Millington, TN, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert has refuted assertions from Millington officials claiming her office owes over $30,000 in unpaid rent. Halbert emphasized that her office never entered into a rental agreement, pointing out that a non-binding agreement facilitated free motor services. Millington City Manager Frankie Dakin insists otherwise, stating that rent payments are over 21 months overdue. As tensions rise, Millington has sent a demand letter, pushing for resolution amidst operational challenges Halbert faces in her office.
Millington, TN โ Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert has refuted claims made by city officials that her office owes over $30,000 in unpaid rent. Halbert stated in an email that her office has never entered into a rental agreement with the City of Millington and emphasized that there are no outstanding debts owed to the city.
In response to claims made by Millington city officials, Halbert pointed out that a non-binding agreement had existed between Shelby County and Millington to offer motor vehicle services to the community for free, including services for military personnel. This agreement has reportedly caused confusion regarding the financial obligations of Halbert’s office.
Millington City Manager Frankie Dakin has publicly countered Halbert’s assertions, insisting that her office has been aware of a lease agreement that has existed since its approval in 2024. Dakin conveyed that the Clerkโs Office has not made rent payments for more than 21 months, resulting in a total owed amount exceeding $30,000. He also highlighted that two other clerk’s offices have faced closure due to similar non-payment issues during Halbertโs tenure.
In light of these developments, Millington has issued a demand letter requiring Halbert to pay the overdue rent within 14 days, threatening potential legal action should the situation not be resolved promptly. The city’s leadership is eager for a swift resolution to avoid further escalation of this dispute.
Halbert, on the other hand, indicated that any rental agreements made on behalf of her office had been executed without her knowledge or consent. She acknowledged the challenges her office has been facing, linking various service delays to severe understaffing and a lack of infrastructure, which are critical in fulfilling the responsibilities of her role.
Moreover, documents reviewed reveal that the Shelby County Commission had approved a two-year lease for the Millington facility effective from January 1, 2023, and set to expire on December 31, 2024. Despite this formal approval, the ongoing dispute has shed light on existing tensions and scrutiny concerning the operations of the Clerkโs Office, alongside previous complaints about service quality.
As this situation continues to unfold, both parties remain firm in their positions. Millington’s administration is advocating for an expedient resolution, while Halbertโs office is preparing to manage the consequences of financial misunderstandings amidst broader operational challenges.
Background Context
The ongoing rift between Millington and the Shelby County Clerkโs Office highlights significant issues concerning administrative transparency and accountability in municipal governance. The relationship between city officials and the Clerk’s Office is critical for providing necessary public services and maintaining trust within the community. As this unfolding dispute garners attention, it serves as a reminder of the financial management and communication that must occur at all governmental levels.
FAQ Section
What are the claims made by Millington city officials regarding unpaid rent?
Millington city managers claimed that Halbertโs office has not paid rent for over 21 months and owes more than $30,000.
What did Wanda Halbert say in response to these claims?
Wanda Halbert claimed her office has never had a rental agreement with the City of Millington and that it does not owe Millington any money.
What type of agreement existed between Shelby County and Millington?
Halbert noted a non-binding agreement existed to provide motor vehicle services at no cost to the community, including military personnel.
What actions is Millington taking in response to the situation?
Millington has issued a demand letter requiring Halbert to pay the rent owed within 14 days, threatening legal action if not resolved.
What context surrounds this dispute?
The dispute draws attention amidst ongoing scrutiny of the Clerkโs Office and previous complaints regarding service quality.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Claims of Unpaid Rent | Over $30,000 owed by Wanda Halbert’s office to Millington. |
| Halbert’s Response | No rental agreement; no money owed. |
| Existing Agreement | Non-binding; provides free motor vehicle services. |
| Legal Action | Demand letter for payment within 14 days. |
| Lease Approval | Two-year lease for Millington facility starting January 1, 2023. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Memphis Mourns Longtime Public Servant Myron Lowery
Millington Faces Financial Strain Over Unpaid Rent
Millington Officials Address Unpaid Rent by County Clerk
Shelby County Clerk’s Office Closes Due to Mold Concerns
Memphis Criminal Justice System Faces Overcrowding Crisis
Shelby County Commission Adjusts School Board Election Schedule
Memphis Jail Proposal Faces Scrutiny Amid Inmate Deaths
Shelby County Board Proposes Changes to MSCS Elections
Shelby County Budget Amendments Approved
Free Expungement Clinic in Memphis Aims to Help Residents
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Millington & Wanda Halbert Dispute
- Fox 13 Memphis: Shelby County Clerk Claims No Debt
- Local Memphis: Clerk Responds to Rent Dispute
- Wikipedia: Shelby County, Tennessee
- Action News 5: Millington Jail Overcrowding
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Municipal Government
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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