6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 65, Number 19 Dec. 15, 2014

Senate, House Caucuses elect leadership positions BY CAROLE GRAVES TML Communications Director

Senate and House caucuses met over the past several weeks to elect leadership positions for the 109th TML District Meetings Tennessee General Assembly. Ron Ramsey of Blountville was District 1: Jan. 20 Johnson City elected without opposition as the District 2: Jan. 21 Maryville Senate’s Republican caucus’ choice to serve as Senate Speaker and Lt. District 3: Jan. 22 Cleveland Governor. District 4: Jan. 27 Sparta With a 28-5 Republican majority in the Senate, Ramsey is comfortably Districts 5 & 6: Jan. 26 Murfreesboro assured a fifth term as Speaker when Districts 7 & 8: Jan. 30 Medina the full Senate votes on the top post Ron Ramsey Beth Harwell in January. Other Senate GOP elections include Mark Norris of Collierville Our holiday wish: to his fifth term as majority leader; and Bill Ketron of Murfreesboro to Pass Marketplace Fairness now! his third term as caucus chairman. In GOP House Caucus elections, Americans have already spent and pass marketplace fairness legis- Beth Harwell of Nashville was nom- billions of dollars online during lation. Marketplace fairness would inated House Speaker, fending off a the first days of this year’s holiday level the playing field for our local challenge from Rep. Rick Womick, shopping season. In fact, online brick and mortar retailers. It would of Rockvale, by a 57-15 margin. The shoppers spent more this year on also mean an additional $23 billion full house will vote on the position “Black Friday,” the traditional start to invest in our communities – in when the Tennessee legislature con- to holiday shopping, than ever be- health centers, infrastructure, police venes Jan. 13. Assuming that Har- fore. However, most shoppers will and fire protection, and more. well is re-elected, she will begin her not pay the sales tax owed on those Don’t let another holiday shop- third term as House Speaker. purchases because of the loophole ping season go by without mar- Gerald McCormick of Chatta- Mark Norris Gerald McCormick exempting online sellers from col- ketplace fairness. Send Congress a nooga, was re-elected to his third lecting sales tax. message now and call for immediate term as House Majority Leader; Now is the time for Congress to passage of marketplace fairness leg- Rep. Glen Casada, of Franklin, was close the online sales tax loophole islation. re-elected to his second term as House Republican Caucus Chair- Rep. Phil Roe http://roe.house.gov/contact/ man. Rep. John J. Duncan, Jr. https://duncan.house.gov/contact-me/email-me Earlier this month, Senate Rep. Chuck Fleischmann https://fleischmann.house.gov/contact-me/email-me Democrats elected freshman Sen. Rep. Scott DesJarlais http://desjarlais.house.gov/contact/ Lee Harris of Memphis to the post Rep. Jim Cooper https://cooper.house.gov/contact/email-me of Senate Minority Leader, and Sen. Rep. Diane Black https://black.house.gov/contact-me/email-me Jeff Yarbro, also a freshman, as Sen- Rep. Marsha Blackburn https://blackburn.house.gov/contactform/default.aspx ate Democratic Caucus Chairman. Rep. Stephen Fincher https://fincher.house.gov/contact/email-me In the House, Rep. Craig Rep. Steve Cohen https://cohen.house.gov/contact-me/email-me Fitzhugh was elected to his third term as House Democratic Leader. House Democrats added the Bill Ketron Rising health care costs position of Leader Pro-Tempore to Glen Casada drive local governments to shift strategies

Although health care costs has saved $4 for every $1 invested have slowed recently, rising costs in chronic disease management. over the last decade have prompted • Corpus Christi, Texas, reduced many local governments to make health care costs by $1.84 million changes to their plans and strategies, by conducting a dependent eligibil- according to a new nationwide sur- ity audit and establishing an on-site vey released by the Center for State wellness clinic. and Local Government Excellence • Greater access to comprehen- Lee Harris Jeff Yarbro Craig Fitzhugh in partnership with The University sive medical care and related sup- of Tennessee Institute for Public port services for offenders resulted their leadership team. The position the Caucus Chairman at meetings Armstrong was elected to that post. Service. in lower reincarceration rates and will serve alongside House Demo- with the Administration and House Rep. Mike Stewart, was elected The top cost drivers of local total inmate population in Hampden cratic Leader and will stand in for Republican Leadership. Rep. Joe Caucus Chairman. government health care increases County, Mass. cited by survey respondents were: • Diverting offenders with ex- 1. increased claim costs treme behavior problems into mental (64 percent) health services opened up capacity at 2. prescription drugs (57 percent) the Buncombe County, N. C. Deten- Knoxville establishes $500,000 fund to help 3. an aging workforce (46 percent) tion Facility, making it possible to 4. insurance company price in- rent the facility to crowded commu- citizens revitalize their historic properties creases (45 percent) and nity jails and to generate $1,038,717 BY VICTORIA SOUTH 5. federal health care policy in new revenue. TML Communications Coordinator (45 percent). Local governments report that providing easy access to health ser- Two years ago, historic home- “Local Government Strategies vices at work sites not only supports owners, Knoxville Mayor Madeline to Address Rising Health Care Costs” employee wellness, but also reduces Rogero and her husband Gene Mo- describes the findings from a national employee absenteeism and health naco, found themselves removing survey conducted by the Center for care costs. With the percentage of vinyl siding from their rental house State and Local Government Excel- employee compensation that goes to built in the early 1900’s, to replace it lence (slge.org) and the International health benefits rising over the past 10 with wood. The step was phase four Public Management Association for years, many local governments have of what had become a nightmare Human Resources (ipma-hr.org). made significant changes to their “reno” project the pair had started Two hundred fifty-two IPMA-HR health benefits. several years earlier—when Mona- members took part in the survey, “Local government programs that co discovered he had to jack up and which was conducted in August 2014 contain costs and improve employee stabilize the entire foundation before at the request of the UT Institute for health are among the most important initiating any repairs on the home. Public Service (IPS). strategies,” noted Elizabeth Kellar, “When renovating older homes, Fifty-seven percent