1- TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 www.TML1.org

6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 58, Number 2 January 29, 2007 League launches advocacy initiative BY CAROLE GRAVES TML Communications Director

The Tennessee Municipal League has launched a new advo- cacy program called “Hometown Connection.” The mission of the program is to foster better relation- ships between city officials and their legislators and enhance the League’s advocacy efforts on Capi- tol Hill. TML’s Hometown Connection will provide many resources to help city officials stay up-to-date on leg- islative activities, as well as offer more opportunities for the League’s members to become more involved in issues affecting municipalities Among the many resources at their disposal are: • Legislative Bulletins • Action Alerts • Special Committee Lists Photo by Victoria South • TML Web Site and the Home- town Connection Ceremony marks Governor Bredesen’s second term • District Directors’ Program With First Lady by his side, Gov. took the oath of office for his second term as the 48th Govornor of Tennessee • Hometown Champions before members of the Tennessee General Assembly, justices of the , cabinet staff, friends, family and close to 3,000 • Hometown Heroes Tennesseans. The inauguration ceremony took place on War Memorial Plaza in front of the Tennessee State Capitol. After being sworn in, • Legislative Contact Forms Bredesen delivered an uplifting 12-minute address focusing on education in Tennessee as his number one priority along with strengthening • Access to Legislators’ voting Tennessee’s families. Bredesen praised Conte as an “amazing” first lady highlighting her efforts to help abused children by treking 600 miles record on key municipal issues across Tennessee and thanked her for “32 years of love and friendship.” Entertaining performances included the Tennessee National Guard • Tennessee Town and City Band and the Tennessee School for the Blind’s choral ensemble. The ceremony was attended by all four previous governors, • Legislative Conference (1971-75), U.S. Sen. (1979-87), Ned McWherter (1987-95), and (1995-2003) along with Nashville Mayor Bill • Annual Conference Purcell, U.S. Sen. and former U.S. Sen. Dr. Bill Frist. Bredesen will specify his agenda for his second term during his upcoming Legislative Bulletin State of the State address Feb. 5. The governor is pictured above alongside his wife First Lady Andrea Conte, his uncle, Milton Walburn, and During the legislative session, newlywed son, Ben Bredesen, accompanied by his wife Dru. See INAUGURAL PHOTOS on Page 9 See HOMETOWN on Page 4 State Emergency Board prepares Statewide franchising to launch 911 modernization project legislation shortchanges BY VICTORIA SOUTH TML Communications Coordinator local governments The Tennessee Cable Tele- local governments, new compa- In the near future, current tech- communications Association nies entering the market can nology that consumers enjoy in lei- (TCTA) will fight against an an- cherry-pick neighborhoods for ser- sure will vastly improve the capa- ticipated proposal by BellSouth/ vices and effectively discriminate bilities of emergency 911 call sys- AT&T to strip local governments against lower income and rural ar- tems across the state. of approval and oversight of cable eas. “Next Generation 911” is a and video franchising. TCTA in- “Companies offering new ser- statewide modernization project ini- stead urges that competitors go vices should go through competi- tiated by the Tennessee Emergency through the current process that tive channels already open to Communications Board (TECB) has worked extremely well for lo- them,” Briggs said. “BellSouth/ linking all of Tennessee’s 911 call cal governments, consumers, and AT&T has had the ability to enter centers with an Internet protocol (IP) cable companies. this business for 10 years through network. “Stripping power from local the existing local application pro- Speedier and more reliable than governments by creating a shortcut cess and have chosen not to, and old fashioned copper telephone for new franchise approvals at the now they want a shortcut.” wires, 911 calls will be transmitted state level is unfair. It gives “Competition is good for con- through fiber optic cables and other BellSouth/AT&T a competitive sumers and the marketplace,” high speed circuitry. business advantage at the Briggs said. “But all telecommuni- With the click of a button, call consumer’s expense. BellSouth/ cations companies should play by centers across the state will be able The Putnam County 911 Emergency call center services the cities of Cookeville, Algood, Baxter, and Monterey. AT&T will get to choose who they the same rules with like services to transfer emergency calls to the want to serve,” said Stacey Briggs, treated alike. BellSouth/AT&T correct districts or send instructional the call center where it will be for- cal services. “All the phone compa- TCTA executive director. has new products and they should items such as maps, weather infor- warded to the responding police of- nies and call centers, and other infor- TCTA has launched a new bring those to consumers through a mation, or first aid directions to call- ficers equipped with squad car com- mational sources and the Internet Web site, www.CableConnects front door that is already wide open ers via the Internet. puter terminals. world are connected to the big cloud Tennessee.com, to inform the pub- to them through local franchise ap- Likewise, callers could forward “Think of NG911 like a big where information flows freely and lic about a legislative effort the plications and contracts.” cell phone photos of accident cloud in the sky,” said Rex steadily.” organization believes would be “These local agreements exist scenes, crime suspects or vehicles to Holloway, TECB director of techni- See NEXT GEN 911 on Page 4 bad policy for consumers. to protect consumers, local gov- Without the strong agree- ernments and the public rights-of- ments that exist between current way. The fact of the matter is Microsoft settlement garners $3.5 cable providers and Tennessee’s See TELECOM on Page 7 million for state’s schools systems BY VICTORIA SOUTH Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Of- Governors lose in power TML Communications Coordinator fice applications and encyclopedia software as well as certain non- struggle over National Guard School administrators across Microsoft software. the state will be scurrying to take In order to be reimbursed BY KAVAN PETERSON guardsmen in Louisiana in the chaos advantage of more than $3.5 million through the voucher system, school Stateline. org after the hurricane, but Gov. in software vouchers to be distrib- personnel must submit appropriate Kathleen Blanco refused to relin- uted by the Tennessee Department paperwork verifying proof of pur- A little-noticed change in fed- quish command. of Education, the result of a class chase of select software items to the eral law packs an important change Over objections from all 50 gov- action settlement with Microsoft Tennessee Department of Education in who is in charge the next time a ernors, Congress in October Corporation. by April 30, 2007. state is devastated by a disaster such tweaked the 200-year-old Insurrec- The suit alleges that Microsoft “We are pleased that the out- as Hurricane Katrina.To the dismay tion Act to empower the hand of the maintained a monopoly by using come will allow Tennessee school of the nation’s governors, the White president in future stateside emer- unlawful trade practices and over- systems to upgrade technology for House now will be empowered to go gencies. In a letter to Congress, the charged Tennessee consumers. the benefit of their students and al- over a governor’s head and call up governors called the change “a dra- The state’s suit, handled by low additional resources to be di- National Guard troops to aid a state matic expansion of federal authority Tennessee attorneys James Stranch rected toward improving teaching in time of natural disasters or other during natural disasters that could of Branstetter, Stranch & Jennings, and learning,” said Education Com- public emergencies. cause confusion in the command- PLLC and Ted Carey of Barrett, missioner Lana Seivers. Lana Seivers Up to now, governors were the and-control of the National Guard Johnston & Parsley resulted in one “Schools may also submit re- sole commanders in chief of citizen and interfere with states’ ability to of the strongest settlements in the ceipts for items previously pur- should be completed. The free soldiers in local guard units during respond to natural disasters within nation garnering $15.3 million. chased,” added department spokes- money is for software falling under emergencies within the state. A con- their borders.” Each school district will receive person Rachel Woods. “We’ve had specific grievances.” flict over who should control Guard The change adds to tensions be- approximately $16.40 per student no complaints, just phone calls from “We definitely can’t let this op- units arose in the days after Hurri- tween governors and the White toward current or future Microsoft school personnel asking what types portunity slide by,” said Andy cane Katrina in 2005. President House after more than four years of operating system software such as of software qualified and what forms See MICROSOFT on Page 8 Bush sought to federalize control of See GOVERNORS on Page 8 www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007

