6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 67, Number 2 Feb. 8, 2016 Haslam rolls out budget in state address Gov. Bill Haslam rolled out his proposed Fiscal Year 2016-2017 budget during his annual State of the State Ad- dress held earlier this month before a joint session of the 109th General Assembly. The $34.8 billion budget TML Legislative Conference proposes $261 million in new dollars for Tennessee K-12 education, including $104.6 March 14 - 15 in Nashville million for teacher sala- Transportation funding, pro- ries. Additionally, Haslam posed cuts to the Hall Income Tax, proposed funding the 12th Rural Economic Development, new month of health insurance regulations for airbnbs, and the for teachers and doubling state’s budget surplus are just a few the state’s recurring contri- of the many topics planned to be ad- bution for technology needs dressed at TML’s Annual Legislative at schools. Conference, slated for March 14 - 15 Other notable budget in Nashville. investments are: Photo by State of Tennessee photographic services A host of state officials are • $130 million from the TN Gov. Bill Haslam delivers his sixth State of the State Address. lined up to speak, including Lt. General Fund to repay Gov. Ron Ramsey, House Speaker the Highway Fund; • $12.8 million for facilities and • $581.6 million in state and other Beth Harwell, Sen. Transportation Ron Ramsey • $100 million into the state’s homeland security upgrades for funds to build new buildings and Chair Jim Tracy, and Tennessee State Rainy Day Fund, bringing it to the Military Department; fix existing higher education Comptroller Justin P. Wilson, among an estimated $668 million on • $10 million for the Department and general state government others. June 30, 2017; of Economic and Community facilities. This includes the top Conference registration opens at • $60 million for salary increases Development’s Rural Develop- recommended capital projects 11 a.m. on Monday, March 14, fol- for state employees; and anoth- ment Initiative; for both the University of Ten- lowed by a buffet lunch at 12 noon. er $36 million for market rate • $1.27 million to increase the nessee system and the Tennessee The conference will kick off at 1 adjustments for state employ- number of drug recovery courts Board of Regents. p.m. and run through 4 p.m. on Mon- ees making less than $50,000 from 41 to 50 and for two addi- See more at: https://www.tn.gov/ day afternoon. On Tuesday, March annually; tional veterans courts; and news/ 15, things will get underway at 7:30 a.m. with a breakfast served until 8 a.m.. The conference program will City crews brave hazardous conditions to begin at 8 a.m. and continue until 10 Beth Harwell a.m. keep streets clean, basic services running The two-day conference pro- vides an excellent forum to network with other municipal officials and interact with your legislators. The voice of Tennessee’s mu- nicipal governments must be heard in the legislative process, and the TML Legislative Conference is a great opportunity to communicate that message. For information regarding reg- istration and hotel reservations, visit www.TML1.org Jim Tracy

EPA solicits comments on updates to NPDES stormwater regulations Accepting comments through March 21

BY CAROLYN BERNDT permit approach whereby the general National League of Cities permit includes clear, specific and measurable provisions and the per- Stemming from a 2003 court mittee is required to submit a Notice decision, the U.S. Environmental of Intent that the requirements will be met. Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking Snow blankets the grounds of the Fred J. White Municipal Building in Portland. The city was hit by 10 inches • Option 2 – A procedural ap- comments on updates to its Phase II of snow during recent storms. Street crews, firefighters, police officers and other employees were out in proach whereby the permit authority stormwater regulations regarding the full force in cities across the state to ensure streets were passable, utilities were still working and residents establishes a mechanism to approve procedures to be used for providing were safe. coverage to small municipal separate individual MS4 programs. storm sewer systems (MS4s) under • Option 3 – A state choice ap- BY KATE COIL general permits. proach whereby the permit authority TML Communications Specialist The purpose of the NPDES can chose to follow either option one Stormwater Proposed MS4 General or two or a hybrid of the two. As inches of snow blanketed Permit Remand Rule is to fix certain much of Tennessee in January, deficiencies that the Ninth Circuit Seven states do not issue gen- employees from municipalities Court of Appeals found in the permit- eral permits, but rather individually were hard at work during inclement ting process for small MS4s covered permit their small MS4s and would weather to keep streets clean and under general permits, namely the therefore not be affected by this basic services running. lack of permitting authority review rulemaking: Delaware, North Caro- Elizabethton City Manager Je- and the lack of public participation lina, Michigan, Iowa, Alaska, Idaho rome Kitchens said city employees in the permitting process. This (EPA is the permitting authority), and sometimes have to brave dangerous rulemaking applies to operators of a Oregon. conditions to ensure citizens are “regulated small MS4,” of which 94 Along with the proposed rule, provided with basic services. percent are permitted under a state EPA issued a compendium of state “Public safety is out, utilities are general permit. There are 6,380 small and EPA permit provisions, that in- out, and our street crews are out in MS4s covered by general permits cludes provisions from existing and the weather,” Kitchens said. “Safety nationwide. draft permits that exemplify how is a major issue, because you have EPA has proposed one option Option 1 has been implemented in people out there working in danger- for satisfying the court order, while state and EPA permits. ous conditions. I don’t think most also taking comments on two other EPA is accepting comments on people understand how many em- options. The three options are: the rulemaking through March 21. ployees we have out there. I think • Option 1 (EPA’s proposed NLC is currently evaluating the pro- they understand the results more than approach) – A traditional general posal and will submit comments. anything.” Portland Mayor Kenneth Wilber Snowplows work to clear the streets in Lafayette, which saw some 13.5 said working in city government inches of snow during the weekend storms. opened his eyes to how many people are really involved in dealing with all they do during these times.” 1100-ton salt bin. inclement weather on the municipal Kitchens said preparation for “We put salt down if we think level. winter weather often begins long something is coming,” Kitchens “They face the road conditions before any snow hits the ground. said. “We don’t pretreat with a liquid because they are the first ones out “As the season rolls around, we yet, but we will probably be doing there,” he said. “They work so get our fleet ready by putting snow that next year. You use less salt and many hours, and fatigue can set in. plows on, checking hydraulics and it’s more effective that way. But we The weather conditions and being FACT: making sure we have salt on hand,” will have to buy new equipment be- exposed to those temperatures is a he said. “When we get snow, we are fore we begin using the brine.” A total of 19 percent of Tennessee bridges are in need of repair, danger. I don’t think people realize ready. We keep salt on-standby pretty To keep streets clear, Kitchens improvement or replacement. Five percent of the state’s bridges are as a whole how many people we much all winter.” said employees worked 128 regular have out working, doing their jobs. Elizabethton, like so many other man hours and 152.5 hours of over- structurally deficient and 14 percent are functionally obsolete. I didn’t realize it until I started work- cities in Tennessee, was hit by two time on Wednesday. Before Friday’s ing in city government that it’s not snow storms – the first hitting on storm, Kitchens said employees set Source: A new study realeased by The Road Information Program, or just one or two people out there; it’s Wednesday, Jan. 20, and the second out Thursday night and kept working TRIP, a national transportation research firm. the city organization as a whole. I on Friday, Jan. 22. During that time, until 1 a.m. that Sunday, working a really appreciate our employees and the city used 781 tons of salt of its See SNOW on Page 3 www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016

ATHENS JACKSON Construction will soon be complete Officials with the city of Jackson are on a 4.9-mile section of a rails-to- hoping the acquisition of new prop- trails conversion project that will erty will help woo industry to the city. eventually connect Athens and En- The Jackson City Council recently glewood in McMinn County. The approved the purchase of 80 acres in Eureka Trail is now part of more than 2016 and 35 acres in 2017 from Tall 22,000 miles of rails-to-trails nation- Oaks Farms LP with the option of wide and will connect downtown purchasing two adjoining pieces of Englewood to an area northwest of property with 101 and 98 acres re- downtown Athens when it is com- spectively. The property along Fiber- plete. The trail follows the original glass Road in West Madison County rail line built by the Eureka Mills is close to the existing industrial park textile factories to transport workers and Interstate 40 as well as rail lines between the two communities. The and the McKellar-Sipes Regional former Ocoee Knoxville West rail Airport. City officials said that these line is one of several 12 potential factors will make the land attractive corridors the Rails to Trails Con- to industry and are among 12 pieces servancy identified last year with of property the city has looked into greenway potential. purchasing. The land will cost $1.6 million and $700,000 for the first two BARTLETT sections. The city also has the option Medical equipment manufacturer to purchase the adjoining 101 acre Olympus announced they will con- tract for $2.52 million and the 98 acre Kingsport is blessed with committed city leaders, volunteers, business owners and citizens who are proud struct a new East Coast national tract for $2.45 million. to live in and support their community. One Kingsport stives to foster a common goal to promote and rec- service and distribution center in ognize all the unique and positive elements of Kingsport. Bartlett Corporate Park, investing LENOIR CITY $12 million in the facility and creat- R&S Logistics has leased the ing 280 new jobs in Shelby County. 222,000-square-foot former Yale New online marketing initiative promotes The company will be distributing Locks & Hardware building in Le- equipment such as endoscopes, sur- noir City with plans to open the facil- gical devices and generators from the ity toward the end of the first quarter economic development, community pride new facility, which will be Olympus’ of 2016. The company plans to install BY KATE COIL Marketing formed a partnership with grow Kingsport. second national service center. The a new sprinkler system, rinsing TML Communications Specialist the Kingsport Chamber of Com- “We’re devoted to everything company’s first location residing in outside walks, fixing roof leaks and merce, the city of Kingsport, and the tasty, interesting, healthy, and en- San Jose, Calif. The decision to build other renovations before opening its Kingsport citizens are chiming Kingsport City School System to all tertaining in our community,” Car- a second national service center was doors. The building, which has been in on what their community means to work together to create One King- rier said. “Kingsport is blessed with based on Olympus’ need for addi- vacant since 2012, will be used to them as part of an online marketing sport,” she said. “One Kingsport is committed city leaders, volunteers, tional capacity to handle the growth help with production distribution and campaign aimed to promoting local a vision, a campaign, a voice – de- business owners and citizens who expectations in the service, supply will be R&S Logistics’ fourth loca- growth. veloped to share the exciting events, are proud to live in and support their chain and logistics areas of its medi- tion in Loudon County. The compa- Mayor John Clark said the city’s news, and growth occurring in King- town. Our goal with One Kingsport cal business. Construction is expect- ny is already using 50,000 square feet previous long-range growth plan first sport. We distribute news through is to unite these people, organiza- ed to begin this spring. Olympus