of respon- president/CEO, Center for State you are guaranteed to have some big dents increased cost sharing of and Local Government Excellence. surprises and to spend more money premiums paid by employees and “Wellness and disease management than anticipated, but it’s worth it in nearly half of respondents reported programs are offered by a majority the end to have the quality and char- that their local governments changed of local governments and are valued acter that you get from an historic the way health insurance is provided. by employees.” property,” said Rogero. Nineteen percent of those reporting The UT Institute for Public Ser- Having lived in older homes changes shifted employees to a This house is a prime example of the type of property that may benefit vice is in the early stages of planning most of her adult life— the city’s from Knoxville’s new Historic Preservation Fund. Facilitated through the high-deductible plan with a health a forum, to be held in East Tennessee, first female mayor currently resides savings account and 14 percent city’s existing Blighted Property Redevelopment Program, at the end of to discuss this study. in a house built in the early 1920s, rehabilitation, this home was sold and the city repaid by the developer. established a health reimbursement Download Local Government and admittedly, says she has stripped arrangement. Strategies to Address Rising Health paint off woodwork in old homes from; and they lend unique character sewers, your roads, you have your The report includes six case Care Costs at http://www.ips.ten- more than she cares to remember. It’s to our neighborhoods and commer- sidewalks…go back in to where studies describing how local gov- nessee.edu/content/health-care- her way of life, preserving the past cial districts that is irreplaceable.” we’ve already put a lot of time and ernments have produced savings in costs-drive-local-governments-shift- toward a more economically vibrant In a 2013 interview with Smart energy and resources the past and their health benefit costs. strategies. Access all the Center’s future, as Rogero strives to redirect Growth America, Rogero notes what repurpose that, rebuild that,” she • Disease management pro- workforce research at http://slge.org/ development toward the city’s his- she feels Smart growth is all about— said. grams, on-site clinics, dependent research/workforce toric core and older neighborhoods. reinvesting where investment has Now, with the city council’s eligibility audits, and regular review For more information: Amber “Historic properties are vital to occurred in the past. blessing, Rogero has set aside and rebidding of health care vendor Snowden, [email protected], 202- our civic identity,” she said “They “Rather than going out to green- $500,000 in Knoxville’s 2014-2015 contracts have achieved significant 682-6102 link us with our cultural past; remind fields or properties like that, come operating budget to help bring his- savings. Asheville, N.C., reports it us of who we are and where we came back in where you already have your See HISTORIC FUNDS on Page 6 www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15, 2014 Greeneville’s new garbage Hills, MI and Dublin, OH locations. The new facility represents an esti- trucks raise cancer awareness mated investment of $13.4 million. Construction of the 63,800-square- foot, two-level building, located on BRENTWOOD JACKSON 10 acres on the northwest side of City Commissioners unanimously A local manufacturing operation has Gateway Boulevard and Garrison voted in favor of approving a traffic announced plans to expand, creating Drive is expected to be complete study headed by engineering and 35 new jobs. Orchid Orthopedic August 2016. planning firm Neel-Schaffer to focus Solutions Alabama, LLC. (Orchid on evaluating traffic patterns and Alabama) will invest $2.1 million OAK RIDGE congestion at more than 30 inter- for the project. The company is a The city was recently recognized as sections along Old Hickory Boule- worldwide leader in the contract a Green Power Community of the vard in Metro-Nashville, as well as design and manufacture of implants, Year by the U.S. Environmental Pro- Franklin Road, Maryland Way and instruments and innovative tech- tection Agency (EPA). Oak Ridge Church Street in Brentwood. Over- nologies for the orthopedic, dental is one of 19 Green Power Partners all changes to those intersections, and cardiovascular markets. Orchid and four suppliers from across the such as new traffic signal timing, established operations in April of country receiving Green Leadership could improve traffic flow by 20-30 this year. Awards. Awardees are recognized percent during non-peak hours and for achievements in advancing the as much as 5-10 percent in the ear- JONESBOUROUGH nation’s renewable energy market ly-morning and evening hours. The The historic downtown was recently and reducing greenhouse gas emis- Greeneville Public Works employee and cancer survivor Mike Waggoner cost of the study would be $361,836 named one of the top 10 streets in sions fueling climate change. EPA is shown with the town’s new garbage truck. with the city paying $36,183 or the south to visit in an article in USA noted the city used more than 7.6 10 percent. The study would take Today Travel. The top 10 towns were billion kilowatt-hours of green pow- While Greeneville’s other gar- are winning their respective battles roughly 12 months to complete, and mentioned for their “old-fashioned er annually. bage trucks feature the town’s logo, against cancer,” said Peters, “But the city could receive results as early beauty and genteel charm; and his- the city’s new truck shows two cus- even with their successes, we know as fall 2015. toric homes, and quaint shopping SEVIERVILLE tomized logos supporting the fight that as long as cancer exists, the war streets.” The article also mentions Auto parts maker OTICS USA, against cancer. is not over.” BRENTWOOD the city’s trademark “Storytelling Inc. has announced plans to build a Both prostate cancer and child- One side of the truck shows a The Commission on Accreditation Capital of the World,” southern folk- second East Tennessee facility. The hood cancer have touched the Public light blue logo for Prostate Cancer for Law Enforcement Agencies lore and dedication to history. company, which already has a plant Works “family,” according to the Awareness and says “Public Works (CALEA), which recognizes law in Morristown, will invest $69.9 mil- city’s Public Works Director Brad Supports the Fight.” The other side enforcement agencies that volun- KINGSPORT lion to build a new automotive parts Peters, at the recent dedication cere- of the truck shows a gold logo that tarily meet and maintain certain The city has just become the only