African-American residents made BY TISH WOMACK close was made in an effort to be up 45.1 percent of the residents in TML Research Analyst more competitive globally. the area and that if current birth- BRISTOL JONESBOROUGH death and migration trends continue, The city council meetings will soon Mountain Homes magazine named that group will comprise more than be streaming on the Web and plans Jonesborough to the 2007 Best of 50 percent of the population in the are in the works for live broadcasting Mountains list in its Winter 2007 near future. Main Street innovation grant money over cable by summer. Annual Guide issue. The publica- tion focuses on upscale communi- NASHVILLE available to Tennessee communities CHATTANOOGA ties in Maryland, North Carolina, Mayor is one of several The Smart-Way camera program South Carolina, Tennessee, Vir- Tennessee mayors who signed on to The Tennessee Department of grant should follow the Main Street with 59 cameras located in one-mile ginia, and West Virginia. the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Economic and Community Devel- four-point approach to downtown increments on I-75, state Highway Agreement setting goals for cities to opment (ECD) has launched an In- revitalization,” said Kimberly 153, I-24, and U.S. Highway 27 can LAVERGNE reduce greenhouse gas emissions. novation Grant program for Main Nyberg, Tennessee Main Street pro- be accessed on the Internet and is Moll Industries, a plastic parts Street communities to develop new, gram coordinator. giving Chattanoogans information manufacturer, closed its LaVergne OAK RIDGE innovative projects for their commu- “This community-driven com- on road conditions, backups, and plant leaving 153 workers without In the next three years, before the nities. prehensive approach, which in- crash sites. Chattanooga is the last of jobs. U.S. Department of Energy closes “We are encouraging Main cludes design, economic restructur- Tennessee’s Big Four cities to the Oak Ridge incinerator, about 10 Street communities to develop inno- ing, promotion and organization, launch the program. MADISON million pounds of toxic waste will be vative ideas to improve their historic addresses the specific needs in a tra- Construction on Phase One of the burned. The waste will be brought to downtown districts,” said ECD ditional commercial district. This CHATTANOOGA Greenways Peeler Park began in the Oak Ridge facility from 11 facili- Commissioner Matthew Kisber. grant encourages communities to The American Planning Association December and is expected to be ties outside the state. All residual “Community development is the create innovative solutions to down- has awarded Chattanooga its 2007 completed by April at the latest. In- waste will be removed by the genera- first step to successful economic de- town revitalization.” National Planning Excellence cluded in the park are walking and tor or be sent to a permitted disposal velopment and this grant helps com- The Main Street program is part Award for Implementation for its equestrian trails that will wind site. munities improve their quality of life of the Community Development Di- commitment to bicycle transporta- around the Cumberland River. and position themselves for eco- vision at ECD. It provides commu- tion. Plans over the next 20 years are PULASKI nomic growth.” nities with technical assistance and for a bicycle network of over 400 MARTIN A U.S. Department of Homeland The one-time Main Street Inno- guidance in developing long-term miles in the city and region with A Fire Act Grant of $94,321 from the Security Assistance to Firefighters vation Grant is a new program de- strategies that promote economic nearly 200 miles of new, existing, or U.S. Department of Homeland Se- grant of $67,445 will be used by signed for Tennessee’s 20 certified growth and development. The pro- previously planned routes presently curity will be used toward replacing Pulaski’s fire department for pur- Main Street communities. The grant gram provides information and as- in place. The award will be given at 20 worn out and defective air packs. chasing self contained breathing ap- supports the development of new sistance in forging public network- APA’s April national meeting. paratus and accessories. and innovative projects, programs, ing and training opportunities for MEMPHIS activities, and technology that ex- downtown commercial districts. CLEVELAND Memphis Light, Gas and Water SPRING HILL hibit best practices in downtown re- Main Street revitalization is a Whirlpool announced it will cut 370 Division’s 20-year contract with City officials have decided it is time vitalization. comprehensive, incremental, self- jobs and shift them from Chatta- Tennessee Energy Acquisition to conduct another census count in Each certified Main Street com- help economic strategy that also fo- nooga to Tulsa and Mexico. The cuts Corp. (TEAC) for natural gas will the fourteenth fastest-growing city munity is eligible for $10,000 in cuses on developing public-private will begin in April. save the city’s residents $102 mil- in the country. The city estimates the grant money and 20 percent must be partnerships to enhance community lion. MLGW is one of seven utilities population has grown to 24,000 matched from the certified Main livability and job creation, while COLUMBIA/MAURY participating in the prepay offer fi- from the 2005 count of 17,325. Street Program. maintaining the historic character of COUNTY nanced by TEAC with tax-exempt “The projects proposed for the the district. Late 2007 will be the kickoff for the bonds. MLGW will purchase 13 per- Columbia/Maury County bicenten- cent of its gas needs during the first nial celebration with plans for a year 10 years and 20 percent in the last 10 of festivities. The selected bicenten- years of the contract. nial logo features a representation of the progression of change over the MEMPHIS years. In the next few years the eight- county Memphis area will become JOHNSON CITY the first large metropolitan area in Snap-on Tools plant will close by the the nation with a majority African- middle of the year with the loss of American population. In 2005, the nearly 150 area jobs. The decision to U.S. Census Bureau estimated that BankBank ofof AmericaAmerica BY TISH WOMACK pointed city attorney. He replaces retiring Fred Kelly who served as U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander was city attorney for 24 years. is proud to support elected co-chairman of the bicam- is proud to support eral, bipartisan Tennessee Valley Bolivar City Administrator James Authority Caucus. Lee retired effective mid January. TennesseeTennessee MunicipalMunicipal League.League. Gov. Phil Alcoa Fire Chief Larry Graves an- Bredesen named nounced his plan to retire effective Tennessee Regu- Feb. 9. He has been a member of the latory Authority fire department since 1965 with the Director Eddie exception of a military hitch from Roberson to a 1966-68. Graves has been chief new subcommit- since 1992. tee of the Na- tional Associa- Former Tennessee Supreme Court tion of Regula- Roberson Chief Justice Charles O’Brien died tory Utilities on Jan. 18, at age 86. He served as a commissioners that will analyze its state representative from Memphis education and research programs beginning in 1961, was elected to the and opportunities. Tennessee Court of Criminal Ap- peals in 1970, and appointed to the Visit us at www.bankofamerica.com. Bredesen named Perry Gibson of state Supreme Court in 1987 where Memphis to be the new executive he served as chief justice in 1994. director of the Tennessee Film, En- His wife of 40 years is former state tertainment and Music Commission. Sen. Anna Belle Clement O’Brien.

Dayton Police Department’s in- Former state Rep. Bobby Hicks died house computer crime division is at age 68 on Jan. 7, following an headed by Patrolman Steve Rievley, extended illness. He served two the area’s only certified computer terms in the Tennessee House from forensic technician. 1994 to 1998.

Mount Juliet hired Eddie Stott as its John Birdwell, husband of former full-time finance director, effective Newport mayor and TML Mayor of Jan. 16. the Year Jeanne Wilson Birdwell, Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. died Jan. 3, of cancer. He was the ©2004 Bank of America Corporation. Bartlett Assistant city Attorney Ed- Newport 2004 Chamber of Com- SPN-41-AD ward McKenney Jr. has been ap- merce Citizen of the Year.

