Accomplishments
as Mayor

Commercial & Industrial Growth

TVA has constructed a $300 million special operations facility in Meigs County — an investment that will bring high-paying jobs to our community for years to come. E&E Manufacturing purchased the former Shaw Industries plant and now operates as a Tier 1 supplier to the Volkswagen facility in nearby Chattanooga, bringing high-tech manufacturing employment home.

Approximately six new campgrounds are promoting tourism and generating tax dollars that support local infrastructure. Two Dollar General stores provide convenience to residents while generating sales tax revenue that would otherwise leave for neighboring counties. Our shoreline county — surrounded by beautiful lakes and rivers — represents enormous untapped potential for campgrounds, marinas, resorts, restaurants, and retail businesses.

Senior Activity Center

Over $150,000 in grant funds were secured under Mayor Jewell's first term, fully dedicated to the Senior Activity Center. These funds were used to purchase activity supplies and provide educational classes covering technology, financial planning, health, and safety.

Grant funds were also used to completely remodel the facility — both inside and out — giving Meigs County seniors a welcoming, modern space to gather, learn, and stay connected.

Emergency Services

Approximately $344,000 in grant funds were secured under Mayor Jewell's first term and used to purchase new Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBAs) and other critical equipment for our emergency responders.

• New SCBA equipment purchased for fire and EMS personnel
• Significant pay increases implemented for emergency medical personnel
• Shift schedule changes made to ensure competitive salaries and benefits
• Staffing levels positioned to compete with neighboring counties

These improvements reflect Eddie Jewell's 42-year career in emergency services — he understands from direct experience what our responders need to do their jobs safely and effectively.

Parks, Recreation & Public Lands

Under Mayor Jewell's leadership, Meigs County secured two landmark public assets that will serve residents and draw visitors for generations: a National Cemetery and a State Park. These are among the most significant public land wins in Meigs County's recent history.

Two additional county parks were established at the Eastview and Ten Mile Community Centers, creating dedicated green space for families across the county. Approximately $100,000 in grant funds were secured to construct two new playground structures — giving Meigs County children new places to play right in their own communities.

Public Access & Transparency

• Meigs County's official website was launched during Mayor Jewell's first term, giving residents access to information on every county office holder and department
• The interactive website allows the public to find meeting schedules, department contacts, and county services 24 hours a day
• Video recording of county commission workshops and meetings was initiated, creating a permanent public archive accessible at any time

Before Mayor Jewell's term, Meigs County had no official website and no video record of commission meetings. Both were established under his leadership — because transparent government isn't optional.

Centralized Maintenance

Under Mayor Jewell's leadership, a dedicated maintenance director was hired to oversee all county-owned properties. This has saved thousands of dollars in private contractor costs while significantly improving response time for repairs and maintenance needs across county facilities.

This is the kind of practical, common-sense management that makes local government work better — finding efficiencies that stretch every taxpayer dollar further.

Opioid Abatement

Under Mayor Jewell's leadership, the newly formed Opioid Abatement Committee directed over $250,000 in settlement funds to local agencies positioned to put those dollars to work in our community.

Since the committee's inception, Meigs County has seen a 48% reduction in opioid-related overdoses and deaths — a result that represents real families, real neighbors, and real lives preserved.

Broadband Internet

Mayor Jewell secured grant funds to partner with multiple telecommunications providers — including VEC, Twin Lakes, Charter, and Spectrum — to bring high-speed broadband internet to underserved homes and businesses throughout Meigs County.

Reliable internet access is no longer a luxury — it's essential for education, remote work, healthcare access, and economic opportunity. By working with multiple carriers, this initiative ensures no corner of Meigs County is left behind.

Certified Public Administrator

Mayor Jewell became the first Meigs County mayor to earn the Certified Public Administrator (CPA) designation while serving in office — achieved through the University of Tennessee and the County Technical Assistance Service.

This commitment to continuing education reflects the same ethic Eddie has maintained throughout his career: never stop learning, and use every tool available to serve the community better.

Mayor's Newsletter & Social Media

A monthly newsletter was launched to keep both the county commission and the general public informed about ongoing projects, community center bookings, and upcoming meetings. This regular communication ensures residents always know what their county government is doing on their behalf.

Active social media channels provide an additional way for Meigs County residents to stay connected with county news and Mayor Jewell's activities in the community.