manufacturing facility, creating 117 mony. Public Works Employee Mike says “Help Public Works Dispose of standards for best practices, award- Insurance Services Office city rated new jobs. The plant will be located Waggoner was diagnosed with pros- Childhood Cancer.” ed the city’s police department the as Class 2 for fire protection in North- on a 29-acre site at the new Sevier tate cancer. And in October 2013, The logos were made by Signs Plus, Law Enforcement Accreditation east Tennessee, moving up from the County Interstate 40 Industrial Park. Jacob McGee, son of Public Works and paid for with private donations, Award with Excellence. This is previous classification of 3/9. ISO is Construction is set to begin in April employee Chad McGee was diag- Peters said. the department’s eighth CALEA a leading source of property/casualty 2015 with operations beginning in nosed with neuroblastoma, a type of For more information or to support award. CALEA also recognized the insurance risk data. Class 1 is the early 2017. extracranial solid cancer often found the fight against cancer, please visit department for completing the gold highest level of fire protection a local in children. “Both Mike and Jacob www.cancer.org. standard assessment. government can provide, with 10 SMYRNA indicating little or no fire protection The Tennessee Board of Regents COLLEGEDALE at all. The class 2 designation will be and Nissan have broken ground Murfreesboro Community Commissioners approved up to in effect until the next ISO review in for a new $35 million training $1.3 million for the purchase of five years and applies only to directly center. The board is building the Landscape Award winners eight acres of land adjacent to city served residents inside the corporate 150,000-square-foot-plus center hall which is currently owned by boundaries of the city. According to near Nissan’s Smyrna Vehicle plant. Southern Adventist University. The Kingsport Fire Department, only 750 The facility will operate as an ex- purchase is for a planned commu- departments nation-wide are rated tension of the Tennessee College nity center to be called Collegedale as Class 2. ISO ratings are based of Applied Technology campus at Commons. The land purchase cost on a community’s fire-suppression Murfreesboro, but the TCAT-Mur- will come from a private donor. The system, communications, fire halls, freesboro and Nissan will occupy it Collegedale Tomorrow Foundation equipment, and water supply. Oth- jointly. The center was included in will raise funds for building the er cities in Tennessee which have the fiscal year 2014 budget as part facilities, which will be city owned. earned a Class 2 designation include of Gov. Haslam’s Drive to 55 ini- The community center will be used Chattanooga, Franklin, Murfrees- tiative to increase the percentage of for events such as concerts, farmers boro, and Memphis. Johnson City Tennesseans with a college degree or markets, arts and crafts shows and and Bristol currently have a Class 3 certificate to 55 percent by the year family get-togethers. designation. 2025. The center is scheduled to be completed in 2016. It will offer a va- CLINTON MEMPHIS riety of training programs, including 3M Company announced that it The U.S. Geological Survey is automotive technology, mechatron- has purchased a 772,000 square awarding a $2 million grant to the ics, welding and other programs The Murfreesboro Fire Dept. was among the winners of a Community foot building located on 160 acres Center for Earthquake Research related to advanced manufacturing. Landscape Award from the city’s Urban Environment Department. in the Eagle Bend Industrial Park, and Information at the University of The city of Murfreesboro Urban contribute greatly to the quality of representing an investment of $135 Memphis. The university says the SPRING HILL Environmental Department recent- life enjoyed by both citizens and million and the creation of 100 new three-year grant will help the center The Spring Hill Public Library be- lyl announced the Community Land- visitors,” the Urban Environmental jobs. 3M plans to be operational in continue to monitor earthquakes in came the first library in the nation scape Award winners for fall 2014. Department’s press release said. the fourth quarter of 2015. The facil- the central and southeastern United to offer Wi-Fi lending services to its The Murfreesboro Fire Department The department recognizes ity will produce a variety of products States. The research center’s seismic patrons. Through an agreement with Headquarters, 202 East Vine Street, properties that make positive con- for the oil and gas and automotive network includes 140 seismographs T-Mobile, the library acquired 15 was among the winners in the com- tributions to the community’s land- industries. in nine states. It integrates data from mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, five Wi-Fi mercial/industrial category. Other scape Winning properties of the an additional 160 stations to process USB sticks and five Android tablets winners in the category include St. Community Landscape Awards are ERWIN data and information from about for its customers to check out. Each Thomas Rutherford Hospital and selected during the summer months. The first two phases of the town’s 500 earthquakes each year. With the can support up to 10 devices for Pinnacle Building Services. For more information about this downtown revitalization project grant, the center is responsible for Internet use. Library Director Alan “Many Murfreesboro residents program, visit www.murfreesborotn. are complete and work on the third monitoring earthquakes from the Couch said the staff is still working and business owners maintain beau- gov/CommunityLandscapeAward. phase is slated to begin after the Arkansas-Oklahoma border to the out software programs to wipe the tiful landscapes. These landscapes new year. Phase III of the project Potomac River, which includes the devices clean as they are returned. will cover the area of Main Avenue New Madrid, Wabash, East Tennes- Each device cost between $100-$180 from Union Street to around Church see, Charleston and central Virginia and it will cost around $9,000 a year Street, with construction expected to seismic zones. to run the program. “We’re looking to TML requests E-mail addresses be complete this summer. Work so apply a federal grant program called far includes widening of sidewalks; MURFREESBORO E-Rate, which is for public libraries The quickest way to keep city officials apprised of installation of new lighting, traffic M-TEK announced that the company to offset the costs of data access for legislative happenings is through e-mail or fax. With signals and underground utilities; will build a new headquarters where patrons,” Couch said. “That will cov- so many recent municipal elections, please make and the repaving of Main Avenue. it will consolidate its operations. er 50 to 70 percent of the cost, so that Work has also been completed to up- The automotive supplier will create means for $3,000 to $4,500 we can sure TML has any changes to your city contact in- grade the area’s stormwater system approximately 100 new jobs. An ad- provide this wonderful, nationwide formation. Send your updates to Mona Lawrence, to address flooding in downtown. ditional 100 jobs will be transferred access to our patrons.” The service Town officials are hopeful this phase from the Manchester location, and allows patrons to check out a device by fax at 615-255-4752, by e-mail to mlawrence@ will be finished by July. jobs from the company’s Farmington for up to three weeks. TML1. org, or call 615-255-6416. 