🚨 The latest Town at Work is packed with updates from across Atoka! From Teen CPR training and Splash Pad prep to Public Works Week, Cops & Bobbers, and FY27 budget progress — there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to keep our town moving forward. 👏🚒🚓🛠️🌳
Check out this week’s report to see what your Town departments have been working on!
Check out this week’s report to see what your Town departments have been working on!
🔧 Join Our Team During Public Works Week!
What better time to join the Town of Atoka Public Works team than during National Public Works Week! This is a great opportunity to become part of the department that helps keep our town running every single day.
We are currently hiring a Full-Time Public Works Technician. This entry-level position assists with maintaining streets, parks, water and sewer systems, and other important services throughout the community.
If you enjoy hands-on work, working outdoors, and making a difference in your hometown, we’d love to hear from you.
Applicants must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license, high school diploma or GED, and be able to perform physical labor in a variety of weather conditions.
Help us continue serving Atoka with pride!
Please go to https://www.atokatn.gov/page/employment-opportunities for full job description and application.
#NPWW #PublicWorksWeek #TownofAtokaTN #NowHiring #AtokaTN
What better time to join the Town of Atoka Public Works team than during National Public Works Week! This is a great opportunity to become part of the department that helps keep our town running every single day.
We are currently hiring a Full-Time Public Works Technician. This entry-level position assists with maintaining streets, parks, water and sewer systems, and other important services throughout the community.
If you enjoy hands-on work, working outdoors, and making a difference in your hometown, we’d love to hear from you.
Applicants must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license, high school diploma or GED, and be able to perform physical labor in a variety of weather conditions.
Help us continue serving Atoka with pride!
Please go to https://www.atokatn.gov/page/employment-opportunities for full job description and application.
#NPWW #PublicWorksWeek #TownofAtokaTN #NowHiring #AtokaTN
We have been updated that the rest of today's trash route and Thursday's route will now all be picked up on Friday, May 22nd. Thank you for your understanding as we get to everyone as soon as possible.
Trash Collection Update 🚛
Due to unforeseen driver issues, today’s trash route was unable to be completed. Residents on the streets listed below will be serviced tomorrow, Wednesday, May 21, 2026.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as crews work to complete the route.
Affected areas include:
• Sarah Cv
• Porterville Rd.
• Lavern St.
• Highway 51
• Al St.
• Atoka McLaughlin
• Webb St.
• Michael Ave
• Norris St.
• Smith Dr.
• Shannon Ln.
• Faulkner Heights
• Margaret Cv.
• Main St.
• Columbia Way
• Jack Dr.
• William St.
• Coleman St.
• Grissom Ln.
• Carol Dr.
• Atoka Munford
• Wesley Reed
• Charleswood
• Loch Haven Cv
• Waters Edge
• Lake Point
• Thorn Hill
• High Point
• Loch Meade Dr.
• Como Ln
• Colton Ridge
• Jonsborough Dr
• Scottsdale Cv
• Walker Lake
• Clydesdale
• Jessie
• Marianna
Due to unforeseen driver issues, today’s trash route was unable to be completed. Residents on the streets listed below will be serviced tomorrow, Wednesday, May 21, 2026.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as crews work to complete the route.
Affected areas include:
• Sarah Cv
• Porterville Rd.
• Lavern St.
• Highway 51
• Al St.
• Atoka McLaughlin
• Webb St.
• Michael Ave
• Norris St.
• Smith Dr.
• Shannon Ln.
• Faulkner Heights
• Margaret Cv.
• Main St.
• Columbia Way
• Jack Dr.
• William St.
• Coleman St.
• Grissom Ln.
• Carol Dr.
• Atoka Munford
• Wesley Reed
• Charleswood
• Loch Haven Cv
• Waters Edge
• Lake Point
• Thorn Hill
• High Point
• Loch Meade Dr.