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NASHVILLE (615) 366-1600 P.O. Box 29268 • Murfreesboro, TN 37133- KNOXVILLE (865) 588-4166 2968 WWW.GRWINC.COM (615) 895-8221 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 www.TML1.org New members in the 105th General Assembly Legislative Leadership – 2007 - 2008 Kee. Having attended Cleveland State Ron Lollar (R- SENATE Senate Community College, he is a beef cattle Bartlett) repre- farmer and owner/operator of his own sents the District Members business. He serves on the Agricul- 99 part of Shelby ture and Government Operations county. He was Dewayne Bunch committees and was also elected Re- born in Jackson in (R-Cleveland) publican assistant floor leader. 1948, served in represents the Robert Bibb (D- the U. S. Marine District 9 part of Springfield) won Corps from 1967-1971, got his associ- Bradley County. the open seat of ate degree from Jackson State Com- He served four Gene Davidson in munity College in 1973, and his B. S. terms in the House District 66 repre- from State University in before winning the Speaker/Lt. Gov. Speaker Pro Tem Republican Leader Democratic Leader senting Robert- 1975. He won Bubba Pleasant’s open open seat of Jeff Miller. An attorney Rosalind Kurita Mark Norris son County. With seat by winning 46 percent of the vote with a B.S. from TTU in Cookeville, a a B.S. in agricul- against seven other Republicans in master’s from ETSU, and a J.D. from ture from the UT-Knoxville, he is as- the primary, and then defeated a UT Knoxville, he is vice chair of Envi- sistant executive director in Economic Democratic candidate in the general Officers and Members of ronment, secretary of Rules, on Com- Development for the Middle Tennes- election. He serves on the Agriculture the Tennessee merce, Government Operations com- see Industrial Development Associa- and Education committees. mittees. Senate Committees tion. He serves on several economic, Lowe Finney (D – industrial councils and boards. In the (R-Bristol) was Jackson) repre- House he serves on the Agriculture born in 1961 at Calendar sents the District and State & Local committees. Royal Oak, Mich. Raymond Finney, Chair; 27 parts of Madi- Kevin Brooks (R- He has a bache- Jim Kyle, Mark Norris. Republican Caucus Democratic Caucus son, Gibson, and Cleveland) beat lor’s degree in Chair Diane Black Chair Joe Haynes Carroll counties) several primary communications Commerce, Labor Agriculture that he won by opponents to rep- from the Univer- Steve Southerland, Chair; Paul Stanley, Chair; , Secretary. Mae Bea- defeating incum- resent part of Bra- sity of Southern Colorado and at- Vice-Chair; Charlotte Burks, Secretary. vers, Dewayne Bunch, , bent Don McLeary. Lowe is an adjunct dley County in Mae Beavers, Dewayne Bunch, Tim Lowe Finney, Jack Johnson, Paul Stanley, professor at Lane University and tended graduate school at Wichita District 24. His State. He is in public relations, broad- Burchett, Ward Crutchfield, Reginald Reginal Tate and . Lambuth College. He will serve as vice B.A. is from Lee Tate, John Wilder. chair of State & Local, and as a mem- cast news, and advertising. He won University in Cleveland and he coordi- the open District 1 seat of Steve Judiciary ber of the Environment and the Gov- nates public relations and conference Education Mae Beavers, Chair; Doug Jackson, Vice- ernment Operations committees. Godsey. He is on the Commerce and management for the Church of God. Judiciary committees. Jamie Woodson, Chair; Reginald Tate, Chair; Jamie Woodson, Secretary. Diane (D- He has been a Cleveland City Plan- Vice-Chair; Mike Williams, Secretary. Black, Shea Flinn, Jim Kyle, Mark Norris, Memphis) was ap- ning commissioner. He is on the Chil- Charlotte Burks, Rusty Crowe, Ward Paul Stanley and John Wilder. pointed to repre- dren & Family Affairs and Consumer & (R-Lenoir City) Crutchfield, Joe Haynes, Bill Ketron and sent the District 30 Employee Affairs committees. represents the Jim Tracy. State &Local Government District 21 parts of part of Shelby Jim Cobb (R- Bill Ketron, Chair; Lowe Finney, Vice- Loudon and Mon- County that Steve Hixson, Spring Environment, Conservation, Tourism Chair; Bo Watson, Secretary. Tim roe counties. He Cohen vacated City) won the open Tommy Kilby , Chair; Dewayne Bunch, Burchett, Jerry Cooper, Thelma Harper, owns a tire dealer until a special ge- seat of Sen. Bo Vice-Chair; Doug Jackson, Secretary. Joe Haynes, Mark Norris and Jim Tracy. neral election is held in March. An business and is Watson in District Lowe Finney, Raymond Finney, Roy attorney with a law degree from Mem- past president of the Tennessee / 31 representing Herron, Bill Ketron, Steve Southerland Transportation phis University, he is not a candidate. Kentucky Tire Dealers Association. north Hamilton and Mike Williams. Jim Tracy, Chair; Tommy Kilby, Vice- He will be vice chair of Government He attended MTSU and UT. A board Chair; Jack Johnson, Secretary. Jerry and Rhea coun- member of the Tellico Reservoir De- Operations and members of State & ties. He has a bachelor’s degree in Finance, Ways and Means Cooper, Doug Jackson, Rosalind Kurita, velopment Agency, he won the open Local, and Judiciary committees. public administration from Memphis Randy McNally, Chair; Douglas Henry, Steve Southerland, Mike Williams, and seat of Rep. Russell Johnson. The Ophelia Ford (D- State University. A retired TVA Man- Vice-Chair; , Secretary. Jamie Woodson. former chair of the Loudon County Memphis) repre- ager at Watts Bar Nuclear Plant, he Diane Black, Raymond Finney, Joe Republican Party serves on State & sents the District serves on Government Operations Haynes, Rosalind Kurita, Jim Kyle, Mark Ethics Local and Transportation. 29 part of Mem- and Health & Human Resources. Norris, Bo Watson and John Wilder. Joe Haynes, Chair; Diane Black, Charlotte Steve McManus phis, the seat her (R- Burks, Steve Southerland and Mark (R – Cordova) brother John Ford Bartlett) a civics General Welfare, Health, & Human Norris. serves the District held. She earned a teacher at Bolton Resources 96 part of Shelby B.S. from Tennes- High School, Rusty Crowe, Chair; Rosalind Kurita, Rules County, having see State University, is a certified fu- serves on the Vice-Chair; Raymond Finney, Secretary. Mark Norris, Chair; Randy McNally, Vice won the Republi- neral service practitioner, involved Education and Diane Black, Ophelia Ford, Douglas Chair; Dewayne Bunch, Secretary. can primary to win with St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and State and Local Henry, Roy Herron, Jack Johnson and Rosalind Kurita and James Kyle. the seat vacated Carnival Memphis Krewes. She is sec- committees. He Randy McNally. retary of Government Operations and by Sen. Paul Delayed Bills has a B.A. with honors from Memphis Stanley. Born in October 1951, a B.A. member of the General Welfare com- Government Operations Speaker Ron Ramsey, James Kyle and State University and an M.A.T. from graduate of the College of Holy Cross mittees. the University of Memphis. He repre- Thelma Harper, Chair; Shea Flinn, Vice- Mark Norris. Jack Johnson (R- in Worcester, Mass., he is an invest- sents District 97 in the northern part of ment adviser who has co-chaired the Brentwood) won Shelby County, having won the open the District 23 seat Cordova Leadership Council, the seat of . Board of Germantown Community HOUSE vacated by Jim (R- Bryson that repre- Theatre, and is a regional business East Ridge) who commentator for Fox News. He serves sents Williamson filled the District and part of Da- on the Commerce and State & Local 30 seat represent- committees. vidson counties. ing part of Hamil- He grew up in Texas and has a B.S. Eddie Neal (D- ton County last Memphis) will from Southwest Texas State. He has year after Jack worked for then Third National Bank, serve on the Gov- Sharp died while ernment Opera- became Sr. Vice President with Pin- in office. The 27 year policeman then nacle Financial Partners. He is secre- tions & Transpor- retired from the Chattanooga PD Po- tation committees tary of Transportation and member of lice Department and resigned as Speaker Speaker Pro Tem Majority Leader Republican Leader representing Dis- Government Operations and General mayor of East Ridge. A former mem- Lois DeBerry Gary Odom Jason Mumpower Welfare committees. trict 92 – part of ber of the TML Board of Directors, he Midtown and Inner City Memphis. He Officers and Members of Paul Stanley (R- serves on State & Local and the Trans- fills the interim seat vacated by Henri Memphis) served the Tennessee portation committees. Brooks until a special election is held. in the House for Henry Fincher Neal, 61, has owned for 43 years, Neal House of Representatives three terms before (D-Cookeville) Masonry, a member of Brick Layers winning the open represents the Committees Local. In the past he ran for this seat District 31 seat of District 42 part of Agriculture and twice for city council. Curtis Person. An Putnam County, Stratton Bone, Chair; Willie Borchert, Vice-Chair; Robert Bibb, Secretary. investment banker winning the open Joe Pitts (D- for the Stanford Group Company in Eddie Bass, William Baird, , seat vacated by Clarksville), born Memphis, he has born in Savannah, Chris Crider, Bill Dunn, , Democratic Caucus Republican Caucus Jere Hargrove. August 1958 in Tenn., and has degrees from Tyler , John Litz, Ron Lollar, Chair Randy Rinks Chair Born in Cookeville in 1969, he gradu- Clarksville, gradu- Junior College and Texas Tech Uni- Steve McDaniel, , Eric ated with a B.A. summa cum laude ated from Austin versity. He is vice chair of the Com- Swafford and John Mark Windle. Armstrong, Stratton Bone, Rob Briley, from UT-Knoxville in 1991, then Peay State Uni- merce and member of the State & Harry Brooks, Tommie Brown, Kent earned a law degree from Harvard. versity with a B.S., Local, Government Operations, and Calendar and Rules Coleman, Charles Curtiss, Bill Dunn, Lois The former chairman of the Tennes- and is a banker. the Judiciary committees. see Registry of Election Financeis on Larry Miller, Chair; John Hood, Vice- Deberry, Michael Harrison, Beth Harwell, He is the chairman of the Memorial Chair; John Litz, Secretary. John Hood, Mark Maddox, Steve Reginald Tate (D- the Transportation and Judiciary General Hospital District Board of Memphis) won the committees. McDaniel, Jason Mumpower, Larry Trustees of and a member of the Children and Family Affairs Miller, Gary Odom, Doug Overbey, District 33 open Richard Floyd Downtown District Partnership Board John J. DeBerry, Jr., Chair; , Phillip Pinion, Randy Rinks, Dennis seat of Kathryn (R-Chattanooga) of Directors. His district 67 seat repre- Vice-Chair; , Secretary; Roach, Charles Sargent, Janis Sontany, Bowers after she won the open sents Montgomery County. He is cur- Tommie F. Brown, Kevin Brooks, Glen Nathan Vaughn and Kent Williams. withdrew from the seat of Chris rently Vice President at Planters Bank Casada, Barbara Cooper, Joanne Favors, race last year. An Clem to represent in Clarksville. His committee assign- Richard Floyd, , Brian Government Operations architect, he is the District 27 ments are the Commerce and State & Kelsey, Mark Maddox, Donna Rowland, , Chair; Barbara Cooper, vice chair of the Education and mem- part of Hamilton Local committees. Johnny Shaw, Mike Turner, Nathan Vice-Chair; Gary Rowe, Secretary. Mike, ber of Commerce and Government County where he Gary Rowe (D- Bell, , Glen Casada, Jim Operations committees. He has a was born in 1944. He serves on the Vaughn. Memphis) is actu- Cobb, Lois DeBerry, , Beverly bachelor’s in architectural engineer- Children & Family Affairs and the Con- ally a returnee in Marrero, Jason Mumpower, Eddie Neal, ing technology from Memphis State servation & Environment committees. Commerce that in January Gary Odom, Randy Rinks and Eric University. He is president and CEO of A retired sales manager for the Chat- Charles Curtiss, Chair; David Shepard, Accent by Design. 2006 he won the Vice-Chair; Curt Cobb, Secretary. John Swafford. tanooga Coca-Cola Bottling Co, he interim seat of Bo Watson (R- was was chair of the city/county Big DeBerry, Joanne Favors, Dennis Kathryn Bowers Health and Human Resources Hixson) served Brothers/Big Sisters and of Bethel Ferguson, Craig Fitzhugh, Brenda who moved to the Joe Armstrong, Chair; , Vice- one term in the Bible Village. Gilmore, Jim Hackworth, Bill Harmon, Senate, representing the district 87 David Hawk, , Susan Lynn, Chair; Joanne Favors, Secretary. Jim House before win- Dale Ford (R- part of Shelby County. He serves on Jon Lundberg, Judd Matheny, Joe Cobb, Chris Crider, Lois DeBerry, John J. ning the open seat Jonesborough) Commerce and Government Opera- McCord, Gerald McCormick, Steve DeBerry, Jr., Tom DuBois, Jimmy of David Fowler won a hard fought tions committees. Born in Kansas McManus, Richard Montgomery, Joe Eldridge, Dennis Ferguson, Michael representing Dis- contest against City, Mo., his bachelor’s in business Pitts, , Gary Rowe, Charles Harrison, , Sherry Jones, trict 11 in Ham- five other Republi- administration is from LeMoyne-Owen Sargent, Park Strader, , Joe Debra Maggart, Beverly Marrero, Jason ilton County. A physical therapist at can candidates by College in Memphis. He is president Towns, Jr., Eddie Yokley. Mumpower, Gary Odom, Doug Overbey, Parkridge Medical Center, he teaches a few votes. He’s and general partner of Memphis Busi- David Shepard, Mike Turner and Kent physical therapy at UT-Chattanooga had a career of and Chattanooga State Community ness Development Corporation and Conservation and Environment Williams. close calls. For 27 years, he was an president of the Black United Fund of College. He is secretary of State & American League Professional Base- Frank Buck, Chair; John Tidwell, Vice- Local, and member of Finance and Tennessee, Inc., and past chair of the Chair; , Secretary. Will- Judiciary ball umpire. Succeeding Congress- Economic Development Council. Government Operations committees. man David Davis, he represents Dis- iam Baird, Willie Borchert, Richard Rob Briley, Chair; Kent Coleman, Vice- Kent Williams (R- Floyd, George Fraley, David Hawk, Mike Chair; Janis Sontany, Secretary. Eddie trict 6, including parts of Washington Butler, a suburb of House and Hawkins counties. The Jonesbo- Kernell, Joe McCord, Frank Niceley. Bass, Frank Buck, Henry Fincher, Jon Elizabethton), is a Lundberg, Judd Matheny and Eric rough native serves on the Agriculture restaurant owner Members and Transportation committees. Consumer and Employee Affairs Watson. and farmer. He Michael McDonald, Chair; Mike Turner, Eddie Bass (D- Brenda Gilmore represents the Prospect) beat pri- (D-Nashville) a Vice-Chair; Jim Hackworth, Secretary. State and Local Government District 4 part of Kevin Brooks, Stacey Campfield, Glen Ulysses Jones, Jr., Chair; Eddie Yokley, mary candidates Metro Council- Carter County. He and one in the Casada, Sherry Jones, Gary Moore, Frank Vice-Chair; Gary Moore, Secretary. Rob- member, beat six- defeated incumbent Jerome Cochran general election to Niceley, Donna Rowland, Larry Turner. ert Bibb, Jim Coley, Vince Dean, Jimmy term incumbent in the primary. Carter’s