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15,2014 www.TML1.org Rails-To-Trails: How Johnson City and Elizabethton are spurring community and economic development

BY TOM DOHERTY utilizing all tools at our disposal to TDEC enhance the livability of our city Offi ce of Sustainable Practices and to enhance the educational, rec- reational, business, employment and When a community looks for quality of life opportunities for our economic and community devel- citizens.” opment opportunities, the answer A ribbon cutting ceremony on often lies in their own history. Many Aug. 30, 2014, celebrated the inau- communities are using recreational gural Tweetsie Trail Trek, allowing opportunities as major placemaking cyclists, pedestrians, and each of the initiatives and a focus on history mayors to celebrate their efforts on and natural heritage has been at the the fi rst section of trail. forefront of those decisions. “The passionate and committed With a vision to use an aban- grassroots effort that brought the doned resource to create a cultural Tweetise Trail to fruition speaks link to their past, the city of Johnson volumes about the benefits that City and the city of Elizabethton rail-trails bring to communities like partnered to convert a 10-mile Johnson City,” said Liz Thorstensen, stretch of abandoned railway to vice president of Trail Development a greenway that links their com- for the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy. munities in a new way. The two “Particularly in small and medi- municipalities, with the help of um-sized cities, providing a safe, several groups of stakeholders, suc- convenient and enjoyable place to cessfully created new recreational walk and bike is proven to have a opportunities, spurred economic tangible and signifi cant impact on development, and preserved a key to the community. Our study of these the area’s rich cultural heritage born impacts frequently reveals an in- around the railroad industry. crease in commercial activity near The East Tennessee & West- the trail, a boost in quality of life and A ribbon cutting ceremony on Aug. 30, celebrated the inaugural Tweetsie Trail Trek, allowing cyclists, pe- ern North Carolina (ET & WNC) real estate values, and an increase in destrians, and each of the mayors to celebrate their efforts on the fi rst section of trail. Railroad originally commissioned regular physical activity.” the narrow gauge railway in 1868 In the next couple of years, the hands dirty to make a project come connecting Johnson’s Depot, now two cities will be reconnected by the to reality. Elizabethton and Johnson called Johnson City, to the iron ore complete Tweetsie Trail. However, City built a scenic pedestrian high- mine in Cranberry, N.C.. The section after almost 12 years of abandon- way that will complement the rich of the railroad, later recognized as ment, there has already been a re- area’s history for years to come. In the Tweetsie Railroad, was com- surgence of economic development addition to land-reuse projects, visi- pleted in 1888, and was part of the from recreational opportunities, tors and residents will be able to fi nd fi nal link to connect Memphis to the events, and interest from businesses alternative ways to commute to work Eastern Seaboard, according to the along the trail. In November 2014, or school, and fi nd more reasons to Johnson City Press. The railroad Trek Bicycles, a bicycle manufac- go outside to see the mountains of provided ample access to Elizabeth- turer and retailer, announced that it East Tennessee. Whether that means ton and Johnson City, as well as to will open a concept store in the Lon- retaining business along the trail, or the valleys of the Watauga and Doe don’s Lofts in downtown Johnson creating a connector that will pro- Rivers. The railroad was known as City, nearby to the Tweetsie Trail. mote healthy lifestyles, a rail-trail the “driving force for the growth of Chad Wolfe, store owner and Trek like the Tweetsie in any community the town,” and Johnson City was employee for 19 years, viewed the will likely have similar impacts. commonly referred to as the “the location to the Tweetsie Trail as a ma- For more information about op- Gateway to the Land of Sky,” be- jor benefi t to the concept store. He is portunities to fund planning efforts cause of the infl ux of tourism and focusing on attracting not only local or to get support for community business. However, the Tweetsie cyclists and runners, but also outdoor projects, sustainability or economic Railroad closed to mining traffi c, enthusiasts from North Carolina and development, contact the Tennessee but because it was also constructed Virginia. Department of Environment and with a standard line—meaning both According to the Rails-to-Trails Conservation’s Offi ce of Sustainable narrow and regular gauge—the Conservancy, economic devel- Practices at 615-532-0120 or www. rail-line transitioned to passenger opment opportunities from other tennessee.gov/environment or visit rail, providing a means of daily rails-to-trails projects in the nation the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy at transportation service between the have had strong impacts on the local www.railstotrails.org two towns. It continued operation community until 2003 and closed as a result of and surround- change in ownership and declining ing environs. business in Elizabethton. “These are all Beginning in 2005, the Johnson outcomes that City Board of Commissioners led have quantifi - One of the many bridges constructed with funding raised by the the charge to purchase a section able econom- Tweetsie Trail Task Force. of the former Tweetsie Railroad to ic and envi- establish the fi rst and only rail-trail, ronmental or conversion of a former rail-line returns. Rail- to a low-impact pedestrian trail, trail proj- in Tennessee. The fi rst section of ects like the the rail-trail, 4.5 miles, is part of a