6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 68, Number 19 Dec. 11, 2017 Lawmakers leaving state house, senate seats ahead of 2018 member of the Tennessee Advisory Rep. Shelia Butt, R-Columbia, D-Nashville. Harper has held the seat Commission on Intergovernmental will not be seeking re-election in for 28 years but has not said whether Relations (TACIR). 2018 after seven years representing or not she plans to seek re-election District 64. in 2018. HOUSE Rep. JoAnne Favors, D-Chat- Rep. Marc Gravitt, R-East Rep. David Alexander, R-Win- tanooga, will be leaving her position Ridge, will be leaving the District chester, has represented House as the District 28 representative after 30 seat after three years. Gravitt District 39 for seven years. He also 13 years in the General Assembly. A announced he intends to run for serves as the House Majority Secre- retired registered nurse, Favors said Hamilton County Register of Deeds. tary and vice chairman of the House she decided to leave the legislature in Incumbent Register of Deeds Pam Finance Committee. Alexander order to spend time with her family Hurst decided not to seek re-election. announced he will be leaving the and care for her aging mother. House Speaker Beth Harwell, House to run as mayor of Franklin Rep. Craig Fitzhugh, D-Rip- R-Nashville, also announced her County. ley, announced he will be leaving his decision to leave the House to run for Rep. Harry Brooks, R-Knox- District 82 seat after 23 years. The governor. The first female Speaker ville, announced he will retire House Democratic Caucus Leader of the House for Tennessee, Harwell from the legislature after 15 years has thrown his hat in the ring for has represented District 56 for 28 representing District 19. Brooks is the 2018 gubernatorial election, years. the chair of the House Education announcing his candidacy in June. Rep. Sherry Jones, D-Nash- Instruction and Programs Commit- Rep. Brenda Gilmore, D-Nash- ville, will not be seeking re-election tee. In June, Brooks donated excess ville, will be leaving her House Dis- to her District 59 seat after 23 years campaign funds he had raised for the trict 54 seat after 11 years to run for in the House. Jones announced her 2018 race to the four high schools in the Senate District 19 seat currently intention to run for Davidson County his district. held by State Sen. Thelma Harper, See LAWMAKERS on Page 4

BY KATE COIL cus Leader has served for three years TML Communications Specialist in the Senate, but decided to leave Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge officials discuss the legislature to run for the Shelby A total of 27 Tennessee legis- County mayor’s seat in 2018. road to recovery one year after wildfires lators have announced they will not Sen. Bill Ketron, R-Murfrees- seek re-election in November 2018, boro, is leaving his District 13 seat BY KATE COIL making the upcoming legislative after 14 years in the legislature. session the last for seven senators Ketron, who currently serves as the One year after devastating and 19 state representatives. Senate Republican Caucus Chair- wildfires ravaged Gatlinburg, The Senate will be losing its man, announced his intention to Pigeon Forge, and much of East Senate Majority Leader, and Senate run for Rutherford County mayor in Tennessee, cities in the region are Speaker Pro Tempore, Republican 2018. Ketron has run for the Ruther- well on the road to recovery and Caucus chairman, and Democratic ford County mayor seat three times eager for visitors answer the call of Caucus Leader. The House will be previously in 1990, 1994, and 1998. the mountains. losing its House Speaker, House Senate Majority Leader Mark Pigeon Forge City Manager Deputy Speaker, Democratic Cau- Norris, R-Collierville, will be leav- Earlene Teaster said wildfires had cus Leader, and Republican Caucus ing his District 32 seat after 16 years. always been a fact of life for area Secretary/Treasurer. Norris has been nominated to serve residents, but no one had expected Together, the 27 lawmakers as the U.S. District Court judge for a fire of the scope and magnitude who will be leaving their posts have the Western District of Tennessee, experienced in November 2016. served a collective 340 years in the which includes Memphis and the “The fire could have been General Assembly – 72 years in the surrounding counties. Norris will controlled had it not been for the Senate and 268 cumulative years in have to be confirmed by the U.S. near hurricane-force winds that the House. Senate and leave the legislature to happened, which we had never seen take the position. before,” Teaster said. “At the base SENATE Sen. Doug Overbey, of the Smoky Mountains, we are Sen. Mae Beavers, R-Mt. R-Maryville, will be leaving his used to wildfires but they’ve always Juliet, represented Senate District District 2 seat after eight years in been easily maintained. It was the 17 for 14 years before announcing the Senate. Overbey previously addition of the wind that changed her resignation from the Senate on served for eight years in the House things, and they said we had winds Sept. 1, 2017, to devote herself to representing District 20 and repre- up to 80 or 85-miles-per-hour. It a gubernatorial bid. Before joining sented Senate District 8 from 2008 came together and created a perfect the Senate, Beavers served in the to 2012. He has been nominated storm. I would have never dreamed Pigeon Forge recently unveiled this memorial to first responders at House for eight years from 1994 to and confirmed by the U.S. Senate that morning that by the evening I the town’s Patriot Park following a luncheon to honor the more than 2002 representing District 57. to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the would be sleeping in our fire hall. 200 first responders who came to fight the wildfires. Sen. Mark Green, R-Clarks- Eastern District of Tennessee. To take It happened so quickly.” Gatlinburg City Manager Cin- of the rebuilding ville, represents District 22 and the position as a U.S. attorney he is process for the announced he will not seek re-elec- required to leave both his law firm dy Cameron Ogle said she was awake for 36 straight hours at the past six months tion to run for the Congressional and the state legislature. Overbey with 300 structures seat vacated by U.S. Rep. Marsha is the chair of the Tennessee Senate city’s command center the day of the fires. currently being Blackburn. Green had been nomi- Ethics Committee. worked on within nated by President Donald Trump Senate Speaker Pro Tem- “My hope and prayer for every community is that they never have the city limits of to serve as Secretary of the Army pore Jim Tracy, R-Shelbyville, Gatlinburg and an- in 2017, but withdrew himself from announced he will be leaving his to experience something like what happened here,” Ogle said. “It other 300 in Sevier consideration a month later after District 14 seat to serve as the state County. opposition to his nomination. Green director for the U.S. Department of was a historic and unprecedented event not just in Sevier County but “A little more serves as the vice-chair of the Senate Agriculture’s Rural Development than 1,000 struc- Commerce and Labor Committee office. Tracy was appointed to the po- also the state of Tennessee and the Southeast as it relates to wildfires. tures were de- and has served for five years in the sition by Trump, but unlike judicial stroyed,” Ogle senate. positions, the state director position It was just a highly unprecedented set of circumstances that led to this said. “Of the struc- Sen. Lee Harris, D-Memphis, does not require federal confirmation tures destroyed, will not seek the District 29 seat by the Senate. Tracy has served horrific happening.” The area has been in the midst only about 60 were again. The Senate Democratic Cau- for 12 years in the Senate and is a commercial. By and large, the struc- tures destroyed were residential. Tax reform continues to move forward Of those residen- BY BRIAN EGAN Below are some important There are a number of interests at tial structures, we National League of Cities differences for city leaders between play, but NLC will work through- estimate at least the versions of the bills passed by out the reconciliation process to 50 percent were The city of Gatlinburg recently unveiled plans A lot has happened in the past both chambers: preserve the progress we’ve made, second homes or for a memorial to both first responders and fire month on tax reform. On Nov.16, Exemption for interest earned on and to push for greater progress. overnight rental fa- victims to be located on the city’s parkway. the House passed its version of a publicly issued municipal bonds NLC will pay special attention to cilities. There was tax bill, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act House: Preserved preserving the tax exemption for all definitely a misconception that Gat- I think our visitation was affected (H.R.1), just under a week after the Senate: Preserved bonds, including Private Activity linburg had burned down or that we the most. Pigeon Forge’s only in- Senate released its own version of Exemption for interest earned on Bonds, which are only saved under lost the downtown. Our downtown dustry is tourism. We have bounced the bill. qualified private activity bonds the Senate version. Preserving the has remained pretty much intact. back this year. Our city board and After a tenuous 20 hours of House: Eliminated progress made on the state and local In the eastern part of town, the fire business community have worked debate and deal-making, the Senate Senate: Preserved tax (SALT) deduction and pushing actually stopped right before it got together to address that. We have too passed a version in the early Exemption for interest earned on for its full preservation are also of to the city hall. The arts and crafts had great assistance from the state morning of Dec. 2. advance refunding bonds key concern. community had some smoke dam- of Tennessee, the Tennessee De- Now Congress has two versions House: Eliminated Given that the Tax Cuts and age, but there was no fire damage.” partment of Tourism, and our state of the bill, each with some marked Senate: Eliminated Jobs Act continues to fall short on In fact, Ogle was one of 11 city legislators. They came to our rescue differences. Deduction for local property taxes critical issues for cities, including employees who lost their homes in this year. Now, the bill moves to the House: Capped at $10,000 various forms of bonds, credits and the fires, which also included May- Despite the devastation, Ogle reconciliation process, where a Senate: Capped at $10,000 state and local deductions, we stand or Mike Werner and members of the said Gatlinburg residents have re- conference committee composed Deductions for local sales and ready to oppose the final bill, if it city’s fire and police department. mained strong. of five Senators and five - Repre income taxes remains a bad deal for cities, when Ogle said members of the city’s “We are Mountain Though; sentatives will work to iron out House: Eliminated it goes back to both chambers. To public safety departments worked that’s not just a cute phrase,” she the differences between the cham- Senate: Eliminated track the status of city priorities tirelessly to protect other citizens said. “We are resilient, and the bers. While the two versions have Historic Tax Credit (HTC) throughout tax reform and to learn while their own homes burned. overriding thing is our strong faith moved more closely in terms of city House: Eliminated more visit www.nlc.org/taxreform. While Pigeon Forge didn’t lose in God. He has given us strength priorities, incongruences between Senate: Eligibility on construc- More than 800 local leaders as many structures as other areas, in our community, personally and the Senate and House bill in other tion costs reduced from 20 have already signed onto NLC’s Teaster said the town and local professionally to get up and start the areas will make the committee’s job percent to 10 percent action letter to Congress outlining business were still impacted by the process of healing, recovery and to of reconciling differences all the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) our key priorities for tax reform wildfires. rebuild. I already knew that about more difficult. Still, congressional House: Eliminated and the upcoming expiration for the “Things could have been a lot our community, but it’s certainly leadership remains optimistic that Senate: Preserved Continuing Resolution this week. worse for us,” she said. “We didn’t been underlined and highlighted they will send a bill to the president (until reauthorization) Read the letter and add your name lose any businesses, but we lost an in a big way. We are adjusting to a by the end of the year. at www.nlc.org/StandWithCities. entire subdivision of 19 structures. See FIRE on Page 7 www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017 Smyrna officials break ground on memorial honoring fallen Blue Angel

