What's Up Mt Juliet Weekly Newsletter 8/6/26

August 6, 2026

Happy Thursday, Mt. Juliet! 🌞

We hope everyone had a smooth first week back to school and that the new routines are starting to feel a little more normal — or at least survivable! And before you dive in, don't forget: today is election day. Make sure you get out and cast your vote!

Now, on to this week's newsletter — and it's a big one. We're dropping our 2026 Wilson County Fair Guide, your one-stop resource for everything you need to know before heading through those gates, plus exclusive coupons to help you save while you're there. We're also breaking down Mt. Juliet's Home Rule Charter vote so you can feel a little more informed, sharing important back-to-school safety reminders, and bringing you a full lineup of local events happening around town — plus another exclusive subscriber coupon just for being here.

We're glad you're with us. Now let's get into it!

Denise & Mike

Mt. Juliet voters may have an important question on the November 3 ballot: Should the City repeal its Home Rule Charter?

The proposal stems from the city's rapid growth. When Mt. Juliet voters approved Home Rule in 2006, the city had about 19,000 residents. Today, that number has grown to approximately 45,000, bringing thousands of new homes, businesses, schools, and jobs—and increasing the demand for roads, parks, utilities, public safety, and other infrastructure.

What Is Home Rule?

Home Rule gives Mt. Juliet voters more direct control over changes to the City's governing document, called the City Charter. Instead of asking the Tennessee Legislature to approve most charter changes, those changes are decided by local voters through elections.

The tradeoff is that Tennessee law generally prevents Home Rule cities from asking the Legislature to pass laws that apply only to that city. These city-specific laws, known as "private acts," can give cities additional powers that aren't available under Home Rule.

According to the City's long-range planning documents, Mt. Juliet adopted Home Rule in 2006 primarily so local voters—not state lawmakers—would decide future changes to the City Charter.

Why Is the City Considering a Change?

City officials say today's Mt. Juliet faces different challenges than it did nearly 20 years ago.

Currently, developers are required to pay for infrastructure directly serving their developments, such as road frontage. For improvements beyond a development—such as widening nearby roads or improving intersections—the City can only request voluntary contributions from developers.

According to city officials, many developers have contributed millions of dollars toward projects including Providence Parkway, Adams Lane, Beckwith Road, Central Pike, Nonaville Road, East Division Street, Pleasant Grove Road, and other transportation improvements, along with sidewalks, sewer infrastructure, and lighting. However, because these contributions are voluntary, they cannot be relied upon as a consistent funding source for future planning.

Supporters of repealing Home Rule say that if voters approve the change, the City could ask the Tennessee Legislature for permission to create a development impact fee program. If the Legislature approves that request, new development could be charged impact fees to help pay for roads, utilities, parks, public safety facilities, and other infrastructure needed because of growth.

City officials say this would create a more predictable way to help fund growth-related infrastructure while ensuring new development contributes toward the costs it creates.

What Would Stay the Same?

According to the City, repealing Home Rule would not change Mt. Juliet's day-to-day form of government. Residents would continue to elect the Board of Commissioners, the City Manager would continue overseeing daily operations, and city services would remain the same. The primary change would be restoring the City's ability to ask the Tennessee Legislature to pass city-specific laws when needed.

If the ordinance is approved by the Board of Commissioners, the question will appear on the November 3, 2026, ballot, giving Mt. Juliet voters the final say. The City also plans to hold several public information meetings before the election so residents can learn more, ask questions, and make an informed decision before casting their vote.

Mt. Juliet has been awarded $12 million in federal grant funding for the long-awaited Lebanon Road Widening Project — and it's a major win for our growing city.

The project will widen Lebanon Road to five lanes between Park Glen Drive and Curd Road, then transition to three lanes connecting with the recent TDOT improvements near West Elementary School. Once the initial right-of-way acquisition phase is complete, an additional $24 million in federal construction funding is expected to follow. The GNRC grants cover 80% of eligible costs, with the City covering the remaining 20%.

After years of planning and dedication from Mt. Juliet's leadership, this marks a big step toward safer roads, reduced congestion, and infrastructure that grows with the community. Next, the city will move into the engineering phase and start acquiring the land needed to bring the project to life.

Good things are coming to Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet. 🙌

The first week of school always brings a big adjustment for drivers, families, and students across Wilson County. With thousands of students heading back to classrooms, morning drop-offs, afternoon pickups, and school zones become busier than ever.

If you noticed more police presence around Mt. Juliet schools during the first few days, that was intentional. The Mt. Juliet Police Department was out in force (and doing an excellent job, by the way) helping keep students, families, and staff safe as everyone settled back into their school routines. Officers were focused on keeping an eye on school zones, speeding, distracted driving, and other violations that can put students at risk.