• Como Ln
• Colton Ridge
• Jonsborough Dr
• Scottsdale Cv
• Walker Lake
• Clydesdale
• Jessie
• Marianna
🚧💧 “So… what exactly IS a lift station?” 💧🚧
We’ve had a few questions after our recent grant announcement asking what a “lift station” actually is, so here’s the simple version:
A lift station (or pump station) helps move wastewater through the sewer system when gravity alone can’t do the job. Since wastewater doesn’t magically travel uphill on its own, pumps help move it from lower areas to higher ground before it continues on to the lagoon for treatment. 🚽➡️💧
The Main Street Lift Station is especially important because it serves as the Town’s main station, meaning ALL wastewater from across Atoka will eventually flow through this location before heading to the lagoon. In other words… it’s one of the hardest-working spots in town, even if most people never see it.
This project will help improve reliability, support future growth, and modernize a critical part of Atoka’s infrastructure. It may not be the flashiest project, but functioning sewer systems are something we can all appreciate. 🚽😂
#TownOfAtokaTN #InfrastructureMatters #LiftStation
We’ve had a few questions after our recent grant announcement asking what a “lift station” actually is, so here’s the simple version:
A lift station (or pump station) helps move wastewater through the sewer system when gravity alone can’t do the job. Since wastewater doesn’t magically travel uphill on its own, pumps help move it from lower areas to higher ground before it continues on to the lagoon for treatment. 🚽➡️💧
The Main Street Lift Station is especially important because it serves as the Town’s main station, meaning ALL wastewater from across Atoka will eventually flow through this location before heading to the lagoon. In other words… it’s one of the hardest-working spots in town, even if most people never see it.
This project will help improve reliability, support future growth, and modernize a critical part of Atoka’s infrastructure. It may not be the flashiest project, but functioning sewer systems are something we can all appreciate. 🚽😂
#TownOfAtokaTN #InfrastructureMatters #LiftStation
🎓👏 Congratulations to Our TOTAL Leadership Graduates! 👏🎓
Last week, three members of the Town of Atoka team graduated from the TOTAL Leadership program, a joint project of the Covington-Tipton County and South Tipton County Chambers of Commerce.
Please join us in congratulating:
• Rachel Covarrubias, Town Recorder
• Tom Langford, Building Code Official
• Wesley Yarbrough, Director of Public Works
The TOTAL Leadership program is designed to help develop community awareness and leadership skills while focusing on current issues and opportunities throughout Tipton County. Over the course of the program, participants take part in sessions covering leadership development, education, economic development, health care, government, criminal justice, and quality of life within the county.
Participants also complete a community project that strengthens problem-solving, teamwork, and collaboration skills while helping build a better future for Tipton County.
We are proud of Rachel, Tom, and Wesley for their dedication to professional growth and continued service to our community. Their willingness to invest their time and talents into leadership development helps strengthen not only the Town of Atoka, but all of Tipton County.
Congratulations on this outstanding accomplishment! 🎉
#TownOfAtokaTN #TOTALLeadership #LeadershipMatters #TiptonCounty #AtokaStrong
Last week, three members of the Town of Atoka team graduated from the TOTAL Leadership program, a joint project of the Covington-Tipton County and South Tipton County Chambers of Commerce.
Please join us in congratulating:
• Rachel Covarrubias, Town Recorder
• Tom Langford, Building Code Official
• Wesley Yarbrough, Director of Public Works
The TOTAL Leadership program is designed to help develop community awareness and leadership skills while focusing on current issues and opportunities throughout Tipton County. Over the course of the program, participants take part in sessions covering leadership development, education, economic development, health care, government, criminal justice, and quality of life within the county.
Participants also complete a community project that strengthens problem-solving, teamwork, and collaboration skills while helping build a better future for Tipton County.
We are proud of Rachel, Tom, and Wesley for their dedication to professional growth and continued service to our community. Their willingness to invest their time and talents into leadership development helps strengthen not only the Town of Atoka, but all of Tipton County.
Congratulations on this outstanding accomplishment! 🎉
#TownOfAtokaTN #TOTALLeadership #LeadershipMatters #TiptonCounty #AtokaStrong
💙🖤 National Police Week 🖤💙
This week, we pause to recognize and thank the men and women of the Atoka Police Department who serve our community every single day.