BRENTWOOD already budgeted $6.5 million for equipment to expand production The city of Brentwood recently the project and, with the purchase capabilities. Republic Doors & launched a Bicycle and Pedestrian complete, city leaders are hoping to Frames has operated in McKenzie Connectivity Study to identify begin the design phase of the new since 1976 and was acquired by options for east-west connectivity athletic complex. Allegion in January 2017. Alle- of the city’s bike and pedestrian gion manufactures hollow metal system across or under the Inter- CROSSVILLE doors and frames at the McKenzie state 65 corridor. The city currently Police officers with the city of facility, complementing its Steel- has an extensive multi-use trail Crossville have begun carrying craft® brand and core business in network east of I-65 with a more EpiPens to render aid to victims of the Americas. Allegion is head- limited network west of I-65. The anaphylactic shock from an allergic quartered in Carmel, Ind., and is a long-term goal is to overcome the reaction. Funding for the ephedrine subsidiary of Allegion, Plc, head- divide created by the I-65 corridor device, came from the Cookeville quartered in Dublin, Ireland. and create an east-west connection Regional Charitable Foundation, to expand the bike and pedestrian which matched a donation of $300 MT. JULIET network within the community. for the city of Crossville’s purchase City officials in Mt. Juliet have offi- Officials with the city of Smryna recently broke ground on the Capt. Kimley-Horn will be conducting of 12 epinephrine auto-injectors. cially dedicated two new municipal Jeff Kuss USMC Memorial at the city’s Lee Victory Recreation Park. the planning study with the goal to The city of Cookeville has already parks. Troop 150 Eagle Scout John In a ceremony attended by residents, dignitaries, military officials, recommend the most feasible and deployed EpiPens among its of- Forth proposed creating Eagle Park family and friends, the groundbreaking honored the life of the Blue cost effective options to the Brent- ficers and Crossville will be the on West Division Street as his scout Angel pilot who died in a plane crash while preparing for the Great wood City Commission. A public second city in the state to do so. project last year. After receiving Tennessee Air Show in 2016. More than $1 million has been raised meeting will be held in January to The EpiPens will be administered land donated from the city, Forth to finance the memorial and funds can still be contributed online at discuss the project. by trained officers for persons suf- used labor and financial donations CaptJeffKussUSMCMemorial.com. fering from anaphylaxis related to to create the bicycle park, which is BRISTOL acute allergic reactions to foods, aimed at teaching young cyclists The city of Bristol has developed insects or other life threatening about biking and safety. Robinson Johnson City wins awards an incentive program that will help allergic emergencies. Park was also dedicated and has encourage residential development already become a popular destina- for parks and recreation within the city limits. Incentives are ERIN tion for bikers and walkers. Land offered in the form of city-provid- Magnum Manufacturing, Inc., will for the 11-acre park was donated by ed water/sewer system materials invest $2 million and create ap- Bill and Phyllis Robinson of Rob- which are available for any new proximately 50 jobs during the next inson Properties. The park features construction of a major subdivision five years as part of an expansion a half-mile circular hiking trail, consisting of three or more lots. to its operations in Erin. Magnum outdoor fitness equipment, and a The development incentive would plans to expand into an adjacent certified wildlife habitat created by be considered for new construction building, which will double its members of Girl Scout Troop 425. where city water and sanitary sew- existing footprint in Erin. The com- er mains are currently available. pany will invest in new equipment MURFREESBORO Materials qualifying under the and building renovations. Magnum The city of Murfreesboro is con- incentive program would be water manufactures metal stamping and ducting a special census to certify pipe and valves that are 6 inches or produces raw metal seat frames the city’s growth in population. The larger and fire hydrants. Under the and doors for the automotive sec- population of Murfreesboro was sanitary sewer portion of the plan, tor. The company has operated in last certified in 2011 by the state The Johnson City Parks and Recreation Department recently received 8-inch or larger pipes and associ- Tennessee since 1991. of Tennessee at 109,031, after an four awards from the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association ated manholes would qualify. The annexation special census count. (TRPA) at its 66th annual conference in Franklin. The city’s Rotary developer would be responsible for FRANKLIN Currently, the U.S. Census Bureau Park Playground and Splash Pad took top honors for New Facility. installation and other material costs The Franklin Transit Authority will estimates the 2016 population for Teen Adventure Quest Summer Camp and Turtle Trek Challenge add 100 new stops, new buses, Murfreesboro to be 131,947. Based won top honors for Programs. Johnson City Vice Mayor Jenny Brock CHATTANOOGA and a new service plan after an on the current number of house- was also recognized with a Four Star Individual Service Award. All The Chattanooga Fire Department 18-month study of the citywide holds along with building permits of the awards presented to Johnson City were Four Star Awards, has earned an Insurance Service transit system. The new system will issued for new residential dwell- the top award offered by TRPA. Office’s (ISO) rating of 1, making provide stops at the Columbia State ings, the 2017-2018 population it the first of Tennessee’s four major campus, downtown Franklin, and likely exceeds the 2016 estimate. Erwin auctions off elephant statues metro areas to earn a 1 rating and several residential neighborhoods Residents can respond to the survey only the fifth city in the state to earn to help accommodate the city’s in person at city hall or online at to benefit Hohenwald sanctuary the ranking. Residents and local growth and manage congestion. www.murfreesborotn.gov/census. business owners may see reduced The FTA has transited from a fixed property insurance premiums in the route, gridded system to one that PARIS next year as a result of the rating. is more in line with user needs. Eurotrianciatura is looking to add 40 Four main areas are evaluated to Pickup and drop-off times have jobs and expand its Paris facility by determine a fire department’s clas- been decreased to 30 minutes and 51,000-square-feet after presenting sification: the fire department itself, plans are in motion to add four new expansion plans to the Paris Mu- emergency communications, water vehicles and eight new drivers. nicipal Regional Commission. The supply, and aspects of community The transit authority serves some company produces and sells stator risk including code inspections and 62,000 riders per year. and rotor laminations for electrical public education activities. motors and generators and has been KINGSPORT located in Paris since 2014 when it CHATTANOOGA Kingsport’s Bays Mountain Park is acquired the lamination division of M&M Industries will invest more now home to a red fox, the newest Tecumseh, which was located in the than $42 million and create 110 addition to the 3,550-acre nature city. This most recent expansion is jobs in Chattanooga. Headquar- preserve and the largest city-owned part of a $12.6 million investment tered in Chattanooga, M&M will park in the state of Tennessee. After announced last year, which is ex- purchase and retrofit a building the death of the park’s raccoon, pected to create more than 170 jobs at 1435 E. 14th Street and expand Belle, in February, the park began by 2021. Eurotranciatura, a joint its current manufacturing facility looking for a new animal exhibit venture between Euro Group S.P.A This statue was one of eight one-of-a-kind art pieces decorating at 316 Corporate Place to suit its to bring to the park. The new red and Kuroda Precision Industries downtown Erwin that were recently auctioned off to raise money expansion needs. The expansions fox, named Jamie, was raised in Ltd., supplies the U.S market for for the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee based in Hohenwald. The will provide additional capaci- captivity and then cared for by companies such as Stanley Black eight statues were on display downtown for five months before each ty to support growing demand the Tennessee Wildlife Resource & Decker, Franklin Electric, Thys- artwork was auctioned off, raising more than $7,000 for the sanc- across M&M’s product lines. The Agency. Jamie is a red fox but senKrupp, Regal Beloit, Generac tuary. The statue auction is part of Erwin’s second annual Elephant solutions packaging manufacturer shows more signs of a silver fox as well as Tecumseh Products. Revival event, which was organized by town officials, members of manufactures plastic pails, plastic because of a genetic mutation that RISE Erwin, and various other local organizations to honor Erwin’s open head containers and custom alters his coloring. Due to this, his ROCKWOOD history as well as help a worthwhile organization in another Ten- packaging for the chemical, phar- winter coat shows off redder color- Rockwood Police Department K-9 nessee community. maceutical, health care, construc- ing than his summer coat. He will Officer Shadow has received a tion materials and other industries. join other animals living in the park bullet and stab-protective vest from including wolves, bobcats, raptors, a charitable organization based in Lebanon gasification plant wins CLARKSVILLE and reptiles. Massachusetts. Vested Interest in top award at TCAPWA conference The city of Clarksville has ap- K9s, Inc., presented the vest to the proved the purchase of the land KNOXVILLE department after receiving funds needed to build an athletic complex The city of Knoxville has begun re- from a donor percentages program that could eventually host soccer, placing streetlights with LED tech- through Amazon Smile. Donors lacrosse and minor league baseball nology as part of a comprehensive use the program on Amazon.com fields as well as an ice hockey retrofit of the city’s streetlight sys- to give a percentage of their pur- rink affiliated with the Nashville tem. Approximately 100 demon- chases toward purchasing the vests Predators. The more than 400-acre stration LEDs will be installed at for K9 officers. Each vest has a tract near Exit 8 of Interstate 24 is 17 locations throughout Knoxville. value between $1,795-$2,234 and located between Rossview Road These pilot demonstration installa- a five-year warranty and are made and the Red River. The city council tions will help contractor Siemens custom by Central Lake, Mich.- and city officials determine the based Armor express. For more best fixtures and bulbs for differ- information on the program visit ent locations and street types. The www.vik9s.org. TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY city plans to retrofit nearly 30,000 Tennessee Town & City (ISSN 00403415, USPS 539420) is published semi-monthly streetlights to LED technology as a SAVANNAH except in the months of June and December a major step toward exceeding its Tri-Matic Spring, Inc., will invest 19 times per year by Tennessee Municipal goal of reducing municipal green- $1.2 million to expand its opera- League, 226 Capitol Blvd, Suite 710, Nash- ville TN 37219-1894. Subscription rates: house gas emissions by 20 percent tions in Savannah. The precision $6 per year to members, $15 to nonmem- by 2020. With anticipated energy spring manufacturer will create bers, $1 a copy. Periodicals Postage Paid and maintenance cost savings of 20 jobs in the area as the result of at Nashville TN. POSTMASTER:Send address changes to Tennessee Town & City, $2 million annually, the investment the expansion. Tri-Matic is adding 226 Capitol Blvd, Suite 710, Nashville TN will pay for itself in less than a 27,100 square feet to its existing 37219-1894. decade. Official installation will operations to meet increased mar- Official publication of the Tennessee Lebanon City Engineering Director Randy Laine, left, and Mayor Municipal League. Publisher: Margaret begin in 2018 with all work com- ket demand. The company plans Bernie Ash, right, accept the 2017 Project of the Year Award from Mahery (mmahery@ TML1.org); Editor: pleted by mid-year 2019. for the new expansion phase to be the Tennessee Chapter of the American Public Works Association Carole Graves ([email protected]; operational in the spring of 2018. Phone: 615-255-6416. Advertising: Pub- (TCAPWA). The city was lauded at the TCAPWA annual conference lisher reserves the right to reject any adver- MCKENZIE Founded in 1982, Tri-Matic is a in Knoxville for its gasification plant, the largest downdraft gasification tising deemed unacceptable. Fax classified Allegion Americas will expand its second-generation, family-owned plant in the world. Designed and built by Aries Clean Energy, the ads to TT&C: Attention Carole Graves at Republic Doors & Frames opera- and operated business. Tri-Matic 615-255-4752, or e-mail cgraves@TML1. project has already won five industry awards including the Tennessee org. Fax advertising copy to TT&C: At- tion in McKenzie, investing $4.5 supplies the automotive, lawn and Governor’s Stewardship Award and the project of the year award for tention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or million and creating 70 new jobs garden, medical, and home appli- e-mail to dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions both Environmental Leader and Water and Waste Digest. Winning expressed by non League officials or staff in the next five years. The secure ance industries. It ships products the TCAPWA award means the Lebanon gasification project will be do not necessarily reflect policies of TML. doors and frames manufacturer throughout the U.S. and world- nominated for the American Public Works Association’s (APWA) will be updating and modifying wide. nationwide Top Ten Projects of the Year. 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017 www.TML1.org Gallatin glass crusher keeps costs down, city green BY KATE COIL TML Communications Specialist

As recycling and landfill tip- ping fees increase, one Tennessee city has turned to recycling glass in-house to save money while still staying green. The cost of recycling glass via private firms and businesses has gone up, leading some cities to forgo recycling glass in favor of dumping it in landfills, which has become cheaper than recycling. Zach Wilkinson, director of public works for the city of Gallatin, said his city was one of many munici- palities facing cost issues when it comes to glass recycling. “I think a lot of communities Above: Gallatin public works employees use a loader to dump are facing a similar issue with recycled glass into a hopper, which then feeds the glass into glass,” Wilkinson said. “The the pulverizer. Left: After the glass is processed, it comes out in demand for it in the market has eight-of-an-inch or smaller pieces that can be held in bare hands disappeared over the last several without causing cuts. years. It costs more to send it off to be recycled than to just landfill it was still hauling recycled glass to for some local communities to talk Wilkinson said city employees city property and then used some it, which was the situation we were a facility in Atlanta which charged to about glass recycling,” he said. use a loader to feed the glass into for drainage backfill. We’ve also in. It was really obvious to me that $38.50 per ton, more than $87,000 “There weren’t really any that were a hopper that leads to the pulveriz- been seeing a lot of local interest it wasn’t cost effective to haul the in annual cost to the city. doing it. Most every community I er. A rake is then used to pull the for it from contractors and even glass and then pay a higher tipping In February 2017, the city of talked to was located in the North- individual bottles into the crusher. the local concrete plant to buy the fee to have it recycled.” Gallatin received a $25,000 recy- east or Southwest. Nashville sends Wilkinson said there are three main material to use it in specialty proj- While putting glass in a land- cling equipment grant from the theirs off to be crushed and most products from the pulverizer. ects. We’ve got a few of our own fill was cheaper in the short term, Tennessee Department of Envi- other cities sent it off to a private “The first things that come experimental projects going on to Wilkinson said he didn’t want to do ronment and Conservation (TDEC) firm to deal with. We’ve had to fine out are byproducts like the labels see how it looks when mixed into something that wasn’t sustainable toward the purchase of the glass tune how we process the glass. At and metal caps,” he said. “We concrete. We are excited to see how in the longterm. pulverizer. first we were probably putting a dispose of that. It then produces it works out.” “If we had hauled it a quarter Wilkinson said the grant cov- little too much product into it just two sizes of glass: an eighth inch The interest in the recycled of the distance, we could have put ered half of the material cost of the to see how much it could handle. and another size that’s like sand glass produced by the city may also it in a landfill for cheaper,” he said. crusher. City employees helped We have actually created a way that it is so fine. Once it gets down to help recoup some of the costs. “Justifying that extra cost was a construct the building located over we clean it regularly so it’s not as that eighth-of-an-inch size it won’t “We’ve heard people talk hard thing to do, but I didn’t want the pulverizer and the pit below it, maintenance intensive and the best cut you. That was a concern for us about using it from everything to landfill anything we didn’t have which also saved money. way to feed it.” because knowing we wanted to use from landscaping mulch to mixing to. So we started researching an Planning ahead on where to Like most recycling programs, it in construction projects we didn’t in concrete,” Wilkinson said. “We alternative that would help us stay position the machine paid off. Gallatin accepts only food grade want to make something that would may eventually start selling the green but also make things more “We spent a lot of time thinking glass for processing. Window harm our employees when they product because of the demand, financially palatable.” about where we should put it to panes, ovenware, Pyrex, crystal, were working. We were surprised which is very encouraging. Some According to the Glass Pack- make the process as streamlined as light bulbs, and similar materials at how safe it is to handle.” cities want us to start crushing glass aging Institute, glass is a 100 per- possible,” Wilkinson said. “I am are not manufactured in the same Wilkinson said the public for them. We want to have our own cent recyclable product allowing really pleased with how that turned way as traditional glass and there- works department is working in process nailed down first and have for both the reduction of emission, out. We took a lot of time to plan fore have to be recycled differently. conjunction with the city of Gall- the manpower before we do that. saving energy, and reusing raw it out, including how we wanted to Wilkinson said the city has also atin’s Street Department to find We also would have to charge for materials such as sand, soda ash, load it and where we wanted things learned through trial and error what uses for the recycled glass. Others the extra manpower that we would limestone and “cullet,” the industry to fall out. We’ve made a few ad- works and what doesn’t. have also expressed interest in the need.” term for furnace-ready recycled justments to the setup since things “There are certain things you product. Other communities are also glass. were installed, but for the most don’t want to process, like glass “Because we operate our taking notice of Gallatin’s success. Despite the fact the material part our installation has worked out that has candle wax in it,” he said. streets department out of the same “I have been surprised at how can be reused, very few munici- really well.” “Those don’t do well in it. There are facility as our recycling center, it many communities are calling to palities and government entities Wilkinson said learning how certain size objects you don’t want made sense to find a way to use it ask about how we are doing it,” process glass themselves. Even to operate the machine was a bit of to stick in the crusher because they in-house,” he said. “The crushed Wilkinson said. “I think a lot of cit- some major metro areas do not have a challenge. clog things up. We mainly accept aggregate can be used for construc- ies are looking into this. We’ve had glass recycling equipment. In 2016, “When we started looking into glass bottles, food jars, and those tion projects. So far, we’ve used it some want to come see our set up. the city of Metro Nashville reported applying for grants, I was looking sort of things.” as backfill for a house basement on We’ve sort of been the guinea pigs.” Improving convenience by way of increasing sustainability for Pikeville BY MARK VALENCIA by statute in Tennessee to purchase, TDEC Office of Sustainable Practices install, and construct energy projects that reduce emissions and pollutants. Improving efficiencies through- CTEG grants were awarded to out city departments has been a main applicants who can match a certain focus in helping to reduce costs percentage of the awarded amount for most cities. When budgets are (usually at least 50 percent). For already spread thin for small cities, a small city like Pikeville, energy there isn’t much left for utility ex- projects can be quite burdensome to penses, building maintenance, and their annual budget, but the help of property management. a CTEG awarded grant made once One small city, Pikeville, was unachievable sustainability goals able to reduce costs associated with now achievable. utilities, building maintenance, and Pikeville recognized the need property management, by consol- to reduce costs, reduce energy con- idating most departments under sumption, and increase sustainabil- one roof, while improving energy ity throughout their departments. efficiencies. The former Pikeville Elementary In 2014, Pikeville officials School was an unused building that set out to turn around their vacant was slowly deteriorating. Pikeville and dilapidated former Pikeville recognized the former elementary Elementary School building into a school’s potential as becoming a municipal complex to house their way to consolidate most of the city’s The former Pikeville Elementary School was an unused building that was slowly deteriorating. Pikeville municipal offices, utility, police departments into one building. recognized the former elementary school’s potential as becoming a way to consolidate most of the departments, courtroom, a commu- With the consolidation, fewer cities departments into one building. nity kitchen, and training facility for buildings would be in use, which workforce development. Pikeville can reduce building operating costs, the building by improving windows was awarded a Clean Tennessee En- building maintenance costs, and and insulation. ergy Grant (CTEG) to make energy more importantly reduce energy To improve efficiencies and improvements to the building. consumption. Pikeville recognized reduce temperature fluctuations, Municipalities throughout Ten- that incorporating energy improve- Pikeville decided to replace out- nessee have recognized the need to ment projects would reduce overall dated windows and upgrade the implement energy efficiency proj- operating costs, reduce pollution by insulation. The original single-pane ects to reduce pollution, fossil fuel consuming less energy, and would windows with aluminum framing consumption, and costs. The costs be able to apply for a CTEG grant, tend to allow outside temperatures associated with energy efficiency which could help cover some of the to penetrate into the building. upgrades can be quite expensive improvement costs. The windows were replaced but can pay for themselves over In 2014, Pikeville was awarded with 1-inch insulated glass that time from the energy savings. The a $250,000 CTEG grant. With a are glazed with a “low-E” tint, use of a Clean Tennessee Energy match by the city of 56 percent, which reflects up to 96 percent of Grant can assist with the cost burden Pikeville was able to install energy the sun’s infrared radiation. A new associated with energy upgrades. efficient heating and cooling- sys drop ceiling was installed in the In 2011, a federal court set- tems, insulated windows, building building and filled with a more ro- Former classrooms now serve as offices and meeting rooms for tlement of an enforcement action insulation, and low-energy light bust insulation, and the walls were Pikeville’s city staff at the renovated municipal complex. under the Clean Air Act with the fixtures. The heating and cooling filled with additional insulation. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) systems installed were 12,000 BTU The insulation installed is an added able to provide a beneficial service ing their community on a daily basis. obligated them to provide the state mini-split units in which each room barrier to insulate the building from to the community, provide central For Pikeville, they recognized the of Tennessee $26.4 million to fund could be controlled separately. the elements outside. access for employees, and reduce need to make a convenient central environmental mitigation projects. Not all heating and cooling units With upgrades made to a once energy consumption by utilizing a point for their residents. Their new The Tennessee Department of would need to operate when certain unused building, the city of Pikeville CTEG grant. municipal building now provides a Environment and Conservation was rooms are unoccupied because they has new space for their employees Cathy Andrews from the convenient service for their com- designated by the Governor as the control the climate of each room and community to enjoy. From Southeast Tennessee Development munity and does so while reducing lead state agency to develop and separately. The installation of the comfortable offices to a space for District who assisted with the pollution, energy use, and increases manage a process for selection and mini-split systems, reduced ener- the community, the new Pikeville project believed the CTEG grant sustainability. implementation of the environmen- gy consumption from heating and Municipal Building provides ser- “was a resource in developing a “Renovating an old elementary tal mitigation projects for Tennessee. cooling from 95,467 kWh to 45,380 vices to the community in a fiscally municipal building that not only school that was built in the 50s and The Clean Tennessee Energy Grant kWh, resulting in around $9,000 in responsible and sustainable manner. saves the community money but bringing life back to this area of the was created from the TVA settlement anticipated annual savings. A community kitchen, work- also improves sustainability for the city has been rewarding. This project and is designed to provide financial Once the heating and cooling force development training space, city of Pikeville.” has been a great asset for the city assistance to municipal govern- system was upgraded, the building and central location for municipal Large and small cities alike of Pikeville and Bledsoe County,” ments, county governments, utility still needs to be able to keep as matters makes a great central point throughout Tennessee face a balanc- says Betty Renick, with the city of districts, and other entities created much of the conditioned air inside for the community. The city was ing act of saving money and improv- Pikeville. www.TML1.org 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017 Charles “Bones” Seivers recognized by NLC for 55 years of public service, work with TML Katie Ashley ance industry with Tennessee Farm For 55 years, Charles “Bones” needs. He worked to bring mu- has been se- Bureau 1993-98 and the pharma- Seivers has tirelessly worked for nicipalities and the state together lected as the ceutical sales industry from 1998 municipal governments – first as and helped create the Tennessee new director to 2014 before joining TriStar Bank an alderman on the Clinton Board Municipal Bond Fund. Seivers of legislation in Dickson, where he is executive of Mayor and Aldermen, later served as chairman of the board for for Gov. Bill vice president/chief retail officer elected as mayor of Clinton, and the first eight years of its existence. Haslam. One then appointed as the city’s first Upon his retirement from the town of the lon- Ken Mc- administrator and city manager – a of Clinton in 1993, he continued to gest serving Katie Ashley Lawhon, role he served in for 20 years. serve municipalities as President Haslam staff- town admin- Throughout his tenure with the and CEO of the Tennessee Munic- ers, Ashely will serve as the gov- istrator for city of Clinton, he was always an ipal Bond Fund. ernor’s chief advisor and strategist the town of active supporter and participant in In 1995, the Bond Fund was for legislative matters. She began Nolensville, the Tennessee Municipal League asked by the Tennessee County working on the Haslam campaign was recently and worked determinedly as an Services to structure a similar pro- in 2009, becoming a legislative li- honored at advocate for both large and small gram for counties, resulting in the Charles “Bones” Seivers aison in 2011 and deputy director of the Interna- Ken McLawhon municipalities. Through his in- formation of the Tennessee County • Award recipient, TML Over- legislation in 2015. Before joining tional City/ volvement with TML, he was also Services Loan Program. Now, after all Community Improvement the Haslam administration, she was County Management Association an active member of the National more than 25 years, the Municipal Award (1972) a constituent relations manager (ICMA) conference in San Anto- League of Cities (NLC), and helped Bond Fund and the County Loan • Award recipient, TML Award in U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander’s nio, Texas, for 30 years of service to establish the Small Cities Advi- Program have made more than 1,385 for Most Effective Use of Fed- office. She graduated from the in local government. McLawhon sory Council. loans totaling $4.35 billion -- and eral Programs (1976) University of Tennessee, Martin was hired three years ago as the first NLC recently recognized Seiv- having saved cities and counties • Award recipient, TML Superior with a bachelor’s in university town administrator for Nolens- ers’ service at the City Summit in $600 million in interest costs alone. Municipal Achievement Award studies, with an emphasis in polit- ville. A native of Richmond, Va., he Charlotte, N.C. Other accomplishments include: (1985) ical science. entered the U.S. Marine Corps after In 1979, The Tennessee Munic- • President, TML Board of Di- • Award recipient, TML Beverly high school before attending J. Ser- ipal League made history when it rectors (1990) C. Briley Award (1992) Michael geant Reynold Community Col- founded America’s first statewide • Clinton Community Center • Renaming of the Capitol Bou- Bowen has lege and Virginia Commonwealth municipal liability pool. Seivers dedicated to Charles G. Seivers levard Building in