The City of Loretto is moving ahead with several improvement projects, including new playground equipment at Loretto City Park, the city’s 2026 paving program, and replacement of the pavilion near the Loretto Civic Center.

During the Loretto Board of Aldermen’s August 4 meeting, city officials discussed plans to replace the playground equipment currently located at the city park. The project has been under consideration as concerns have been raised about the age and condition of some of the existing equipment.

The city’s plan calls for replacing the equipment in both playground areas, including the section designed for children ages 2-5 and the larger playground for ages 6-12.

Parks and Recreation Director Mitch Webb and City Manager Jesse Turner have been gathering information and reviewing options for the project. The city expects to purchase the equipment through either Sourcewell or OMNIA Partners, organizations that provide competitively bid purchasing contracts for government agencies. City leaders are reviewing the available options before determining which proposal offers the best value.

**Street paving planned for 2026**

Aldermen also agreed to move forward with the city’s 2026 street paving project.

After reviewing street conditions and traffic levels throughout Loretto, city officials identified several streets as priorities. The base paving project is expected to include Estee Way, Church Street, Spring Street, and Burke Street.

Additional paving could be authorized for Lindsey Road, Carrie Lane, and McGee Lane, depending on the bids received and available funding.

Sealed bids for the project are due by 10 a.m. September 1 at Loretto City Hall.

**Civic Center pavilion to be rebuilt**

Another upcoming project involves the pavilion located near the Loretto Civic Center.

Utilities Director Ronnie Dial told aldermen that the existing pavilion is expected to be demolished soon, weather permitting. Once the structure is removed, students in the Loretto High School General Building class are expected to help construct the new pavilion.

The City of Loretto is partnering with the Loretto Lions Club on the project.

**Board considers updated safety plan**

The Board of Aldermen also approved the first reading of an ordinance updating the city’s Occupational Safety and Health Program Plan.

The plan establishes safety rules and regulations for city operations and outlines responsibilities for the city’s safety director. A second reading will be required before the ordinance can take effect.

**Residents raise concerns about animal issues**

Animal-related concerns were also brought before city leaders during the public comment portion of the meeting.

Two residents discussed changes in Tennessee law involving shelter requirements for outdoor pets, while another resident reported problems involving a neighbor’s dog entering her property and causing damage.

City Attorney Cameron Hoffmeyer explained that animal complaints within the city are referred to the Loretto Police Department. An officer can investigate the complaint and, when appropriate, issue a citation. Any resulting fines would be determined through the legal process.

Mayor Steve McMasters also noted that Loretto does not maintain its own dog registry and that local pet owners are subject to applicable state laws.

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