is of the building to receive freight. The implemented in 1999 was coming to interesting articles and lively videos tions, and businesses to embody this a global company with its headquar- company expects some job growth as a close, and local leaders decided it both on our Charter TV channel 192, passion for the greater good of our ters, Olympus Corporation, based in a result of the new location. was time for a new initiative to help Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and community. I want the entire city to Tokyo, Japan. Olympus Corporation Kingsport keep moving forward. on onekingsport.com.” stay connected with all that King- of the Americas – a wholly owned NASHVILLE Clark said the campaign began with a Residents and business owners sport has to offer.” subsidiary of Olympus Corporation Nashville’s tourism industry has summit of residents, business leaders can participate in the campaign Clark said marketing and brand- – manages the company’s operations celebrated 60 consecutive months and city officials to determine what through a variety of means ranging ing is essential for municipalities and business activities throughout of year-over-year growth in hotel direction was best for Kingsport. from attending local meetings to today. North and South America. rooms sold and hotel tax collec- Held in 2015, this meeting using social media hashtags and “One of the reasons we want to tions. The five-year streak started resulted in a five-year plan to help participating on the One Kingsport utilize this One Kingsport concept is CROSSVILLE December 2010 and was officially provide the city with new direction website. Citizens can upload a pic- to market and brand our city moving Crossville will soon be home to the marked on November 2015. The moving forward. Clark said the ture and their own stories about why forward,” he said. “It is very essential state’s largest wind farm as Charlot- streak is the longest in Nashville’s theme “One Kingsport” was kept they love Kingsport, which will then to our success. Every city, state and tesville, Va.-based Apex Clean Ener- history and beats out any other top from the summit as it embodies the be used as part of the marketing cam- country are all out there competing gy completes construction of 20 to 23 U.S. destination tracked by Hender- goals for the city’s future. paign. for residents and jobs. I think the wind turbines by the end of 2017. The sonville-based research firm STR. “We wanted to bring together “We are trying to get people to most successful cities in the future project will bring more than $100 Houston came the closest with a people for a common cause and have embrace the One Kingsport,” Clark are the ones that can market and million to the area and is expected 59-month streak that ended in Jan- folks get back to our city by pro- said. “We are encouraging people to brand their cities.” to create 50 jobs. The wind farm uary 2015 followed by Dallas with viding their thoughts and energies share what that phrase means to them The ultimate goal of the cam- will produce up to 71 MW of power, a 45-month streak of year-over-year around where we should be going and what they like so much about paign is to bring new residents and which is enough to power 20,000 record growth. October 2015 holds with our city,” Clark said. “At the this city. Kingsport has excellent businesses into the community. homes every year. The project began the Nashville record for the most same time, we have used the One community spirit. ” “The end result for us to retain several years ago when Apex began hotel rooms sold in a single month Kingsport phrase to be our mantra, Through citizen input Clark said and attract more residents, busi- placing testing equipment to deter- with 691,544 and hotel tax revenue to come together as a city and con- the city has devised seven primary nesses, developers and visitors to mine the feasibility of a wind farm. collected with $6.2 million. It’s also tinue working together to move the goals and improvements needed to Kingsport,” Clark said. “One of our The project will be constructed on the only month hotel tax collections city forward. Anything we do we are make Kingsport a destination city. concerns is that we are experienc- private land that will be leased from have ever topped $6 million. Projec- going to try and tag One Kingsport Clark said those areas include arts ing some retention issues. A lot of owners. The project area will encom- tions for November 2015 estimate next to it.” and entertainment, continued down- people are working here, but they pass about 1,800 acres, but only about hotel tax revenue of about $4.3 Cumberland Marketing is head- town revitalization, destination city are deciding not to live and raise a 50 acres will be used by the project. million. Hospitality is Nashville’s ing up the campaign and Emily Car- investments, health and wellness, family here. Everything we are doing The 25-year lease would continue to second largest industry, generating rier, a spokesperson with the compa- improved housing, higher education around the One Kingsport campaign allow the current land use to continue. $5.42 billion in annual visitor spend- ny, said the campaign helps residents innovation, and job creation and is to achieve our vision of becoming ing and accounting for 31 percent and those interested in coming to the entrepreneurship. the premier location in northeast DICKSON of all visitor spending in Tennessee. community connected with what is Carrier said the goal of the cam- Tennessee for people to live, work Bavarian Polymers officials an- Nashville Mayor Megan Barry said happening in Kingsport. paign is to bring residents from all and raise a family and for businesses nounced the company will be the industry creates 58,000 jobs. “In July of 2015, Cumberland walks of life together to support and to grow and prosper here.” investing $2.7 million to expand operations at its facility in Dickson, SPRING HILL creating 27 new jobs in the area. The General Motors has announced it is door and window extrusion profile moving the production of the GMC I’ve been looking over some manufacturer was founded in 2005 Acadia to its Spring Hill plant. The and will add 30,000 square feet of Acadia was previously built at the of the information about the production and warehouse space to Lansing Delta Township Assembly house new extrusion lines to keep up plant in Michigan, along with the TML Legislative Conference with increased demand. This will be Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Tra- scheduled for the company’s second expansion at verse. The 2017 redesign for the ve- the Dickson facility since 2013. The hicle will go on sale this spring. The March 14 & 15 in Nashville. company specializes in manufactur- Acadia netted its strongest sales year ing PVC extrusion profiles, which ever in 2015 with 96,393 deliveries. are sold to window and door manu- The Spring Hill plant has already It looks like it will be another facturers in North America producing been hiring 1,100 more workers in vinyl window and door systems. recent days due to output of another great conference packed full of good GM product, the 2017 Cadillac XT5 FAYETTEVILLE (SRX). The company began accept- information with lots of updates Nippon Steel and Sumikin Materials ing applications for those positions from members of the USA, Inc. officials announced they in October. will be opening a new manufacturing Tennessee General Assembly. facility in Fayetteville, investing $5.7 VONORE million and creating 65 new jobs. JTEKT Automotive Tennessee will Nippon Steel’s new 62,000 square be expanding its manufacturing Plus, I always like networking foot manufacturing facility is located facility in Vonore, investing $218.5 in the Fayetteville-Lincoln County million and creating 50 jobs in with some of my peers from Industrial Park. The company will be Monroe County. The company man- making modifications to the manufac- ufactures high-quality hydraulic, across the state. I wonder if turing space, installing equipment as manual and electric steering parts the Mayor of Huntingdon well as building out the office space. for both foreign and domestic au- Nippon Steel is a major subsidiary tomakers and has been doing so for plans to attend? of Nippon Steel & Simitomo Metal over 25 years. JTEKT Automotive Corporation, the second largest steel Tennessee operates as a subsidiary making company in the world, and of JTEKT Corporation. The new www.TML1.org manufactures a metal substrate for the facility will be producing the next automotive industry and is the only generation steering for customers metal substrate manufacturer that such as Toyota, BMW, Honda and produces the stainless foil raw materi- Nissan. The company plans to start al that is used in the final product. The production for its new facility in metal substrate is distributed globally. September 2016. www.TML1.org 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016 City crews brave hazardous Government, non-profit partnership looks conditions to keep streets to expand Franklin Civil War battle sites clean, services running BY KATE COIL TML Communications Specialist SNOW from Page 1 duty during the snow as well. total of 136 regular hours and 605 “We normally have service crews A partnership between the hours of overtime. on call and standby for our water and state, city of Franklin and a local “It hit on a weekend, so we gen- electric services. But they step things non-profit hopes to create a 20- erally don’t have as many working up when a major storm is coming,” acre park space to eventually con- then,” he said. “Typically, we have Kitchens said. “For example on Fri- nect the Carnton Plantation with a couple of sanitation workers and day, we had a significant water leak the Carter House, both key sites two or three people on call for the and had crews out working on that. in the Battle of Franklin. highways, service crews on call for We were lucky the snow wasn’t a Laurie McPeak, director of electric, and one for the water. That heavy wet snow that can cause major development with the Franklin can be different if we have some kind power outages.” Battlefield Trust, said a lot of of a special event.” In Portland, Wilber said the city the current city of Franklin was Kitchens said the best way for had extra crews on call in case there built on land that was part of the citizens to help out when snow hits were any service interruptions with battlefield. As part of historic pres- is to be patient and to watch where their water, gas, or sewer services. ervation efforts, the trust has been they park their cars. “The main thing with our gas slowly acquiring land for more “We prioritize our snow removal service, is when it gets cold you have than 15 years. Plans for the Carter House site include demolishing structures built so its major streets, secondary streets to make sure the pressure stays up,” The trust’s most recent acqui- on land formerly belonging to the Carter family. The land will be used and then minor streets,” he said. Wilber said. “With water and sewer, sition is 1.6 acres on the corner to construct a new visitors’ center and reconstruct period garden and Most people understand that their there isn’t much you can do other of Strahl Street and Columbia outbuildings, including a cottin gin. street may not be the first on the list. than some prevention at the plants to Avenue, which currently houses We try to get to as many streets as we winterize them. You also have your a flower shop and the Williamson can, though sometimes cars parked police department out and your fire County CASA offices. The trust re- on the street make it impossible to department out. We also bring some ceived nearly $1.3 million to help get through.” of our public works and utilities em- purchase the land, which borders Phillip Brawner, public works ployees in to help with the streets.” the Carter House. The funds came director for the city of Lafayette, Once the snow starts to melt, from the American Battlefield Pro- said city crews were out for two other issues arise for municipalities. tection Program, which acts as a days clearing the 13.5 inches of “You have to worry about drain- federal agency under the National snow that fell in the area. Though the age, especially if you have ice block- Park Service that assists with pre- city doesn’t pretreat roads with salt, ing storm drains. That can cause serving battlefield properties. Brawner said public works crews localized run off,” Kitchens said. “The Carter Hill Battlefield were still out preparing before the “You may also start to notice road Park is a combination of private, storm hit. maintenance issues while you’re out city and state property,” McPeak “We scheduled employees and there. Salt gets in the cracks of the said. “The