Tweetsie Trail major redevelopment effort that was are proven to completed without the assistance of be very savvy state or federal funding. Rather, a and far-sight- dedicated task force – the Tweetsie ed invest- Trail Task Force – involved several ments that re- groups including Johnson City, pay their cost Elizabethton, and Carter County many times residents, and raised more than over,” said $475,000 for the construction of the Sorensen as a fi rst section of trail. In addition to closing state- the money that was raised, numer- ment. ous stakeholders donated materials Like most including pavers, signage, used rail communi- ties, and assisted with construction. ty visions, it The 10-mile Tweetsie Trail is takes a team expected to be completed in 2015 of dedicated or 2016, and will run from Stateline stakeholders Road in Elizabethton to Alabama to support Street in Johnson City. Johnson City ideas, profess Mayor Ralph Van Brocklin stated interest, and that “the Johnson City Commission get their own The fi rst section of the rail-trail, 4.5 miles, is part of a and management are committed to major redevelopment effort that was completed without Trail-users getting out for a ride on the recently completed section the assistance of state or federal funding. of the Tweetsie Trail.

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Investment advisory services are provided by Morningstar Associates, LLC, a registered investment advisor and wholly owned subsidiary of Morningstar, Inc. Neither Morningstar Associates, LLC nor Morningstar, Inc. is affiliated with Nationwide or its affiliates. The Morningstar name and logo are registered marks of Morningstar, Inc. Nationwide and the Nationwide framemark are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2013 Nationwide Retirement Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved. NRM-9664M6 (11/13) 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15,2014 www.TML1.org (TECW), the website is made avail- able by the Tennessee Economic State’s 15th welcome center Council on Women (TECW). The Center’s primary goal is to promote economic recovery by collecting and now open in Kingsport Three TBI labs reach national concerns in their communities. presenting information to women accreditation The report may be viewed at www. and children in need. However, it Three Tennessee Bureau of Inves- tn.gov/humanrights. also functions as a tracking system tigation crime labs have reached for the availability of services in each a level of accreditation that ranks Low income Tennesseans face big county; highlight weaknesses where them among the best in the world. legal needs service providers can focus expan- The accreditation was granted after A new study found more than 60 sion efforts; and present the clearest an evaluation by the American Soci- percent of low-income Tennesseans available information to policymak- ety of Crime Laboratory Directors’ face a significant civil legal need. ers about the state of care in Tennes- Laboratory Accreditation Board According to the Tennessee Supreme see. In this way, the TECW seeks to (ASCLD/LAB). TBI’s forensic Court, respondents cited conflicts help victims directly and to enhance facilities in Nashville, Memphis with creditors and landlords, prob- Tennessee’s method of response to and Knoxville are internationally lems obtaining or paying for health these crimes as a policy and budget accredited in Breath Alcohol Cali- care, and difficulties with govern- tool. The VAW Resource Center was bration and as a testing facility. The ment benefits. People with civil created in an effort to provide victims accreditation upgrade has moved legal needs are not entitled to public of violence in all 95 counties with a TBI from the “Legacy” level to the attorneys, and according to the study, ready means to identify and connect “International” level, which now only 25 percent of respondents were with local resources and to positively After a decade of planning, three about many destination sites all includes crime scene processing. aware of resources to help find a law- impact rates of recovery as well as years of construction and a small across Northeast Tennessee. The accreditation process is compre- yer. Many said they did not seek help the rate of reporting. roof fire this fall, the new welcome The project was on the drawing hensive and involved every aspect because they feared involving the center on Interstate 26 in Kingsport board and in the works for more than of the TBI labs being evaluated by courts would make their problems Trucks banned from infamous is complete and open to travelers, a decade, going through several dif- ASCLD/LAB. All TBI laboratories worse. The Supreme Court’s Access “Dragon” Route according to the Tennessee Depart- ferent studies. Work on the log cabin previously were accredited in drug to Justice Commission is currently Tennessee is banning trucks longer ment of Transportation. style building began in earnest in chemistry, toxicology and biology, seeking ways to provide civil legal than 30 feet from using a twisty The welcome center — the 15th October 2013. according to a TBI release. The aid to needy Tennesseans. stretch of U.S. Route 129 that is in the state — is located on I-26 Among several delays,the proj- Nashville lab is accredited in trace known as “The Dragon.” The truck (mile marker 5.8), between the Wil- ect suffered a setback in September evidence and latent prints, and both Safety officials warn against sea- ban is welcome news to motorcy- cox Drive and Rock Springs Road when fire broke out in the roof sec- the Nashville and Memphis labs are sonal identity crimes clists and sports car enthusiasts who exits and is expected to serve about tion of the building. also accredited in firearms. State safety officials are urging travel long distances to experience 400,000 visitors each year, provid- The welcome center project was Tennesseans to protect themselves the mountain road famous for its ing access for travelers on eastbound funded by the Appalachian Regional Uninsured population decreases against identity crimes this holiday 318 curves in 11 miles along the and westbound I-26. Commission, a federally funded, A study released by the University season. Last year, identity theft western edge of the Great Smoky The site will have about 50 spac- economic development agency for of Tennessee found that Tennessee’s accounted for 14 percent of all Mountains National Park. In the past, es for vehicles, a couple for buses the 13 Appalachian states. uninsured population has decreased complaints recorded by the Federal tractor-trailers pulling through tight and 20 spots for tractor-trailers. According to TDOT, the total by 25 percent from last year, Trade Commission, leading the list turns can