Carter County Budget Committee Rejects Aerial Photography Proposal

Committee also votes to reinstate county's honor guard for veteran funerals

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Carter County Budget Committee voted against recommending a proposal to conduct annual aerial photography flyovers to help the property assessor's office keep more accurate records on property improvements. The committee also voted to reinstate the county's honor guard to provide funeral salutes for veterans, with funding coming from the sheriff's department reserve funds.

Why it matters

The aerial photography proposal aimed to make property tax assessments more accurate and fair by identifying improvements to properties in a more timely manner. The decision not to recommend the proposal means the county will continue with its current 5-year reappraisal cycle. The reinstatement of the honor guard ensures veterans will receive proper military funeral honors going forward.

The details

The Budget Committee initially voted 4-3 in favor of recommending the aerial photography proposal to the full county commission. However, the county attorney later informed the committee that a majority of the full committee was required to pass a recommendation, not just a majority of those present. After further discussion, the committee voted 3-4 against making any recommendation on the proposal to the commission. The committee did vote to reinstate the county's honor guard to provide funeral salutes for veterans, with funding to come from the sheriff's department reserve funds.

  • The Budget Committee meeting took place on February 11, 2026.
  • The committee initially voted 4-3 in favor of the aerial photography proposal.
  • The county attorney later clarified that a majority of the full committee was required to pass a recommendation.
  • The committee then voted 3-4 against making any recommendation on the aerial photography proposal.

The players

Shane Simerly

Carter County Property Assessor who proposed the aerial photography flyovers to help keep property records more accurate.

Josh Hardin

Carter County Attorney who informed the committee that a majority vote of the full committee was required to pass a recommendation.

Andrew Wetzel

National Guard Post Commander who said there would be a need to provide funding to re-equip the reformed honor guard.

Mike Fraley

Carter County Sheriff who said he could provide $10,000 from his department's reserve funds to equip the honor guard.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.