community in- win the open Dis- Eldridge, Joey Hensley, Curtis Johnson, Edith Langster in volvements include the Elizabethton- trict 65 seat vaca- Education John Litz, Jimmy Matlock, Steve the primary to rep- Carter County Chamber of Com- ted by Joe Fowl- Les Winningham, Chair; Tommie Brown, McManus, Larry Miller, Joe Pitts, Mary resent the District merce, the Tennessean Restaurant kes representing Giles and Marshall 54 part of Metro Nashville/Davidson Vice-Chair; , Jr., Secretary. Pruitt, Randy Rinks, Park Strader, Harry Association, and the Elizabethton- Counties. The former sheriff of Giles County. The retired director of univer- Harry Brooks, Jim Coley, Barbara Coo- Tindell, Curry Todd, , Jr. Carter County Hunting and Fishing County, is on the Agriculture and sity mail service at Vanderbilt Univer- per, Dolores Gresham, Beth Harwell, John Club. Judiciary Committees. sity has a bachelor’s in business from Hood, Phillip Johnson, Ulysses Jones, Jr., Transportation Mike Bell (R- Tennessee State University. Her Ron Lollar, Mark Maddox, Michael Phillip Pinion, Chair; George W. Fraley, Riceville) repre- master’s in human resource develop- Photos courtesy of McDonald, Gerald McCormick, Richard Vice-Chair; Bill Harmon, Secretary. Curt sents District 23 ment is from Vanderbilt. Her house The Tennessee Journal Montgomery, Larry Turner and John Mark Cobb, Vince Dean, Henry Fincher, Dale that includes Mc- assignments are secretary of Conser- and Windle. Ford, Matthew Hill, Curtis Johnson, Minn and part of vation & Environment and as member Phillip Johnson, Debra Maggart, Jimmy the Tennessee General Finance, Ways and Means Matlock, Eddie Neal, John C. Tidwell, Monroe counties, of Commerce committees. She has Assembly web site having defeated many civic involvements and has Craig Fitzhugh, Chair; Harry Tindell, Nathan Vaughn, , Ben West incumbent Bob Mc- chaired many city council committees. Vice-Chair; Johnny Shaw, Secretary. Joe Jr., and Les Winningham. www.TML1.org 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 TML launches new advocacy efforts: Hometown Connection BY TISH WOMACK have earned National Board Certifi- TML Research Analyst cation. HOMETOWN from Page 1 This section will also feature a sist staff in preparation of weekly the Legislative Bulletin is one of the series of legislative folders packed whip reports and help to ensure each The Tennessee Department of The official 2007 Tennessee map is main tools that TML uses to commu- with information on key issues that legislator is contacted on key legis- Transportation announced two available from the Department of nicate with its members on issues affect municipalities, a bill tracking lative matters. This information will new grant projects aimed at reduc- Transportation. Organizations and affecting local governments. Dis- system to stay current on specific be used to develop a real-time pic- ing emissions from diesel engines in schools may order up to 100 maps tributed each Friday to every city legislation as it moves through the ture of legislator’s positions on is- non-attainment areas. The pilot either by going to www.tn.gov/tdot/ hall in Tennessee, the bulletin fo- process, as well as access to Legisla- sues of importance to municipalities projects will provide $1.6 million in MapOrder/maporder.htm or mailing cuses on priority bills as they move tive Bulletins, and Action Alerts dis- and enable District officers and staff competitive grant funds for retrofit- a written request for up to five free through the legislative process, re- tributed throughout the session. to effectively target outreach efforts. ting older diesel engines used in maps to: Tennessee Department of caps the week’s legislative activity District Directors Program Access to Legislators’ Voting road construction equipment and Transportation, Map Sales Office, and previews the upcoming week. The District Directors will help Record on Key Municipal Issues locomotives. The funds are pro- 505 Deaderick Street, James K. Polk It’s important that at least one build, foster, and facilitate key rela- TML will create a permanent record vided under the federal Congestion Building, Suite 300, Nashville, TN staff person is designated as a point tionships with city officials and state of legislators’ committee and floor Mitigation and Air Quality Im- 37243-0345. of contact and given the responsibil- legislators throughout each district. votes on bills and amendments of provement program. City, county, and state maps can ity for immediate review and distri- Lobbying efforts will become more interest to municipalities. Members be accessed by clicking on http:// bution of the Legislative Bulletin localized by establishing each dis- will receive timely updates of votes, The Tennessee Bureau of Investi- www.tdot.state.tn.us//maps.htm. and for initiating a timely response trict as primary points of contact and as well as receive an annual gation has recovered $3.5 million to legislators and/or to the League. a point of origin for all lobbying scorecard at the end of each session. on behalf of the Tennessee Medic- A new Department of Homeland Action Alerts efforts. In addition, the membership will be aid Program in 2006 from efforts to Security program, TRIPwire With the fast pace of the legisla- District Directors will actively able to access legislator’s voting curb healthcare fraud in Tennessee. (Technical Resource for Incident tive session, often legislation is filed engage in arranging meetings for records through a members-only, Prevention), has been made avail- or an amendment proposed that re- city officials with legislators, serve password protected section. Financial disclosure information able to the 16 bomb squads in the quires an immediate response from as a media spokesperson, and pro- Tennessee Town and City must be filed by Jan. 31, by all local state. TRIPwire allows the bomb municipal leaders. vide feedback to the League on what Published semi-monthly, the elected officials and certain state squads access to up-to-date informa- Action Alerts will be distributed they are hearing in the “field.” League’s newspaper reports on lo- officials, according to the Tennes- tion on improvised explosive de- via email that will inform you of Often, District Directors will be cal, state, and federal government see Ethics Commission. Further in- vices (IED) used by terrorists world- recent developments and request the League’s first contact on impor- issues, legislative concerns, affili- formation can be obtained by con- wide. that you contact your legislator im- tant legislative matters and they may ated association’s activities, and in- tacting Bruce A. Androphy at 615- mediately. be asked to disseminate the informa- novative municipal services and 253-2666. A toll-free litter hotline for people Whenever possible, action tion to city officials within their area. programs. Readership includes mu- to report litter bugs has been alerts will be targeted and tailored to Hometown Heroes nicipal officials throughout the One hundred twenty-six new launched as a part of the anti-litter members who have either expressed Hometown Heroes is a TML ini- state, the governor’s administration, grants for after-school programs campaign, StopLitter. By calling 1- interest in a specific issue area or his tiative that provides willing munici- the Tennessee General Assembly, using about $12.3 million in un- 877-854-8837, a person can report or her legislator serves on a key pal officials the opportunity to travel Tennessee’s Congressional delega- claimed lottery prize money was the license plate number (Tennessee legislative committee. to Nashville to testify, to lobby, or tion, and the media. announced by Gov. Phil Bredesen plates only), type and make of the For example, if a bill of impor- simply to demonstrate a municipal Legislative Conference and Education Commissioner Lana vehicle, day and time incident oc- tance is calendared for the House presence before a Senate or House In late February or early March Seivers. curred, location where incident oc- State and Local Government Com- standing committee on key issues. of each year, TML hosts a legislative curred, and the type of item tossed or mittee, city officials whose repre- Hometown Champions conference in Nashville to update The state Department of Educa- blown from the vehicle. TDOT will sentatives serve on that committee, Hometown Champions are the membership on developments of tion announced 51 Tennessee then mail a letter to the registered will receive an Action Alert, re- those municipal officials with the current legislative session and to teachers have completed the Na- owner of the vehicle reminding the questing they take action. unique relationships with legislators facilitate and encourage member tional Board Certification require- recipient of the law and fine of up to TML Web site and the other than their own. For example, a participation in the legislative pro- ments as defined by the National $1,500. A car trash bag and other Hometown Connection municipal official from West Ten- cess. Board for Professional Teaching anti-litter information will also be A new section to TML’s web nessee roomed with a legislator from Annual Conference Standards. To date, 232 teachers included with the letter. site, entitled Hometown Connec- while attending col- TML’s annual conference of- tion, has been developed and will lege. Those municipal officials who fers a broad range of educational serve as a legislative library that’s register to be a Hometown Cham- programs combined with network- TECB prepare to launch open 24/7. pion should rest assured that every ing opportunities for city officials By accessing the Hometown effort will be made to respect these from across the state. Offered in link, city officials will find informa- relationships and to mobilize this list June following the legislative ses- 911 modernization project tion on the League’s 2007 legislative sparingly. sion, the conference rotates each NEXT GEN 911 from Page 1 the system in place and we can agenda, complete with talking Legislative Contact Forms year between Memphis, Nashville, Internet protocol is also more gather information and make obser- points, background information, Members will be able to access Knoxville, Chattanooga, and prone to repair a broken connection vations. Our goal is to get the state’s and recent news articles. an on-line contact form that will as- Gatlinburg. as opposed to copper wiring, rerout- emergency systems (143 call cen- ing and correcting itself toward an- ters) digitized where they can talk to Parks, recreation grants available to local governments other destination. each other and share information.” “The 911 network that we have According to Questell, the through the Tennessee Recreation Incentive program now is antiquated,” said Randy Por- project will keep Tennessee in the ter, Putnam Co. 911 Emergency Di- forefront as a current national leader The Tennessee Department of 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon (CST) in the first two years, the community rector and Chair of the TECB Board. in 911 technologies. “We will con- Environment and Conservation Nashville,” said Mark Tummons, shall match up to $50,000 from the “Much of Tennessee’s present 911 tinue to be of service to all Tennes- wants to remind local governments director of the department’s Divi- State. infrastructure is built on 30-year-old see customers, whether wireline, that do not currently have parks or sion of Recreation Services. “Infor- In the third year, the commu- analog technology that was put in wireless, or other devices, and hope recreation departments that they can mation is also available on our Web nity is responsible for 100 percent place to facilitate the phone compa- to provide more services, for ex- take advantage of the Tennessee site at www.tdec.net/recreation.” of the funding for the program. nies’ landline phone billing. That ample, for those with hearing prob- Recreation Initiative Program With the April deadline ap- Deadlines: The deadline for infrastructure is not working ideally lems,” explained Questell. “We will (TRIP) grant program to help create proaching, Tummons reminds local filing a TRIP grant application is for the new VolP technology. choose the best technology we can parks and recreation opportunities in governments to start working on April 2, 2007. Grant recipients will A feasibility study was con- and continue moving ahead slow local communities. Applications for their applications now so they can be be announced in May. ducted by L. Robert Kimball & As- and easy.” TRIP grants are due in April. completed and submitted by the The Tennessee Recreation Ini- sociates where it was determined The TECB is currently prepar- “Approximately 30 percent of April 2 deadline. tiative Program was created in 1995 that the project could be completed ing a request for proposal (RFP) to- Tennesseans are not currently Those interested in participat- by the General Assembly. TRIP by 2011. However, board officials ward bidding on the project, with served by an organized local parks ing in the February 21 TRIP Grant grants are administered through the are in no hurry to rush the process.” cost estimates based upon a similar and recreation program,” said Envi- Workshop should contact the Divi- Department of Environment and “We’re going to start a step at a $6 million system in Indiana. ronment and Conservation Commis- sion of Recreation Services at (615) Conservation and provide funding time,” said Lynn Questell, TECB The plan will be funded by a $1 sioner Jim Fyke. “I am always 532-0748. The workshop will be to governments that do not cur- executive director. “We’re very fee collected monthly by the state pleased to see communities access held in the L&C Tower in Nashville. rently have parks and recreation lucky. Other states such as Indiana, from wireless telephone customers, this program to help provide parks Tennessee Recreation Initiative Pro- services within their jurisdictions. Vermont, and Montana already have Questell said. amenities for their citizens.” gram (TRIP) Grants provide fund- Any incorporated city or The Department of Environ- ing to governments that do not cur- county government may apply for ment and Conservation has taken rently have parks and recreation ser- funding through a competitive Save the Date! several steps to get the word out vices within their jurisdiction. matching grant process. about this grant program for local Eligibility: Any incorporated For more information about Tennessee Municipal League Legislative Conference governments that do not currently city or county government that parks, recreation and trails grants , meets the criteria may apply through visit: www.tdec.net/recreation and March 5-6, 2007 have a parks or recreation program. “We did a mass mailing to let a competitive matching grant pro- click on “Grants.” Downtown Double Tree Hotel communities know about the current cess. For further information, grant cycle and we will conduct a Grant Awards: TRIP grants please contact: Dana Coleman Nashville TN TRIP Grant Workshop on February are for a three-year period. During at 615- 253-1916.

