Zentell Communication’s Business Address in Chattanooga (Source: Google Maps).

A lawsuit filed by Chattooga County against Zentell Communications, an internet company based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is raising serious questions about the distribution of federal funds and the company’s alleged failure to provide promised services to residents in the Menlo area.

The lawsuit alleges that former Chattooga County Commissioner Blake Elsberry authorized payments of over $300,000 to Zentell using funds allocated to the county under the American Rescue Plan Act. The payments were purportedly for work to expand internet access in the Menlo community.

Zentell Communications was organized in 2023, according to the Tennessee Department of State, with Jonathan W. Allen listed as the principal agent. The company’s address, 1802 West 57th Street in Chattanooga, TN, is a small, unassuming house with no visible signage to indicate it houses a business. The controversy deepened after Elsberry, who lost his reelection bid in May 2024, awarded the contract to Zentell shortly before leaving office in January of this year. He subsequently took a job with the company, raising even more concerns. Following the lawsuit’s filing, Elsberry reportedly removed any mention of his employment with Zentell from his social media profiles.

Despite the substantial payment issued in October of last year, authorities in Menlo report that no work has been observed or completed by Zentell Communications in the area. This lack of visible progress, coupled with the company’s limited history and Elsberry’s involvement, has fueled public concern and scrutiny. The situation has ignited widespread unease regarding the allocation of public funds and the accountability of companies contracted for essential services.

The pending lawsuit, to be heard in Chattooga County Superior Court, is expected to uncover further details and shed light on the unanswered questions surrounding Zentell Communications and the controversial contract.