TN Court of Appeals heard oral arguments this morning from attorneys representing the City of Shelbyville and Bedford County Government. While the City won its case in lower court last year, the County filed the appeal to further try to retain money it says is necessary for local education.
Much was discussed about the loosely negotiated "contract" between the City and County, dating back over 50 years ago. It was brought out in Court that most associated with the talks were now deceased, so much of the discussion is passe.
The County attorney said though there was a condition that school bonds should be paid off, it is known that neither parties could ever decide on a specific termination date for the agreement. The County still contends it needs the optional sales tax funds to continue to operate ongoing school system needs in the future.
The City attorney stated that all such building programs have ended and bonds referred to building programs of 1974 have been paid. And with no formal termination date, the City seeks return of the 3/4 of 1% optional sales tax revenues. The lower court set the date of termination last year as July 1, 2027.
Appeals Court Judges asked pertinent questions of both sides.
Presiding Judge J. Steven Stafford of Dyersburg told City and County representatives that he would try to have his decision as soon as possible.
Read more on this court case in Thursday's print edition of the Times-Gazette.