As we get started this school year, here are a few reminders to help keep traffic moving safely:

Slow Down in School Zones
School zones are active areas where children may be walking, biking, crossing streets, or getting in and out of vehicles. Always follow the posted speed limits and pay attention to flashing school zone lights. A few extra minutes of travel time is worth it to help keep our students safe.

Keep Your Phone Out of Reach
Tennessee law prohibits drivers from holding or using a cellphone while driving. A quick glance at a notification can take your attention away from students, pedestrians, buses, and changing traffic patterns.

Know the Rules for School Buses
When a school bus has its red flashing lights activated and stop sign extended, drivers must stop. Vehicles approaching from either direction must remain stopped until the bus resumes motion, the driver signals traffic to proceed, or the warning signals are no longer activated. On some divided roadways, exceptions may apply, but if you’re unsure- it’s best just to stop.

Be Patient During Drop-Off and Pick-Up
School traffic can take some time to adjust. Allow a few extra minutes, follow school traffic patterns, obey crossing guards, and avoid blocking entrances or designated areas.

A little patience and attention from drivers can make a big difference in keeping Wilson County students safe throughout the school year.

More than 18,254 verified residents representing 12,769 Mt. Juliet households are already connected with the Mt. Juliet Police Department on Nextdoor.

Following MJPD on Nextdoor is a great way to stay in the know with neighborhood-specific traffic and road closure updates, public safety alerts, crime prevention tips, missing or endangered person notifications, community events, and other important local information. It's also an easy way to ask questions, join conversations, and connect directly with the department.

For urgent community alerts, be sure to sign up for MJAlert by texting "MJ" to 67283.

If you're on Nextdoor, take a minute to follow the Mt. Juliet Police Department and stay connected with what's happening in your neighborhood and around our community. Click here to sign up.

Interested in partnering with What's Up Mt. Juliet? Reach thousands of engaged local readers while supporting a free community newsletter. Sponsorships start at just $10/week. Click here to learn more.

If you haven't discovered K.N.D. Cheesecakes & Chicken yet, now's the perfect excuse! This local favorite serves up crispy fried chicken, delicious fried fish, wings, and comforting Southern favorites—but don't leave without trying one of their incredible housemade cheesecakes. Rich, creamy, and available in a variety of flavors, they're the perfect way to end your meal (or take home for later!).

This week's exclusive coupon: Enjoy 10% OFF your order at K.N.D. Cheesecakes & Chicken. Treat yourself to a delicious meal and an unforgettable dessert!

We’ve also included a sneak peek at one of the coupons available in our 2026 Wilson County Fair Guide. Make sure you check them out!

$= There is a charge for these events

Thursday, August 6

☕  MJPD Popsicle Patrol | Glass Creek and Stonegate | 1 - 3 pm

Join your MJPD officers while you cool off with free popsicles, meet neighbors, and spend time with the community. It’s a great opportunity to say hello, ask questions, and let the kids check out police vehicles.

Friday, August 7

☕  Coffee with a Cop | Kairos Coffeehouse (Joy Church Campus) | 7 - 9 am

Stop by on your way to work, grab a cup of coffee, and spend some time talking with members of the MJPD. There is no agenda, just an opportunity to connect, ask questions, and get to know one another.

📖  Story Time | Breeden’s Orchard | 10 - 11 am

A sweet morning on the farm for little ones—Story Time at Breeden’s Orchard features engaging stories, fresh air, and relaxed playtime in a cozy outdoor setting.

🎵  Live Music with Jeff Caron | Burger Republic | 6 - 9 pm

Looking for a fun way to spend your evening? Grab a burger, your favorite drink, and enjoy live music from a local band while soaking up the great atmosphere.

😂  Comedy Night at Nook | Nook | 8 pm | $

Laugh the night away at this fun comedy show with headliner Bailey Pope.

🦊  Movie in the Park: ZooTopia 2 | Charlie Daniels Park Ampitheatre | 8 - 10 pm

Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and join MJ Parks and Rec for a free movie under the stars! Concessions will be available for purchase.

Just around the corner:

🦖 Dinner and a Movie: Jurassic Park | Full Moon Cineplex, Hermitage, TN | 6 pm | $

Saturday, August 8

🍅 Farmer’s Market | Charlie Daniels Park | 8 am - 1 pm

This event brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors to create a lively, welcoming community market. It’s a fun way to shop while supporting local small businesses

🧋Sweet Tea & Sunshine Biscuit Pop-Up | Sweet Biscuit Co. | 9 am - 12 pm

Is there a better way to start the morning than one filled with warm biscuits, ShineWorthy Vanilla Peach tea, sunshine, and all the Sweet Biscuit charm you love? We think not! Don’t miss this one.