Behind every badge is a person who misses holidays with family, answers difficult calls at all hours of the night, and shows up each day ready to protect and serve this town they call home. Whether it’s responding in moments of crisis, helping at community events, supporting local schools, or simply checking on a resident in need, our officers do far more than enforce the law — they build relationships and help make Atoka the kind of place people are proud to call home.
We are grateful for the leadership of Chief Anthony W. Rudolph and for every officer, dispatcher, and support staff member who serves with professionalism, compassion, and heart.
To the members of APD and law enforcement officers everywhere: thank you for your sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to your communities.
#NationalPoliceWeek #BackTheBlue #AtokaPD #TownOfAtokaTN #AtokaStrong
This week, we pause to recognize and thank the men and women of the Atoka Police Department who serve our community every single day.
Behind every badge is a person who misses holidays with family, answers difficult calls at all hours of the night, and shows up each day ready to protect and serve this town they call home. Whether it’s responding in moments of crisis, helping at community events, supporting local schools, or simply checking on a resident in need, our officers do far more than enforce the law — they build relationships and help make Atoka the kind of place people are proud to call home.
We are grateful for the leadership of Chief Anthony W. Rudolph and for every officer, dispatcher, and support staff member who serves with professionalism, compassion, and heart.
To the members of APD and law enforcement officers everywhere: thank you for your sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to your communities.
#NationalPoliceWeek #BackTheBlue #AtokaPD #TownOfAtokaTN #AtokaStrong
🩺❤️ Ready to Respond: AHA CPR & Safety Class for Teens ❤️🩺
Looking for a way to build confidence and real-life skills this summer? This class is designed just for teens—perfect for babysitting, sports, or everyday situations where knowing what to do matters most.
Participants will learn:
✔️ CPR & AED basics
✔️ First aid for common injuries
✔️ How to respond to child & infant choking
✔️ Everyday safety smarts for home and beyond
📅 Saturday, May 16, 2026
⏰ 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
💲 $40 (discounted for teens)
This hands-on class helps teens step up, stay calm, and be ready when it counts.
⚠️ Spots are limited—sign up today!
👉 https://forms.gle/SCTj9GiHDP2QT3uS9
Train. Learn. Save lives. You’ve got this. 💪
Looking for a way to build confidence and real-life skills this summer? This class is designed just for teens—perfect for babysitting, sports, or everyday situations where knowing what to do matters most.
Participants will learn:
✔️ CPR & AED basics
✔️ First aid for common injuries
✔️ How to respond to child & infant choking
✔️ Everyday safety smarts for home and beyond
📅 Saturday, May 16, 2026
⏰ 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
💲 $40 (discounted for teens)
This hands-on class helps teens step up, stay calm, and be ready when it counts.
⚠️ Spots are limited—sign up today!
👉 https://forms.gle/SCTj9GiHDP2QT3uS9
Train. Learn. Save lives. You’ve got this. 💪
We’re now on Instagram!
Welcome to the official page for the Atoka TN Fire Department.
Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at training, emergency response, community events, and the people who serve Atoka every day.
We’re proud to serve a community we call home.
🔥 Follow along as we show you what it takes to keep Atoka safe. @atokafiredept
🚨 Severe Weather Alert – Atoka Area 🚨
An Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe storms is in place today into early Tuesday morning.
⏰ Timing: 2 PM – 4 AM
⚠️ Threats:
• Damaging winds (70+ mph)
• Large hail (up to 2”)
• Strong tornadoes possible
💨 Before storms: Wind gusts up to 40 mph—secure loose items now.
🛑 Be Ready:
Have multiple ways to get alerts and know your safe place. The saferoom at Atoka is open starting at a Tornado Watch.
Stay weather-aware this afternoon and overnight. We’ll keep you updated. 💙
An Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe storms is in place today into early Tuesday morning.
⏰ Timing: 2 PM – 4 AM
⚠️ Threats:
• Damaging winds (70+ mph)
• Large hail (up to 2”)
• Strong tornadoes possible
💨 Before storms: Wind gusts up to 40 mph—secure loose items now.
🛑 Be Ready:
Have multiple ways to get alerts and know your safe place. The saferoom at Atoka is open starting at a Tornado Watch.