Nashville been named University. McLawhon began his served as one of the founding mem- (1978) to the Charles “Bones” Seivers the new career in government as assistant bers on the TML Insurance Pool • Highway dedicated Charles G. Building (2016) chief of po- to the county administrator for Board of Trustees, now known as Seivers Boulevard, Clinton, lice for the Hanover County, Va., before going the TML Risk Management Pool. TN (1987) He and his wife Bettye have city of Mur- to work for the Virginia Depart- In 1985, he recognized the need for • Award recipient, National been married for 61 years. He has freesboro. ment of Employee Management municipalities to obtain low-cost Public Service award from two children, two grandchildren, Bowen has Services as a personnel practices financing for capital improvement President Ronald Regan (1988) Michael Bowen and one great-grandchild. been serving analyst. He then served as the assis- as a deputy chief for the city since tant town manager and then town October 2010 and was appointed manager of Smithfield, Va., before Lawmakers leaving house, senate seats interim chief in October 2017 becoming the town manager of LAWMAKERS from Page 1 Rep. Mark Pody, R-Lebanon, RUMORED following the resignation of Chief South Boston, Va., and then Indian Juvenile court Clerk in October, and is leaving his District 45 seat after Five other lawmakers have also James “Karl” Durr. Bowen began Head, Md. He came to Nolensville said she will not keep her house seat seven years to run for the Senate been said to be considering leaving his career in law enforcement with after serving 13 years as the town if she wins. District 17 left vacant by Sen. Mae their current posts. the Murfreesboro Police Depart- administrator for Warrenton, Va. Rep. Roger Kane, R-Knox- Beavers. Pody was the sole Republi- Sen. Thelma Harper, D-Nash- ment in 1988 as a patrol officer. He ville, will leave District 89 after can qualifier for the seat in a special ville, has reportedly considered was assigned to a field training po- Patience five years in the legislature. The primary election held in October and retirement from her Senate District sition in 1991 and promoted to ser- Melnik has insurance broker announced he will will face off against Democrat Mary 19 seat after 28 years of service. geant in 1996, lieutenant in 2001, been select- be running for Knox County Clerk Alice Carfi for the seat on Dec. 19 However, Harper has not confirmed and captain in 2003. Bowen is a ed as the new in 2018. Kane presently serves as in a special general election. her intention to make the 2018 leg- 2007 graduate of the Northwest- manager of the chair of the House Education Rep. Charles Sargent, islative session her last. ern University School of Police the city of Instruction and Programs Subcom- R-Franklin, has represented District Rep. John Ray Clemmons, Staff and Command. He holds an Knoxville’s mittee. 61 for 21 years and said the 2018 D-Nashville, has allegedly consid- associate’s degree in law enforce- Office of Rep. Judd Matheny, R-Tul- legislative session will be his last. ered running for the Tennessee’s ment from Middle Tennessee State Solid Waste. Patience Melnik lahoma, will leave District 47 after Sargent currently serves as chair of District 8 U.S. Senate seat held University and a bachelor’s degree Melnik has 15 years to run for the 6th District the House Finance, Ways and Means by U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, who an- in criminal justice from Troy State previously served as the director Congressional Seat for Tennessee. Committee and is one of the most nounced he will not be running for University. of Keep Knoxville Beautiful for The seat was open after U.S. Rep. senior Republicans in the House. re-election in 2018. Clemmons has nearly three years, and will take Diane Black announced her plans to He cited health issues related to skin represented the Tennessee House’s Terry Cobb, over from Rachel Butzler, who run for governor. Matheny previous- cancer as well as wanting to spend District 55 for three years. director of was recently promoted to the dep- ly served as the state House Speaker more time with his family as reasons Following a serious heart codes for uty director of the public service Pro Tempore. for why he has decided not to seek attack he suffered in September, Metro Nash- department. Melnik will start her Rep. Jimmy Matlock, R-Le- re-election. rumors circulated that Rep. Jim ville, will role in early December. A native noir City, announced he will run Rep. Art Swann, R-Maryville, Coley, R-Bartlett, was considering step down of California, Melnik earned a in Tennessee’s 2nd Congressional will be leaving his District 8 seat after retiring from his District 97 seat from his bachelor’s degree in liberal arts District to succeed U.S. Rep. John seven years. Swann announced his after 11 years. However, Coley has position in from St. John’s College in Sante “Jimmy” Duncan Jr. of Knoxville, intention to run for the Senate District reportedly recovered swiftly since April after Fe, N.M. She was employed by Terry Cobb who announced his retirement. 2 seat recently vacated by Sen. Doug September, and many expect him 28 years on ABC-CLIO Publishing for nearly Matlock has represented Tennessee’s Overbey. After being confirmed as a to be back on the ballot in 2018. the job. Cobb is believed to be the four years before going to work as House District 21 for 10 years. U.S. attorney, Overbey had to resign Rep. Jimmy Eldridge, R- Jack- longest-serving department head director of environmental health House Deputy Speaker Steve from his position in the General son, said in June that he is “leaning in the history of Nashville govern- programs for the Tennessee Clean McDaniel, R-Parkers Crossroads, Assembly. toward” running for mayor of the ment. A native of Nashville, Cobb Water Network in 2013. She served announced in September that he will Rep. Dawn White, R-Mur- city of Jackson, but hasn’t officially was selected as codes director in in that position until 2015, when not seek re-election to his District freesboro, will be running for the announced whether or not he will 1990. He has served under five she began working with Keep 72 seat after 29 years in the House. State Senate seat vacated by Sen. seek re-election to his house seat in Nashville mayors: Bill Honer, Phil Knoxville Beautiful. He has previously served as a party Bill Ketron, who is running for Ruth- 2018. The city of Jackson will not Bredesen, Bill Purcell, Karl Dean, leader and house caucus chair for erford County mayor. White will hold a mayoral election until 2019. and Megan Barry. Stephen the Republican Party. face off against current Rutherford Eldridge has represented House Smith has Rep. Debra Moody, R-Cov- County Mayor Ernest Burgess for District 73 for 15 years and is the Lauren Cox, been named ington, will be leaving her District the Republican nomination for the chair of the House Consumer and special event the chief of 81 seat after five years to run for the Senate District 13 seat. White has Human Resources Committee. and program staff for Gov. District 32 Senate seat previously held her House District 37 seat for Rep. Dan Howell, R-George- coordinator Bill Haslam, held by Senate Majority Leader Mark five years. town, has considered stepping down for the town serving as the Norris. Moody serves as vice chair of Rep. Mark White, R-Memphis, from his seat, but made no formal an- of Farragut, top advisor the House Civil Justice Committee. is also leaving his seat to run for the nouncement regarding 2018. Howell was elected and strategist Stephen Smith Rep. Joe Pitts, D-Clarksville, District 32 Senate seat previously has represented District 22 for three vice presi- as well as will also be retiring from his position held by Senate Majority Leader years and presently serves as the dent of the overseeing day-to-day operations Lauren Cox after 11 years representing District Mark Norris. White has represented chair of the Joint Government Op- Tennessee of the governor’s office. Smith 67. When he announced his retire- House District 83 for seven years erations Judiciary and Government Recreation and Parks Association joined the governor’s office in ment in May, Pitts said he felt it was and currently serves as chair of the Subcommittee as well as vice chair (TRPA) at the organization’s an- August 2016 and most recently time to give someone else a chance House Education Administration of the House Local Government nual meeting in October. Cox has served as senior advisor to the gov- to represent the area. Pitts said he and Planning Subcommittee. Committee. been employed with the city for six ernor. He has served in the Haslam has not ruled out a possible run for years and a member of TPRA for administration since 2011, previ- Clarksville mayor. 11 years. She has served on several ously as deputy commissioner for committees within the organiza- policy and external affairs for the tion as well as its East District Tennessee Department of Educa- as the city manager of several cities Bartlett swears in 8 Chair. Cox has a bachelor’s degree tion. Smith, an attorney, formerly in Texas, Montana, and Arizona be- in outdoor education from Middle worked in private law practice as fore coming to Oak Ridge in 2010. Tennessee State University. She well as the nonprofit sector repre- new police officers was previously employed by the senting clients in both a legal and Rick White, city of Pigeon Forge as a youth consulting capacity. He earned a chief of the program supervisor. bachelor’s degree from the Univer- Nashville sity of Tennessee - Knoxville, and Fire Depart- Robby Har- a law degree from the Nashville ment, will be mon has School of Law. retiring from been named his position the new vice Mark Wat- after a 40- mayor of son, city year career. the city of manager for A native of Dickson af- the city of Nashville, ter being ap- Oak Ridge, White was Rick White proved by his Robby Harmon recently appointed fellow coun- received interim fire chief in 2013 and then cilmembers at a November meet- a lifetime was named director chief in 2016. ing. Harmon was elected to the achieve- Mark Watson White first joined the Nashville council from the city’s Ward 2 in ment award Fire Department as a firefighter in 2015 and will succeed Mike Legg, from the Kansas University City February of 1978. After serving who served as the city’s vice may- Managers and Trainees Alumni as firefighter, fire engineer, fire or for the past decade. Harmon Organization (KUCIMAT) during instructor, captain of the Hazard- is the fourth vice mayor to serve a banquet at the International City/ ous Materials Team, district chief under Dickson Mayor Don Weiss County Management Association of special operations and assistant Jr., who has served for 24 years in (ICMA) Annual Conference in San chief of the Urban Search and the city. Harmon has a bachelor’s Antonio, Texas. Watson graduated Rescue Team, he was promoted to Bartlett Mayor Keith McDonald swore in eight new police officers degree in agricultural business from the University of Kansas with assistant chief in 2003. Nashville during a ceremony at the Bartlett Justice Center. Pictured from left from Freed-Hardeman University a bachelor’s degree and master’s Mayor Megan Barry has appointed to right: (sitting) are Zachary Apel, Nick Bramlett, Blake Bueltemann, and a master’s degree in business degree in public administration and Commander William Swann to and Felipe Perez, (standing) Chief of Police Gary Rikard, Josh administration from Lipscomb city management. A second gener- serve as interim director chief for Prince, Christian Rodriguez, Christian Waller, Hunter Kissinger, and University. He worked in the insur- ation city manager, Watson served the department. Mayor Keith McDonald. www.TML1.org 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017 Tennessee Highway Patrol urges motorists to watch out for deer Fewer than 30 percent of Tennes- Tennessee is the state with the November-December worst time for deer-related crashes best efforts and tools to fight see hospitals received an “A” in The Tennessee Highway Pa- sex trafficking, according to a safety in a recent study conducted trol (THP) cautions motorists to recent study conducted by anti-sex by an independent firm. Leapfrog’s watch out for deer on or near the trafficking organizations The Pro- Fall 2017 Hospital Safety Grades roadways. An increase in deer-re- tected Innocence Challenge and ranked the state 29th in the country lated crashes is more likely during Shared Hope International. Ten- in terms of hospital grades. Only November-December due to deer nessee scored a 96.5 out of 100, 18 of the 63 hospitals in the state mating and hunting season. the highest grade of any state in the received “A” grades with 28 hos- “Deer related crashes can nation, and a major jump from the pitals receiving a “C” grade or less. be a very serious and dangerous previous year when Tennessee was Hospitals in the report are scored incident,” THP Colonel Tracy listed as 49 out of 50 on the same on the processes and procedures Trott said. “Deer pose a danger list. Every state was graded on they use to prevent common inju- to motorists throughout the year, the strength of its laws addressing ries and infections among patients. especially in the fall. Stats show child sex trafficking and produces November is typically the worst legal analysis for stakeholders. Tennessee was one of five month for deer-related crashes. awardees to receive a grant for It is important for motorists to For the fifth month in a row, just under $900,000 from the exercise caution, slow down and Tennessee’s seasonally-adjusted U.S. Department of Education’s remain alert in areas where deer unemployment rate is lower than office of career, technical, and adult are present.” ever before in recorded history. education to support career and In Tennessee from 2012 and The state unemployment rate for lowing tips to help prevent deer • If you do collide with a deer, technical education (CTE) teacher 2016, 6.4 percent of deer -related October 2017 held steady at 3.0 related crashes during peak mating never approach the animal. pipelines. The funding will sup- crashes occurred on state high- percent, matching the historically and hunting seasons particularly at They are powerful and can port the department’s Experienced ways. In 2016, there were 7,219 low rate set in September. Tennes- dawn and dusk: cause bodily harm to a human. Professionals in the Classroom deer related crashes including 330 see first marked an all-time low Report any deer collision, even (EPIC) project that seeks to im- that involved injuries and one that unemployment rate in June at 3.6 • When you see deer cross the if the damage is minor. prove recruitment, preparation, was fatal. That’s a 3.8 percent and retention of effective CTE percent, which was bested by the road, expect more to follow. increase from 6,955 the previous In the