block both lanes of traffic TDOT officials note the new center cost of the project was $12.3 million - marking the lowest percentage of of top consumer complaints. “Inter- and force cars and motorcycles off will be open 24 hours a day, seven roadway work costing approximate- uninsured Tennesseans in a decade. net scammers or hackers can easily the road. While trucks have been days a week and have a staff of 10 ly $9.5 million, the building another The report found that 7.2 percent of access your private data, if you’re banned from the North Carolina side employees, three of whom will be $2.42 million and land acquisition Tennessee’s 6.5 million residents not careful,” said Tennessee High- of the road for a few years, Tennessee tourism specialists, knowledgeable $358,000. are uninsured. The state has also way Patrol Major Stacy Williams, until now only posted signs warning seen a 35 percent decrease in the who oversees the state Department truckers of switchback turns on the number of uninsured children. The of Safety and Homeland Security’s route. State records show of the Henry Horton State Park hosts uninsured rate was helped by the es- Identity Crimes Unit. “Citizens 1.4 million vehicles that traversed tablishment of the health insurance should make sure websites are se- the Tennessee side of The Dragon annual 50-Day Challenge marketplace through the Affordable cure before entering any personal or between 2010 and 2012, there were Henry Horton State Park in Loop (1.5 miles) is located near the Care Act, the report said. The na- financial information.” total of 204 crashes – with motorcy- Chapel Hill announced its 50-Day campground and traverses habitats tional conversation around health cles making up 82 percent of them. Challenge to the local community, ranging from oak-hickory forest to reform encouraged many uninsured State launches online resource to Six of those wrecks resulted in fa- encouraging individuals and fam- unusual cedar glades; the Wilhoite people to evaluate their eligibility combat violence against women talities, including one involving a ilies to walk 50 miles in 50 days, Mill Trail (1 mile) follows the Duck for Medicaid or federal subsidies An online statewide database, Vio- tractor-trailer. The riders who died beginning Dec. 6 through Jan. 25. River among second growth woods, to obtain insurance through the lence Against Women (VAW) Re- on the serpentine road ranged in ages Interested walkers are asked to covering an early mill community; marketplace. Last year, TennCare source Center, has been launched to from 24 to 62. Accidents involving visit the Henry Horton State Park the Wild Turkey Trail (2 miles) winds experienced the third-highest new connect Tennesseans with helpful in- trucks usually cause the road to be office to receive a 50-Day Challenge through rich woods and old fields and enrollment in its 20-year history. The formation about domestic violence, blocked for several hours because of packet, including information on the Adeline Wilhoite-Horton Nature study also found that 93 percent of sexual assault, and human trafficking its curvy and narrow nature, accord- trail lengths, a record sheet for daily Trail (4 miles) follows the Duck TennCare recipients were satisfied resources. A project of the Tennes- ing to the Tennessee Department of miles and park map. River about 1.5 miles downstream with the program. That number see Economic Council on Women Transportation. The first 50 participants to reg- from Highway 31-A and loops into stands in stark opposition to a stance ister will receive a free T-shirt. an area of cedar glades. held by three legal advocacy groups Henry Horton State Park boasts For more information about that sued the state in federal court four great hiking trails and a one-mile Henry Horton State Park’s 50-Day this summer over the agency’s al- picnic area loop that are available for Challenge, please call the park office leged inefficiencies. For uninsured use every day: The Hickory Ridge at 931-364-7724. Tennesseans, the report found that the reason residents fail to obtain insurance is still the same — cost TN Historical Commission accepting and affordability. applications for merit awards Human Rights Commission The Tennessee Historical Com- tion projects as well as work in the report spotlights state concerns mission is now accepting nomi- field of history. A statewide examination of discrim- nations for its Certificate of Merit Award recipients will be hon- ination and human rights concerns Awards to honor individuals or ored at a special ceremony in May. now appears in a new report by the groups that work to preserve Tennes- Certificates of Merit are present- Tennessee Human Rights Com- see’s cultural heritage. The deadline ed annually to individuals, groups, mission. The commission, which for submissions is Dec. 31, 2014. agencies or organizations that have enforces state and federal laws “For 40 years, our awards pro- made significant contributions to the prohibiting discrimination, hosted gram has offered an opportunity study and preservation of Tennes- Spring 2014 hearings conducted in to give thanks and recognition to see’s heritage during the 12 months Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, those working to revitalize Tennes- prior to the application deadline. and Memphis, drawing testimony see’s historic places,” Executive To download an application for from dozens of officials, research- Director of the Tennessee Historical a Certificate of Merit Award, visit the ers and advocates. The bulk of the Commission Patrick McIntyre said. Tennessee Historical Commission 244-page report summarizes what “The Merit Awards program also website at www.tnhistoricalcom- speakers shared, on topics ranging highlights people and organizations mission.org. Applications may also from employment discrimination to for the work they do in the areas be requested by calling the Com- intolerance of immigrants. Over the of publication, commemoration, mission’s offices at 615-532-1550, next several months, the commis- and education regarding our state’s by writing to 2941 Lebanon Road, sion will hold presentations across unique history and heritage.” Nashville, TN 37214, or by contact- the state to educate the public about The awards program recognizes ing Angela Miller at Angela.Miller@ the issues in the report, identify individuals or groups throughout the tn.gov. possible concerns where current law state who have worked to conserve The Tennessee Historical Com- should be expanded and get feed- or highlight Tennessee’s cultural mission is the State Historic Pres- back from the public on the critical heritage during the past year. The ervation Office. Visit the website at awards recognize historic preserva- www.tnhistoricalcommission.org.