😎 Hazy Days of Summer | Breeden’s Orchard | 9 am - 9 pm

Bring the whole family out for a relaxed afternoon of crafting and hard cider flights at night. Add an optional Cidery Flights and Farm Tour Experience for a fee.

🐶 Fair Themed Adoption Event | Mt. Juliet Animal Shelter | 11 am - 2 pm

August is Clear the Shelters month! Stop by the animal shelter to meet amazing dogs and cats waiting for their forever families.

🚀 Blast Off Back to School Parent Survival Night | The Little Gym | 5 - 8 pm | $

Your kids will challenge their brains and bodies as they get ready to soar to new heights on an adventure that’s out of this world!

🐮 Concert with the Cows | Southern Rhythm Cattle Co. | 5:30 - 8 pm | $

Enjoy a relaxing evening on the farm with live music, a delicious pasta bar, and the chance to dine surrounded by the cows. It's a fun, family-friendly way to enjoy a summer night close to home.

⚡ Party Rock 80’s & 90’s with Jeff Caron Band | Caribbean Vibes Venue | 7 - 9 pm | $

Get ready to dance all night at the ultimate throwback bash! Rock out with the best jams from the 80's to the 90's in one epic in-person party.

Just around the corner:

🧺  Market & MIngle | Wilson County Vendor Market, Lebanon, TN | 8 am - 2 pm

🌳 Sadie Ford Farm Trail Hike | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 10:30 - 11:30 am

🃏 Card Club | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 4:30 pm

🌠 Astronomy Night Under the Stars | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 7:30 - 10:00 pm

Sunday, August 9

😎 Hazy Days of Summer | Breeden’s Orchard | 9 am - 5 pm

Bring the whole family out for a relaxed afternoon of crafting and hard cider flights at night. Add an optional Cidery Flights and Farm Tour Experience for a fee.

🤫 Mt Juliet Silent Book Club | Ready Teddy’s | 2 - 4 pm

Bring your book, grab a coffee, and read for a couple of hours with your fellow book clubber’s! No rsvp is required.

Just around the corner:

📖 Reading Ranger and Scavenger Hunt | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 10- 11 am

🥾 Sundown Hike at Sellar’s Farm | Cedars of Lebanon State Park, Lebanon, TN | 7:30- 8:30 pm

Monday, August 10

🀄 Mahjong Night | Braingineers Lab | 6 - 8:30 pm | $

Just around the corner:

🎴 Mahjong | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Tuesday, August 11

Just around the corner:

🎮 Teen Hangout | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 4:30 - 5:30 pm

Wednesday, August 12

🀄  Mahjongg Afternoon | Billy Goat Coffee Cafe | 1 - 4 pm

Enjoy a friendly game of Mahjongg, meet new friends, and have fun each week. Whether you're a seasoned player or still learning, everyone is welcome!

🧁  Cupcake Bouquet Class | Charlie Daniels Park | 5 - 7 pm | $

Learn how to transform sweet treats into stunning floral arrangements! All supplies are provided and you can take home your delicious creations—just be sure to pre-book your spot in advance.

Just around the corner:

🧘‍♀ Gentle Yoga | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 6 - 7 pm

Thursday, August 13

🌳  2026 Annual Greenway Walk | Cedar Creek Greenway at Charlie Daniels Park | 6 pm

Take a walk with us and experience one of Mt. Juliet's beautiful greenways while enjoying an evening outdoors with friends and neighbors.

Just around the corner:

🀄 Mahjong | Hermitage Library, Hermitage, TN | 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Meet the Team

Denise is a SoCal native who has called Middle Tennessee home for 25 years. A self-proclaimed foodie, she’s always on the hunt for the area's latest and greatest restaurants—though during football season, you’ll likely find her locked into a game.

Mike originally hails from New Jersey and has lived in Mt. Juliet for over 30 years. When he isn’t cheering on his favorite college and pro football teams, he loves getting out to catch some live local rock music.

Together, we started What’s Up Mt. Juliet because we believe there is so much to love about this great city. Each week, our goal is to bring you the best of Mt Juliet…and hopefully brighten your day along the way!

Thanks for letting us be a small part of your week!

Publication Disclaimer:

While we work hard to keep all information accurate and up to date, event details can change unexpectedly. We highly recommend double-checking the event links directly before heading out to ensure you have the latest updates. This newsletter contains affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. We deeply appreciate your support, which helps keep our content running.