event of a deer crash, educators. The grant will focus on July rate of 3.4 percent, and then in Many times, the second or third year. Since 2011, deer-related move the vehicle as far off the Tennessee’s in-demand industry August fell to 3.3 percent. Tennes- deer crossing becomes the one crashes in Tennessee have in- road as possible and dial *THP sectors of advanced manufactur- see’s October 2017 unemployment that motorists hit; creased 26.7 percent. As of Oct. (*847). The call will be connected ing, health science, and informa- rate is two percentage points lower • Be attentive and drive defen- 31, 2017, there have been 4,223 to the nearest THP communications tion technology to build flexible than it was one year ago and contin- sively constantly scanning the deer-involved traffic crashes across center, and a state trooper will be options for districts to be able to ues to outpace the national average, roadside, especially at dawn the state. dispatched to the location. entice experienced professionals which currently sits at 4.1 percent. and dusk; October through December Tennessee law allows deer into CTE classrooms. • Do not swerve to avoid contact is prime mating months for deer. with deer. This could cause killed in a collision to be taken and This causes deer to be less aware the vehicle to flip or veer into used as food, as long as you contact October tax revenue $1.3M causing motorists to pay extra oncoming traffic causing a the nearest Tennessee Wildlife Re- attention to deer darting directly serious crash. Swerving can sources Agency (TWRA) regional under budget estimate in front of traffic. also confuse the deer as to office and report the accident within The Tennessee Department Tennessee revenues for Oc- revenues for October were $48.6 where to run; 48 hours. For a list of TWRA re- of Safety and Homeland Security tober exceeded revenues from the million which is $13.8 million • When you spot a deer, slow gional offices, visit the website at (TDOSHS) and the Tennessee same month a year ago, but were less than the budgeted estimate of down immediately. Proceed www.tnwildlife.org. Highway Patrol suggest the fol- marginally less than the budgeted $62.4 million. The growth rate for slowly when passing; estimate. Finance and Administra- October was negative 26.58 percent tion Commissioner Larry Martin The year-to-date growth rate was reported that October revenues negative 6.03 percent. TN economy reaches sixth year of positive growth were $1 billion, which is $31.1 Gasoline and motor fuel rev- Six years of year-over-year fully, this marked success attracts growth at 17.2 percent with 1,868 million more than October of last enues increased by 36.82 percent growth coupled with historically more businesses to call the Volun- initial filings for the third quarter. year and $1.3 million less than the and they were $7.9 million more low unemployment rates indicate teer State home,” said Tennessee Davidson County had 2,220 initial budgeted estimate. The growth rate than the budgeted estimate of $90.3 Tennessee’s economy won’t slow Secretary of State Tre Hargett. filings. Knox and Hamilton counties for October was 3.16 percent. million. Motor Vehicle Registration down anytime soon, according to The Tennessee Quarterly Busi- saw 791 and 635 filings respective- “All in all, October revenue revenues increased by 7.93 percent a report released by the Secretary ness and Economic Indicators report ly. The four counties account for results were mixed. Sales taxes, and they were $500,000 less than of State’s office. is created to provide a periodic 5,514 new entity filings during the our best economic indicator, grew the October estimate. There were 9,326 new entity snapshot of the state’s economy third quarter, which is a 7.8 percent at a relatively modest rate while Tobacco tax revenues for the filings in the third quarter of 2017, based on a variety of information, increase compared to 2016. corporate revenues, realized from month were comparative to the representing a 4.8 percent increase including new business data from The state’s unemployment our franchise and excise taxes, budgeted estimate. compared to the same time last the Division of Business Services. remains at a record-breaking 3 recorded negative growth,” Martin Privilege tax revenues were year. Initial filings have had pos- There were 25,242 dissolutions percent in October after first hit- said. “This is not alarming and is a $200,000 more than the budgeted itive year-over-year growth for filed during the third quarter of ting the milestone in September. normal occurrence in Tennessee’s estimate of $29.6 million. Inher- 24 consecutive quarters. Domes- 2017, representing a 7.5 percent Tennessee’s unemployment rate is business tax cycle. October is the itance and Estate taxes were $1.2 tic limited liability corporations increase compared to the same time now well below the current national month when corporate calendar year million more than the October (LLCs), which are up 12.4 percent last year. This is a common seasonal average of 4.1 percent. filers that filed a six month due date estimate. this quarter, account for more than pattern as many entities are admin- The national economy grew 3 extension are allowed to request a Business tax revenues were half of all new entity filings. istratively dissolved in August for percent in the third quarter com- refund. It is also the month in which $100,000 less than the October “Every quarter these reports failing to file annual reports. pared to the quarter before it due to corporations reconcile their books estimate. Hall income taxes were confirm that Tennessee’s leaders Among the state’s four largest more jobs, growing housing starts, relative to their actual tax obligation. $2.7 million less than the October have created a wonderful climate counties, Shelby County experi- declining auto sales and falling gas “While our revenue trends estimate. where businesses can thrive. Hope- enced the largest year-over-year prices nationally. continue to reflect moderate growth, All other tax revenues exceeded we must proceed cautiously, and estimates by a net of $500,000. closely monitor our revenue and Year-to-date revenues for three expenditure patterns for the balance months were $42.7 million more TNECD report identifies high demand jobs across state of this fiscal year. We are commit- than the budgeted estimate. The A report released by the Ten- rates, employers continue to look operations, and transportation and ted to keeping Tennessee’s budget general fund exceeded estimates nessee Department of Economic for workers to fill highly-skilled material moving occupations. The balanced.” by $21.4 million and the four other and Community Development positions in a variety of indus- LEAP report also outlines postsec- On an accrual basis, October is funds that share in state tax reve- (TNECD) highlights jobs in high tries,” TNECD Commissioner ondary programs of study available the third month in the 2017-2018 nues exceeded estimates by $21.3 demand across Tennessee, includ- Bob Rolfe said. “In order to sustain throughout the state that can prepare fiscal year. million. ing occupations in IT, healthcare, Tennessee’s strong employment and students for jobs in these in-demand General fund revenues for The budgeted revenue esti- engineering and production, among labor market, we need to continue occupation groups. October were $8.7 million less than mates for 2017-2018 are based on others. to train and educate our residents TNECD’s Center for Economic the budgeted estimate, and the four the State Funding Board’s consen- TNECD’s annual Labor and for the jobs businesses are seeking Research in Tennessee (CERT) used other funds that share in state tax sus recommendation of Nov. 29, Education Alignment Program to fill, especially in highly-skilled key metrics such as median wage, revenues were $7.4 million more 2016, and adopted by the first ses- (LEAP) report, a regional study of occupations. With the LEAP report, online job postings, hires and job than the budgeted estimates. sion of the 110th General Assembly occupations in high demand among stakeholders from across Tennessee openings to identify occupations Sales tax revenues were $4.2 in May 2017. Also incorporated in employers throughout Tennessee, can better align education and in- with high employer demand. million more than the estimate for the estimates are any changes in identifies more than 250 occupa- dustry.” Many of the occupations identi- October. The October growth rate revenue enacted during the 2017 tions with high employer demand While nearly every industry fied in the report are within Science, was 2.62 percent. The year-to-date session of the General Assembly. statewide. This year’s report also group has jobs in high demand, Technology, Engineering and Math growth rate was positive 3.51 per- These estimates are available on includes an interactive dashboard. the report focuses on job openings (STEM) and IT fields, denoting a cent. the state’s website at www.tn.gov/ “Even as Tennessee sustains in IT, healthcare, engineering, skills gap and need for increased Franchise and excise combined finance/article/fa-budget-rev. historically low unemployment production, business and financial postsecondary completions in these areas. The LEAP report seeks to aid local, regional and state policy decision-making by outlining occupations in high demand and showcasing opportunities to reduce gaps between education and the workforce needs of employers. Additionally, the LEAP report highlights the opportunities for increased education and industry alignment in terms of workforce development strategies such as work-based learning, internships, co-ops and apprenticeships. LEAP is a statewide program designed to help postsecondary institutions provide students with the skills and credentials employers need through aligning education and industry. LEAP is the result of legislation introduced by Tennes- see Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris and Representative Gerald McCormick. The 2017 LEAP report is available for download here, http:// www.tnecd.com/research-and-da- ta/publications/. The interactive dashboard is available here, http:// tn.gov/transparenttn/article/open- ecd-workforce-leap-report www.TML1.org 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017

Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. an exemplary customer service approach to degree is preferred. Must have at least five an accredited university or college. No charge to TML members. Send ad- development and permitting. The next de- years recent work experience in a related A minimum of seven to 10 years of vertising to: Carole Graves: cgraves@ velopment services director should possess capacity, preferably working directly with command level officer experience in TENNESSEE TML1.org. the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities executive level positions. For a description a similar-sized department at the cap- FESTIVALS tain level or above. The city operates to oversee the work of all departmental and to apply, visit www.gallatintn.gov. Now - Dec. 30: Jackson ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF personnel; establish departmental policies, Open until filled. EOE. under the Commission-Manager form WHITE HOUSE. The city of White House procedures and regulations and ensure of government with a city manager Christmas Under the Stars is currently accepting applications for proper enforcement. Plan, organize and PARKS & RECREATION / appointed by a five-member city com- Experience beautiful Christmas assistant fire chief. The purpose of this job articulate the department’s goals, objectives PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR mission. Applications will be received light displays, including characters is to perform complex professional and and levels of service to city departments UNICOI. The town of Unicoi is seek- online at www.johnsoncitytn.org until like Santa Claus, Rudolph, and a administrative work planning, directing, and the community. Prepare and administer ing resumes for the combined position the position is filled. Salary range giant Nativity scene at the Jackson coordinating, supervising and commanding the departmental annual $1.6M budget of Parks & Recreation Director and $72,069 to $116,810. EOE. Fairgrounds for only $10 a car. All the city fire department; shall provide skilled and monitor expenditures during the year Public Relations Director. Duties proceeds benefit the STAR Center. administrative assistance to the fire chief in and make recommendations for budget include organizing all festivals, events PUBLIC WORKS STREETS AND all phases of fire department operations. This modifications or additional funds. Ensure and parades, design and distribute ROADS SUPERVISOR Tuesday -Sunday 5:30-10 p.m. For employee is under the direct supervision of compliance with city policies, procedures, flyers, work with town related orga- WHITE HOUSE . The city of White more information contact events@ the fire chief. The employee is expected to and regulations. Present information and nizations, attend and present activ- House is currently accepting appli- star-center.org, or call 731-554-5173 perform his or her duties according to state recommendations to various boards, com- ity reports to town meetings, attend cations for public works streets and laws, city ordinances and the policies and missions and committees. Research and conferences, some overnight travel roads supervisor. This position is Now - Dec. 30: Union City procedures of the fire department. This em- prepare ordinances and ordinance revisions required, visit town businesses, 4-year responsible for the supervision of Let It Glow Lightshow ployee is responsible for administrative and public works streets, right of way related to development, permitting and accredited college degree in Parks and Hop in the car and head over to technical work in the direction of employees code enforcement. Work with the public Recreation or related field is required. maintenance and construction, gar- and activities of the city fire department in and developers in answering questions and Starting pay is $35k-$40k DOQ. Send bage and brush removal and public Discovery Park of America to see the absence of the fire chief. The employee providing information regarding land use, resumes with cover letter no later than works and sanitation staff. This posi- thousands of twinkling lights on dis- in this position is responsible for the protec- the development process, building projects, Dec. 22, 2017 to: Mayor Lynch, PO tion requires an employee to perform play, and sing along to your favorite tion of lives and property of the city, for the building and housing regulations and code Box 39, Unicoi, TN 37692 or e-mail; technical environmental work to Christmas songs with the custom fire department organization, and direction enforcement. Serve as technical advisor to to: [email protected] maintain compliance with the city of radio station. Sponsored by the city of fire service functions. Work involves the planning commission, city manager, White House’s Stormwater Program, of Union City, the event is closed planning, directing, and controlling fire board of commissioners, and department PLANNING AND COMMUNITY Streets Program, MUTCD Program Mondays, Christmas Eve, Christmas inspection, fire prevention, fire suppression heads on planning and zoning issues. and Sanitation Program. Work in- DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Day and New Year’s Day. For more operations, and emergency medical services Establish and maintain a policy of down- SHELBYVILLE. The city of Shel- cludes managing a diverse staff by for the city of White House. The employee town improvement and coordinates that byville is accepting applications for prioritizing projects, assigning work information, go to http://discovery- is expected to function independently of policy with other urban growth policies and the full-time position of planning and tasks, using equipment, maintaining parkofamerica.com/event/let-glow- direct supervision with respect to technical zoning policies etc. Make frequent presen- community development director. The records, monitoring work quality and christmas-light-show/2017-11-26/ fire procedures and practices. Bachelor’s tations to the city boards and commissions. planning director will be responsible work schedules, insuring crew safety, degree in fire science or related field; Manage multiple projects in a fast-paced for daily administration of all planning training of employees, and providing Dec. 15-16: Memphis extensive work experience in firefighting environment with strong prioritization and and zoning activities, including com- performance feedback. The employee Holiday Concert Weekend at Graceland or a related field, five years of which must organizational skills. The ideal candidate is directs and participates in performing prehensive planning, and the adminis- Celebrate the holiday season with a be in an upper-level management position. a professional who is open, honest, of strong tration of subdivision regulations. The various landscaping and horticultur- Possession of an appropriate driver’s license moral character, promotes transparency, and planning director will also implement al functions, building maintenance very special weekend at Graceland valid in the state of Tennessee. Must be at has excellent interpersonal and communica- and manage municipal projects related tasks, street maintenance tasks, solid featuring three festive live concerts least 21 years of age. Must have certifica- tion skills. A leader who is approachable and to the development of this growing waste functions, stormwater mainte- at Graceland’s new Elvis Presley’s tion for Fire Officer I and Medical First energetic with an open management style community. The ideal candidate will nance and the operation of various Memphis entertainment complex. Responder. Must possess a state of Tennes- that supports teamwork and staff develop- have at least a bachelor’s degree types of construction equipment. For more information, go to www. see Fire Inspector certification or have the ment. The ideal candidate must be able to in urban planning or a related field Employee is responsible for pro- graceland.com/events/holiday-con- ability to obtain within 12 months of hire. curement of materials, work orders, create and sustain an organizational climate (master’s degree preferred), and 3-7 cert-weekend.aspx. Starting compensation range: $50,440.00 that promotes quality customer service in years city planning experience. Salary and record-keeping for each project. - $61,456.25 annually. DOE. Application departmental operations. Must have the based on qualifications and experi- The Supervisors work subjects the deadline: Dec. 14, 2017, at 5:15 p.m For ability to analyze problems, identify solu- ence (anticipated range $51,848.00 - employee to inside and outside en- Dec. 16: Cornersville a complete job description and details on tions, make recommendations, encourage $64,530.00). Applications and a copy vironmental conditions, extremes in Christmas at Lairdland Farm how to apply online, visit: http://www.city- a creative, balanced approach to solving of job description may be picked up temperatures, and hazards associated Visit an antebellum mansion dec- ofwhitehouse.com/i-want-to-top/apply-for/ challenges - The ideal candidate asks how at city hall during normal business with equipment operation including orated for Christmas. A portion of employment-opportunities. we can, not why we can’t. A bachelor’s hours. Applications must be returned fumes, oils, gases and mists. Work the mansion was converted into a is supervised by the Public Services degree in public administration, planning, or to City Hall Administration Office, Civil War Museum containing both BUILDING OFFICIAL a related field and five years of progressive 201 N. Spring Street no later than 4 Director for adherence to instructions FARRAGUT. The town of Farragut is experience is required. AICP certification p.m. on Friday, Dec. 15, 2017. The city and established standards. Indepen- Union and Confederate artifacts, seeking to fill the position of a building and master’s degree is preferred. Must have of Shelbyville is an equal opportunity dent judgment is required when mak- clothing and uniforms, soldiers’ official. This position administers all aspects knowledge of urban planning and zoning employer and a drug free workplace. ing decisions with a significant degree personal items, and numerous other of the Codes Enforcement Division of the principles, land use and development laws, Successful Applicants required to pass of accountability. Coordination is pieces from the Lairdland owners’ Community Development Department. federal, state, and municipal building codes, background check, physical and drug exercised with other professional, private collection. Listed in the Na- Specifically, the successful candidate GIS, and current and long range planning screen. For more information, visit our technical and support personnel. tional Register of Historic Places, should have excellent communication skills, Tact and courtesy are required in fre- methods. Must be a city resident or secure website: www.shelbyvilletn.org the current owners were awarded a proficiency in coordinating and managing residence within the city limits within 12 quent contact with property owners, schedules and projects, management expe- months of employment. Applications will POLICE CHIEF consultants, contractors, the general certificate of merit by the Tennessee rience in a codes-related environment, and be received on-line at www.johnsoncitytn. JOHNSON CITY. The city of Johnson public and other City staff. A high Historical Commission for preserva- a thorough knowledge of all aspects of the org until the position is filled. Salary range City is seeking a committed public school diploma or GED. Substantial tion and restoration of the historic ICC building codes. Applicants should have $72,070 - $116,810. EEO safety professional to lead and man- skilled experience in: construction, property. For more information, at least an Associates/Technical degree with age a modern, full service agency maintenance or repair to include call 931-363-2205 or visit www. coursework in construction/engineering, EXISTING INDUSTRIES MANAGER/ dedicated to policing our city with a some lead experience and the oper- lairdlandfarmhouse.com. or related field and extensive experience GRAPHIC DESIGNER/ highly engaged and community-in- ation and maintenance of a backhoe, in engineering, architecture, construction ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT II excavator, track loader, motor grader volved approach. Under the general Dec. 31: Chattanooga and codes enforcement, or an equivalent GALLATIN. The city of Gallatin Eco- direction and supervision of the city etc. A valid Tennessee Commercial combination of education and a minimum nomic Development Agency (EDA) manager, the chief plans, organizes, Driver’s License (C.D.L.) appropriate New Years Eve Party on the Bluff. of 5 years relevant experience. State of TN is seeking qualified applicants for the directs, coordinates and evaluates all to the assignment is required. (Mini- Welcome 2018 at the Hunter Mu- Certified Building Inspector Certification is position of existing industries manager/ activities of the Johnson City Police mum- Class B with A57 Endorsement. seum, featuring an open bar, hors strongly preferred. Supervisory experience graphic designer/administrative assistant Department. The police chief will be Preferred – Class A) Starting compen- d’oeuvres, music, dancing, midnight in a codes-related environment and MCP II. This position works with existing privileged to lead a dedicated staff sation range: $18.78 - $22.88 hourly champagne toast, and the best views Certification is also preferred. Complete industry on personnel recruitment and of 149 sworn officers and 32 civilian ($39,062.40 - $47,590.40) annually in the city. Named one of the South- job description and required job application DOE Open Until Filled For a complete problem-solving, creating promotional employees. The chief will manage the east’s top New Year’s Eve parties by are available at www.townoffarragut/jobs. materials for the EDA, along with as- non-union police department’s $13.5 job description and details on how Resumes may be downloaded. SALARY: sisting with day-to-day operations of the million budget and oversee the entire to apply online, visit: http://www. The Atlanta Journal Constitution. $52,845-$67,378. (DOQ) annually with office. This is a 40-hours per week, day operations. The department is nation- cityofwhitehouse.com/i-want- to-top/ For more information, go to http:// excellent benefits package. Open until filled. shift position. Starting rate is $20.11 per ally accredited and is organized into apply-for/employment-opportunities. www.huntermuseum.org/events/ hour + excellent benefits. The successful three divisions: administration, crim- nye-partyonthebluff-2017 DEVELOPMENT SERVICES/ applicant should have experience in inal investigations, and operations. STORMWATER CREW LEADER PLANNING DIRECTOR event organization, including arranging Areas of responsibility include: patrol, WHITE HOUSE. The city of White Dec. 31: Greeneville JOHNSON CITY. The city of Johnson House is currently accepting applica- venues, catering and audio/visual needs; criminal investigations, canine, drug Midnight On Main City is seeking a director of development strong organizational and multi-tasking task force, EOD, minimum security tions for stormwater crew leader. This services/planning. This is a high-level, skills in a fast paced environment; ad- jail, special operations, community person is responsible for supervising Fourth annual celebration to ring in visible management position reporting vanced computer skills with a thorough policing, school resource, and SWAT. and participating in the work of a crew the New Year. Two blocks of Main directly to the city manager. The director knowledge of Adobe Creative Suites, The candidate must possess the fol- performing stormwater construc- Street will be filled with music, will oversee the operations of the Planning, Microsoft Office, and Excel. Essential lowing critical success factors:strong tion and maintenance, landscaping, dancing, food and other festivities Building Inspection, Permitting, Code duties include working with the executive interpersonal and communication R-O-W maintenance, and public facil- for all ages beginning at 7 p.m. DJ Compliance division, and the Metropolitan director to gain a general understanding skills (both verbal and written); ity and infrastructure maintenance and Joe Prokop of Big Show Enter- Transportation Planning Organization. The repair. An application may be obtained of all initiatives within the Economic experience presenting to elected of- tainment will lead the lively street role will also support the city’s efforts with Development Agency, representing the ficials and public speaking; ability to by visiting www.cityofwhitehouse. economic development by working closely agency, and city when appropriate, at motivate and inspire staff to build on com or at the human resources office party, which is free to the public. with community stakeholders and the eco- job fairs, completing diverse admin- past successes; demonstrated ability located at 105 College Street, White A highlight will be the ball drop by nomic development council to attract new istrative tasks including; appointment to develop and achieve long-range House, TN 37188. Return applica- Greeneville Light & Power System and diverse businesses. The director must management, meeting and presentation planning and budget goals; compre- tions to the human resources office or during the countdown to a spectacular be a service-oriented leader who works preparation and database management, hensive and broad knowledge of the faxed to 615-616-1058 or emailed to midnight fireworks show. For more collaboratively with staff as well as with while maintaining strict confidentiality, principles and practices of modern humanresources@cityofwhitehouse. information visit www.facebook. other city departments, city commission, and arranging travel needs (including but police administration; Requirements com.Starting Compensation range: com/TownofGreeneville neighborhood groups, public or private not limited to hotel, air and registrations) include a bachelor’s degree in a re- $16.29 - $19.85 hourly DOE Open agencies to seek resolutions that are in the for the agency. Qualified applicants must lated field (criminal justice, public until filled. EOE. best interest of all parties. Must demonstrate possess an associate’s degree. Bachelor’s administration, or equivalent) from www.TML1.org 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017 Tennessee Municipal League 2017-2018 Officers and Directors City officials discuss road to recovery one year after wildfires PRESIDENT Bo Perkinson FIRE from Page 1 did everything they could to the Tough goes to those in need,” Ogle ready been coming back to the area. Councilmember, Athens new normal. My entire life is a best of their ability and with the said. “Dolly Parton’s fund contrib- “Visitation has been down VICE PRESIDENTS new normal.” information that we had to save uted a balance of about $2.3 million through the summer, but we are Wallace Cartwright Teaster said also she and lives and save property,” Ogle that they had. Our Gatlinburg Re- well on the road to recovery,” Mayor, Shelbyville many others felt a renewed said. “It took all of our employees lief Fund is doing the same thing. Teaster said. “We have seen healthy Jill Holland sense of faith in her community pulling together. There was no ‘this The goal is to help meet those un- growth in September, October and Mayor, McKenzie because of the disaster. isn’t my job’ or ‘this department met needs of the community. This November. We will end the year on Mike Werner “I learned Pigeon Forge needs to do it.’ We really wanted to organization allows us government a real positive note.” Mayor, Gatlinburg is very resilient, and that the make sure the non-first responder folks to do the government stuff In addition to rebuilding homes DIRECTORS business community and the employees received due recogni- we need to do – both related to the lost in the fires, new commercial Jimmy Alexander residents of this town can come tion, so we have been doing a few construction has also returned to Mayor, Nolensville fires and not – but still help those Megan Barry together. They fully support- employee appreciation luncheons in need. There are certain things the area. Mayor, Metro Nashville ed our city,” she said. “They to thank them. They showed a government can and can’t do, and “We had four major commer- Andy Berke brought food, gave shelter, dedication to this city that I will be we wanted to do what was best for cial developments planned before Mayor, Chattanooga and the lodging folks gave free eternally grateful for.” our community.” the fires,” Ogle said. “Fortunately, Daniel Brown rooms. We had places for the Ogle said she learned early on Teaster said the city as a whole the fires did not discourage that. Of City Council, Knoxville (District 2) Red Cross to set up. Every- that disaster recovery takes time and, in particular the Pigeon Forge the four, three have been completed John Clark body – and I mean everybody and patience. Fire Department under the direc- and opened: two hotels on Airport Mayor, Kingsport – stepped up to the plate. We “Our Congressman, Rep. Phil tion of Fire Chief Tony Watson Road and the Anakeesta multi-at- Vance Coleman received donations from liter- Roe, said to me during those early have taken steps to make sure they traction development. Another Mayor, Medina ally all over the country. We days ‘Cindy, this is a marathon not are prepared for future fire-related hotel is still under construction in Betsy Crossley received things from as far Commissioner, Brentwood (District 6) a sprint,’” she said. “I can tell you, disasters. the downtown area and will open Richard Driver north as Chicago and as far west I’m a sprinter, not a marathoner. I “We are improving upon our next spring.” Mayor, Lafayette (District 5) as California. For two or three want to go to it and get it done. Re- communications with our com- On Nov. 28, the city of Gat- Bill Graham weeks, people came forward covery is definitely a marathon and munity,” Teaster said. “We also linburg and Sevier County held Councilman, Dayton (District 3) and supported Pigeon Forge, not a sprint. You also have to keep just adopted the Firewise program, a memorial event at Rocky Top Avery Johnson Gatlinburg, Sevierville and our as much of the media noise out as which has only been around six or Sports World to honor the one-year Vice Mayor, Cleveland whole community.” you can so you can focus on what seven years itself. We are one of anniversary of the fires. At the cer- Hoyt Jones In particular, Teaster said you need to do. We had PR people the smallest communities to have emony, the city unveiled the sche- Alderman, Sparta (District 4) city employees went above and handling most of that and if I need- adopted that program. We have a matics for a permanent memorial Bobby King beyond the call of duty. ed to know something they told me. wonderful fire department, and our to be erected in honor of both first Mayor, Henderson “I saw my public safety However, I didn’t even start reading responders and those who lost their Christa Martin goal is to keep improving on the Vice Mayor, Columbia employees, especially, come the local newspaper again until the good things we already have.” lives in the fires. Lonnie Norman together as I had never seen be- middle of January. You have to As the city moves forward, “It will be located on the north Mayor, Manchester fore,” she said. “They worked stay as focused as you can, and you Ogle said the city has also taken end of town,” Ogle said. “There will Madeline Rogero absolutely diligently and won- have to lean on God, your family, steps to prepare for future disasters. be a pedestrian bridge constructed Mayor, Knoxville derfully together. They didn’t your staff, management team, and “We are in the process of ex- over the river that runs through Paula Sedgwick miss a beat, and I am so very, administrative staff. You realize panding our emergency notifica- town. The parkway side will be a Alderman, Bartlett (District 8) very grateful for them. The you are really blessed when you go tion system, and received approval tribute to the first responders and Charles “Bones” Seivers remaining departments also through something like this.” from FEMA to do the iPhone alert then you cross the bridge into a President-CEO, TN Municipal Bond Fund stepped up to the plate. They On the advice of FEMA offi- locally through our Sevier County much more quiet setting. That will Todd Smith cut trees out of the roadways cials, Ogle said the city and county Emergency Management Agency,” be where the memorial to those who City Manager, Greeneville (District 1) and whatever else they could do Jim Strickland also created a nonprofit organiza- she said. “We are getting an AM lost their lives will be placed. The Mayor, Memphis to help for three or four weeks. tion, Mountain Tough, to help with radio station that can be tuned to city has some right-of-way along Mary Ann Tremblay It was a team effort, and they long-term recovery needs. Officials in case of emergency. We have the river in this particular location, Vice Mayor, Three Way all did a very good job.” from Bastrop, Texas, who had purchased satellite phones for any and so we will be creating a walking Garry Welch Ogle said Gatlinburg city experienced wildfires in the past future situation where commu- trail that will go north down by the City Manager, Savannah (District 7) employees also did whatever helped Gatlinburg officials set up nications may go out. We have river.” PAST PRESIDENTS they could during the disaster. the 501c3. made and are continuing to make The town of Pigeon Forge also John Holden (2016) Mayor, Dyersburg “Everyone – from first “All of the cities and the county improvements to our emergency recently unveiled a tribute wall at Curtis Hayes (2015) Mayor, Livingston responders to city employees, contributed money to ensure all of response functions.” its Patriot Park to honor the first Tom Rowland (2014) Mayor, Cleveland personnel and management – the money taken through Mountain Teaster said visitors have al- responders who came from com- Dale Kelley (2013) Mayor, Huntingdon munities around Tennessee to help Ken Wilber (2012) Mayor, Portland Kay Senter (2011) Morristown Vice Mayor in fire suppression and recovery Sam Tharpe (2010) Commissioner, Paris efforts. Tommy Pedigo (2009) Council, Morristown “We had 64 fire departments Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg from across the state come into AFFILIATE DIRECTORS town last year, and we wanted to Karen Johnson, Councilwoman, Nashville (NLC) The average American is average American spent $660 on hate crimes perpetrated based on find a way on the first anniversary C. Seth Sumner, Athens (TCMA) expected to rack up more holiday shopping last year and 60 gender and sexuality. to thank all of them,” Teaster said. holiday debt than in previous percent of respondents said they “Many of them were volunteers TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS years with some shoppers planned to spend as much or more Opioid abuse has killed more from their communities and they (Ex-Officio Directors) still paying off last year’s this year. veterans than the Iraq, Afghan- were here for several days. We be- Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports debt. NerdWallet’s 2017 Con- istan, and Vietnam wars com- lieve that, most likely, Pigeon Forge Tennessee Building Officials Assn. sumer Holiday Shopping Re- Hate crimes are on the rise in the bined, leading veterans and advo- Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police would have suffered much worse port analyzed spending and U.S. for the second straight year, cates to focus on ways to help those without their assistance or help.” TN Assn. Municipal Clerks & Recorders behavior trends of more than TN Government Finance Officers Assn. according to information recently suffering from addiction. Veterans Some 225 firefighters worked Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. 2,000 Americans aged 18 and released by the Federal Bureau of are twice as likely as non-veterans for five days across the area to beat Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors older. The survey found 56 Investigation (FBI). The amount to die from accidental overdoses back the flames. A lunch to thank Tennessee Association of Floodplain percent of those who shopped of hate crimes reported rose five of painkillers with veterans expe- the first responders was held- ear Management for last year’s holidays in- percent between 2016 and 2015 riencing higher than average levels lier in the day. More than 200 first Tenn. Assn. Housing & Redevel. Auth. curred credit card debt, an and 10 percent between 2015 and of chronic pain. U.S. government responders were honored at the Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. increase of 48 percent the pre- 2014. African Americans were the and healthcare officials have been Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference surprise unveiling, which was held vious year. Baby boomers tend target in about half of the incidents struggling to stem the epidemic as part of the kick-off to Pigeon Tenn. Chapter, American Public Works to spend the most but also pay Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. based on race, ethnicity, or ances- of overdoses, which killed more Forge’s annual Winterfest. Tennessee Chapter, American Planning it off the soonest while Mil- try while Jews were targeted in half than 64,000 Americans in the “This is not just about the fire- Tennessee Personnel Management Assn. lennials, who spend the least, the attacks based on religion. The 12 months ending last January fighters,” Pigeon Forge Fire Chief Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing often end up paying off their amount of religious-based attacks alone, a 21 percent increase over Tony Watson said at the ceremony. TN Section, Institute of Transport debt later. Of the Americans against Muslims also rose 19 per- the previous year, according to “This is about the whole commu- Tennessee Public Transportation Assoc. who shopped during the 2016 cent between 2016 and 2015, and the Centers for Disease Control. Assn. of Independent and Municipal nity out there and what it means. holidays, 27 percent did not has doubled since 2014. Incidents About 65,000 Americans died in I’m so proud to be a part of this Schools have a budget and 24 percent targeting gay men account for Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Tennessee Renewable Energy & Economic community.” Development Council went over their budget. The almost two-thirds of reported Tennessee Urban Forestry Council Tennessee Stormwater Association

TML SPONSORS tar ponsor No loan is too large or too small 3 S S Bank of New York Mellon, Co. Civil & Environmental Consultants First Tennessee Bank 2 Star Sponsor Alexander, Thompson, Arnold, CRA’s Alliance Water Resources Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC Master Meter, Inc. VC3 Voya Financial Advisors Waste Management Inc. of Tennessee 1 Star Sponsor Charter Communications Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers Local Govt. Corporation Mattern & Craig, Inc. NORESCO McGill Associates, P.A. Pavement Restorations, Inc. Republic Services Smith Seckman Reid Tennessee 811 TLM Associates, Inc. Utility Service Co., Inc. Waste Connections of Tennessee Inc. Waste Industries USA, Inc. The city of East Ridge closed a $4.9 million fixed-rate loan with the The town of Signal Mountain closed a $3 million fixed- Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund to finance interchange improvements. rate loan to finance the construction and equipping of TML STAFF In the picture are from left to right: J. Scott Miller, city manager; Mayor a new fire station. Pictured are Mayor Chris J. Howley Margaret Mahery, Executive Director and Carol White, finance director; and TMBF represen- Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Brent Lambert; and Diane Qualls, finance director. Standing are Steve Mark Barrett, Legislative Research Analyst Queener and Linda Mooningham, TMBF representatives. tatives Steve Queener and Linda Mooningham Kate Coil, Communications Specialist Jackie Gupton, Administrative Assistant Carole Graves, Communications Director & Editor, Tennessee Town & City Sylvia Harris, Conference Planning Director John Holloway, Government Relations See us for your special Debbie Kluth, Marketing Director / Member Services projects needs. Kevin Krushenski, Legislative Research Analyst (615) 255-1561 Denise Paige, Government Relations www.TML1.org 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DEC. 11, 2017 Mayor Norman touts Manchester’s economic, tourism growth