Franklin Battlefield got our equipment together. You asphalt, which takes time to work its Trust operates the Carter House, have to get everything loaded up and way through.” but it is a state-owned land and ready to go beforehand,” he said. Even after the snow is gone, structure. Ultimately, our dream is “Once it starts, we are ready to go Brawner said crews still have to deal to connect the battlefield in some out. We have snowplows we put on with issues like pot holes and other way all the way from Carnton the front of our dump trunks, just like road hazards snow can create. Plantation to the Carter House. In addition to expanding the Carter House, the battlefield trust is in the state does.” Wilber said these issues can often It’s a lot of land, but we would talks with the city and state to see about erecting a greenway be- Lafayette had 10 public works create more work for the city in the like a walkway so visitors can get tween the Carter House and Carnton Plantation, seen above. The employees working nearly 150 man aftermath of the storm. from once property to the other. Of two homes are two of the main surviving structures involved in the hours to clear the snow. Brawner said “When it warms up, the ground course, that is a long-range plan.” Battle of Franklin. typically only around seven or eight moves, and that can create pipe leaks McPeak said the property will employees are out working on roads and other issues,” he said. “When be turned over to the city of Frank- a $500,000 grant provided by the of the battle in all 50 states and during normal conditions. this storm first started, we had more lin in the future, save for a small state of Tennessee. The plans are es- the battlefield regularly holds “They stayed from 7 a.m. Friday ice than we did snow. We also had parcel. The trust has been working timated to cost $7 million with $3.2 descendant reunions. morning and kept working until 7 tree limbs breaking and had to clear with officials at Middle Tennes- million of that going to construct the “Every year our visitor traffic p.m. that night,” he said. “We came in those off the roads. Limbs have also see State University as part of a agrarian-style visitors’ center. has grown, and has grown about the next day at 6 a.m. and worked the broken off and are in people’s yards, campaign to preserve the Carter “The Battle of Franklin was 10 percent each year during the whole day Saturday. It’s pretty tiring so we are anticipating more limbs House outbuildings once located really the beginning of the end of last five years,” she said. “We see to be out working in the snow, but it during brush pickup.” on the recently acquired property. the Civil War — the war ended six approximately 100,000 visitors a went a lot better than we expected. Portland also had to delay gar- MTSU and other agencies have months after that,” McPeak said. year, and only about 35 percent of The temperature rising made a big bage pickup because of the storm. also helped with ongoing archae- “I think some of our plans are for a those are from Middle Tennessee. difference for us.” “We suspended it for the safety ological digs on the battle sites. passive, greenspace park that offers We have visitors from all 50 states Wilber said crews from various of the employees who have to get on The state’s plans for the Car- historical interpretation of what hap- as well as a lot of Scotch-Irish vis- city departments began preparation and off trucks, get into ditches and ter House property include a new pened here.” itors as well. We have thousands before the storm hit and were on- then walk on ice back and forth to 4,000-square-foot visitors’ center Civil War tourism has grown of school children that come here call throughout the weekend after the cans,” he said. “Their trucks are and the restoration of the garden significantly in Franklin in recent every single year as part of their around 10 inches of snow blanketed also big, and a lot of our city streets and outbuildings that were on the years ranging from re-enactors and curriculum. We have also seen our the municipality. are not very wide. People have a hard Carter family property around Civil War history buffs to the de- visitor demographic changing. “One of the first things our street time getting around in good weather, the time of the Battle of Franklin scendants of those who fought in We used to have school children department does is make sure all of so if you throw snow and ice into that on Nov. 30, 1864. In order to the battle looking for family history. and the older population, but now the equipment is ready to go and mix it becomes a danger to those on accomplish this, a former gym at McPeak said there are descendants we are getting a lot more visitors make sure the spreaders and plows the road.” the site will be demolished with of soldiers who fought on both sides between the ages of 35 and 50.” operate properly,” Wilber said. “They make sure the salt is ready to go. They make sure they have their plans down and know which priority roads they are going to hit first. We have a few intersections that are a higher priority, like the one near the hospital emergency room and the water plant.” In addition to city streets crews, other city departments were also working to keep residents safe. In Elizabethon, the city’s police and fire crews responded to 13 car accidents with no injuries, two with injuries, 13 calls from motorists needing assist- ing, and 49 other calls for assistance amid four inches of snowfall. Elizabethton also offers electric and water services to residents, which meant those crews were on 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016 www.TML1.org TN Rep. Timothy Hill elected GOP Whip House Republicans elected Currently serving his second Rep. Timothy Hill, R-Blountville, to term, Hill was first elected to the Rachel Butzler and was first hired in 1981. She saw succeed Jeremy Durham as majority Tennessee Legislature in 2012 to has been hired as the city change from a city manag- Whip in the Tennessee General As- represent House District 3, which en- the city of Knox- er-based form of government to the sembly. compasses Carter, Johnson, and part ville’s new solid mayoral-aldermanic form in 1986. The caucus voted 38 to 33 to of Sullivan counties. He currently waste manager, Palmer served as the city’s media make Hill the new Whip, defeating serves as vice chair of the House Cal- a position that is contact and oversaw several projects Rep. Ron Travis, R-Dayton. Hill and endar & Rules Committee, and is a crucial to the city’s such as the implementation of Hen- Travis were the only two declared member of the House Insurance and public service dersonville’s Sister City program candidates to seek the position. Banking Committee, House Trans- department and The Whip is in charge of count- portation Committee, and House Rachel with Tsuru, Japan. Palmer became oversees $9.34 ing votes within the caucus. Transportation Subcommittee. Butzler the city recorder and budget officer Rep. Timothy Hill million worth of in 1986 and then was named human solid waste contracts. Butzler is the resources manager in 1988. She first woman to serve as the city’s obtained her MBA from Vanderbilt U.S. Congressman Fincher won’t seek re-election solid waste manager, replacing the University while working for the recently retired John Homa. Butzler city. U.S. Rep. Stephen Fincher, gress in 2010. has previously served the city as a R-Tenn., recently announced he He is a native of Frog Jump, public service coordinator and en- Roger A. Page has would not seek re-election. a small community in Crockett gineering technician. Before joining been appointed to In a prepared statement Fincher County. In his prepared statement the city in 2011, she worked as an the Tennessee Su- said, “I have decided not to seek he didn’t give a specific reason for agriculture specialist for the U.S. De- preme Court by re-election to the 8th Congressional not seeking re-election other than partment of Homeland Security, as a Gov. Bill Haslam District seat this year. I am humbled he plans to return to Frog Jump to research technician at the William H. to replace Justice by the opportunity to serve the peo- his family and business. Fincher is a Miner Agricultural Research Center Gary R. Wade, ple of West Tennessee, but I never managing partner in Fincher Farms, in Chazy, N.Y., and at the University who retired in intended to become a career politi- a seventh generation West Tennessee of Vermont. She earned a master’s September. Page Roger A. cian. The last six years have been based agribusiness that produces of science from Texas A&M and a has been a judge Page the opportunity of a lifetime, and I cotton, corn, soybeans and wheat. bachelor’s degree in environmental on the Tennessee am honored to have been given the Hours after Fincher’s announce- resource management from Pennsyl- Court of Criminal Appeals since chance to serve.” ment, state Sen. Brian Kelsey, vania State University. 2011 and before that served as a Currently in his third term, the R-Germantown, confirmed he will circuit court judge for the 26th Judi- 42-year-old was first elected to Con- run for Fincher’s 8th District seat. U.S. Rep. Stephen Fincher Buck Dozier has cial District. Prior to his time on the announced his re- bench, Page served as the assistant tirement as direc- attorney general for the state in Jack- tor of The Fair- son from 1991 to 1998. He practiced Political figure John Jay Hooker dies at 85 grounds Nashville at Holmes, Rich, Sigler & Page, P.C. Longtime Tennessee political chosen to prosecute the case before at the end of Feb- in Jackson from 1987 to 1991. He figure, businessman and attorney the Senate and one of their key wit- ruary, ending a was also an associate at Peterson, John Jay Hooker died at the age of nesses was the counsel to the U.S. long career with Young, Self & Asselin in Atlanta 85 in Nashville following a year-long Senate committee investigating labor Metro Nashville Buck Dozier and a law clerk for then-U.S. District battle with cancer. union corruption, Bobby Kennedy. government. Doz- Court Judge Julia Smith Gibbons. A Nashville native, Hooker’s ca- Hooker and Kennedy formed a fast ier was hired as the executive direc- Page received his law degree with reer in the law and Tennessee politics friendship, and from 1961 to 1963, tor of the fairgrounds in 2008. Dozier honors in 1984 from the University stretched for nearly 60 years. Hooker served as a special assistant served as the Metro fire chief for six of Memphis. He received a bach- Born on Aug. 24, 1930, Hooker to Kennedy, who was then serving as years and was a member of the Ten- elor’s degree in pharmacy in 1978 was the son of well-known Nashville U.S. Attorney General. nessee Fire Chiefs Association. He from the University of Tennessee attorney John Jay Hooker Sr. and In 1960, Hooker formed his own was elected an at-large Metro coun- College of Pharmacy in Memphis. Darthula Williamson Hooker. He firm of Hooker, Hooker and Willis and cilman in three separate periods, with He attended the University of Ten- graduated from Montgomery Bell worked there until 1973. He served his last term ending in 2006. Dozier nessee at Martin. Academy in 1948, followed by the as Chairman of Performance Systems served as president pro tempore of University of the South in Sewanee Inc. – also known as Minnie Pearl the Metro Council from September Dr. Avice E. Reid in 1952. Chicken from 1967 until 1972 and 2004 to August 2005 and on various has been selected He served two years in the U.S. then as president of the STP Corpo- John Jay Hooker council committees. A graduate of as the senior direc- Army Judge Advocate Corporal’s ration from 1973 until 1976. Hooker Cohn High School, Dozier received tor of community Corps as an investigator before was publisher of the newspaper the er was also known for his legislative a degree from David Lipscomb relations for the earning his law degree at Vanderbilt Nashville Banner from 1979 until agenda. He spoke out against the University where he later taught for city of Knoxville University Law School, becoming a 1982, and then chairman of United Tennessee Plan for the selection and 10 years. by Mayor Made- member of the school’s famous class Press International until 1983. retention of judges, leading to the state line Rogero fol- of 1957. After graduating, he joined Hooker ran for governor for the legislature to pass a constitutional Robert Holtz has lowing the retire- Avice Reid his father’s firm of Hooker, Keeble, first time in 1966, losing the Demo- amendment in 1971. His most recent been named di- ment of Thomas Dodson and Harris in Nashville. cratic primary to Buford Ellington. fight at the Capitol was for the Death rector of build- “Tank” Strickland. Reid will super- In 1958, Gov. Frank