Stay weather-aware this afternoon and overnight. We’ll keep you updated. 💙
🌎 Happy Earth Day, Atoka! 🌱
Today is a great reminder that even the small things we do can make a big impact on keeping our community clean, green, and beautiful. Whether it’s picking up litter, planting something new, or simply taking pride in your surroundings—every effort counts right here at home.
And speaking of spring cleaning… 🧹
Don’t forget! A dumpster is available at Pioneer Park through Thursday, April 23 to help residents clear out unwanted items and freshen things up for the season.
Let’s work together to keep Atoka looking its best—not just today, but every day. 💚
#townofatokatn #earthday
Today is a great reminder that even the small things we do can make a big impact on keeping our community clean, green, and beautiful. Whether it’s picking up litter, planting something new, or simply taking pride in your surroundings—every effort counts right here at home.
And speaking of spring cleaning… 🧹
Don’t forget! A dumpster is available at Pioneer Park through Thursday, April 23 to help residents clear out unwanted items and freshen things up for the season.
Let’s work together to keep Atoka looking its best—not just today, but every day. 💚
#townofatokatn #earthday
The Town of Atoka was proud to serve as a sponsor and attend the First Responders Luncheon hosted by the Millington Area Chamber of Commerce. Events like this are a great reminder of how important it is to build strong relationships with our neighboring communities and to support one another in the work we do every day.
We were honored to have Mayor Barry Akin representing the Town of Atoka, Chief Rudolph representing the Atoka Police Department - TN, & Chief Scott representing the AtokA Fire Department.
Our Chiefs are the kind of leaders who don’t seek recognition, but simply show up every day and serve with dedication, professionalism, and heart. Their humility and commitment to others are exactly what make them such strong leaders for our town.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside fellow first responders across the region and celebrate the people who serve selflessly every single day. Thank you to all of our First Responders.
We were honored to have Mayor Barry Akin representing the Town of Atoka, Chief Rudolph representing the Atoka Police Department - TN, & Chief Scott representing the AtokA Fire Department.
Our Chiefs are the kind of leaders who don’t seek recognition, but simply show up every day and serve with dedication, professionalism, and heart. Their humility and commitment to others are exactly what make them such strong leaders for our town.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside fellow first responders across the region and celebrate the people who serve selflessly every single day. Thank you to all of our First Responders.
🔥 BBQ Fest 2026 – Final Results! 🔥
What an unforgettable weekend in Atoka! From incredible food to friendly competition and a whole lot of community spirit, BBQ Fest 2026 did not disappoint. 🙌
Before we close the books on this year’s event, let’s give one more HUGE shoutout to all of our winners 👏👇
🏆 Sauce: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Beans: Down South Grillers
🏆 Chicken: TBDQ
🏆 Beef: Big Ro Ro’s BBQ
🏆 Bacon: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Bologna: Mean Genes
🏆 Dessert: Bad Pig BBQ
🥧 Pie: Craig with Will Be Que
🍹 Signature Cocktail: Tabatha with Will Be Que
🍅 Bloody Mary: Kevin with Bad Pig BBQ
🧀 Grilled Cheese: Swig & Swine
🐖 Pulled Pork: Woods Custom Cookers
🐷 People’s Choice (Pulled Pork): All Hale the Swine
🐖 Whole Hog: Busted Knuckle BBQ
🍖 Ribs: Swine Life BBQ
🏅 Best Local Team: Mean Genes Cooking Team
👨🍳 Kid’s Cook Off Winners:
• Tripp Carr – Beef & Chicken
• Bodie Fair – Chicken
• Wyatt Judd – Beef & Dessert
👑 Grand Champions: Woods Custom Cookers
The competition was fierce, the flavors were top-notch, and every team brought their best to Atoka. We are so proud of all who competed and grateful to everyone who came out to support, volunteer, and celebrate with us.
