Staff reports

Personal Touch in Fayetteville stands apart from the competition, thanks to a strong foundation built on quality, integrity and genuine care, said David Sanders, owner.

"Our team's dedication to Personal Proud Excellency, ensure we stand out in today's crowded marketplace."

"We are honored to be named 'Best of 2025', a recognition that reflects our employees' commitment to upholding the highest standards of service and professionalism," he said. "This award will be proudly displayed in our office as a reminder of what makes Personal Touch special — our people and our customers."

Why does the award rewarded by Business Rate matter?

For owner, David Sanders, it represents what truly defines success: exceptional customer service.

"This award is based on the recent reviews received from real customers on Google. It's a celebration of heartfelt feedback from our valued clients — a perfect way to mark 40 years in business," he said. "Exemplary business ethics that can be passed onto future generations!"

Since 1986 — Personal Touch

Personal Touch owner David Sanders, pictured with his grandson, Josiah Dunn, age four, holds an award, "Best of 2025" he received recently. Personal Touch has been in business for 40 years.

Owned and operated by David Sanders, Personal Touch has been in business since 1986 with nearly two dozen certifications in cleaning and restoration including carpet, upholstery and textile, tile and more.

Sanders is a master textile cleaner, fire and smoke restorer and water restorer. He said he believes it's important to keep up with industry changes and learn new skills.

To find out more visit getperonsaltouch.com or call 931-433-8446.

TCSA and state legislative session

Douglas said, later in the year, TCSA attended the Tennessee County Services Association Conference and Trade Show, held Oct. 8 through Oct. 10 in Knoxville.

Committees that met included membership, transportation, Veterans, emergency services (a new committee this year), and government affairs, along with meetings with highway officials and mayors.

Douglas said the conference included valuable sessions on:

• juvenile detention challenges

• more frequent property appraisals and annexing

• mutual aid agreements

• next steps in opioid abatement

One particularly eye-opening session focused on the future of nuclear energy in Tennessee.

He emphasized local counties must plan strategically for future demands on roads, utilities, and housing.

Douglas said the conference concluded with the TCSA fall dinner banquet and awards presentations, where Carter County Mayor Patty Woodby was named Mayor of the Year for her leadership during the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina floods caused by Hurricane Helene.

"I am proud to share that one of our own, Commissioner Anthony Taylor, received the prestigious Ralph Puckett Award for outstanding service," Douglas said. "Commissioner Taylor was honored with a proclamation recognizing this prestigious honor."

Legislative oversight

With more than 200 bills still active, our county will continue monitoring those that could affect local budgets, zoning, or emergency management.

Fiscal stewardship:
Avoiding unfunded mandates remains key to protecting our taxpayers while ensuring that local services remain responsive and efficient.

"As your representative, I will continue working closely with TCSA and our legislative partners to ensure that Lincoln County remains well-positioned."