TENNESSEE MUNICIPAL LEAGUE STAFF Margaret Mahery, Executive Director Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Mark Barrett, Legislative Research Analyst Carole Graves, Communications Director & Editor, Tennessee Town & City John Holloway, Government Relations Debbie Kluth, Director of Marketing / Member Services Kevin Krushenski, Legislative Research Analyst Mona Lawrence, Administrative Assistant Denise Paige, Government Relations Victoria South, Communications Coordinator Sylvia Trice, Director of Conference Planning TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY (ISSN. No. 0040-3415) Publication No. 539420 — Official publication of the Tennessee Municipal League. Publisher: Margaret Mahery (mmahery@ TML1.org); Editor: Carole Graves ([email protected]; Phone: 615-255-6416. Advertising: Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising deemed unacceptable. Fax classified ads to TT&C: Attention Mona Lawrence at 615-255- 4752, or e-mail [email protected]. Fax advertising copy to TT&C: Attention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or e-mail to dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions expressed by non League officials or staff do not necessarily reflect policies of TML. Tennessee Town & City is published, semi-monthly, 23 times per year at 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, TN 37219-1894. Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. Subscription rates: $6 per year to members, $15 to nonmembers, $1 a copy. Postmaster: Send changes of address to Tennessee Town & City, 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, TN 37219-1894. 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15,2014 www.TML1.org Crossley finalist of WIMG Leadership Award

Gov. Bill Haslam Susan Whitaker, has been elected as commissioner of the the next chairman Department of Tour- of the Republican ist Development, Governors Asso- will be departing the ciation taking the administration after reins from New 12 years, to return Jersey’s Chris to the private sector. Christie. New Whitaker was named Whitaker Mexico Governor Haslam the 2013 National Tourism Direc- Susana Martinez was elected to serve tor of the Year by the U.S. Travel as RGA Vice Chairman. Both were Association’s National Council of elected during the RGA’s winter meet- State Travel Directors. Whitak- ing in November. One of Haslam’s er has overseen the development primary responsibilities as the RGA’s and implementation of the state’s chairman is to raise money for the comprehensive marketing, public organization. relations and promotions campaigns, including the state’s award-winning The Nation- website, www.tnvacation.com, and al Assembly of the state’s 15 Welcome Centers. State Arts Agen- cies (NASAA) has named Rich Glennetta Boyd, former ex- Hutchinson has ecutive director been selected as of the Tennessee Burns new chief Dot LaMarche, Farragut vice mayor and Women In Municipal Government first vice president; Betsy Arts Commis- Boyd of police. A former Crossley, Brentwood mayor and finalist for 2014 WIMG Award; Mildred Crump, councilmember Newark, sion, the recipient of its 2014 Gary Centerville Police NJ, and WIMG president; and Kay Senter, Morristown councilmember and WIMG past president. Young Award. The award recognizes patrol officer for Boyd’s exemplary leadership, inno- four years, she also Brentwood Mayor Betsy Cross- sition in Austin, Texas. CIR). vative thinking, and extraordinary worked with the Hutchinson ley was among five top finalists for Crossley was nominated for the Women in Municipal Gov- contribution to public support for the Hickman County Sheriff’s Office. the national 2014 Women in Munic- WIMG honor by Kay Senter, Mor- ernment is a constituency group arts at the state, regional and national ipal Government (WIMG) Leader- ristown council member and fellow of the National League of Cities. levels. Boyd served as executive Bruce M. Apple- ship Award. TML board member The leadership award recognizes a director of the Tennessee Arts Com- gate, Jr., will join Other finalists are Woodridge, Crossley, serving her second female local official for her unique mission in a career that spanned 28 the city of Oak Ill. Mayor Gina Cunningham of Wo- term as mayor, was first elected to and outstanding leadership in local years of service from 1984-2012, in- Ridge as the as- odridge, Ill; Alfred Mae Drakeford, the Brentwood City Commission government, including individual cluding 15 years as assistant director. sistant to the city city council member of Camden, in 2007. Prior to that, she served achievement in initiating creative manager. Applegate S.C; Rae A. Sinor, council member on the city’s planning and historic and successful programs. will assist in plan- “The WIMG Leadership Award Huntingdon Mayor of Deer Park, Texas; and Lavonta commissions. She also has been on ning, organizing, finalists are outstanding local elected Dale Kelley, athlet- Williams city council member of the city’s tree board and currently is developing, coordi- officials who serve as mentors and ic director at Bethel Wichita, Kan. on the Brentwood Library board. nating, maintaining models for future female leaders,” University, served Appleton Councilmember Williams of Since 2008, she has been a and directing the said Mildred Crump, WIMG presi- as commence- Wichita was selected as the 2014 member of the Tennessee Municipal dent and council president of New- ment speaker for overall operations and activities of recipient. League (TML) Board of Directors. ark, N.J. “Each finalist has worked the school’s Fall the city. He will also help provide The winner was announced Nov. In 2014, the Governor appointed tirelessly to create better cities for 2014 graduation supervision for special projects, 21 at WIMG’s 40th anniversary Crossley to serve as a member of the the residents they represent.” ceremony on the task forces and participate in the Leadership Award Luncheon during Tennessee Advisory Commission on school’s McKenzie Kelley recruitment and promotion of new NLC’s Congress of