LN: I’ve got their phone number, and I certainly expanding or improving services, businesses, BY LINDA BRYANT call and talk to them all the time. Bonnaroo and destinations that improve quality of life. is like anything else that’s big, well-known We have good schools that we’ve been able By just about any measure, the city of and talked about. Some people complain, and to grow successfully and plenty of offerings in Manchester is on the rise. some people like it and appreciate it. As a the community that make it a great place to live Since 2000, the municipality of 10,500 whole, Bonnaroo is good for us. Organizers — Willowbrook Golf Course, Old Stone Fort has grown at a rate of almost 37 percent. And don’t come in and just try to take things away State Park and a new arts center. There are so since 2002, when the Bonnaroo Music and or make money and be gone. They spend a lot many positive things. We are very close to the Arts Festival first set up stages on a nearby of money with the city, and they really give Duck River, Elk River, Tims Ford, Normandy Coffee County farm, the city’s reputation has back to the community. For example, they work Lake, and Woods Reservoir. grown not just regionally, but nationally and with the high school here. They give grants to The Manchester Tourism Committee does internationally. community organizations — about a quarter a really good job of promoting the city so our Lonnie Norman, a lifelong Manchester million dollars so far. A couple of years ago profile as a tourism destination keeps growing. resident now serving his third stint as mayor, they bought the high school band new uniforms. I’m proud of how hard the committee works. has witnessed the town’s various phases of Bonnaroo helped out at the Manchester One example is that they have attracted a lot development, including periods of time when Recreation Complex when it came time to of baseball and softball tournaments that are there was little or no growth. repaint and update. The city had originally really making a difference to our reputation as Since 2012, the city and county have seen budgeted for it but had to take it out of the a regional destination. millions of investment dollars — and the jobs budget. I was determined to get that money that accompany them — coming from national somehow because the repairs were something TT&C: Every town and city struggles to and international companies. Tourism dollars, we badly needed. So I called Bonnaroo and keep property taxes low. How is Manchester not even counting the huge amount generated told them what we needed. They agreed to doing with this issue? by Bonnaroo every year, are on the increase give us $10,000 a year so that we could get LN: We haven’t raised taxes in eight or nine because the city is becoming a popular spot the job done. It ended up amounting to about years. We go through a budget process every for state and regional sports tournaments and Manchester Mayor Lonnie Norman $30,000. year, and after we have the new budget — and because it’s so close to state parks and lakes. And there are plenty of other highlights that make Manchester a city to praise. For example, the city’s schools are consid- ered top-notch. In fact, Coffee County Central High School ranked No. 12 in Tennessee by U.S. News & World Report, no small accomplish- ment for a school competing with large public schools in Nashville, Memphis, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. Norman, a retired jet engine technician, served as a city alderman from 1984 to 1991 and held the mayoral seat for the first time from 1991 to 1995. He took a break from city government for a few years and was elected to be an alderman again in 2000, a seat he held until 2012. The desire to be mayor struck again in 2012, so Norman, who was then retired, ran successfully for mayor in 2012 and was re-elected again in 2016. He is the city’s first — and to date only — African American mayor. “Lonnie has been involved in the city Manchester Mayor Lonnie Norman and other members of the Manchester Area Chamber of Commerce present the Champion for so many years that he pretty much knows of Commerce award to State Rep. Janice Bowling, R-Tullahoma. Norman said building relationships with state lawmakers and everything that has happened,” said Donnie officials is essential to ensure his community’s needs are met. Lovelady, local businessman, and lifelong Another important company, Tennessee Bonnaroo doesn’t take place inside Man- everything has been approved — I put a freeze friend. “He’s had his hands on the pulse for Tool & Fixture, came here about six months chester; it’s outside the city on a farm that on things. I tell city departments to focus on 30-something years.” ago. They will be hiring soon and are bring- Bonnaroo owns. Our police are used working their most critical needs. In city government, “The thing about Lonnie is that he doesn’t ing 50 to 60 people with jobs of $20-$25 an the festival, and Bonnaroo pays for it. Our there can be unexpected costs that you have to want anyone to be mistreated and he is always hour. [The Canadian manufacturer, which police chief gets with the Bonnaroo people and be prepared for. You have to constantly keep there when you call him,” Lovelady added. “I makes molds and castings for the automotive tells them about how much it is going to cost. that in mind. remember one time, I think it was during his industry, is investing $6.5 million in their first Then, they send us a check for it. The police first term, we had a Sunday morning flood. The U.S. plant in Manchester. They renovated an work 12-hour shifts and they pay overtime. TT&C: Is there something interesting or creek beside one man’s house was stopped up existing building at 852 Interstate Drive. This They even pay for their food. little known about Manchester that people and about to flood his house. Before he could deal involves a 20-year PILOT (payment in would be surprised to know? figure out what he was going to do, Lonnie was lieu of tax) lease agreement.] TT&C: Few communities, especially one the LN: We go from about 11,000 people to at his front porch in a pair of boots, and he’d size of Manchester, have an event the size 150,000 in three days during Bonnaroo. Man- already called the street department to go over TT&C: How do you attract business and of Bonnaroo that ends up shaping it on so chester is about 1 to 2 percent minority, and I there to clean out the creek.” industry to Manchester and Coffee County, many different levels. It’s a great example am the city’s first black mayor. to begin with? How do you separate yourself of how destination events can contribute to TT&C: Tell us a little bit about your back- from the pack? the economic vitality of a city. Can you talk TT&C: How does it feel to be the city’s first ground in Manchester and Coffee County. LN: Recruiting business and industry is a very a little more about Bonnaroo’s contributions African American mayor? Lonnie Norman: I was born and raised here. competitive process. And like other things to local groups and concerns? LN: I have always felt Manchester is a place I’ve been here all my life. I went to grade school that get done in the city, being successful and LN: Bonnaroo contributes to Manchester in where people accept you for who you are and here in Manchester and went to Tullahoma for doing it right takes time and patience. I tell many ways. A lot of local people work for not the color you are. It means a lot to me. How high school. When I got out of high school, I prospects all the time that I’m not asking them Bonnaroo. They pay for things that impact you carry yourself and what you do and how was already working for a man who ran a car to come to Manchester so that I can just drop the community. For example, they have put you do it, really makes a difference. dealership. Then I started to work for AEDC them, walk away, and forget about them. I’m more than $1 million into widening the roads (Arnold Engineering Development Center) going to be here to support and help business (near the festival to help with access.) They TT&C: Who helped shape your life? and I stayed there until I retired. I went back to and industry as long as I’m in the office, and are always adding something. LN: I could talk to you all day about that. My school for four years and became an instrument I’ll do all I can to get that support from other Now they’re talking about adding small- mom and dad influenced me the most. They technician. Then I went to lead manager and agencies and organizations. er shows. The shows wouldn’t be as big as were wonderful people. My mom went to then to a supervisor. We tested jet engines, and It takes a great deal of collaboration over Bonnaroo with its 80,000 people, but small school until the 6th or 7th grade and my father I was there until I retired. time to complete these kinds of deals. You ones with 25,000 to 30, 000 people. And they went until the 8th grade. When I would leave have to take the long view and rely on the want to do that two or three times a year. It’s home, my dad would say be a good boy. And TT&C: You have served as an alderman and trust you build up with people. We are lucky not an understatement to say Bonnaroo helped then when I was old enough to work, he would mayor. What motivated you to get involved to have good relationships and coordination put Manchester and Coffee County on the map. always say be a good boy. So I didn’t know with public service? with all sorts of organizations — The Coffee We will continue to work closely with them any other way to be. LN: Manchester is my home so it just made County Industrial Board, the Coffee County and anticipate benefits to the community will I was very close to a man from Manchester sense to me that I’d want to give back to the Commission, the Manchester Board of Mayor continue to come from our relationship. named J.D. Ring. He was like a dad to me. I place I’m from. I wanted to do something to and Aldermen, Tennessee Department of Eco- The thing about Bonnaroo is that people called him the old man. Everything that J.D. make Manchester better. I thought I could make nomic and Community Development (TDEC), [connected to the festival or employed by it] had a key to I had a key to. I started mowing a difference. I still do. and other key regional and state groups. Besides are here all the time because they have to pre- his yard when I was about 12 or 13. I worked I am currently in my third term as mayor. the Manchester Industrial Park, we have the pare for the festival all year long. They might for him all through high school. He just took up The first time I ran for public office was in Coffee County Joint Industrial Park and the have 200 to 300 people here working a month with me and showed me everything about life. 1984. I ran for an open alderman seat. I ran Coffee County Interstate Industrial Park. We or two before and after the show. They stay in He and another man bought a Ford dealership for mayor in 1991. I served a four-year term have room to grow, and we have access to a our hotels and motels here. It really means a here in Manchester, and I went to go work as mayor. I took a break for three or four years quality workforce. These are big selling points. lot to the city. for the dealership as soon as I got out of high and didn’t run for office. I came back in 2000 school. He had two girls and a boy and they as an alderman. I stayed there until 2012 and TT&C: It sounds like you stay focused TT&C: What are some of the biggest chal- were just like my brothers and sisters. His son then I ran for mayor again. I was re-elected on communication with key players to get lenges and issues that the city is facing? still runs the Ford dealership. in 2016. the job done in Manchester. Can you say LN: I would say its issues surrounding annex- J.D. was very honest, fair and kind. His more about how you develop those critical ation and the cost and time of getting things family saw the way he treated me so they called TT&C: In recent years, Manchester has relationships? done. We are being very patient and taking me nephew. I called his mother and father the attracted some significant business invest- LN: A significant part of my job involves care with each step, but we do get big things same as the family did. He has passed away, ment. Can you tell us about some of your working with county and state government. If done. When I was an alderman, we built the but I still go to the family’s house for holidays. most notable manufacturing investments? there’s something that’s important and needs Manchester Recreation Complex. When we When I first wanted to run for alderman, J.D. LN: The city owns about 300 to 400 acres in an my attention, I’ll drive to Nashville. If it’s built it, it cost $7-8 million at the time. Some initially he didn’t want me to. He was trying to industrial park within the city limits. When we about roads, I meet with TDOT people and people thought it was too expensive but it was protect me because he knew how hard politics bought this property, we leased it to a farmer, tell them what we need. They usually listen. I something that the city needed. The recreation can be. But in the end, he told me to do it if but the land still belongs to the city. We now meet and talk with the county mayor once or complex is just as good — if not better — than it was something I really believed in. He was have a couple of plants in the Manchester In- twice a week. any other similar facility in the state. an incredible blessing in my life as well as his dustrial Park, so things are moving along well. And, of course, you have to have good We have purchased land, a little farm right family. We have a cheese plant, Great Lakes Cheese, communication with everybody and realize in the city, that we want to use to build a soccer that employs 200 to 250 people with decent you can’t get your way all the time. That’s key. complex. But it costs so much to do this kind TT&C: Do you have a governing philosophy paying jobs of $15 to $20 an hour. [In 2012, And when you don’t get your way, there’s no of project successfully that we have to go about that guides how you approach your life both Great Lakes Cheese, an Ohio-based company sense in being mad about it. I believe in doing it a little bit at a time. We just completed the personally and professionally? with nine manufacturing facilities nationwide, the right thing and if things don’t go your way paving for it. LN: I always want to treat people like I want invested $100 million in a 330,000-square-foot this time, maybe they will the next time. It’s to be treated. My door is always open; you super plant in Manchester.] about keeping the faith. TT&C: What accomplishments are you don’t have to make appointments. There are Not too long after we got Great Lakes proudest of? about 150 people [employed by the city] and Cheese, the first company to locate in the park, TT&C: Bonnaroo is a world-famous mu- LN: We’re very proud that in the last three they can come in my office whenever they like. we attracted another company, Aspen Technol- sic festival and brings well over 80,000 to years we have had three plants come to the At times, I have had to make some very hard ogies, an auto parts supplier. The company made Manchester and Coffee County every year. city. When those plants are at capacity they decisions, but I’ve found that if I’m always a commitment to Manchester; they employ 50 The direct and indirect economic impact will have put more than 500 people to work. honest and fair, things will work out. It’s part to 60 people so far. [Aspen Technologies is a is fairly massive — estimated at over $51 We’re an innovative and growth-minded city of being a leader to sometimes have to tell Michigan-based company that supplies parts million, including more than $3 million and community. We minimize the tax dollars people things they don‘t like, and sometimes to General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Fiat in tax revenue for Manchester and Coffee while offering quality services. I’m proud of the they don’t like you because of it. You got to Chrysler, Nissan, BMW, and Subaru. The County. What’s your relationship with the way we’re always looking to see how we can know when to step up, and you got to know company invested $5.1 million in their new organizers? Just how important is Bonnaroo better serve our citizens, whether it’s improving when to be humble. Whether it’s a man in a suit plant in 2014.] to Manchester? infrastructure such as sidewalks, sewer lines or or a man in overalls, you treat them the same.