January 21, 2026 - The Shelby County Commissioners have lifted the burn ban on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, that was put in place on January 1, 2026.

it was agreed that if necessary, Judge Allison Harbison can put the ban back in place at any time.

Residents are encouraged to use caution when burning.

January 18, 2026 - Two more suspects have been arrested for the murder of JaMichael Phillips, who was killed September 13, 2025, after being shot in the back of the head. 

The arrest of the most recent two individuals brings the total suspects arrested thus far to six. The suspects are alleged to have fired on Phillips through his bedroom window as he attempted to flee.

January 7, 2026 - The Shelby County Commissioners decided to continue the burn ban on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, that was put in place on January 1, 2026.

This means that burning continues to be prohibited and anyone in violation may be subject to a burn ban violation citation.

January 13, 2026 - The Shelby Commissioners held a quick meeting to finish out the 2025 year on December 31, 2025.

During Commissioner Court Reports, Commissioner Tom Bellmyer commented that Commissioner Stevie Smith helped him by providing some equipment from Precinct 3 to Precinct 4 for a project at the county barn there. 

“He sent an excavator and an operator over and was there for a few hours and helped me out, and I just want to tell him thank you for giving us a hand,” said Bellmyer.