreement, local and state partners will continue to ensure uninterrupted operations of the national park. While the November 2 date extends beyond a standard increment, multiple agreements will be signed over the next couple of weeks to maintain funding through Sunday, November 2, if necessary. If the federal government shutdown continues into early November, the partners plan to meet during the week of October 27–31 to discuss next steps.

This commitment ensures that Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open and fully operational for residents and visitors, with all facilities, roadways, visitor centers, restrooms, campgrounds, and trails continuing to operate as normal.

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**PRESS RELEASE**

Re: Agreement Extended to Fund Continued Operations of Great Smoky Mountains National Park During Federal Government Shutdown

Blount County, Tennessee (October 8, 2025) – Joint Statement

Sevier County has signed an addendum with the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Park Service to continue funding full operations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the ongoing federal government shutdown. This effort is supported through a partnership that includes the cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Friends of the Smokies, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

The original agreement, signed on October 3, 2025, established a framework for local and state partners to provide funding in seven-day increments, maintaining a two-day balance in the donation account at all times to ensure uninterrupted operations. The agreement remains in effect for 30 days from the date of final signature or until terminated in accordance with its provisions.

A newly signed addendum extends the funding for an additional ten-day period, ensuring that Great Smoky Mountains National Park will remain open and fully operational through Sunday, October 19.

The local and state partners are committed to working together to keep Great Smoky Mountains National Park open through the end of October, while closely monitoring developments on the federal level regarding the status of the government shutdown.

This agreement ensures that Great Smoky Mountains National Park will continue to welcome visitors with all facilities, roadways, visitor centers, restrooms, campgrounds, and trails operating as normal.

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**PRESS RELEASE**

Re: Great Smoky Mountains National Park To Remain Fully Operational During Federal Government Shutdown

Blount County, Tennessee (October 3, 2025) – Joint Statement

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will resume full operations beginning Saturday morning, October 4, despite the federal government shutdown. This effort is made possible through a partnership among local and state governments, as well as the Friends of the Smokies and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

In anticipation of the federal government shutdown, Sevier County, the cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Friends of the Smokies, along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, began working together on a plan to provide financial support to keep the Great Smoky Mountains National Park fully operational in the event of a federal government shutdown. Once the shutdown commenced on Wednesday, October 1, the local and state partners began discussions with the U.S. Department of Interior and the National Park Service. 

As of 12:01 AM on Saturday, October 4, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is fully open and operational, per an agreement with the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Interior, and Sevier County, Tennessee. Under the agreement, areas that were previously closed, such as Sugarlands Visitor Center, Chimneys Picnic Area, and Cades Cove Loop Road, Visitor Center, and Picnic Area, will be open and operational beginning Saturday morning. Importantly, this funding also ensures that staff are on duty to service restrooms, respond to visitors in need, and provide essential services to protect wildlife during this peak visitor season. Per the terms of the agreement, local and state partners will fund $61,703.18 each day to ensure full operations of the national park. Additionally, the national park will fund remaining daily operational costs through recreation fee revenue, which includes revenue from campgrounds and parking tags. 

“I am grateful for the cooperation between our State and Local Governments and the Park Services team for taking care of what the federal government is unable to do at this moment – that is to put the good of the people first.  I especially want to thank Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters and Interim Park Superintendent Charles Sellars for their leadership,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “We are entering our peak color season and closing any part of our Great Smoky Mountains is detrimental to Blount County and our entire region. We need to take these actions to ensure the least impact possible to our local economy and the economic benefits that our local businesses derive from the National Park.”

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains the most visited national park in the United States. A recent National Park Service report shows that in 2024, the park welcomed approximately 12.2 million visitors who spent more than $2 billion in communities near the park. That spending supported thousands of jobs in gateway areas and provided a cumulative benefit of more than $2.8 billion to the local economy.

Visitors who have planned trips to the Smokies this fall, as well as those considering a visit, are encouraged to come and enjoy the beauty of the season. Fall in the Smokies is one of the most popular times of the year, and the park and surrounding communities look forward to welcoming guests from across the country.

