The Chester County Commission met Monday, Sept. 14, 2026 with a newly elected body of 12, following August General Elections. Chester County Library Director Chrystal Richerson, pictured at left, shared news on a state-funded initiative for job seekers called LegUp which guarantees an interview with partnering businesses upon completion of free 16-hour online training courses. Photo by Holly Roeder, Independent
The Chester County Commission met in regular session Monday, September 14, 2026, at the Chester County Courthouse with all members present and Mayor Barry Hutcherson presiding.
The Commission voted unanimously for Mayor Berry Hutcherson to continue by acclamation as Chairman of the Commission. Commissioner Tim Crowe will continue in the role as Chairman Pro Tem, also by unanimous approval.
All reports and budget amendments were approved with no opposition, as was the road department equipment list and Chester County Sheriff’s Office Security Committee Minutes. Sheriff Mark Griffin reported the Jail has reached numbers over capacity and has received a needs assessment by CTAS. He stated the county has utilized these recommendations and have seen numbers begin to reduce.
The Commission voted to move ahead with auction for Fire Department vehicles.
Chrystal Richerson shared information on a state-funded Tennessee State Library and Archives initiative being offered through the local library. LegUp utilizes microcredentials earned by completing free online training in foundational job-readiness skills. Completion of these courses earns job seekers a guaranteed interview with partnering companies in manufacturing, warehousing or healthcare. Watch for more information on the LegUp initiative in the Chester County Independent.
Committees and Boards will be listed in next week’s edition.
This meeting’s audio is available online at www.chestercountyindependent.com. The video will be posted on the Chester County Government YouTube page.