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Jim Malone Office: (931) 433-6907 President FAX: (931) 433-9714 Toll Free (888) 752-7126 Email: [email protected] 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 www.TML1.org TML Board approves 2007 legislative agenda Each year, through a member- driven process, the TML Board of Directors adopts several priority is- sues that directly affect the future well-being of Tennessee’s cities and towns, and those who live in them. The League then has these issues introduced as legislation be- fore the Tennessee General Assem- bly and then works to usher these issues through the legislative pro- cess. During the fall, TML members submitted initiatives to be consid- ered by four policy committees – Finance and General Administra- tion; Public Safety; Utilities, Envi- ronment and Transportation; and Economic and Community Devel- opment. Participation in the Policy Committees was open to any TML member-municipality and its em- ployees. The priorities established by each committee were presented to the TML Legislative Committee and ultimately the full board of di- rectors for approval at the Novem- ber board meeting. For the 2007 legislative ses- sion, the TML Board approved six initiatives to pursue. More informa- tion on each legislative initiative can be found on TML’s web site, (Pictured left to right) Shelbyville City Manager Ed Craig, Springfield City Manager Paul Nutting, and McMinnville Mayor Royce Davenport www.TML1.org.

(Left) Bartlett Mayor Keith McDonald and Tennessee Chapter American Public (Left to right) Jim Brown, Tennessee Building Officials Association president, Alcoa Mayor Don Works Bo Mills Mull, and Alcoa City Manager Mark Johnson

Cookeville Vice Mayor Jean Davis and Huntingdon Mayor Dale Kelley

Jackson Mayor Charles Farmer and TMBF President and CEO Bones Seivers

TML Executive Director Margaret Mahery reviews legislative process with board members.

Dyersburg Alderman Bob Kirk and Edna Holland, TML Risk Manage- ment Pool, Government Relations Photos by Victoria South www.TML1.org 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007