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**PRESS RELEASE**

Re: Local and State Governments Working on Plan with National Park Service to Fully Open the Great Smoky Mountains National Park During Federal Government Shutdown

Blount County, Tennessee – Joint Statement

Sevier County, the cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the State of North Carolina, along with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, have been working together since last week on a plan to provide financial support to make the Great Smoky Mountains National Park fully operational during the federal government shutdown that began on Wednesday, October 1.  

Currently, the National Park remains accessible, including main roadways; however, some services or popular areas such as Sugarlands Visitor Center and Cades Cove Loop Road, Picnic Area and Visitor Center are closed as a result of the federal government shutdown. Local and state governments are working on a plan with the National Park Service to fully open these and other areas of the park that are closed during the shutdown. 

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States and plays a critical role in the economy and culture of the region, especially during the fall season when hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to the area. The partnering governments recognize the importance of keeping the park open and are working together to provide solutions that will minimize any disruption. 

The partners are working on finalizing details on an agreement, and additional information regarding operations and funding will be released soon. 

Areas of the park that are currently closed can be found on the National Park Website: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Blount County, TN) — September 2, 2025

Tennessee Makes History: Ranked #1 in Election Integrity for Fourth Consecutive Year

Tennessee has once again claimed the top spot in the Heritage Foundation’s Election Integrity Scorecard—marking a historic fourth consecutive year as the nation’s leader in secure and trustworthy elections. No other state has achieved the distinction of being ranked #1 four years in a row since the scorecard’s inception.

The Heritage Foundation’s comprehensive evaluation of all 50 states cited Tennessee’s robust voter ID laws, rigorous voter registration list maintenance, and bipartisan election oversight as key factors in its continued success. The scorecard assesses a wide range of criteria, including absentee ballot management, vote counting procedures, and transparency in election administration.

Secretary of State Tre Hargett praised the recognition:

“This ranking reflects the tireless work of our county election commissions and the General Assembly’s commitment to protecting the ballot box. In Tennessee, it’s easy to vote and hard to cheat—and that’s exactly how it should be.”

Mark Goins, Coordinator of Elections, emphasized the role of local officials:

“This recognition reflects the dedication and professionalism of election officials across all 95 counties. We work year-round to ensure every vote is counted accurately and securely, and it’s gratifying to see that effort acknowledged nationally.”

 Moe Click, Blount County Administrator of Elections added:

“The citizens of Blount County, as well as all Tennesseans, deserve to have full confidence in our elections. The State of Tennessee leads by example, and we will continue to do our part in setting the standard for the nation.”

Secretary Hargett concluded with praise for legislative leadership:

“Lt. Governor Randy McNally, Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton, Chairman Richard Briggs, Chairman John Crawford, Chairman Tim Rudd, and the Tennessee General Assembly deserve immense credit for working with us to craft and pass some of the strongest election integrity laws in the country. Their commitment to voter ID, transparent ballot procedures, and secure registration practices has made Tennessee a national model.”

Tennessee’s consistent top ranking underscores its role as a national benchmark for election integrity. The state remains committed to ensuring that every eligible voter can cast a ballot with confidence—and that every vote is protected.

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**PRESS RELEASE **

 Re:   Fitch upgrades Blount County, Tennessee to AAA 

BLOUNT COUNTY, TN

Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell is more than pleased to announce at the Budget Committee and Blount County Board of Commissioners meetings tonight the news from Fitch Ratings, one of the three big credit rating agencies in the country – Blount County has been upgraded from AA+ to AAA credit rating, the highest level any County can receive.  

“We’ve achieved a AAA rating and are now only one of four counties of the 95 in the State of Tennessee receiving this rating.  This is something we’ve been working towards since I was first elected Mayor.  As we’re just starting another Fiscal Year, this is great news for Blount County Government!  This achievement is a testament to the hard work and long-term planning of our Budget Committee, Blount County Commission, and Blount County Elected Officials & employees.  The continued conservative efforts of all our departments with the discipline to maintain balanced budgets, all while providing excellent services to our citizens AND adding to our fund balance, is absolutely what good government is all about.”   

The primary reasons noted by Fitch Ratings for the upgrade to AAA are the county’s reduced debt resulting in lower liabilities, as well as healthy fund balances and the community’s economic strength.  Simply put, Fitch evaluates how a government is performing and then rates the government using that data and other considered factors.