G. Clement He won the Democratic nomination with Dignity bill, a piece of legislation ings and codes vise community engagement efforts asked Hooker to assist Jack Norman for governor in 1970, but lost the Hooker helped galvanize after his own for the city of including the City’s Save Our Sons Sr. in the corruption investigation seat to Republican Winfield Dunn. cancer diagnosis. Murfreesboro af- initiative, the Police Advisory and of Hamilton County Criminal Court He would run for governor again as He is survived by a brother, ter serving as the Review Committee (PARC), and Judge Raulston Schoolfield, who was a Democrat in 1998, 2006 and as an Henry, and his four children: Dara interim director the Equal Business Opportunity Pro- accused of accepting money from independent in 2014. Hooker also ran Wimberly Hooker, Kendall Hooker since December Robert Holtz gram, among other responsibilities. teamsters. Following the investi- for U.S. Senate in 1976 and in 2006. Hightower, John Blount Hooker and 2014. Holtz be- Reid joined the city in 2007 as exec- gation, Hooker and Norman were During his political career, Hook- James “Jay” Thomas Lovell. gan his career with the city in 1996 utive director of PARC. Prior to that, as a plans examiner in the building she spent 34 years at the Tennessee and codes department, and then he Valley Authority in roles including was promoted to deputy director in senior project manager and senior November 2008. Prior to joining the manager of information technology. city, he worked as a project manager A Knoxville native, she has a bach- and estimator for a general contractor elor’s degree in mathematics from and then a structural steel company. Knoxville College and both a mas- He also serves as a part-time instruc- ter’s and doctorate of ministry from tor for the Tennessee Fire and Codes Covington Theological Seminary. Academy. Holtz holds certification from the International Codes Con- Portland Police gress as a certified Building Official, Chief Richard Fire Inspector I, Plans Examiner, Smith retired on Building, Mechanical and Plumbing Jan. 8 after 31 Inspector. He graduated from Mem- years in law en- phis State University in 1984 with forcement. Smith a bachelor’s degree in architectural was hired as a full- engineering technology. time patrol officer for the city in 1985 Shira McWaters and promoted to Richard Smith has been hired lieutenant in 1994. as director of the Two years later, he was promoted to Oak Ridge De- captain and then served as assistant partment of Public chief from 2001 to 2010. He has Works, replacing served on the 18th Judicial District longtime director Drug Task Force since it was formed Gary Cinder who in 1987 and was promoted to assis- retired in Septem- Shira tant director of the task force eight ber. McWaters McWaters years later. will administer all public works activities for the city Gary Whitaker and will be responsible for approx- has been named imately 100 full-time employees. A the new director of professional engineer, she has more the Murfreesboro than 22 years of experience with City Planning De- the water and wastewater industry partment. Whita- in the private sector before coming ker stepped in as to Oak Ridge. She is presently em- interim director of ployed with the firm Tata & Howard the department af- in Flagstaff, Ariz. McWaters also Gary ter the retirement Whitaker holds a bachelor’s degree in civil en- of former director gineering from Worcester Polytech- Joseph Aydelott in December 2014. nic Institute in Massachusetts and Prior to that, he served as director professional engineering licenses in of building and codes for the city. Massachusetts and Arizona. Whitaker began his career with Mur- freesboro in February 1988 as a me- Kaye Palmer, the chanical inspector in the building and human resourc- codes department before being pro- es manager for moted to assistant director in 1994. the city of Hen- He is certified as a commercial and dersonville, has residential building inspector, and announced her re- also holds an electrical and plumbing tirement effective license with the state of Tennessee. March 1. Palmer Whitaker has held a state commercial has been with the and residential general contractor’s Kaye Palmer city for 35 years license for 15 years. www.TML1.org 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016 Tennessee fire death rate hits new low Fire Marshal commends partnerships with local fire departments The Tennessee Department of the 2016 Tennessee Vacation Guide, For the second consecutive year, Tourist Development has released contact [email protected]. Tennessee fire deaths decreased to Location of 2015 its 2016 Official Tennessee Vaca- a new state-record low while the Fire Fatalities tion Guide featuring international The Tennessee Department of number of lives saved by smoke entertainment icon and native Ten- Safety and Homeland Security alarms installed by the state’s fire nessean Dolly Parton. More than has reorganized its Homeland Se- departments continues to climb. The 550,000 guides are available to curity office to better deal with the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Of- inspire potential guests to book a evolving threat, particularly that of fice (SFMO) announced that fewer trip filled with authentic experiences homegrown violent extremists. The unintentional structure fire fatalities that are part of “The Soundtrack of office of Homeland Security will now occurred in 2015 than in any year in America - Made in Tennessee.” The be comprised of three bureaus: ana- recorded Tennessee history, includ- 228-page guide is a compilation of lytics, operations, and preparedness. ing a milestone year achieved last stories, photographs, annual events, The reorganization allows Homeland year. smoke alarms being distributed regional overviews, maps, and list- Security to continually monitor any Seventy-two (72) people died in by the SFMO. More than 450 fire ings showcasing the state’s incom- threat, and adjust the department’s se- accidental home fires across the state service partners work to install the parable scenic beauty, outdoor rec- curity posture accordingly and more in 2015 — down from 76 fatalities in 10-year battery alarms in homes reation, history, family fun, the arts effectively. Assistant Commissioner 2014. Both years were record-break- statewide. This program, along with and spectacular culinary scene with and Homeland Security Advisor ing improvements compared to focused fire prevention in high-risk accompanying handcrafted spirits. David Purkey said, “Changing threat 2013’s fire fatality total of 100. areas of the state, has helped increase An initial printing of 550,000 guides indicators across our nation and state The three leading causes of awareness about the dangers of fire. will be distributed free at the state’s require us to adapt our structure and 2015’s fire fatalities were smoking, The smoke alarms provide the basic 14 Welcome Centers and to guests focus to protect the public. This electrical distribution (wiring, out- level of protection in homes, (early requesting the publication via tnva- reorganization model prepares us at lets,) and heating, according to the detection) and have directly prevent- cation.com and 1.800.GO2.TENN. the state level to more fully support Tennessee Fire Incident Reporting ed tragedies from occurring. Smoke It is also available as an e-guide at our local, state, and federal partners System (TFIRS). TFIRS indicates alarms installed as part of the “Get tnvacation.com/guide. As in previ- while extending our preparedness ser- that nearly 80 percent of last year’s Alarmed” program are credited with ous years, an iPad app of the guide vices to public entities as well.” The state fire deaths took place in homes saving 121 Tennesseans from fire will be available soon in iTunes mission of the Office of Homeland where no smoke alarm was known to danger so far. Thirty-six of those offering additional rich media and Security is to protect the citizens and have been present. saves occurred in 2015 alone. interactive content, as well as links to critical infrastructure of Tennessee “The loss of life in a fire is a Last year’s reduction in loss of all advertisers. For bulk requests of from the threat of terrorism. tragic event that we are committed life could not have happened without to stopping,” Tennessee Commerce the support of local, state, and nation- Cities receive ECD Facade Improvement & Insurance Commissioner and wide organizations, including: State Fire Marshal Julie Mix McPeak • The American Red Cross Grants to assist with downtown repairs said. “Our partners in the Tennessee • The National Fire Protection fire service community have worked Association, the National Asso- Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam cial Façade Improvement program, diligently to prevent loss of life, and ciation of State Fire Marshals, and Economic and Community De- we assist communities in making our teamwork is paying off. Going and the U.S. Fire Administration velopment Commissioner Randy their downtown commercial districts forward, we will not be complacent, Vision 20/20 Boyd recently approved $585,000 ready for new investment,” Boyd and we will continue to make risk-re- • Local fire departments, code in Commercial Façade Improve- said. “In two previous rounds, we duction initiatives our top priority.” inspectors, the Tennessee Fire ment Grants to assist Tennessee have assisted in repairing historic Tennessee has seen a 28 percent Service and Codes Enforcement communities with downtown im- brick storefronts, windows, doors, reduction in fire fatalities over the Academy, the manufactured provements. awnings, signage and other repairs last five years (2011-2015) from the housing community and the Commercial Façade Improve- that complement all the other activ- previous five-year average (2006- Tennessee Firefighting Person- ment Grants are derived from Ten- ities these communities are engaged 2010) when the National Fire Pro- nel Standards and Education nessee’s federal Community Devel- in to encourage a thriving down- tection Association (NFPA) ranked Commission. opment Block Grant (CDBG) funds town.” Tennessee as No. 6 in the nation for and are used to improve commercial The 2015 Commercial Façade fire deaths. The first “Get Alarmed” smoke- buildings in downtown districts that grantees are: “The continued reduction of alarm canvass of 2016 was held Feb. have active revitalization programs • Brownsville - $85,000 fire fatalities in our state is a result 6, when the SFMO, Fentress County in place through the Tennessee Main • Fayetteville - $100,000 of the dedication and commitment Emergency Management Agency, Street and Tennessee Downtowns • Greeneville - $100,000 of the entire Tennessee fire service,” Fentress County Fire Department, programs. Grants can be used for • Lawrenceburg - $100,000 said Gary West, TDCI deputy com- and the American Red Cross can- improvements including new aw- • McKenzie - $100,000 missioner for Fire Prevention. “A vassed the Clarkrange and James- nings and signs, painting, building • Union City - $100,000 key part of the SFMO’s lifesaving town areas to install free smoke repair and other upgrades. mission is promoting the importance alarms for homes in need. The event “Renovations like these can All six of the grantees are ac- of smoke alarms. Our ‘Get Alarmed’ comes in the wake of two separate help communities thrive and, in credited Tennessee Main Street pro- program continues to see great suc- fire fatalities that recently occurred turn, attract future economic devel- grams and are required to provide a cess due to partnerships with local in Fentress County. opment opportunities and promote 25 percent match for the funds and fire departments and agencies like The SFMO urges all Tennes- continued growth – important steps administer the façade improvement the Red Cross.” seans to make fire safety a priority. to help us reach our goal of making programs. Launched in November 2012, A comprehensive home fire safety Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Each application was supported the “Get Alarmed Tennessee” pro- checklist can be found at www. Southeast for high-quality jobs,” by the community’s senator and gram is responsible for over 100,000 tn.gov/fire. Haslam said. “I congratulate the representatives in the Tennessee six communities selected this round General Assembly. and encourage all of our Tennessee TNECD will accept applications communities to work toward en- for the 2016 CDBG Commercial Tennessee arts groups participate in hancing their downtown districts.” Façade Improvement Grant program “Through the CDBG Commer- in May. nationally-led Arts and Economic Study TDEC seeks environmental achievers, The Tennessee Arts Commis- sion has signed on with Americans