The Greene County Supervisors recently discussed the initial draft of a music policy for the Mahanay Memorial Carillon Tower in Jefferson.

County Attorney Thomas Laehn presented the draft policy to the Board at their regular meeting on Monday and specifically outlined having to walk the narrow line between not infringing on someone’s First Amendment rights and staying within the stipulations of William Floyd Mahanay’s will. Part of the will requires that 50-percent of non-sacred music that is played must be patriotic. 

The policy also creates three separate positions, including an approved list of Mahanay Maestros, a Mahanay Musician for the pre-programmed music and a Music Coordinator.“ The Greene County Board of Supervisors shall appoint a Music Coordinator to schedule live performances on the carillon and to ensure that all live and pre-programmed music played on the carillon complies with the terms of this policy. So there will be a person designated who is responsible for making sure that what’s contained in paragraph B is being followed.”

The policy also outlines when live concerts can take place, as well as how many songs will be played following the hourly chimes of the bell tower daily from 8am-8pm. Laehn believes the policy ensures both First Amendment rights and the will are being respected.

“So this language satisfies both the will and our obligations under the First Amendment. The people who play the carillon will be free to play sacred music – we’re not saying they can’t – but what we’re saying is all non-sacred music, at least 50-percent must be patriotic.”

The policy will be considered by the Supervisors for approval at their next meeting on Monday.