“We are able to achieve this top rating due to our commitment as a team to the conservative management of taxpayer money.  This rare AAA designation is a direct result of budgeting within our means and a persistent pay-as-you go philosophy, none of which can happen without everyone participating to make this possible. 

I am proud that Blount County has gone all the way from a AA- in 2010 to a AAA rating in the 15 years I have been Mayor, and we will continue to use sound financial practices to plan not just for today but for the future of Blount County.”

The full rating can be found at https://www.fitchratings.com/research/us-public-finance/fitch-upgrades-blount-county-tn-idr-to-aaa-outlook-stable-07-07-2025.

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Blount County Comprehensive Plan Presentation

The Blount County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to receive a presentation from Inspire Placemaking Collective on the proposed updated Comprehensive Plan on Monday, December 2, 2024, beginning at 5:30pm in the Blount County Courthouse Room 430. The public is encouraged to attend.

The Comprehensive Plan for Blount County is a policy document meant to guide growth, development, and conservation efforts over the next two decades. The Plan describes population projections, land use, housing, education trends, and environmental stewardship.

The process to update the Plan began with public engagement in which themes began to emerge. The draft Plan document can be viewed here: https://www.blounttn.gov/296/Development-Services and includes recommendations resulting from extensive public engagement both in person and online.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OF

BLOUNT COUNTY, TENNESSEE RELATIVE TO THE REISSUANCE OF

HOSPITAL REVENUE BONDS OF BLOUNT COUNTY, TENNESSEE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Chief Administrative Officer of Blount County, Tennessee, on behalf of the County Mayor of Blount County, Tennessee, will hold a public hearing on December 2, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. in the Conference Room in the Mayor’s Office in the Blount County Courthouse, located at 341 Court Street, Maryville, Tennessee, relating to the County’s Hospital Revenue Refunding Bond, Series 2019A and Hospital Revenue Improvement Bond, Series 2019B in the original aggregate principal amount of $87,705,000 (the “Bonds”).  The proceeds of the Bonds financed or refinanced hospital facilities, including buildings and equipment, owned directly by the County or beneficially through Blount Memorial Hospital, Inc. (“BMH”).  The financed assets are located on the campus of Blount Memorial Hospital, which is located at 907 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, Tennessee and on adjacent parcels of property.  As of the date hereof, the County will lease certain facilities financed with the proceeds of the Bonds to Prisma Health – Blount Memorial Hospital, Inc. (“Prisma BMH”), as successor to BMH, and Prisma Health Eastern Tennessee will become the sole member of BMH.  As a result of such actions, the Bonds will be deemed reissued as qualified 501(c)(3) bonds within the meaning of Section 145 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  At the time and date set forth above, the Chief Administrative Officer of the County shall conduct a public hearing relating to this reissuance of the Bonds.

The public hearing referenced above will be held pursuant to the requirements of Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.  Any person interested in the location or purpose of the assets financed with the proceeds of the Bonds or the reissuance of the Bonds as qualified 501(c)(3) bonds as described above is invited to attend the public hearing (which may be continued or adjourned to a later date), and they will be given an opportunity to express their views both orally and in written form concerning the financing of the projects described above. 

PRESS RELEASE 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Nov. 14, 2024 

Blount County Commission approves Prisma Health’s integration with Blount Memorial Hospital 

GREENVILLE, SC—Today, Nov. 14, the Blount County Commission helped clear the way for Blount Memorial Hospital to become part of Prisma Health. The Commissioners gave their unanimous approval of the Blount Memorial Hospital Lease Agreement and related transaction documents. Prisma Health and Blount Memorial are moving forward with their final steps and are on schedule for the transaction to be complete on December 1.   

In July, Prisma Health announced that Blount Memorial Hospital, a 304-bed non-profit community hospital in Maryville, Tennessee, had chosen to join Prisma Health. Following the announcement, the parties signed a non-binding letter of intent and began exclusive negotiations, due diligence, and integration planning. 

Mark O’Halla, president and CEO of Prisma Health, said, “We are grateful to the Blount County Commissioners for their unanimous approval and confience in Prisma Health’s ability to serve their community. As this process has unfolded, we are even more confident that Blount Memorial will be an exceptional addition to Prisma Health. We appreciate everyone’s hard work to reach this milestone and look forward to welcoming the Blount team to our family on December 1.” 

