From District 12 to District 3: Rick Hall Seeks Second Chapter on County Commission

Rick Hall Recommended to Fill Vacant Rutherford County Commission Seat

MURFREESBORO, Tenn.— The Rutherford County Commission Steering Committee has chosen a familiar face to recommend for the vacant District 3 commission seat left by longtime Commissioner Michael Wrather’s departure.

In a 4-2 vote Monday night (August 4th), the committee selected Rick Hall to advance to the full County Commission for final consideration. Hall defeated Wesley Smith, who received the remaining two votes, while third applicant Mary Ann Young failed to garner support from any committee members.

Returning to Public Service

Hall brings previous experience to the role, having served on the Rutherford County Commission from 2006 to 2010 as the representative for District 12. Since his earlier tenure, both redistricting changes and Hall’s relocation to District 3 several years ago have positioned him to serve a different constituency.

Rick Hall and Wayne Blair on the WGNS Roundtable with guest County Commissioner Pettus Read.

During the committee discussion, Hall outlined his priorities for addressing the challenges currently facingRutherford County. He emphasized concerns about managing growth, addressing landfill issues, and tackling other pressing matters confronting the commission. Hall also noted the limited timeframe available for commissioners to accomplish meaningful work before the upcoming election season begins.

Next Steps in the Process

While the Steering Committee’s recommendation carries significant influence, the appointment process isn’t complete. Hall’s nomination will proceed to the full County Commission during their August meeting, where commissioners retain the authority to make additional nominations from the floor before conducting the official vote.

The timing of this appointment is particularly noteworthy, as whoever fills the District 3 seat will serve only until next year’s elections. Rutherford County is scheduled to hold elections for several commission districts in 2025, including District 3, giving voters the opportunity to choose their long-term representative.

The vacancy created by Wrather’s departure marks the end of an era for District 3, as he had served as a longtime fixture on the commission. The selection of his temporary replacement reflects the community’s ongoing need for experienced leadership during a period of significant growth and development challenges in Rutherford County.

Hall’s potential return to the commission would bring institutional knowledge from his previous four-year tenure, albeit in a different district, at a time when continuity and experience may prove valuable for addressing the county’s evolving needs.