Cocke Library Donation Scandal
Key Questions
What happened with the Cocke County library donations after Hurricane Helene?
The library chairman diverted $77,000 in Helene relief funds to a Kiwanis account without board approval. Some funds were spent on repairs, but there was no oversight. The Comptroller's Office has reported the matter to the District Attorney for ethics review.
Why are locals concerned about donating to the library?
The diversion of funds without approval has raised questions about trust in donations during post-storm recovery. The lack of oversight on expenditures has fueled community skepticism. The ongoing Comptroller investigation highlights potential ethics issues.
What is the current status of the library donation scandal investigation?
The Tennessee Comptroller's Office investigation found the routing of $77K to an outside account without approval. It has been referred to the District Attorney for further ethics review. The story is still developing.
Library chairman diverted $77K Helene relief funds to Kiwanis account without board approval; partial spend on repairs but no oversight. Comptroller report to DA for ethics review. Locals question donation trust amid post-storm recovery.