Jonathan Smith, interim CEO of Blount Memorial Hospital, added, “The approvals received earlier today from the hospital board, and now from the Blount County Commission are vital steps forward in our journey with Prisma Health. This partnership promises to bring expanded resources and innovative care to our community, and we are eager to build a stronger future together. We look forward to blending our local knowledge with Prisma Health’s depth and expertise to enhance health outcomes for patients in our communities, while remaining focused on delivering quality care and an excellent patient experience." 

About Prisma Health 

Prisma Health is a private nonprofit health company and the largest health care organization in South Carolina. The company has 29,309 team members, 18 acute and specialty hospitals, 2,827 licensed beds, 305 practice sites, and more than 5,400 employed and independent clinicians across its clinically integrated inVio Health Network. Along with this innovative network, Prisma Health serves almost 1.5 million unique patients annually in its 21-county market area that covers 50% of South Carolina. 

About Blount Memorial Hospital

Blount Memorial Hospital is a 304-bed acute care hospital in Maryville, Tennessee, which is 20 minutes outside of the Knoxville, Tennessee, area. It has more than 2,700 employees and 200 physicians working in clinical and nonclinical positions in 20 locations in Blount and Monroe counties. Key services include cancer, orthopedic, surgical and cardiac care. The hospital was founded in 1947 through the efforts of local physicians, the county court, interested citizens and employees of the Aluminum Company of America. It is named in honor of Blount Countians who have died in the line of duty, those missing in action, and those who have served and continue to serve our country. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                             July 18, 2024

Blount Memorial Hospital Board of Directors and Blount County Board of Commissioners  Approve Agreement for Hospital to Become Part of Prisma Health

Partnership Expected to Position Blount Memorial to Expand Services in Blount County 

MARYVILLE, Tenn. – The Blount Memorial Hospital, Incorporated Board of Directors and the Blount County Board of Commissioners have each approved entering into a non-binding letter of intent with Prisma Health that provides for Blount Memorial Hospital to become part of Prisma Health later this year. The strategic decision was approved following unanimous votes from both boards today.

The organizations now enter a period of exclusive negotiation, due diligence and transition planning. Following execution of definitive agreements, receipt of regulatory approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions, the transaction is anticipated to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2024.

“Prisma Health has a remarkable track record of transforming care and making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve,” said Blount Memorial Hospital Interim Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Smith. “From our earliest meetings to their final proposal, Prisma has demonstrated a keen interest in helping us build on our recent success and reach our full potential as a regional referral center. We are confident their support will elevate our services, benefit our physicians and staff, and ensure high quality care for our patients long into the future.”

Headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, Prisma Health is a private nonprofit health company and the largest health care organization in that state. Their network of care delivery locations includes 18 acute and specialty hospitals and more than 300 practice sites. Blount Memorial will become the organization’s first hospital in Tennessee.

In January of this year, Blount Memorial and Blount County jointly retained leading industry advisors specializing in hospital mergers to help guide a structured process to identify potential partners for the hospital. Representatives from both entities, including physicians from the hospital’s medical staff, worked closely with the advisors in a comprehensive, multi-month exploration process. The evaluation involved in person meetings at Blount Memorial and at potential partners’ corporate offices as well as visits to their local hospitals and a thorough analysis of written proposals. Prisma Health emerged as the desired partner.

“Our goal from the beginning was to provide a successful hospital that our Blount County citizens have pride in. Prisma Health’s impact in their home state of South Carolina has garnered national attention and the respect of the health care industry,” said Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “They have an impressive history of focusing on and improving community health to ensure all residents they serve can live their healthiest lives. We are honored to welcome Prisma to Tennessee and to Blount County.”

Though terms of definitive agreements will be completed in the coming months, Prisma Health has agreed to invest a minimum of $275 million in capital improvements in the hospital’s service area over the next 10 years, including the implementation of a new electronic health records system (EPIC) and other patient-centered technologies. Prisma has also committed to expanding services and attracting high-quality physicians and clinical experts; maintaining all physician contracts and employing all employees in good standing at the time of close for at least one year, and continuing all essential services for at least 10 years.