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Spec equipment with ease at www.GovBidSpec.com 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 www.TML1.org Tennessee Municipal League 2006-2007 Officers and Directors Elected Officials Academy 2007 sessions PRESIDENT Tommy Bragg Mayor, Murfreesboro VICE PRESIDENTS Tommy Green Mayor, Alamo Tom Beehan Mayor Pro Tem, Oak Ridge TENNESSEE Royce Davenport . Mayor of McMinnville DIRECTORS FESTIVALS Randy Brundige (District 7) Mayor, Martin BY TISH WOMACK Ed Craig City Manager, Shelbyville (District 6) Let us know the particulars about Tommy Pedigo Mayor, Sparta (District 4) your most important festivals at least Jean Davis six weeks in advance of the event. E- Vice Mayor, Cookeville Avery Johnson mail Tish Womack at twomack@ Vice Mayor, Cleveland (District 3) TML1.org or fax to 615-255-4752. Johnny Dodd, Vice Mayor, Jackson Feb. 2-4: Eagle Festival at Reelfoot Mayor, Knoxville Lake with tours, art contest, story W.W. Herenton Mayor, Memphis telling, a birds of prey program and Jay Johnson more. Contact: U.S. Fish and Wild- City Manager, Franklin (TMLRMP) life at 1-800-250-8617. Mark Johnson City Manager, Alcoa (TCMA) Dale Kelley Mayor, Huntingdon Feb. 10: Jonesborough Music on the George Killebrew Mayor, Milan The Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS) will be hosting Elected Officials Square Winter Concert featuring the Ron Littlefield Academy sessions across the state this year. To register or for additional information please visit the MTAS King of Gypsy Swing, John Mayor, Chattanooga Jorgenson, at the Historic Keith McDonald (District 8) web site at www.mtas.utk.edu, or contact MTAS at 865-974-0411. Level one sessions can be registered thru Mayor, Bartlett your local MTAS management consultant. Pictured: A recent session at the TML offices in Nashville featured Jonesborough Visitors Center at Jim Messimer (District 1) Gerald Parrish of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Parks and Recreation 7:30 p.m. Contact: Elizabeth Berry Mayor, Bristol Don Mull Technical Advisory Service (PARTAS). at 423-753-1013. Mayor, Alcoa Paul Nutting (District 5) March 1-4: Nashville Lawn & Gar- City Manager, Springfield Statewide franchising legislation John Proffitt den Show, Tennessee State Fair- Mayor, Athens grounds from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. each Bill Purcell day; 5 p.m. closing on Sunday. Fee: Mayor, Metro Nashville shortchanges local governments Charles “Bones” Seivers $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, $1 for President-CEO, Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund TELECOM from Page 1 county and incorporated city in Ten- serve. In comparison, cable compa- children under 12. Visit Kay Senter BellSouth/AT&T has not made nessee contracts with companies nies have chosen to invest in all www.nashvillelawnandgardenshow.com Vice Mayor, Morristown (District 2) PAST PRESIDENTS good business decisions. They have who want to use the local rights-of- communities and neighborhoods in for more information. Charles Farmer (1995), Mayor, Jackson chosen not to invest in Tennessee way to offer cable service. These compliance with local agreements Dan Speer (1997) Mayor, Pulaski where cable has. The cable industry contracts known as franchises re- Sam Tharpe (2001) Vice Mayor, Paris and build-out requirements. Tom Rowland (2002) Mayor, Cleveland has invested $1 billion in infrastruc- quire cable operators to build out Cable’s local franchise agree- Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg ture in Tennessee since 1996. But it and serve the entire community re- ments also result in $40 million an- John Franklin Jr (2005) Councilman, Chattanooga appears BellSouth/AT&T would gardless of whether the customer nually in local franchise fee pay- TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS rather gain a financial advantage takes cable or not. ments to Tennessee local govern- (Ex-Officio Directors) and not have to play by the very rules The FCC now requires local ments. Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. that are in place to protect consum- cable-franchising authorities to act Jennifer Noe, Ashland City “The question must be asked Jan. 31: Stormceptor, Nashville Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference ers. A shortcut for them will short- on applications from competitors why BellSouth/AT&T wants to Ewing Sellers, Murfreesboro Stormwater Technology Workshop change the public.” within 90 days. avoid the local agreement process. at the Millennium Maxwell House Tennessee Chapter, American Public Works The process of contracting lo- BellSouth/AT&T is expected to William “Bo” Mills, Germantown We welcome fair competition that Hotel, Nashville. For more informa- Tennessee Government Finance Officers Assn. cally to provide service in accor- request a shortcut in the law so that it protects consumers and local gov- tion call: 800-475-6302, ext. 241. John Troyer, Knoxville dance with federal and state laws can gain single approval through the ernments, but cannot support hand- Tenn. Assn. of Housing & Redevel. Auth. Dow Harris, Cookeville has worked well for decades. The state rather than work with each lo- ing over an enormous and blatantly Feb. 1: Stormceptor, Nashville Tennessee Building Officials Assn. existing law and process enables cal government entity. The shortcut unfair advantage to companies like Stormwater Technology Workshop Jim Brown, Bartlett companies to apply with local gov- approach would save BellSouth/ BellSouth/AT&T who can certainly Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. at the Holiday Inn Select Down- Phil Vinson, Bristol ernments to provide services in the AT&T from costly build out require- afford the investment if they town, 252 Henly Street, Knoxville. Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports market place. Under the law, every ments in areas they do not intend to choose,” Briggs said. Larry Cox, Memphis For more information call: 800-475- Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police 6302, ext. 241. John Lowry, Johnson City Tennessee Water Quality Management Assn. TML 2007Legislative Conference Jack Graham, Maryville Feb. 5: Gov. Phil Bredesen’s State Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. Today’s Challenges are Tomorrow’s Opportunities of the State address, Nashville, TN. Dennis Suiter, Martin The Tennessee Municipal block from the Tennessee Perform- deadline is Feb. 5. Tennessee Chapter, American Planning Assn. Steven Neilson, Brentwood League 2007 Legislative Confer- ing Arts Center and the State Capitol All cancellations must be in Feb 20: Tennessee Business Tennesseee Personnel Management Association ence, “Today’s Challenges are and within blocks of the Gaylord letter format and postmarked by Matchmaking Program, Jackson William Brown, Alcoa Tomorrow’s Opportunities,” will Entertainment Center, Country Mu- Tenn. Assn. of Municipal Clerks & Recorders Friday, February 16. Please make Civic Centre, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Connie Kittrell, Gallatin be held March 5-6 at the sic Hall of Fame and Nashville Con- checks payable to the TML Legisla- Registration deadline: Feb 11. Reg- Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing DoubleTree Hotel, 315 4th Av- vention Center. tive Conference and mail to: ister at www.tnecd.gov/ Artie Prichard, Chattanooga enue North, in downtown Nash- All conference registration TN Section, Institute of Transportation Engineers Tennessee Municipal League, matchmaking. Registration fee: Greg Judy, Nashville ville. must be received by Friday, Feb. 16. Attn: Legislative Conference, $35. Tennessee Public Transportation Association Located in the heart of Music Delegate fees are $50 and spouse/ 226 Capitol Blvd. Suite 710 Tom Dugan, Chattanooga City USA, the hotel is located one guest fees are $20. Hotel registration Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors Nashville, TN 37219. Feb. 23: Tennessee Municipal At- Tommy White, Sevierville torneys Association Winter meeting Assn. of Independent and Municipal Schools at Mariott Cool Springs, Franklin; 8 Wayne Miller, LenoirCity a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Featured speaker: TML ASSOCIATE PARTICIPANTS Bruce Androphy, Executive Direc- DIAMOND LEVEL MEMBERSHIP tor, Tennessee Ethics Commission. Bank of America GOLD LEVEL MEMBERSHIP Visit www.tmaa.us for more infor- ING Financial Advisers, LLC mation. SILVER LEVEL MEMBERSHIP Sensus Metering Systems BRONZE LEVEL MEMBERSHIP Feb 26-27: ICMA, Smart Growth Ademus Technologies Network, and the U.S. Environmen- Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC Scott Companies tal Protection Agency present CORPORATE LEVEL MEMBERSHIP “Smart Growth for Local Govern- AMEC Earth & Environmental SECURITY ments: Creating and Sustaining Liv- American Concrete Pavement Association Askew Hargraves Harcourt & Associates, LLC able Communities” in the First Asphalt Zipper, Inc. Floor Training Rooms at ICMA Barge, Waggoner, Sumner, & Cannon, Inc. Headquarters, 777 North Capitol BellSouth Telecommunications Buxton Street, NE, Washington, DC. Regis- Bulli Ray Enterprises tration: $195 for individuals, $150 CH2M Hill for teams of three or more from the Charter Communications CLE International same jurisdiction, or $95 for stu- CMI Equipment Sales, Inc. dents. Registration closes Feb. 21. Comcast Cable Communications For more information and to regis- Consoer Townsend Envirodyne Engineers DBS & Associates Engineering ter: www.icma.org/smartgrowthdc. Education Networks of America Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. TENNESSEE MUNICIPAL LEAGUE STAFF Geothermal Utilities, LLC Margaret Mahery, Executive Director International Code Council, Inc. Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Iris Networks Carole Graves, Communications Director Johnson Controls Edna Holland, Government Relations, TML/RMP John Holloway, Government Relations Jordan, Jones & Goulding, Inc. Debbie Kluth, Dir. Marketing & Member Services J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers, Inc. Mona Lawrence, Administrative Assistant LaserCraft, Inc. Denise Paige, Government Relations Local Govt. Corporation Victoria South, Communications Coordinator The Malone Company Gael Stahl, Editor, Tennessee Town & City Manatron, Inc. Sylvia Trice, Director of Conference Planning Mattern & Craig, Consulting Engineers, Inc. Tish Womack, Research Analyst McGill Associates, P.A. Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY Nashville Tractor & Equipment, Inc. (ISSN. No. 0040-3415) Publication No. 539420 — Neil Group, LLC Official publication of the Tennessee Municipal Nortel League. Publisher: Margaret Mahery (mmahery@ Phoenix Tank Services TML1.org); Editor: Gael Stahl (gstahl@ TML1.org); Public Entity Risk Institute Classified ads and news briefs: Tish Womack Reflex Traffic Systems ([email protected]). Phone: 615-255-6416.Ad- ROBINSONGREEN, LLC vertising: Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising deemed unacceptable. Fax advertising copy Rush Truck Center, Nashville to TT&C: Attention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or SDP Government Solutions e-mail to dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions expressed non Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Operate with confidence. League officials or staff do not necessarily reflect SSR Ellers Inc. policies of TML. Tennessee Town & City is published, Tennergy Corporation semi-monthly, 20 times per year at 226 Capitol Blvd., Tennessee Asphalt Co. Suite 710, Nashville, TN 37219-1894. Periodicals Tennessee Cable Telecomunications Assn. postage paid at Nashville, TN. Subscription rates: $6 Tennessee Energy Acquisition Corporation Your city is safe with us. per year to members, $15 to nonmembers, $1 a copy. Tennessee Fiber Optic Communities Postmaster: Send changes of address to Tennessee Thompson & Litton, Inc. Town & City, 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, Thompson Machinery TN 37219-1894. TLM Associates, Inc. TRICOR Utility Service Co., Inc. Missed an issue? Vaughn & Melton Volkert & Associates 1•800•624•9698 Waste Management Wiser Company, LLC W.L. Hailey & Company, Inc. Read it On-line at www.TML1.org www.TML1.org 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 Governors lose in power struggle over National Guard GOVERNORS from Page 1 heavy federal deployment of state- Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. No per-level management experience and Ten- based Guard forces to fight in Iraq charge to TML members. Send advertising nessee experience with knowledge of all and Afghanistan. Since the 2001 to: TT&C Classified Ads Editor Tish controlling laws applicable to fire agencies terrorist attacks, four out of five Womack, 226 Capitol Blvd. Suite 710, in the state preferred. Highly desire a person guardsmen have been sent overseas Nashville TN 37219; e-mail: twomack@ with fire experience in a community and TML1.org; or fax: 615-255 4752. department of like size or larger with experi- in the largest deployment of the Na- ence as chief/assistant chief or command tional Guard since World War II. level. A Tennessee driver’s license required Shortage of the guard’s military CHIEF BUILDING INSPECTOR and the ability to meet all departmental and equipment – such as helicopters to MILLINGTON. The city of Millington is statutory standards as well as willing to meet drop hay to snow-stranded cattle in seeking qualified applicants for the position residency requirements is necessary. Salary of chief building inspector who is or certified range: $60,614-$89,981 plus excellent ben- Colorado – also is a nagging issue as or eligible for certification as a building efits. Submit cover letter stating interest, much of units’ heavy equipment is inspector/building codes analyst. The suc- qualifications, and salary history along with left overseas and unavailablein case cessful applicant must have a high school a resume and three professional references of a natural disaster at home. A diploma (or equivalent), associate’s degree to: UT-Municipal Technical Advisory Ser- bipartisan majority of both cham- in building inspection/engineering, con- vice, Attn: Gary Jaeckel, 226 Capitol Blvd, struction, or architecture (or related pre- Suite 606, Nashville, TN 37219. Deadline: bers of Congress adopted the change ferred), with training in building inspection, Feb. 7. EOE. as part of the 439-page, $538 billion building construction or architecture, and 2007 Defense Authorization Bill with a minimum of seven years of experience PLANNING AND CODES DIRECTOR signed into law last October. National Guard members conduct drill training exercises of an increasingly responsible administra- FAIRVIEW. The city of Fairview is seeking The nation’s governors through tive nature as a building inspector, engineer, applicants for the position of director of tus Act of 1878 forbids U.S. troops cluding U.S. Sens. John W. Warner architect, or construction superintendent, planning and codes under the direct supervi- the National Governors Association from being deployed on American (R-Va.) and Edward Kennedy (D- foreman or mechanic (or related); or any sion of the city manager. Responsibilities (NGA) successfully lobbied to de- soil for law enforcement. The one Mass.) said the changes were equivalent combination of education, train- include comprehensive plan development, feat a broader proposal to give the exception is provided by the Insur- needed to clarify the role of the ing, and experience which provides the req- design criteria, codes administration, build- president power to federalize Guard rection Act of 1807, which lets the uisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this ing inspection, zoning, and subdivision regu- armed forces in responding to seri- position. A valid Tennessee driver’s license lations enforcement. The position requires a troops without invoking the Insur- president use the military only for ous domestic emergencies. is also required. Send resume to: Director of bachelor’s degree in public administration, rection Act. But the passage that the purpose of putting down rebel- Mark Smith, spokesperson for Personnel, P.O. Box 247, Millington, TN planning, or related field, and five years of became law also “disappointed” lions or enforcing constitutional the Louisiana Governor’s Office of 38083; email: progressively responsible experience in governors because it expands fed- rights if state authorities fail to do so. Homeland Security and Emergency [email protected]; fax: planning or public administration, or equiva- eral power and could cause confu- Under that law, the president 901-873-5636; or, apply in person at: 4836 lent combination of experience and educa- Preparedness, said local and state Navy Road, Suite 3, Millington, TN. No tion. Send resume with salary requirements sion between state and federal au- can declare an insurrection and call emergency responders know what phone calls. Visit www.ci.millington.tn.us to: City of Fairview, Attn: City Manager, thorities trying to respond to an in the armed forces. The act has been their communities need during a cri- for more information. Deadline: Feb. 9. P.O. Box 69, Fairview, TN 37062. E-mail: emergency situation, said David invoked only a handful of times in sis better than officials in Washing- EOE. [email protected]. Position open until Quam, an NGA homeland security the past 50 years, including in 1957 ton. filled. EOE. advisor. CITY CLERK/FINANCE DIRECTOR to desegregate schools and in 1992 “The president should not be CLEVELAND. The city of Cleveland is ac- SENIOR ACCOUNTANT ”Governors need to be focused during riots in south central Los An- able to step in and take control of the cepting applications from qualified indi- BRISTOL. The city of Bristol is accepting on assisting their citizens during an geles after the acquittal of police National Guard without a viduals for the position of Director of Fi- applications for the position of senior ac- emergency instead of looking over accused of beating Rodney King. governor’s consent. The Guard be- nance/City Clerk. The position is respon- countant who will be responsible for super- their shoulders to see if the federal Congress changed the Insurrec- longs to the states, has always be- sible for assisting the city manager and other vising and managing property taxes, utility government is going to step in,” department heads with the development and billing, records management, customer ser- tion Act to list “natural disaster, epi- longed to the states and should re- implementation of financial policies, proce- vice, and managing the general ledger for Quam said.Under the U.S. demic, or other serious public health main a function of the states,” Smith dures, and controls; supervising the prepara- these areas. The position will be involved Constitution, each state’s National emergency, terrorist attack or inci- said. tion of financial statements and related re- with the annual financial audit and prepara- Guard unit is controlled by the gov- dent” as conditions under which the Stateline.org is an independent ports; supervising disbursement of city tion of the city’s Comprehensive Annual ernor in time of peace but can be president can deploy U.S. armed funds; coordinating development of the an- Financial Report, and will also work with the element of the Pew Research Center nual budget with the city manager, assistant director of finance regarding achievement of called up for federal duty by the forces and federalize state Guard based in Washington D.C. city manager, department heads, city coun- departmental goals and objectives and other president. troops if he determines that “authori- cil, and outside agencies; updating statistical accounting related projects. A degree in ac- The National Guard employs ties of the state or possession are tables and schedules, and complete an appli- countancy and a minimum of five to seven 444,000 part-time soldiers between incapable of maintaining public or- Rain or shine, cation and grading sheet for a government- years in a related field with supervisory ex- its two branches: the Army and Air der.” sponsored budget recognition program; perience is required. A CPA is preferred. A sleet or hail, managing the preparation of city council demonstrated knowledge of Governmental National Guards.The Posse Comita- Backers of the new rules, in- agendas and reviewing minutes of council Accounting Standard Board pronounce- every day is perfect meetings; coordinating city code updates, ments; generally accepted accounting prin- for a GovDeals sale! maintain official city files, records, minutes, ciples; governmental accounting, auditing, Microsoft settlement garners $3.5 leases, deeds, contracts, and financial and financial reporting; comprehensive an- records; assisting the public with requests nual financial reports; and statements of au- million for state’s school systems for information and attest official records; diting standards are necessary as well as supervising staff and performing various ability to perform accounting and financial MICROSOFT from Page 1 tage of the whole award and will personnel functions including hiring, train- research. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Arnold Director of Technology for examine several factors before we ing new employees; planning, assigning, and and other related software and network pro- Bristol City Schools in the Tri-Cities make our final decisions.” directing work; appraising performance, re- grams is necessary. Skills in interpersonal warding and disciplining employees, ad- communication, tact and diplomacy, keep- area awarded $62,000 in vouchers. Other school systems in the Tri- dressing complaints, and resolving prob- ing confidentiality, resourcefulness, and in “We have already spent close to City area receiving the statewide Online Government lems. Other duties may be assigned. Salary: building and maintaining effective relation- $25,000 across our school system,” awards include: Elizabethton, Surplus Auctions—24/7 $69,452 to begin. Send letter of interest with ships with city staff and officials are desired. said Arnold. “There’s a tight win- $33,000, Greenville, $45,000, resume to: City of Cleveland Human Re- Send resume and application, available at dow of time and we still have a lot of Kingsport, $105,000, and $116,000 sources Department, P.O. Box 1519, Cleve- www.bristoltn.org, to: City of Bristol, Hu- Visit GovDeals.com today land, TN 37364-1519; email: man Resource Department, P.O. Box 1189, questions. We will try to take advan- to Johnson City. or call 1-866-377-1494 [email protected]. EOE. Bristol, TN 37621-1189. EOE.