Already counting down to next year… 🔥🍖👀
What an unforgettable weekend in Atoka! From incredible food to friendly competition and a whole lot of community spirit, BBQ Fest 2026 did not disappoint. 🙌
Before we close the books on this year’s event, let’s give one more HUGE shoutout to all of our winners 👏👇
🏆 Sauce: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Beans: Down South Grillers
🏆 Chicken: TBDQ
🏆 Beef: Big Ro Ro’s BBQ
🏆 Bacon: Grey Area Smokers
🏆 Bologna: Mean Genes
🏆 Dessert: Bad Pig BBQ
🥧 Pie: Craig with Will Be Que
🍹 Signature Cocktail: Tabatha with Will Be Que
🍅 Bloody Mary: Kevin with Bad Pig BBQ
🧀 Grilled Cheese: Swig & Swine
🐖 Pulled Pork: Woods Custom Cookers
🐷 People’s Choice (Pulled Pork): All Hale the Swine
🐖 Whole Hog: Busted Knuckle BBQ
🍖 Ribs: Swine Life BBQ
🏅 Best Local Team: Mean Genes Cooking Team
👨🍳 Kid’s Cook Off Winners:
• Tripp Carr – Beef & Chicken
• Bodie Fair – Chicken
• Wyatt Judd – Beef & Dessert
👑 Grand Champions: Woods Custom Cookers
The competition was fierce, the flavors were top-notch, and every team brought their best to Atoka. We are so proud of all who competed and grateful to everyone who came out to support, volunteer, and celebrate with us.
Already counting down to next year… 🔥🍖👀
Come join us as our District 9 Commissioners bring a severe weather community update to the town.
🚰 Hydrant Flushing Underway Today 🚰
We will be conducting fire hydrant flushing throughout the town today. This routine maintenance helps ensure our water system stays clean, safe, and operating at its best.
Residents in areas where flushing is taking place may notice temporary discoloration in their water or a slight drop in pressure. If this occurs, simply run cold water for a few minutes until it clears.
We appreciate your patience as our crews work to maintain the quality and reliability of our water system!
We will be conducting fire hydrant flushing throughout the town today. This routine maintenance helps ensure our water system stays clean, safe, and operating at its best.
Residents in areas where flushing is taking place may notice temporary discoloration in their water or a slight drop in pressure. If this occurs, simply run cold water for a few minutes until it clears.
We appreciate your patience as our crews work to maintain the quality and reliability of our water system!
The Mayor’s Pie Challenge brought the heat (and the sweet!) this year, with Mayor Barry Akin and a panel of neighboring mayors taking on the tough job of judging.
From classic flavors to creative twists, the entries did not disappoint. Our judges had their work cut out for them, carefully tasting and scoring each pie… and by all accounts, it was a deliciously difficult task!
A big thank you to our visiting mayors for serving as judges and to everyone who participated and made the challenge such a fun and flavorful part of the event. Safe to say, this competition was a sweet success! 😄
From classic flavors to creative twists, the entries did not disappoint. Our judges had their work cut out for them, carefully tasting and scoring each pie… and by all accounts, it was a deliciously difficult task!
A big thank you to our visiting mayors for serving as judges and to everyone who participated and made the challenge such a fun and flavorful part of the event. Safe to say, this competition was a sweet success! 😄
BBQ Fest wasn’t just about the competition—it was about the experience our teams created all weekend long. 🔥
Each team brought their own personality to the event, with impressive setups, creative displays, and a whole lot of pride in what they do. Walking through the cook sites was truly something to see.
Friday night featured live music from Spectrum, setting the perfect atmosphere, and the Hollywood Showliners brought an extra spark with a lively warm-up dance before awards that got the crowd energized.
With food trucks on site and something happening around every corner, it was a weekend full of fun, flavor, and community.
Each team brought their own personality to the event, with impressive setups, creative displays, and a whole lot of pride in what they do. Walking through the cook sites was truly something to see.
Friday night featured live music from Spectrum, setting the perfect atmosphere, and the Hollywood Showliners brought an extra spark with a lively warm-up dance before awards that got the crowd energized.
With food trucks on site and something happening around every corner, it was a weekend full of fun, flavor, and community.
HONORING LEADERSHIP & SERVICE!
Last night, the Town of Atoka proudly recognized Anthony W. Rudolph, Chief of Police for the Atoka Police Department, for five years of dedicated service to our community.