“The people of Blount County have every right to be proud of their community hospital, and we are certainly very proud to be selected as the hospital’s partner for the future,” said Prisma Health President and CEO Mark S. O’Halla. “We look forward to working with the physicians, nurses, administrators and employees at the hospital and to being part of the Blount County and East Tennessee community for many years to come.”

Though governance of the hospital will evolve as part of the transaction, local leaders will continue to play significant roles in the future of both the hospital and the Blount Memorial Foundation.

“In Prisma Health we have found a partner with a vision for the future and a commitment to delivering world class health care and exceptional patient experience right here in Blount County,” said Chris Flynn, president, Blount Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. “I commend the hospital leaders, community members, physician leaders and everyone involved in the process to date on their diligence, open mindedness and dedication to doing what is best for the hospital and the community. Their diligence, and this decision, helps ensure our community receives the best possible health care, close to home, for generations to come.”

Learn more about Blount Memorial Hospital’s plans for the future on the hospital’s website at www.blountmemorial.org/whatsnext.

About Blount Memorial Hospital

Blount Memorial Hospital is a 304-bed acute care hospital in Maryville, Tennessee, which is 20 minutes outside of the Knoxville, Tennessee, area. It has more than 2,700 employees and 200 physicians working in clinical and nonclinical positions in 20 locations in Blount and Monroe counties. Key services include cancer, orthopedic, surgical and cardiac care. The hospital was founded in 1947 through the efforts of local physicians, the county court, interested citizens and employees of the Aluminum Company of America. It is named in honor of Blount Countians who have died in the line of duty, those missing in action, and those who have served and continue to serve our country.

About Prisma Health

Prisma Health is a private nonprofit health company and the largest health care organization in South Carolina. The company has 29,309 team members, 18 acute and specialty hospitals, 2,827 licensed beds, 305 practice sites, and more than 5,400 employed and independent clinicians across its clinically integrated inVio Health Network. Along with this innovative network, Prisma Health serves almost 1.5 million unique patients annually in its 21-county market area that covers 50% of South Carolina. Connect with Prisma Health on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and  Twitter/X.

Contacts:

Blount Memorial Hospital

Jennie Bounds, Director of Public Relations and Marketing

jennie.bounds@bmnet.com

865.312.0089

Prisma Health

Tammie Epps, Director of Media Relations

Tammie.Epps@PrismaHealth.org

803.318.1598

** PRESS RELEASE **

Re:      FY 24-25 Budget Recommendation

BLOUNT COUNTY, TN

The Budget Committee has approved a recommended balanced Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 for Blount County Government.  

Blount County Mayor stated in the meeting last night, “I am very proud to say that we’ve passed a recommended balanced budget with no new debt and no tax increase.  It’s important to me that we live out the “pay as you go” philosophy.   We’ve accomplished a great number of large capital projects over the years without incurring any new debt to our citizens. And we’ve done that without adding taxes and undue burden on our citizens. 

We’ve been able to work together and fund projects as we go.  None of this is possible without continued hard work and dedication of each of our Elected Officials and Department Heads.  I appreciate that we all take our rolls in this Government serious.   Forget Washington, we don’t do business like that….and I hope our citizens are confident in what they get from us.  It’s totally possible to provide services to our citizens and use what we have.  I want to say thank you to Finance Director Brian Baldwin, Kari Barrett, and their team for all of their preparation and hard work.  It’s not over, but you’ve done a great job.

I look forward to the next few weeks and look forward to working with all of our County departments and School Department to make this budget happen.  We’re committed to partnering with the school board to align priorities and funding.

Our citizens hold me accountable and hold us all accountable, as they should.  We have no choice but to do good here.  Nothing else is acceptable.”

The FY 24-25 Budget Resolutions as Recommended will be considered by the County Commission in the June meeting, and can be found on the County’s website at: https://www.blounttn.gov/152/Budget.

Important next dates:   

June 10^th at 5:00 – FY 24.25 Budget Public Hearing immediately followed by the June Budget Committee meeting 

June 10^th at 6:30 – County Commission Agenda Workshop

June 20^th at 6:30 – June County Commission Meeting

# # #

Press Release CONTACT:  Amy Cowden/(865) 273-5700

**PRESS RELEASE **

Re:      Blount County Government Annual Financial Report

Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2022

BLOUNT COUNTY, TN

Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell announces the release of Blount County’s Annual Financial Report from the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office for the year ending June 30, 2022.

