APISON — Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp and District 7 Commissioner Lee Helton announced a proposal on July 15, 2026, to purchase approximately 8.5 acres of land in Apison. The acquisition aims to protect public green space and establish a new community park to serve the growing area.

The proposed site is located in Apison and sits adjacent to the existing Apison Park. Officials said the purchase would preserve nearly 10 acres of land, expanding recreational access in a community where such opportunities have become increasingly scarce. Wamp noted that he and Helton had spent the last four years seeking a suitable parcel for park development and youth sports fields.

"Over the last four years, Commissioner Helton and I have looked for an opportunity to acquire land in Apison for much-needed park space and youth sports fields," said Mayor Wamp. He added, "The purchase of this land builds on the county’s commitment to preserving land and investing in youth sports."

Commissioner Helton emphasized Apison’s rapid population growth as a key factor behind the urgency of the proposal. "Apison has grown rapidly over the past several years, and opportunities to create new parks have become harder to find," Helton said. He also framed the project as an investment in community quality of life, stating, "By creating more places for families to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors, we’re investing in the kind of community people want to call home."

The Hamilton County Commission is scheduled to consider the proposed resolution during its July 15 agenda session. A final vote on the measure is anticipated at the commission’s August 5 meeting.