Since taking the helm, Chief Rudolph has led with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.
His leadership has strengthened the department, enhanced community partnerships, and ensured that the citizens of Atoka receive the highest level of service and protection.
From building a culture of excellence within the department to fostering trust throughout the community, Chief Rudolph’s impact is evident every day.
Please join us in congratulating Chief Rudolph on this milestone!
Last night, the Town of Atoka proudly recognized Anthony W. Rudolph, Chief of Police for the Atoka Police Department, for five years of dedicated service to our community.
Since taking the helm, Chief Rudolph has led with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety.
His leadership has strengthened the department, enhanced community partnerships, and ensured that the citizens of Atoka receive the highest level of service and protection.
From building a culture of excellence within the department to fostering trust throughout the community, Chief Rudolph’s impact is evident every day.
Please join us in congratulating Chief Rudolph on this milestone!
In recognition of National EMT and Paramedic Appreciation Day, the Atoka Fire Department is proud to have a dedicated team of highly trained medical responders serving our community every day.
From EMTs to AEMTs to Paramedics, our personnel are equipped to provide life-saving care when it matters most, and that matters often. The majority of the calls our department responds to are medical in nature, meaning they are on the front lines of caring for our residents day in and day out.
Whether it’s a late-night emergency, a critical situation, or someone simply needing help, this team shows up with professionalism, compassion, and skill every single time.
💙 These aren’t just responders, they’re your neighbors, your friends, and the people you can count on when you need help the most.
We’re proud of each of them and the service they provide to the Town of Atoka every single day.
Paramedics:
⭐ Captain Andrew Stroud
⭐ Captain Bradley Craig
⭐ Lieutenant Ed Jeter
⭐ FF Caden Bingham
Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs):
🔷 Chief Bill Scott
🔷 Captain Devin Kinney
🔷 Lieutenant Dylan Sykes
🔷 Lieutenant Donny Phillips
🔷 FF Tony Cavallo
🔷 FF Hayden Kirkdoffer
🔷 FF Dean Edgar
🔷 FF Hunter Elmore
🔷 FF Ethan Pannell
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs):
⚪ FF William Carpenter
⚪ FF Joey Greene
⚪ FF Adam Long
⚪ FF Anthony Butler
From EMTs to AEMTs to Paramedics, our personnel are equipped to provide life-saving care when it matters most, and that matters often. The majority of the calls our department responds to are medical in nature, meaning they are on the front lines of caring for our residents day in and day out.
Whether it’s a late-night emergency, a critical situation, or someone simply needing help, this team shows up with professionalism, compassion, and skill every single time.
💙 These aren’t just responders, they’re your neighbors, your friends, and the people you can count on when you need help the most.
We’re proud of each of them and the service they provide to the Town of Atoka every single day.
Paramedics:
⭐ Captain Andrew Stroud
⭐ Captain Bradley Craig
⭐ Lieutenant Ed Jeter
⭐ FF Caden Bingham
Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs):
🔷 Chief Bill Scott
🔷 Captain Devin Kinney
🔷 Lieutenant Dylan Sykes
🔷 Lieutenant Donny Phillips
🔷 FF Tony Cavallo
🔷 FF Hayden Kirkdoffer
🔷 FF Dean Edgar
🔷 FF Hunter Elmore
🔷 FF Ethan Pannell
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs):
⚪ FF William Carpenter
⚪ FF Joey Greene
⚪ FF Adam Long
⚪ FF Anthony Butler
We’re still recovering from an awesome BBQ Fest weekend, and what a time it was!
Over the next few days, we’ll be sharing photos of all the fun, starting with our Sponsor Dinner on Thursday night.
A huge THANK YOU to our incredible sponsors who helped make this event such a success. We couldn’t do it without your support! 👏
Stay tuned… more BBQ Fest memories coming your way! 📸
Over the next few days, we’ll be sharing photos of all the fun, starting with our Sponsor Dinner on Thursday night.
A huge THANK YOU to our incredible sponsors who helped make this event such a success. We couldn’t do it without your support! 👏
Stay tuned… more BBQ Fest memories coming your way! 📸