I am very proud to announce that Blount County has once again received a Clean Audit Report, with no findings. This Clean Audit Report represents the hard work and dedication of all Blount County Elected Officials, Department Heads and employees. Without their cooperation and due diligence, Blount County couldn’t accomplish this for one year, let alone seven (7) out of the last eight (8) years. 

When I was elected Mayor, one of my priorities was improving the financial health of Blount County and transparency to the citizens. It’s what inspired me to run for office. We were heading down a financial path that I couldn’t ignore. I want my kids and grandkids to stay here and not have a burden on their backs for past decisions. I want that for all of us who live here. 

During my time in office, we’ve accomplished some amazing achievements, to name a few:

• Increased our Bond Rating and maintained at AA+.
• Paid down our debt from around $250 Million to now less than $130 Million. If we were able to pay it off early, the balance would be even lower.
• Increased compensation for our Blount County Employees with a professional Classification and Compensation Plan in place for all departments.
• Implemented improved technology across departments.

We’ve continued this with our new Finance Director Brian Baldwin, who joined us in October of 2021.  His expertise and perspective have only added to the integrity and transparency of the finances here in Blount County.  

Baldwin says, “My family and I are so happy to call Blount County our home. This continued track record of Clean Audit Reports shows the emphasis that Mayor Mitchell and all Elected Officials place on sound financial practices for Blount County. It also demonstrates the efforts of the County staff to ensure proper collection and use of County funds. It’s important to note during this Audit review period, the County collectively managed a $237 Million budget, increased fund balances, reduced the County’s debt to $129 Million, maintained AA+ credit rating, and did so while meeting all local, State and Federal requirements. None of which is a minor task.”

The support and dedication of the County Commissioners is vital for Blount County’s success, including this Clean Audit Report. I sincerely appreciate their due diligence and commitment to the citizens of Blount County. Chairman Jared Anderson says, “I want to commend our Elected Officials and county employees in all of our County Departments and School System, especially Brian Baldwin and our Accounting and Budgeting team. All employees made this Audit result possible through their hard work and diligence. It gives me confidence as a Blount County citizen and taxpayer that those entrusted with our tax dollars are accounting for everything properly. It also makes me very proud to see that Blount County is once again leading the state in this area as in so many others.” 

As Mayor, I hope our citizens understand just how important this Audit Report is for Blount County. This is a major accomplishment and a direct result of the financial responsibility and efforts of our County Departments. We show up every day to serve our citizens to the best of our ability, without increasing taxes or costs to them.  

 The full report can be viewed at: Blount County 2021-2022 Audit

 ______________

Press Release questions can be directed to Amy Cowden (865) 273-5700.

Citizens of Blount County, Tennessee:

I am writing this letter to share with you my thoughts regarding our Hospital and the current issues the County is dealing with relative to the Hospital.  As Mayor, I have fiduciary responsibility for our citizens.  

 As you know, the Hospital chose to sue Blount County and it is usually not wise to comment on pending litigation.  I will not directly address the lawsuit, but given the misinformation that is being shared, it is important for the citizens of Blount County to have accurate information on this important matter.

It is helpful to clarify what these recent issues do NOT relate to.  

• This is not about the County trying to take control of the Hospital to seize its revenue for the benefit of the County.   
• It is not about personalities or personal disagreements.   

The concern is simply about the continued viability of the Hospital.  

On several occasions over the past few years, I have received information relating to poor management practices at the Hospital.   Some of them have been addressed by letters from me to the Hospital or by joint letters from myself and the Mayors of Maryville and Alcoa.  No cooperation was forthcoming from the Hospital from these private requests and, more importantly, no improvement was made.