Stewardship awards deadline March 31 for the Arts (AFTA) to conduct, a national study of the economic im- The Tennessee Department located in Tennessee and the project pact of the nonprofit arts and culture of Environment and Conservation was completed during the 2015 cal- industry. In Tennessee, the Com- (TDEC) is inviting Tennesseans to endar year. mission has partnered with 25 local submit nominations for the 2016 All nominees must have a min- arts councils, universities, city and Governor’s Environmental Stew- imum of three consecutive years of county government agencies, as well ardship Awards. The 2016 Awards overall environmental compliance as the nine development districts to will mark 30 years of recognizing with TDEC. Self-nominations are ensure comprehensive study data by Tennesseans who have taken out- encouraged. city, county and region. The Tennessee local study partners are: standing action to protect the state’s A panel of judges representing The study will document the • ArtsMemphis (Shelby County) diverse environment. agricultural, conservation, forestry, key roles played by nonprofit arts • Metro Arts Commission (Davidson County) The Governor’s Environmental environmental, and academic pro- and culture organizations and their • Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville Stewardship Awards include 10 fessionals will select award recipi- audiences in strengthening the state’s (Knox, Anderson & Blount Counties) unique categories: Building Green, ents based on criteria including level economy. It is the fifth study conduct- • ArtsBuild (Hamilton County) Clean Air, Energy and Renewable of project or program completion, ed by AFTA, stretching over a 25 • City of Murfreesboro (Rutherford County) Resources, Environmental Educa- innovation, and public education. year period. Data is being collected • City of Kingsport Arts & Culture Office tion and Outreach, Environmental The deadline for nominations is throughout 2016 and complete na- (Sullivan & Hawkins Counties) Education and Outreach (school March 31. Award recipients will be tional, state and custom local reports • Clarksville/Montgomery County Arts & Heritage Development Council category), Land Use, Materials announced in May 2016. will be released in June 2017. (Montgomery County) Management, Natural Heritage, For more information about each “We have heard from communi- • Johnson City Area Arts Council (Washington County) Sustainable Performance, and Life- category, judging criteria, and nomi- ties across the state on the impact of • Jackson Arts Council (City of Jackson) time Achievement. nation forms, visit TDEC’s website arts and culture,” says TN Arts Com- • Sevier County and City of Gatlinburg (Sevier County) Any individual, business, or- at http://www.tn.gov/environment/ mission Executive Director Anne B. • Tennessee Tech University (Putnam County) ganization, educational institution, topic/sp-gesa-governors-environ- Pope, “and with this being the first • Tusculum College (Greene County) or agency is eligible, provided it is mental-stewardship-awards. statewide and largest endeavor of its • Rose Center for the Arts (Hamblen County) kind in Tennessee, we anticipate this • Athens Area Council for the Arts (McMinn County) study will provide important data on • West TN Regional Art Center (Gibson County) how the arts and culture positively af- • Monroe Area Council for the Arts (Monroe County) fect economic development, tourism • Campbell County Historical Society (Campbell County) and quality of life.” • The University of Tennessee at Martin (Weakley County) Local partners will receive • City of Columbia Arts Council (City of Columbia) a customized final report on the • Paris Henry County Arts Council (Henry County) economic impact of spending by • Arts in McNairy (McNairy County) the community’s nonprofit arts and • Grinder’s Switch Foundation (Hickman County) culture organizations and their audi- • Macon County Arts Council (Macon County) ences, including: the number of full- • City of Tullahoma Arts Council (City of Tullahoma) time equivalent jobs supported by • Grundy Area Arts Council (Grundy County) the industry, the amount of resident household income generated by the industry, and the amount of local and state government revenue generated organizations including informal 615.253.5133 or visit the Economic by the industry. arts groups are encouraged to con- Study webpage for more informa- This valuable data is being col- tact their local study partner or the tion. lected through two types of surveys; TN Arts Commission in order to be one targets nonprofit arts and culture included in the study. activity attendees, and the other is Contact TN Arts Commission specific to eligible nonprofit arts and staff Carol White at carol.white@ culture organizations. tn.gov 615.253.8914 or Grace Rob- All nonprofit arts and culture inson at [email protected] or 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016 www.TML1.org Feds designate Blount County High Intensity Drug

Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. or advanced degree preferred with technical office duties related to the Trafficking Area (HIDTA) No charge to TML members. Send consideration given for TN CMFO processing and issuance of building Blount County is one of 14 newly Created by Congress in 1988, advertising to: TT&C Classified Ads, designation), with eight years of pro- permits. The successful candidates designated counties nationwide that the HIDTA program serves as a Carole Graves, 226 Capitol Blvd. Suite gressively responsible experience in will possess: knowledge of internal will work to disrupt drug trafficking catalyst for coordination among 710, Nashville TN 37219; e-mail: governmental accounting, auditing, and external public agency permitting through coordinated approaches to federal, state, local, and tribal law [email protected]; or fax: 615-255 or related areas and experience in a requirements; knowledge of construc- law enforcement enforcement agencies operating in 4752. supervisory capacity of accounting tion plans, construction terminology, Blount County is one of 14 areas determined to be critical drug functions and personnel; or any construction practices, and basic math; additional counties in 10 states trafficking regions of the United BUILDING, MECHANICAL & equivalent combination of educa- ability to use and manipulate Microsoft designated as High Intensity Drug States. Law enforcement organiza- PLUMBING INSPECTOR tion, training, and experience which Office; and ability to review, -inter Trafficking Areas (HIDTAs). The tions working within HIDTAs assess MT. JULIET. The city of Mt. Juliet provides the requisite knowledge, pret, and explain written documents. designation will enable Blount drug-trafficking issues and design is seeking candidates for a state certi- skills, and abilities for this job. Previ- Any combination of education and County to receive federal resourc- specific initiatives to decrease the fied building, mechanical & plumb- ous experience as a local government experience equivalent to a bachelor’s es to further the coordination and production, transportation, distribu- ing inspector. Electrical certification finance director or assistant finance degree and at least 5 years of clerical development of drug control efforts tion, and chronic use of drugs and is a plus. Detailed job descriptions director or equivalent is preferred. experience is required. The starting rate among federal, state, local, and tribal money laundering. There are cur- and requirements are available on Salary Range: $76,000-$114,500 is $14.78 per hour. Interested persons law enforcement officials. It also rently 28 HIDTAs across the country. the city’s website. Applications must (starting salary is DOQ) Interested must apply on-line at www.gallatinon- will allow local agencies to benefit The Obama Administration’s be filed electronically and are avail- parties can apply by visiting the city themove.com under “Employment” at from ongoing HIDTA-coordinated drug policy treats the national drug able online at, www.cityofmtjuliet. website at www.Brentwood-TN.org/ the top of the webpage and follow the initiatives working to reduce drug challenge as both a public health and org. The city will accept electronic employment. Questions should be instructions. EOE. use and its consequences across the public safety issue. This approach applications until such time when directed to Mike Worsham, human United States. is built upon the latest scientific re- a qualified candidate is chosen with resources director, at 615-371-0060. POLICE CHIEF “With the designation of new search demonstrating that substance the first cut-off date being Friday, LEBANON. The city of Lebanon is counties as High Intensity Drug Traf- use disorders are a chronic disease February 19, 2016. The city of Mt. PARKS MAINTENANCE currently accepting applications for ficking Areas (HIDTA), we are en- of the brain that can be successfully Juliet reserves the right to stop ac- SUPERVISOR chief of police. This position is respon- hancing the ability of Federal, state, prevented and treated, and from cepting applications at any time. For WHITE HOUSE. The city of White sible for the overall strategic planning, and local authorities to coordinate which one can recover. The Adminis- questions, regarding the electronic House is currently accepting ap- direction, leadership and activities of the drug enforcement operations and tration has directed federal agencies application process, please call (615) plications for the position of parks department. Minimum qualifications improve public health and safety,” to expand community-based efforts 754-2552. The city of Mt. Juliet does maintenance supervisor. This position include graduation from an accredited said Director Botticelli. “The High to prevent drug use before it begins, not discriminate based on race, color is responsible for the organization institution with a bachelor’s degree Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas empower healthcare workers to or national origin in federal or state and management of employees that in criminology, criminal science, law program is an important part of this intervene early at the first signs of a sponsored programs, pursuant to Ti- maintain the park facilities, grounds, enforcement, political science, criminal Administration’s work to expand substance use disorder, expand ac- tle VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 greenways, and other city property justice, public administration or related community-based efforts to prevent cess to treatment for those who need (42 U.S.C. 2000d). EOE/Drug-free maintained by the department. Visit field; plus, 15 years law enforcement drug use, pursue ‘smart on crime’ ap- it, support the millions of Americans Workplace www.cityofwhitehouse.com for full job experience with 10 years recent man- proaches to drug enforcement, work in recovery, and pursue “smart on description and information on how to agerial experience which shall include to reduce overdose deaths, increase crime” approaches to drug enforce- CITY RECORDER. apply. Applications and resumes should 5 years’ experience at a rank level of access to treatment, and support mil- ment. UNICOI. The town of Unicoi (popu- be returned to the HR office located captain or above. Must be currently lions of Americans in recovery.” In August, the Office of Nation- lation 3632, 16 sq. miles) is seeking at 105 College Street or emailed to Tennessee P.O.S.T. Certified or, if cer- al Drug Control Policy announced candidates for a city recorder. The [email protected]. tified in another state, complete Tennes- The newly designated counties are: additional funding for HIDTAS, town has 9 employees and a $2 Starting compensation: $14.50 - $17.66 see P.O.S.T. transition academy within Appalachia HIDTA including an unprecedented part- million general fund budget. Duties per hour or $30,160.00 - $36,732.80 per 6 months of hire date. Valid Tennessee • Blount County, Tennessee nership among five regional HIDTA include accounting, project manage- year DOE. Application Deadline: Open Driver’s License required with clean • Carroll County, Virginia programs—Appalachia, New En- ment, attends and/or facilitates meet- until filled. EOE. driving record. Successful report from • Grayson County, Virginia gland, Philadelphia/Camden, New ings, supervises office, maintenance physical examination including drug Gulf Coast HIDTA York/New Jersey, and Washington/ and parks and recreation employees PARKS & RECREATION screening. Candidates interested in this • Escambia County, Florida Baltimore—to address the severe and volunteers. Job starts as assistant DIRECTOR position should present a completed • Santa Rosa County, Florida heroin threat facing those commu- city recorder