FIRE CHIEF SR ENGINEERING ASSOCIATE – GIS / BRISTOL. The city of Bristol, population CAD 25,435, is accepting applications for the po- Alcoa. The city of Alcoa Public Works & sition of fire chief (ISO Class 3). The quali- Engineering Dept. is accepting resumes fied individual will manager a $3 million from interested persons for the position of Sr. plus budget and direct a paid staff of 54 Engineering Associate – GIS / CAD. This is persons. The department provides fire and sub-professional engineering work in the emergency medical service (ALS) to a ser- Computer Aided Drafting and Geographic vice area of 31 square miles operating from Information System fields. Employees in four stations. The qualified individual will this class are expected to perform, under the be appointed by and reports to the city man- direct guidance of a qualified civil engineer, ager. The position performs complex profes- design duties involved in the construction, sional and difficult administrative work maintenance, and operation of municipal planning, directing , and supervising fire and public works projects. This employee will emergency medical services. The ideal can- create and maintain facility & utility GIS didate will have a demonstrated knowledge geodatabases that will support the PW&E of fire suppression, fire prevention, emer- Department; the employee will also assist gency medical services, incident command, other City departments in maintaining their fire ground operations, and safety proce- respective GIS geodatabases. This is a dures. The candidate will have the ability to safety-sensitive position. Salary DOE/ be open and visible in the fire department DOQ. Successful applicants will be submit- with demonstrated ability to communicate ted to pre-employment physical, background effectively with all levels of the department. check and drug screen. Excellent benefits A bachelor’s degree in fire science/public package. Applications and/or Resumes will Does your city administration, or related field, and 10 years be accepted until position is filled. Resumes experience in a paid fire service environment shall be mailed (no fax resumes accepted) to with a minimum of six years as chief or The City of Alcoa, 223 Associates Blvd., senior officer in comparable department, or Alcoa, TN 37701 or email to the equivalent combination of education, [email protected]. Appli- training, and experience. Salary range: up to cations may be picked up and delivered to need money for $76,000 plus excellent benefits. Send re- same address. The City of Alcoa is an Equal sume and required application which is Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer available at www.bris toltn.org to: City of & Title VI compliant. No phone calls please. Bristol, Human Resource Department, P.O. Box 1189, Bristol, TN 37621-1189. Position GENERAL MANAGER open until filled. EOE. CLARKSVILLE. The city of Clarksville capital projects? Gas & Water, Exceptional opportunity to FIRE CHIEF lead a dynamic and well-respected organiza- GALLATIN. The city of Gallatin, a full- tion of 278+ employees with an annual rev- service city with a population 25,000, is enue exceeding $97M. Position is respon- seeking qualified applicants for the position sible for the overall operation of the water, If your pipes are calling, call the Tennessee Municipal Bond of fire chief. The fire department has 34 sewer and gas system, including planning, employees, a $3.2 million budget, and serves budgeting, supervision of engineering and Fund for all your financing needs. a diverse community. The position reports to construction, and management of staff. The the mayor and is responsible to the city successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s council. The job entails planning; programs; or Master’s degree in management, business, directing and evaluating the operation of the or public administration followed by 5 years department; developing annual department of demonstrated, relevant experience man- We offer: budgets; controlling budgeted expenses; for- aging all aspects of a utility company. Inter- mulating and implementing fire policies; ested candidates should respond with a letter • low rates, managing employee relations; attending of interest, resume and salary history to: Ruth community meetings; and making presenta- McPherson, Clarksville Montgomery • lowest costs, and tions related to fire activities. The person County Career Center, 350 Pageant Lane, hired will have any combination of education Suite 406, Clarksville, TN 37040. Phone: • best service. and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s (931) 648-5530 or (931) 648-5564 (fax) E- degree with major course work in fire sci- mail: [email protected] ence, public administration, or related areas and extensive administrative experience, 10 years or more preferred, in fire service. Up- We’re making great cities even better. TML requests E-mail addresses One loan at a time. The quickest way to keep To receive the TML Legis- (615) 255-1561 city officials apprised of legis- lative Bulletin by e-mail or lative happenings is through fax, please send your contact e-mail or fax. information to Mona Each Friday during the Lawrence, by fax at 615-255- legislative session, TML pre- 4752, by e-mail to mlawrence pares and distributes a weekly @TML1. org, or call 615-255- bulletin . 6416. 9-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 www.TML1.org Governor Bredesen is sworn in for second term

With First Lady Andrea Conte at his side, Bredesen takes the oath of office as 48th .

Following his swearing in ceremony, Bredesen delivers a 12-minute speech highlighting his objectives for his second term as governor of Tennessee.

(Pictured Left to right) Former Governor Sen. Lamar Alexander, Sen. Rusty Crowe, and Supreme Court Chief Justice William M. Barker.

The 153-year-old State Capitol flanked by Tennessee National Guardsmen serves as the backdrop for the governor’s Inauguration ceremony themed “Our State, Our Future” on War Memorial Plaza.

House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh makes opening remarks before the Governor’s inauguration.

( Left to right ) Former Govs. Sen. Lamar Alexander and Ned McWherter are seated on the platform along with Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey as Bredesen cabinet members take their oaths of office.

Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell greets attendees.

The Bredesen family bow their heads during the opening prayer.

Photos by Victoria South (Left to right) U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, Sen. Rusty Crowe, and Sen. Lamar Alexander www.TML1.org 10-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JANUARY 29, 2007 Gary Odom just second House majority leader from a Big Four city BY GAEL STAHL Editor