The situation at the Hospital reached what I felt was a critical point last year and it was determined that public action on the part of the County was necessary to save the Hospital.  Set forth below are a series of the circumstances that have prompted the recent actions:

1. Consistent track record of operating losses for the last 12 out of 15 years, with cumulative operating loss of $77.4 Million over that time period.  (Total losses of $39.9 Million by the Hospital just for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.)
2. Default by the Hospital on the bond covenants relative to over $60 Million in revenue obligation bonds obtained in the name of Blount County on behalf of the Hospital which could adversely affect the County.
3. The sudden replacement of the former Hospital’s administrator and CEO by the Hospital board in a meeting that lasted just four (4) minutes and for which no public notice was given, in violation of the state open meeting law.
4. The Hospital’s proposal to sell the Springbrook/Wellness Center facility for $22.25 Million and then immediately leasing the facility back from the buyer up to a 25-year lease period and paying lease payments exceeding $56 Million over this period, plus all maintenance expense, property tax expense and insurance expense and at the end of the lease not even owning the facility.  The County has recently been advised by Hospital leadership that this transaction is necessary to save the financial viability of the Hospital.
5. All of these above-named issues are a direct result of poor management and the lack of oversight by the Board of Directors. The primary responsibility of the Board of Directors is to provide effective management and oversight of the Hospital’s operations.

             Faced with these facts and after conferring individually with each of our County Commissioners, I sent a letter to the board members of the Hospital where I requested that two (2) steps be taken immediately to address this situation.   First, I proposed that the County would immediately take steps (with the Hospital’s cooperation) to retain a qualified, nationally recognized consulting firm, acceptable to the County to help develop a long-term financial plan for the Hospital.  I requested that the Hospital staff immediately contact my staff to develop a request for qualification for such a consulting firm.   Secondly, I asked that we quickly restructure the Board of Directors so that it is composed of directors who understand the fiduciary obligations of Blount County and its citizens and to get some fresh eyes on the management of Blount Memorial Hospital.

            These two requests were met with vigorous opposition by the Hospital.  The Hospital’s refusal to agree to an independent qualified consulting firm to evaluate the situation caused more concern.  Ultimately, the Hospital, rather than cooperate, decided to file (and did file) a lawsuit against the County.

As can be seen from the above-explained scenario, there is no revenue at Blount Memorial Hospital that the County could seize, even if it wanted to do so.   The County’s only concern is in helping our Hospital regain its financial and operational foundation, so that it can continue to provide health care services to our community.  

           In recent weeks, my administration has been exploring all possible options to achieve this goal. I want to maintain Blount Memorial and maintain it as a County-owned Hospital.  The ultimate decision about how to proceed with our Hospital will lie with our Blount County Legislative Body, and I look forward to working with our County Commission to accomplish the same.   

It has and always will be my intention every day I come to work as your Mayor, to serve each and every citizen of Blount County to the very best of my ability and to always strive to do what is in the best interest of Blount County.  

Blount Memorial is very important to me personally.   I am also a 6^th generation Blount Countian, born and raised here, with a love for our community and for our hospital.  My grandmother went to work there as a switchboard operator when it opened and spent almost 30 years in that role.  I have had other family and close friends that have worked at the hospital for their entire careers.  Blount Memorial is a valuable part of what we are as a community. 

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.

                                                            Sincerely,

                                                            Ed Mitchell

                                                            Blount County Mayor

Litter: it’s trashy. No one appreciates seeing roads and right-of-ways strewn with garbage. The Blount County Mayor’s Office is joining forces with Keep Blount Beautiful, the cities of Maryville and Alcoa, the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, Maryville and Alcoa Police Departments, and the Alcoa/Maryville/Blount County landfill to address littering in Blount County. Together, these entities are seeking to encourage Blount Countians to clean up and prevent the mess. The goal of the “Be Blount-- Be Better” initiative is to raise awareness of the problem of litter, crack down on litterers, and provide opportunities for citizens to work alongside local agencies by volunteering for cleanups. 

Increased growth and development has contributed to an increase in littering throughout Blount County, and Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell’s office has received more calls in recent weeks that inspired the campaign. “We want to respond to concerned citizens and work with other agencies to address a problem that people are seeing as they drive around the County,” said Mayor Mitchell. 

“Working with law enforcement to ensure that people are being ticketed for littering violations will help prevent future littering.” Tennessee Code 39-14-5 outlines litter violations and fines for individuals and trash hauler trucks. 

In addition, Keep Blount Beautiful is joining in to help clean up existing litter. KBB is currently accepting registration to volunteer for their upcoming fall litter cleanups. Visit keepblountbeautiful.org for more information and to sign up to volunteer!