Rep. Curtis Halford, who represents state House District 79, spoke during the Carroll County Chamber’s Capitol Talk April 8 at the Carroll County Civic Center.
He was introduced by Carroll County Chamber of Commerce president Brad Hurley who noted that Halford is completing his seventh term. He was first elected in 2008 and will retire this year.
“He has served outstandingly, admirably and honorably,” said Hurley.
When he was first elected, Huntingdon was divided into two districts and he had to have a map to see which areas he represented. He serves as chairman of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.
Hurley presented Halford with a map of the county as a concluding gesture of him representing the entire town of Huntingdon.
During his presentation, Halford said 2,800 bills have been filed this year but only a third made it to the floor.
“Tennessee is doing very well economically now,” he said. “Carroll County is opening new businesses and expanding.”
He mentioned Tyson in Humboldt where 1,100 people now work and the company is building a day care center for their employees.
Tennessee is among the top three best operated states in the country and has no state income tax.
“That’s a good draw for Tennessee,” he said. “It’s a good place to live, work and send your kids to school.”
The proposed budget this year is $58.2 billion. There is also $1.6 billion in the Rainy Day Fund.
He said the Carroll County 1,000 Acre Lake is being paid off this year.
“That will be a great thing, for the lake” he said. TWRA will start managing it.
He has introduced a bill this year that will eliminate tax on certain farming supplies.
During the question and answer period, county commissioner Barry Mac Murphy questioned why the county was unable to purchase a new van for Carroll Academy instead of a used one because of governmental regulations.
Halford said he didn’t know but would find out and let him know.
Carroll County News Leader Editor Shirley Nanney thanked him for his cooperation with the media and his response when questioned about legislative matters.
County Mayor Joseph Butler thanked Halford for his service and exemplifying what a public servant should look like.