Gary Odom came to the legisla- ture in 1987, as did Bill Purcell, now mayor of Nashville. Purcell was the first House member from a large urban district to be elected majority leader; Odom was the second. Purcell had the support of the gover- nor and speaker at the time and won by one vote. Odom had the support of neither and won 33-18. The differ- ence may be that Odom grew up in a rural area and now represents an urban area and it didn’t hurt that he campaigned for Democratic candi- dates across the state last year. Odom was born in Carter County in 1951 to Luther and Marcella Odom. His father was a construction welder. When Gary started first grade, his mother began working in the school cafeteria. He received his bachelor’s degree from East Tennessee State University Leader Gary Odom, left, confers with Finance Committee Chair Craig Fitzhugh in the House Chamber. Photographic Services- State of Tennessee (ETSU) in Johnson City, all of eight miles away from his home. He got community leaders told me they did cations to each member of the House to serve on the Access Tennessee lenges. I’m generally going to be one his master’s degree in public admin- not “need a rookie coming into the requesting their preferences for Board for the Uninsurable to give of those who pays a lot of attention to istration and criminal justice at dilemma.” That was back when committee assignments. From the ability to citizens who are uninsur- what local government is saying to Eastern Kentucky University. Mayor was trying to find Democratic caucus standpoint, I’ve able to have access to a health and the state. For example, when the leg- He moved to Nashville in 1975 a landfill site in Metro. Constituents sent out communications asking pharmacy policy with premiums islature passed a pre-emption on lo- and worked in state government for said they needed me there more than members for input on developing the subsidized by state government. cal governments regarding the regu- three years, some of the most inter- in the legislature because there were caucus’ legislative agenda before All Tennesseans need to under- lation of smoking I opposed that pre- esting jobs he’s ever had. For one three landfill sites in my district that that is finalized this month. We’ll get stand it is in our best interest that emption, because it took away the year, he was the Tennessee District private developers wanted. feedback from various districts on fellow citizens have health insur- ability of a local government to regu- Attorney General’s Office (AG) only I felt that Nashville didn’t have issues believed to be important for ance coverage. What’s true of regu- late smoking. investigator during which he was the geology conducive to sanitary the legislature and the House Demo- lar oil changes is true of health care, heavily involved in a lawsuit with the landfill sites. When Gov. Bredesen cratic caucus to pursue. It’s going to “You pay now, or you pay more TT&C: How about municipal contractors of the ETSU mini dome became mayor during my last coun- be a busy month. later.” Besides, cities and counties cable franchises and rural broad- regarding multi-million dollar con- cil term, he agreed the geology operate hospitals with emergency band access? struction problems. Odom found wasn’t conducive. We needed to TT&C: For a decade, House Re- rooms. The costs to local govern- GO: Apparently BellSouth wants to witnesses who testified unskilled find a way to recycle more and send publican leadership has striven to ment are much higher if clients are get a statewide franchise and bypass workers were used in highly techni- the limited supply of waste out of the be more partisan about issues. uninsured. The rising costs of char- cities’ control and the right of local cal jobs directly related to the instal- county if we could. Does that affect you as leader? ity care are a major local issue if they governments to negotiate cable fran- lation of the faulty roof. Having done both, I greatly re- GO: I hope that the House will be don’t meet standards. We chises. That’s a local issue that is Another was the Tennessee vs. spect officials in state and local gov- less partisan. As I told the fairly large all need to work hard to make sure best determined by local govern- Arkansas dispute over ownership of ernments. It is year-round service in class of freshmen when I met with this program works. I support the ment. I haven’t heard the other side’s an island in the Mississippi River. the legislature too, but our work in them a few weeks ago during their governor and his efforts to make sure argument, but by past experience, When not under water a few months session is for three or four months. orientation, the elections are over; everything is in place and ready to go and having gone through the award- of the year, it was valuable agricul- City councils and county commis- the people of Tennessee have spo- when the programs are started up. ing of franchises and stipulating ser- tural property. Before it went to the sions meet year-round. ken; they have elected their House We don’t need to be rushing just to vices, it’s mostly about the people U.S. Supreme Court, Odom found and Senate members; and now we meet arbitrary deadlines as hap- who are going to be served in the an old Arkansas map showing the TT&C: Not having a House oppo- have to try and move ahead and ad- pened with TennCare. community. That’s what’s impor- island to be in Tennessee. nent ennabled you to campaign dress the issues that they want us to tant to me. Before and after that year, he for Democratic candidates? address. TT&C: You just published an ar- I don’t see why we would want spent a year as an investigator at the GO: Yes. I’m very disappointed we I said there are going to be temp- ticle outlining the history of the to take away the ability of local gov- Department of Health’s Division of didn’t pick up at least two seats dur- tations at times to fall into partisan Basic Education Program (BEP). ernments to do what is best for their Health Related Boards, then after ing this election. gamesmanship. I said that if that What was your main point? constituents. I’m always going to his year at the AG office, he returned happens, we’ll have to deal with it. I GO: The BEP is a very complicated defer to local governments on things to Health to become assistant direc- TT&C: You opposed the Brede- hope it doesn’t. I’m the first to tell formula for allocating education like that, all things being equal. tor of the Regulatory Board. It pros- sen cuts on TennCare and the you that I understand reasonable dollars. I sometimes wonder if it That’s because they are the govern- ecuted violations of state law by li- Naifeh tax reform by state income people having different positions on could be used to reach or justify any ments closest to our citizens and censed health care professionals – tax. Is that a problem? important complex issues. That’s goal. I don’t think any funding for- know the needs and concerns of their physicians, nurses, and dentists – GO: I do not think it a bad thing at all different than pure partisanship, mula should be that complex. It constituencies best. and unlicensed practitioners of for reasonable people to differ on which I’m hoping we can minimize. should be simple and fair. Simple so regulated health professions. important, complicated issues. Of- I felt good about some of the folks can understand it enough to TT&C: Have you taken a stand on In 1978, he became executive ten, it’s about the issues, not the response I got. For the most part, come to their own conclusions as to the media’s efforts to change the assistant director of government re- personalities. they agreed with that. Opinion polls how fair it really is. open meetings laws? lations with the Tennessee Medical Right out of the chute, I differed show citizens want legislative bod- I represent an urban area now, GO: My personal stand is that I have Association. In 1980, he became ex- with Phil Bredesen about a charter ies everywhere to address issues, not but spent the first 20 odd years living chaired subcommittees and full ecutive director of the Tennessee amendment by petition to establish simply play partisan games. in a rural area. I understand the chal- committees, and the bottom line is Optometric Association (TOA). He an independent audit program that I lenges, having gone through public that I’ve never been afraid to say in is still there 27 years later. initiated when he was running for TT&C: You sponsored bills for 20 schools from elementary through my public anything that I would say in In 1983, in local government, he mayor. It was passing easily in early years. Want to single out a few? master’s degree. I raised two kids in private. That’s the way I operate. ran for a seat on the Metro Nashville voting, he knew he was going to win GO: One of municipal interest goes Metro’s system. These educational Any committee or subcommittee City Council and won. In 1987, he and spent considerable money on back to years ago when we had prob- environments are often contrary to that I have chaired has never met was elected to the Tennessee House TV spots right before the general lems due to people starting construc- one another, but the goal is the same: privately before we met publicly. I of Representatives and served in election attacking it. He wasn’t at- tion on homes, then finding out they we must educate our children well. support open meetings, I support both legislative bodies until 1995 tacking me – just that it was “good had significant septic tank issues. I We need a formula that addresses the transparent government, and I’ve when he left the council. He has also intentions, bad idea.” I respected sponsored a bill years ago that every- challenges of both. never heard a good explanation as to been a faculty member of Aquinas that. We differed on the way govern- body supported. It had a provision why government activities should Junior College for three years. ment should function. His approach requiring you to have your septic not be open. So in regards to the open During his 20-year career in the came from a CEO background. He tank testing done before you could TT&C: How about the constitu- meetings law, bottom line, I think House, he received five awards from believed that if he was responsible get a permit for electricity to your tional amendment permitting the the legislature should function in the environmental groups and 10 from for the operation of government then building site. Serious mistakes had freezing of property tax rates of same manner that local governments healthcare groups. He was a mem- he should be in charge. I’m happy been made by some who invested homeowners 65 and older? Cities do. I was amazed to find out from an ber of the House Conservation and that proposal was recently passed by before finding the property wouldn’t worry that you may mandate a attorney general’s opinion that the Environment Committee for about voters and is finally in place, thanks perk. high household income rate. open meetings law applied to all 14 years and served as chair for two to Mayor Purcell who has used inter- I passed a bill several years ago GO: I certainly want more feedback local governments but not to the leg- years. He was on the Education nal auditing and now supports an that increased the transfer tax to do a from local governments on what islature that passed it. If you’ll no- Committee for two years and a mem- entity outside of his control to be a number of things including the ac- they see the ramifications being in tice, one of the first things we’ll do ber of the Health and Human Re- watch dog. It’s something like the quisition of wetlands. It is also used their own community with regard to this year is to ensure that our rules sources Committee ever since he ar- Government Accounting Office in by local governments to pay for in- the ceiling on income. I haven’t got- mirror the open meetings require- rived in 1987. He’s served on the Washington and the Tennessee frastructure needs for new develop- ten much feedback on that from ments included in last year’s ethics House Calendar and Rules Commit- Comptroller Office. ments. It was widely supported by Metro Nashville. I want feedback legislation. tee, the Joint TennCare Oversight the Farm Bureau and local govern- from urban and rural areas. Committee, and chaired the House TT&C: How will you work to pass ments. Let me say something that is TT&C: What is your stand on lo- Professional Occupations Subcom- the governor’s agenda? important to convey to your mem- cal governments proposing immi- mittee. GO: I’ve met with the governor and TT&C: You won 10 healthcare bers. I told you earlier I have the gration enforcement ordinances? Odom is single with two grown expect to work well with him and his awards. Have you been interested utmost respect for people who serve GO: I know of state legislative races children. staff because part of the responsibil- in health care since your first job? in local government because I’ve where that was apparently the over- ity of the majority leader when the GO: I really have, first with the been there and faced those chal- riding issue, but to my knowledge TT&C: Where did you grow up? governor is from the same party is to health-related boards division and the state and local government don’t GO: I was raised in a rural suburb of shepherd governor-initiated issues then when I got into the legislature. Profile have access to a border patrol or an a suburb of Elizabethton called Val- into law. Naturally, there were turf battles in- Gary Odom Immigration and Naturalization Ser- ley Forge. Actually in a suburb of I’m going to approach things volving nurse practitioners, physi- vice (INS). I’ve always thought, like Valley Forge called Coal Chute be- perhaps a little differently. I’m going cian assistants, and the state’s ability most people, that the federal govern- cause of the coal chute concrete box to be looking to our caucus members to use those professionals more ef- ment is important for regulating im- next to the railroad. I’ve been urban who have constituents affected by fectively, like other states do where migration into the country. That’s since 1975. governor-initiated legislation to be there are voids in physicians. I was why we have a U.S. border patrol there presenting that legislation. I involved in a bill that had to do with and an INS. TT&C: Describe your city council may want them to sign the bill first the ability of nurse practitioners, We have an immigration prob- experience 1983-95. and be the prime sponsor with me physician assistants, and physician lem. I’m just not sure that tens of GO: I ran against a charter member second. I will always be consulting extenders to prescribe medicine in thousands of local ordinances in cit- of the Metro Council. With four of us with them and, if necessary, go with areas of this state that did not have • 1951 Born, Coal Chute, Carter ies and counties and 50 immigration in the race, I got into a runoff with the them to the committee and subcom- enough healthcare providers. County polices in 50 different states make a incumbent. Being a neophyte, I just mittee meetings and, certainly, be • 1973 B.S., ETSU lot of sense. We don’t have check- went door to door and won the runoff with them in the well. TT&C: Why are you now in- • 1975 Masters, EKU points on the interstates at our by a good margin. I’ve sponsored a lot of legisla- tensely interested in CoverTN? • 1975 Dept. of Health, Tenn. boundaries. Attorney General’s Office I know the difficulties of local tion before I became a member of the GO: The CoverTN program is ex- • 1978 Asst. Dir. of Govt. We need to and can deal with government by being there when we leadership. I’ll continue that, but be tremely important to all Tennesse- Relations, TMA education and health care and public had issues that could have split our selective. ans. It’s one of the most important • 1980 Executive Director of safety issues. city apart, especially landfills. It issues facing small businesses, in Tennessee Optometric Assn. We’ve got two people at INS for wasn’t my preference to serve simul- TT&C: How do you prepare for a particular, to be able to offer health • 1983-1995 Metro Nashville the entire state. It’s the federal gov- taneously in the House and the coun- new session, for 19 new House insurance to their employees. We Councilmember ernment that has to get up and get • 1987 House Member cil, but I kept running for city council members? passed the enabling legislation, and • 2007 House Majority Leader going. partly because constituents and GO: I’ve already sent out communi- in the past year, I’ve been appointed