for approximately four- PIGEON FORGE. The city of Pigeon employment application along with a Michigan HIDTA nities through public health-public months until current city recorder Forge is seeking to hire a director of detailed resume with cover letter and • Muskegon County, Michigan safety partnerships across 15 states. retires after more than eight years of Parks and Recreation. This department salary history to the Human Resources New England HIDTA This HIDTA Heroin Response Strat- service. Target starting date for the head position reports directly to the city Director at Sylvia.Reichle@lebanontn. • Bristol County, Massachusetts egy is fostering a collaborative net- position is March 14. Starting pay is manager. The city offers a highly com- orgApplications may also be down- • New York/New Jersey HIDTA work of public health-public safety $40k. Upon successful completion of petitive compensation package, com- loaded here http://www.lebanontn.org/ • Broome County, New York partnerships to address the heroin training the applicant will be promot- mensurate with the qualifications of the images/global/departments/personnel/ • Ulster County, New York and opioid epidemic from multiple ed to city recorder with pay of $45k successful candidate. Job responsibili- application.pdf and returned to Human Oregon-Idaho HIDTA perspectives. to $48k. College degree required, ties include: plan, organize, implement Resources at City Hall, 200 North • Linn County, Oregon For more information about the MPA preferred. Send resume with and oversee the activities of the city’s Castle Heights Avenue, Lebanon, TN, • Texoma HIDTA Office of National Drug Control cover letter no later than Feb. 19 to comprehensive parks and recreation 37087 or by FAX 615-443-2844. The • McIntosh County, Oklahoma Policy visit: www.whitehouse.gov/ Larry Rea, P.O. Box 39, Unicoi, TN department, including managing the city of Lebanon does not discriminate • Pittsburg County, Oklahoma ONDCP. For information on the 37692-0039 or email: unicoitown- recreation programs, daily operations, on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, Washington/Baltimore HIDTA High Intensity Drug Trafficking Ar- [email protected]. maintenance of the city’s two existing national origin, age, handicap, or veter- • Carroll County, Maryland eas program visit: www.whitehouse. parks, greenway, community center, an status in provision of employment • Jefferson County, West Virginia gov/ondcp/high-intensity-drug-traf- ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR/ seven city buildings and their grounds opportunities and benefits. ficking-areas-program BUILDING OFFICIAL and road medians throughout the city. MT. JULIET. The city of Mt. Juliet The director will prepare and admin- is seeking candidates for a Electrical ister the annual budget, administer the Inspector/Building Official. Select- 5-year CIP, make recommendations as ed candidates will be required to to the need of additional facilities in UT-MTAS FEBRUARY MAP CLASSES complete pre-employment testing as accordance to the park and recreation deemed necessary for the position. master plan and administer polices You will need to hold a valid TN driv- established by the city commission. er’s license. Detailed job descrip- Qualifications include: graduation PURCHASING UPDATES tions and requirements are available from an accredited college or university on the city’s website. Applications with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in No city, large or small, can op- Target Audience: CMFOs, Elected must be filed electronically and are parks and recreation administration, erate without purchasing as it is Officials, City Recorders, Finance available online at, www.cityofmtju- leisure studies, or a closely related field. Directors, Municipal Accountants. liet.org. The city will accept electron- one of its daily business func- A minimum of five years’ experience in tions. This course will provide ic applications until such time when a full-time, comprehensive parks and Dates/Locations a qualified candidate is chosen with recreation department with increasing- an overview of purchasing and Feb. 10 Johnson City the first cut-off date being Friday, ly responsible experience. The candi- will focus on understanding the Feb. 11 Knoxville To register for a course, go to www. February 19, 2016. The city of Mt. date should be certified or certifiable state purchasing law and other Feb. 12 Collegedale mtas.tennessee.edu, or fax to 865- Juliet reserves the right to stop ac- 974-0423. Credit card payments As a Certified Park and Recreation legal provisions, including the Feb. 17 Bartlett cepting applications at any time. For Professional (CPRP). Must possess a Feb. 18 Jackson must register online with the Solu- city’s charter, which collectively questions, regarding the electronic thorough knowledge and demonstrable Feb. 19 Franklin tion Point System: http://www. application process, please call (615) skill in the areas of leadership, planning governs each city’s purchasing solutionpoint.tennessee.edu/MTAS 754-2552. The city of Mt. Juliet does and executive decision making with the policy. It will also review with Times: All classes will be held from or by invoice. For registration as- not discriminate based on race, color sistance, call 865-974-0413. Or ability to handle multiple tasks. Must the participants the basic ele- 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (local time). or national origin in federal or state for more information, contact Kurt be highly motivated and able to work ments of a purchasing policy sponsored programs, pursuant to Ti- effectively under minimal supervision. Credits: .4 CEU or 4 CPE/CMFO Frederick, training consultant, at tle VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 The candidate must possess a general and current efforts in cooperative (Financial) (PA) 615-253-6385. (42 U.S.C. 2000d). EOE/Drug-free knowledge of the principles and prac- purchasing. Workplace. tices associated with the diverse areas of athletics, aquatics, cultural arts, park FINANCE DIRECTOR maintenance, community center op- BRENTWOOD. The city is current- erations, community-oriented special ly seeking an experienced profes- events, health and wellness programs, sional to serve as finance director. adaptive recreation for special popula- This position, which reports directly tions, community education and special to the city manager, oversees a small interest workshops/classes. Must have and talented staff in the finance de- experience in writing grants and work- partment and directs all accounting ing with various types of consultants. and financial operations of the city. Experience in overseeing construction The finance director oversees - pur projects is extremely important. Inter- chasing, accounts payable, utility ested candidates should submit a re- billing, accounting, auditing, and sume, cover letter and list of references revenue collection services and to: Human Resources Department, City activities. In addition, the finance of Pigeon Forge, P.O. Box 1350, Pigeon director performs a variety of pro- Forge, TN 37868 Resumes will be fessional level financial management accepted for consideration until the po- responsibilities including analysis, sition is filled. The city of Pigeon Forge preparation, and maintenance of the is an EOE and complies with the ADA annual budget, financial records, and Title VI. Candidate will be subject statements, and reports with signif- to a background check, driving history icant responsibility and interaction check, and drug testing in accordance regarding the annual financial audit. with city policy. The ideal candidate will have a broad based knowledge of governmental PERMIT TECHNICIAN I accounting and methods of financial GALLATIN . The city of Gallatin is control and reporting as well as out- currently accepting applications for a standing organizational skills and a Temporary Permit Technician I in the focus on timely delivery of reports Codes Department. This is a 40 hrs and projects. The position requires per week, day shift position with no a bachelor’s degree in accounting, weekend work required. Duties include finance, or closely related area (CPA assisting the public and providing 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016 www.TML1.org

Tennessee Municipal League 2015-2016 Officers and Directors Five strategies for inspired leadership PRESIDENT Curtis Hayes Mayor, Livingston that move cities forward in budget process VICE PRESIDENTS John Holden BY BRENDA MORRISON 3) Hone your negotiating skills. Brenda Morrison and Chris Ad- Mayor, Dyersburg and CHRIS ADAMS Strong negotiating skills are neces- ams explain how to bring your March 14 - 15: Ann Davis NLC’s Cities Speak sary when trying to solve the tough- constituents together for better TML Legislative Conference Mayor, Athens est budget problems – the right vs. budget solutions that move DoubleTree by Hilton Nashville Wallace Cartwright Citizens are increasingly dis- right problems. Effective leadership Mayor, Shelbyville your city forward. This article Downtown, 315 Fourth Avenue connected from the public budgets while negotiating means you must DIRECTORS is based on the budget toolbox North, Nashville, TN 37219. The that impact their pocketbooks and consider the larger themes, as ar- Jimmy Alexander session led by Morrison and special room rate of $139 will be daily lives, but smart leadership ticulated by the Institute for Global Mayor, Nolensville Adams and presented by NLC available until Feb. 17, or until the in the budget process can change Ethics: Megan Barry University at the recent 2015 group block is sold out, whichever Mayor, Metro Nashville this. • short-term versus long-term; Congress of Cities in Nashville. comes first. You may contact Central Andy Berke The 2012 Census of Govern- • individuals versus communities; Reservations at (800) 222-8733 or Mayor, Chattanooga ments counts 89,005 public bud- • justice versus mercy; and, Morrison is a partner at En- via the Internet using the group web Randy Brundige get entities in the United States, • truth versus loyalty. gaged Public and co-founder page. (If you are calling the hotel to Mayor, Martin including the federal government, The book “Getting To Yes: Ne- make your reservations, please use Roger Campbell of Balancing Act, an online 3,031 counties, 19,522 municipal- gotiating Agreement Without Giving the group code – TML.) To register Asst. City Manager, Maryville (District 2) budget simulation app, and the ities, 16,364 towns, 12,884 school In” describes a negotiating style Vance Coleman, Taxpayer Receipt tool. Adams is for the conference, download the districts, and 37,203 special pur- of constantly searching for mutual Mayor, Medina president of Engaged Public, a form from www.TML1.org, and fax pose districts (utility, fire, police, gains and what is most important Betsy Crossley Denver-based public policy firm to Sylvia Harris at (615) 255-6488. library, etc.). to each party. Interest-based nego- Commissioner, Brentwood that created Balancing Act. Richard Driver That’s a whole lot of public tiation starts with developing and April 13-15 Mayor, Lafayette (District 5) budgets that need inspired leader- preserving the relationship. Parties TCMA Spring Conference Bill Graham ship to move communities toward educate each other about their needs, Embassy Suites in Murfreesboro. Councilman, Dayton (District 3) their common vision and goals. and then jointly problem solve on prepare using the right strategies Variety of sessions geared to the John Hickman To harness the power of their how to meet those needs. that consider purpose, issue, primary educational needs of TCMA mem- City Manager, Waynesboro (District 6) constituents and create broadly It’s important to note that bad ne- bers. Online registration for the Hoyt Jones message, audience and timing. They supported budgets, government gotiators are like bad drivers: harm- also need to cultivate an environ- conference to begin during the week Alderman, Sparta (District 4) leaders should consider these five Christa Martin ful to themselves and dangerous to ment of shared purpose, openness, of Feb. 15. Be on the lookout for an Vice Mayor, Columbia strategies: others. Unfortunately, the history of learning, transparency and trust. This email communication with a link to Pete Peterson policymaking is littered with missed builds a participatory culture that registration. For more information, City Manager, Johnson City (District 1) 1) Continuously revisit why you opportunities due to bad negotiators. leads to sustained engagement. please contact Mike Walker at Walk- Bo Perkinson ran for office. Unless we want to keep having the [email protected]. Vice Mayor, Athens In a recent budget toolbox same conversations about the same 