Problems continued last week for Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert, who was in Jamaica on vacation as her office began the first of two weeks of shutdowns to the public to catch up on a backlog of work.

Despite calls for the state to take over operations of the troubled office, Tennessee Comptroller Jason Mumpower issued a statement by week’s end saying it had no statutory authority or precedent to do so. Mumpower’s office added, however, it believes local officials should explore legal remedies to the problems with the office.

Also last week, Memphis-Shelby County Schools Superintendent Joris Ray resigned amid an investigation into allegations of extramarital affairs with three women, all of whom appear to have worked for MSCS. Ray did not leave empty-handed, however. He’ll get $480,000 in severance, and language in the agreement appears to give him a hand in picking his successor, although board members say that option will not be exercised.

In Nashville, former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casada and his former chief of staff were indicted on 20 counts each in connection with a kickback scheme.

Finally, a simmering feud surfaced between Memphis in May and the Memphis River Parks Partnership over a lease for the use of Tom Lee Park for the 2023 MIM festival. At the heart of the dispute is the amount MIM must pay as a damage deposit. Mayor Jim Strickland said the city would not get involved and told the two groups to “work it out.” - Metro editor Ron Maxey

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State comptroller says no takeover of county clerk's office By Bill Dries

MSCS Superintendent Joris Ray resigns amid investigation of misconduct By Ben Wheeler, Aarron Fleming

MSCS to pay Ray $480K to remove distraction — though other options were available By Aarron Fleming

Former state House Speaker Glen Casada pleads not guilty to kickback scheme By Ian Round

Memphis in May, 'down but not out,' worries about 2023 festival in Tom Lee Park By Jennifer Biggs, Bill Dries

Mayor tells MIM and Memphis River Parks Partnership to work it out By Bill Dries

Here's how MIM can lower $1.4M damage deposit for Tom Lee Park By Bill Dries

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