5) Embrace technology’s power. Madeline Rogero session for city leaders, partic- issues with the same inadequate The public’s expectation of how April 20-22 Mayor, Knoxville ipants summed up the reasons solutions, policy makers need to be government should use technology TDEC Environmental Show of the Paula Sedgwick they ran for office in single words. excellent negotiators. to operate is often defined by the South. The 45th annual event will be Alderman, Bartlett (District 8) The most notable of these were private sector’s use of technology. held at the Gatlinburg Convention Charles “Bones” Seivers “transparency,” “development,” President-CEO, TN Municipal Bond Fund 4) Engage the public. This means citizens are expecting Center. The largest and most com- Jim Strickland “growth,” “connectedness” and “Public engagement” and “gov- more technology tools as part of prehensive environmental confer- Mayor, Memphis “accountability.” ernment transparency” are more than government processes. ence and tradeshow in the region. Mary Ann Tremblay It’s difficult to keep these buzz words in the budget process. For fiscal year 2016, San Anto- Its goal is to provide high-quality, Vice Mayor, Three Way larger goals in mind when budgets Successful public engagement nio engaged residents in a conversa- low-cost environmental training as Garry Welch bring about tough questions with on the budget can counteract the tion about the budget through #SA- well as updates on government/ City Manager, Savannah (District 7) no single right answer. When political apathy so increasingly prev- SpeakUp, which enabled residents to industry developments and trends, Mike Werner conflicts arise, keep returning to alent in our democracy. Innovators join the budget conversation through with a particular focus on solid and Mayor, Gatlinburg the reasons you ran for office, and in technology and public policy are in-person meetings or from the com- hazardous waste issues. For more this will help you stay focused on developing a range of high touch and fort of their home on a computer information, go to http://www.ten- PAST PRESIDENTS larger budget goals. high-tech methods as alternatives to Tom Rowland (2015) Mayor, Cleveland or smartphone by using the city’s nessee.gov/environment/article/sw- Dale Kelley (2014) Mayor, Huntingdon the giant budget PDFs and budget interactive budget on Balancing Act, environmental-show-of-the-south Ken Wilber (2013) Mayor, Portland 2) Frame the budget as a leader. sessions that offer participants three available in both English and Spanish. Kay Senter (2012) Morristown Vice Mayor Savvy municipal leaders un- minutes at the mic but not much The interactive budget enabled TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY Sam Tharpe (2011) Commissioner, Paris derstand that the budget is many genuine participation. citizens to learn about the complex Tennessee Town & City (ISSN 00403415, Tommy Pedigo (2010) Council, Morristown things to many people: These new budget methods both tradeoffs involved in balancing a $1 USPS 539420) is published semi-monthly Tommy Green (2007) Mayor, Alamo • a financial plan; educate and involve citizens so they billion general fund budget. They except in the months of June and December Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg 19 times per year by Tennessee Municipal • a communications document; can develop better governments that also got to try their hand at actu- League, 226 Capitol Blvd, Suite 710, Nash- AFFILIATE DIRECTORS • a reflection of local govern- improve society. They include: ally balancing increases in certain ville TN 37219-1894. Subscription rates: Dot LaMarche, Vice Mayor, Farragut (NLC) ment priorities; and, • open data platforms that bring $6 per year to members, $15 to nonmem- programs and services with cuts in bers, $1 a copy. Periodicals Postage Paid Kirk Bednar, Brentwood (TCMA) • a tool for accountability. financial transparency to - gov TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS others. All of the priorities and ideas at Nashville TN. POSTMASTER:Send address changes to Tennessee Town & City, (Ex-Officio Directors) ernment; gathered from #SASpeakUp were But once budget negotiations • participatory budgeting practic- 226 Capitol Blvd, Suite 710, Nashville TN Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports then presented to city council. 37219-1894. Tennessee Building Officials Assn. begin drilling down into math and es that bring groups of citizens “We thought about it from the Official publication of the Tennessee Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police minutiae, budget leaders can lose together to allocate public dol- residents’ perspective, and saw that Municipal League. Publisher: Margaret TN Assn. Municipal Clerks & Recorders sight of the larger themes. To avoid Mahery (mmahery@ TML1.org); Editor: lars; and, we needed to make the budget pro- Carole Graves ([email protected]; TN Government Finance Officers Assn. this, stay focused on values and • civic technology tools that both cess more accessible and easier than Phone: 615-255-6416. Advertising: Pub- Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. problem solving. Leave the ad- broaden and deepen citizen ever to participate,” said Bryan Lay- lisher reserves the right to reject any adver- Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors ministrative and technical issues tising deemed unacceptable. Fax classified input through web and mo- ton, assistant director for innovation. ads to TT&C: Attention Carole Graves at Tennessee Association of Floodplain to professional staff, or seek help Management bile-based tools. “Instead of just asking residents to 615-255-4752, or e-mail cgraves@TML1. from your state municipal league come to us, we went to them (dig- org. Fax advertising copy to TT&C: At- Tenn. Assn. Housing & Redevel. Auth. tention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. or state government. To ensure effective public en- itally and physically) as much as e-mail to dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference gagement, leaders need to plan and possible.” expressed by non League officials or staff Tenn. Chapter, American Public Works do not necessarily reflect policies of TML. Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. Tennessee Chapter, American Planning Tennessee Personnel Management Assn. Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing TN Section, Institute of Transport Tennessee Public Transportation Assoc. No loan is too large or too small Assn. of Independent and Municipal Schools Tennessee Renewable Energy & Economic Development Council Tennessee Urban Forestry Council Tennessee Stormwater Association TML ASSOCIATE SPONSORS 4 Star Sponsor Bank of America 3 Star Sponsor First Tennessee Bank 2 Star Sponsor Alexander, Thompson, Arnold CPAs Alliance Water Resources Ameresco, Inc. Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC See us for your special Fessenden Consulting Group lbtelematics projects needs. Master Meter, Inc. Parsons Brinckerhoff (615) 255-1561 VC3 Voya Financial Advisors Waste Management Inc. of Tennessee 1 Star Sponsor A2H Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers Local Govt. Corporation The town of Livingston closed a loan through the McGill Associates, P.A. Pavement Restorations, Inc. TMBF loan program in the amount of $1.1 million Smith Seckman Reid for a capital outlay note to finance parks and rec- Tennessee 811 reational facilities. TLM Associates, Inc. Utility Service Co., Inc. Vaughn & Melton Waste Connections of Tennessee Inc. Waste Industries USA, Inc.

TML STAFF Margaret Mahery, Executive Director Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Mark Barrett, Legislative Research Analyst Kate Coil, Communications Specialist Jackie Gupton, Administrative Assistant Carole Graves, Communications Director & Editor, Tennessee Town & City Sylvia Haris, Director of Conference Planning The city of Jackson closed a variable rate loan John Holloway, Government Relations through the TMBF loan program in the amount of Debbie Kluth, Director of Marketing / $17.4 million to finance its three-year capital im- Member Services Kevin Krushenski, Legislative Research provement plan. Analyst Denise Paige, Government Relations 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEB. 8, 2016 www.TML1.org Jim Henry reflects on 45 years of public service, looks forward to new challenges as Gov. Haslam’s Chief of Staff

BY LINDA BRYANT the past positions prepared you for TT&C: How is your relationship this one? with the Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey Jim Henry seems like a person JH: Being a part of local government, and the Speaker of the House Beth who was destined to lead a life of especially being a mayor, was an ex- Harwell? public service. Although he’s enjoyed cellent training ground. When I came JH: Very good on both counts. There success in the private business sector, to the legislature, I was already famil- is also a very good relationship be- Henry’s life has woven in and out of iar with a lot of issues that were af- tween Lt. Gov. Ramsey and Speaker various layers of government for more fecting city and county governments. Harwell, which is a must for getting than four decades. It really helped me to get a head start. things done. The 71-year-old had his first Having ties at the local level meant I taste of politics in 1971 when he won was often the go-to person for city and TT&C: Veterans issues have been a Kingston City Council seat at the county initiatives. very important to you throughout age of 26. He was on the council for In 1980, I was elected to the your career. Why? two years and then took the helm as Tennessee House of Representatives JH: I came from a family of military mayor until 1978, at which time he from the 32nd District. I remained service. My dad served in World War was elected to the Tennessee House the mayor of Kingston for a short II. My uncle was in the Korean War, of Representatives from the 32nd time after that. Being a mayor showed and my grandfather and great uncles District. During his second term he me how tough it was to grapple with were in World War I. I am a Vietnam was the minority leader, a position in tax-related issues. As difficult as they veteran. When we came back from which he served for three two-year are at the state level, they are even Vietnam many people were insensi- terms. He also served as chair of the more so at the county and city levels. tive about veterans. It was amazing Tennessee State Republican Party. In my opinion, serving in city and/or to me that we weren’t even invited Henry left office after 12 years in county governments are among the to participate in parades. As veterans, 1990 and subsequently went into pri- most difficult forms of government. we were answering the call of duty vate business. He was a one-time can- You are working for people you see to our country. We had nothing to do didate for Tennessee governor, losing every day. You have to learn to work with policy. Thankfully, things have his 2002 bid for the GOP primary to together with people on both sides of changed and people now understand. former U.S. Rep. Van Hilleary, who an issue. Most city and county issues Many have regained their respect for was defeated by Phil Bredesen. are nonpartisan. I really liked working the military. These days you see peo- Increasingly, Henry found suc- in that atmosphere. ple go up to members of the service cess — and great meaning — in his I entered a career in private and tell them they appreciate their role of president and CEO of Omni business when I first left the state service. That was unheard of in the Visions Inc., a company serving adults legislature. I had a placement agency, Vietnam era. with developmental disabilities and Omni Visions that delivered services children and families in crisis. He has for people with intellectual disabil- TT&C: What led to your interest even been called the state’s patron ities in Tennessee, Kentucky, North in developmental disabilities, even saint of children and social workers Carolina and Georgia. When I got going into business with Omni Vi- for his ongoing service to children and ready to retire, Gov. Haslam asked sions and serving for 13 years as families. me to serve as first commissioner of president and CEO? Henry sponsored numerous the Department of Intellectual and JH: The Michael Dunn Center was bills that focused on the safety and Developmental Disabilities. I’d said (and still is) located in Kingston. I well-being of some of the state’s most for years that developmental and in- became very good friends with the vulnerable residents, including leg- tellectual disabilities needed to have director, and as the mayor I got in- islation to prohibit the placement of its own department. The legislature volved with raising money for the children in adult jails and to provide took the initiative the last year Gov. Jim Henry center. In 1977, my son John was born state supplement funding to improve Bredesen was in office and created with developmental disabilities and juvenile court services. He also spon- the department. I moved over to the several other health problems. We had sored several bills aimed at improving Department of Children’s Services in TT&C: Local governments have system and by having a road program difficulty finding services for him. We the adoption system. 2013, and it was familiar territory. The particularly been interested in that accommodates growth. started a company to provide services Henry was appointed by Gov. largest part of my business at Omni transportation funding and ap- If we continue to attract more for children with disabilities and also Haslam as deputy to the governor and Visions was taking care of children. plaud Gov. Haslam’s efforts to tourists to Nashville, it will lower therapeutic foster care. Working at chief of staff on June 30, 2015, after One of the best things we did there learn more about the issues through taxes. If we bring more industries Omni Visions gave me an opportunity serving two years as commissioner was therapeutic foster care, taking his statewide tour. Do you foresee into the state, that will help, too. It’s to help my son and others. During the for the Department of Children’s kids that had difficulties and placing that going anywhere? Will there be more about paying for things than it is time I was in the legislature, I became Services. He was previously the first them in homes with active services. changes to the funding formula to about raising taxes. This is the longest a voice for people with disabilities. It commissioner of the Department of bring in additional dollars to infra- time we’ve gone in Tennessee history was one area in which I felt I could Intellectual and Developmental Dis- TT&C: How are you approaching structure needs? without raising taxes. What adminis- really help. It made sense because abilities. your role as chief of staff? Are there JH: We need to have a wide conver- trations usually do is spend money my family went through the experi- Through the years Henry has de- strategies, qualities or pitfalls that sation about how we pay for the roads when we’re having a good year and, ence of caring for a loved one with veloped many close bonds, including you have observed in others that in this state. There are only four states when we hit a low point, spend all the disabilities. friendships at home in Kingston and you will emulate or avoid? that haven’t raised the gas taxes. We money. Then you have to raise taxes. trusted relationships at the legislative JH: I represent Gov. Haslam when he haven’t raised them in Tennessee We have typically put money TT&C: You have a local govern- level. can’t make it to important events and since 1989. We don’t want to raise aside in a rainy day fund. We’ve used it ment background from serving on “Jim and his wife Pat have been functions. It’s my job as chief of staff them, but we won’t be able to build when we needed it. We’ve put money the Kingston City Council and as friends with my parents for over 45 to lend advice. Everyone who’s had roads without coming up with work- back into the fund when we’re doing the mayor for 12 years. Do you still years, and Jim watched me grow up,” the job has approached it differently. able solutions. It takes eight years in well. Sales taxes are a great revenue maintain a good relationship with said Kingston Mayor Tim Neal. “One Mark Cate had a different style than many cases to build roads. If you wait source, but it’s difficult to get correct the folks back home? of the reasons I started in politics in me, and Tom Ingram approached be- until the last minute with roads, you projections on sales taxes. And if you JH: I used to take vacations with a 1993 was because of Jim Henry. He ing chief of staff and deputy governor end up being behind even as you are have a recession, the dependence family friend of mine. We would go has been a mentor throughout my ca- in his own way. My way is to bring a starting out. You risk stopping growth on sales tax is a factor because you to Florida and our two families spent a reer. I am glad to call him my friend.” positive impact to the people working in the state. There may be negative almost always have an immediate lot of time together. One of these kids Tennessee State Parole Board around Gov. Haslam. The governor is results that could act as a deterrent for drop in buying and consumption. At I watched growing up, Tim Neal, is Chairman Richard Montgomery, a very inclusive about the people he gets growth and tourism. the same time, when you’re bouncing now the mayor of Kingston. I’ve tried longtime friend and colleague, has advice from, so no one here is actually We haven’t recommended any- back from a recession people start to be as helpful as I can and keep up known Henry since they were college his “chief advisor.” All of us give in- thing to solve the problem of how we buying again sooner. You can have a with that relationship. I was also very students together at Hiwassee Col- put. Everybody’s got a different opin- are going to pay for roads and trans- quicker recovery. The trick is to have involved in Kingston’s local effort to lege. They remained friends and both ion about what needs to be done, so we portation in the future, but we think the a little money in the bank so that when bring industries to the community. I went on to serve at the state legislature have lively discussions. Gov. Haslam first step is to ask, “Is there a need?” you have some good times, like now, have worked closely with their coun- for many years. and I do have private conversations, I think there is. you can address the pent-up demands. ty commission. I believe in working “Jim was always a leader at the but he also gets a lot of advice from Now, you have cars getting 25 For example, there are a lot of con- together. I can’t imagine an initiative college in student government, and people outside of the Capitol. I think miles to the gallon, and they’re going struction and maintenance needs for that the state or counties would have as he moved on through his life, he that’s a very good thing. Gov. Haslam to get 50 miles to the gallon by 2025. higher education buildings now. They that wouldn’t be good for the state was elected to serve in the legislature, has a 67 percent approval rating in a We aren’t going to be able to take care haven’t been addressed for years. government or the people as a whole. where he became Minority Leader for very difficult time for politicians. To of the roads if drivers are getting twice the Republican Party,” Montgomery me, that’s an indication that he does a as much today for the same amount at TT&C: Can you talk more about TT&C: Have there been any men- said. “He developed a lot of friends lot of things right. He always listens. $0.21 a gallon. the university-level issues with tors or people that have been very because he was honest and straight- Another issue is the cost of as- buildings? influential in your life? forward and willing to help anyone he TT&C: Do you play a role in the phalt. A mile of paving now costs JH: Because of the recession we put JH: Former state Sen. Tom Garland could. He has always been a well-re- governor deciding which issues about $100,000. It was $35,000 in off maintenance on those buildings. from Greenville was an important spected person who people could look to focus on moving forward? It 2004. Prices of materials are going We just haven’t maintained the build- influence. I really liked the way he up to. sounds like you favor a synergistic up significantly. How are we going ings like we should. Our Tennessee operated. He never got partisan, and “I feel the governor made a tre- approach. to deal with the people with electric State Parks are the same way. We he always tried to do the right thing. mendous decision in bringing him on JH: Yes, we usually have a collabora- cars? Also, trucks have doubled their have great parks, but they need work. I probably watched Tom more than to help him move his agenda through tive approach with the staff. It includes mileage in the past 20 years. That’s a I know it isn’t sexy, but we have an anyone in the legislature. I have the legislature,” Montgomery added. a lot of people — Chief Operating great thing, but they are paying half as obligation to take care of them. We’ll different mentors for different parts “Jim Henry can bring all factions Officer Greg Adams; Senior Advisor much taxes as they were. There are so take a look at the state parks and the of my life. John J. Hooker was a big together to make policy for the good Leslie Hafner; Chief Policy Advisor many questions. higher ed buildings. Hopefully, we’ll influence because he taught you a lot of people in the state.” Will Cromer, Director for Legislation get back to where we ought to be. about forgiveness. You have got to Larry Martin, commissioner of Warren Wells and Communications TT&C: Please keep talking about be able to forgive people to move on. the state Department of Finance and Director Dave Smith. They are just some of those questions and issues TT&C: What are some other big You can’t hold grudges, because it Administration, said Henry is respect- some of the people who collectively surrounding transportation. challenges we’re facing as a state? just doesn’t get you anywhere. I have ed on both sides of the aisle. advise Governor Haslam. He also JH: There’s a discrepancy between JH: Insurance is a big one. People been in office with a lot of characters “If you looked up the word ‘in- talks to people outside the inner circle. the diesel and the gas tax that will who work for a living are paying over the years, too many to name. My tegrity’ in Webster’s Dictionary, it That’s a wise thing to do. If you’re just have to be addressed. We need to find exorbitant amounts for it or they favorite president is Teddy Roosevelt. would have Jim Henry’s picture next getting your information from just two a way to get revenue from electric can’t buy it. It’s a serious issue, and He was strong when it came to nation- to it,” Martin said. “Jim is a man of or three people, it’s not good. cars. There are a lot of hybrid fuels that’s why Gov. Haslam put out his al defense and a huge conservationist. his word, period. His thoughts, words like propane and natural gas that Insure Tennessee program. I don’t He was a very decisive person. and actions reflect his unwavering TT&C: What is your relationship aren’t taxed. We’re likely going to know what the end result will be, but integrity.” like with Gov. Haslam? have a wide-ranging debate about how it’s hard to deny that insurance and TT&C: Is there anything you’d like JH: I didn’t know him until he ran we’re going to pay for the roads in the healthcare aren’t challenging issues. to add? How is your family? TT&C: You have a long list of for governor, but I knew his dad and future. We used to pay for 99 percent One of the biggest challenges this JH: This is the first Christmas we have accomplishments throughout your I knew his brother. I’ve learned a lot of transportation needs with diesel year is to try to reorganize and restruc- celebrated since our son John died in career, including serving in local working with him over the past five and gas taxes, but as we transform ture higher education. If we get locals 2012. We used to decorate everything government, in the Tennessee State years, and I have a great deal of respect to new means of fuel, we’ll have to involved and raise money at a local in a big way because John was so en- Legislature, as a commissioner of for him. Gov. Haslam is a very astute make sure everyone is paying their level, I think that it will make the col- thusiastic about Christmas. We have two different departments and now person. He has a very good heart and fair share. It’s hard because a lot of leges stronger. If you have local boards two other children, one boy and one as Deputy Governor/Chief of Staff. wants to help people. He thinks a lot people are against taxes. I can un- that have authority to hire a university girl, Leisa and Jimmy. We have an This is the first time you have held about the future and how fiscal actions derstand that, but I think that this is president or raise tuition, they will have 80-acre farm in Kingston, about two this type of role. How is it different we take today might impact future a case where you can keep the taxes more money at the local level. K-12 hours from Nashville. I spend all of from the others? And how have administrations. down by improving the transportation funding is also always an issue. my time off there.