Cities and Expo- Intergovernmental Relations (TA- and existing businesses and indus- campus. Kelley is an inductee in the tries. Applegate, who was raised in Bethel Athletic Hall of Fame, the Knoxville and Lafayette, Indiana, is TSSAA Hall of Fame, the Carroll a recent graduate of the University County Sports Hall of Fame and of Tennessee, Knoxville. He holds a the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, masters of arts in Public Administra- As reported in Bloomberg.com, hit the sidewalk each morning. The where he currently serves on the tion and Public Policy. drillers producing the most crude in board of directors. He has served the average price of regular gas- more than three decades. concept, in which volunteer parents six consecutive terms as mayor and Longtime Adams oline at U.S. pumps slid to the lead walking groups that pick up is the current secretary/treasurer of Mayor Omer Gene lowest level since Nov. 5, 2010, In the first study of graduation specific kids at specific times every the Carroll County Watershed Au- Brooksher has dropping 10.05 cents in the two rates for students who began col- day, is still relatively rare. But it’s thority. Kelley served three terms passed away. He weeks ended Nov. 21 to $2.8416 lege during the Great Recession, been instituted in a handful of com- in the House of Representatives was 77. Brooksh- a gallon, according to Lundberg the National Student Clearing- munities. In Knoxville, last year, first and as commissioner of Employ- er served as may- Survey Inc. Prices are 41.01 cents house® Research Center™ found lady Michelle Obama praised the ment Security and commissioner of or since 1985 and lower than a year ago, according to that while a larger number of stu- city’s walking school bus plan. “I’ve Transportation under Gov. Lamar the survey, which is based on infor- dents enrolled during this period, heard more and more of this kind of was recently rec- Brooksher Alexander. He was appointed by ognized for his 30 mation obtained from about 2,500 completion rates declined. The walking school bus happening all Gov. Don Sundquist to the Tennessee years of service on the city commis- filling stations by the Camarillo, largest decrease in completions was over the country -- so that kids can Higher Education Commission and sion. He is one of only three mayors California-based company. Retail among nontraditional age students. get exercise on the way to school, also served as a senior adviser and who have served the city in its 50- gasoline prices have fallen as oil has In its third annual completions re- kind of like we did when we were special assistant to Gov. Bill Haslam. year history. slumped into a bear market with U.S. port, the Research Center studied growing up,” she said. students who entered college in fall 2008, the peak of the recession. This States that tax diesel fuel different- student population was 12 percent ly for railroads and trucks aren’t larger than the one that entered col- unfairly favoring one industry lege in fall 2007 (approximately 2.7 over the other, according to argu- million and 2.4 million, respective- ments the Supreme Court heard ly). There was a 20 percent increase this month. Alabama, Tennessee in the number of older students and several other states say they (over age 20) and a larger share of will lose millions in tax revenue if those enrolled less than full time the court sides with the railroads (1.5 percentage points more than in and finds the system discriminatory. fall 2007). In addition, the share of Much of that money goes to public students enrolled in community col- education. Railroads in Alabama leges and four-year private for-profit must pay a 4 percent state sales tax institutions increased one percentage when they buy diesel fuel, but the point each. The overall national six- state exempts truckers from the tax. year completion rate for the fall 2008 Truckers pay a different 19-cents-a- cohort was 55.0 percent, a decrease gallon tax on the diesel fuel they buy. from the 56.1 percent completion Alabama argues the taxes essentially rate for the fall 2007 cohort. Most affect each of the two industries of the decline occurred in the rate at equally. Tennessee leads a group of which students graduated from their 15 states siding with Alabama, with starting institution (42.1 percent for state legislators extending their tax fall 2008 vs. 43.0 percent for fall exemption to include railroads, but 2007). There was almost no change the railroads sued the state again in the rate at which students trans- anyway. ferred and completed at a different institution. Some student popula- The U.S. Senate is likely to pass a tions experienced larger declines in massive defense bill that includes their attainment rates, while others numerous, unrelated public lands remained the same or actually in- provisions that would mark the creased. “Today’s results show that most significant expansion of the getting more students to enroll is National Park Service system in only the first step to increasing the decades. The National Defense number of Americans with a post- Authorization Act — which sets the secondary credential. We also need direction for how the country will to do more to help them stay enrolled project its military power around the to the finish line,” said Dr. Doug world — would authorize six new Shapiro, executive research director, National Parks units, expand nine National Student Clearinghouse Re- existing park sites and extend au- search Center thorization for 14 National Heritage Areas. Among the new parks that cel- In 1969, half of American school- ebrate key moments in U.S. history children walked or rode their bikes would be the Manhattan Project Na- to school. These days, relatively few tional Historical Park, which would do. Just 13 percent of kids walked or involve a site in Oak Ridge, where biked to school in 2009. According the secret effort to create an atomic to Governing Magazine, in a coun- weapon took place. The provisions, try where one-third of children are along with many others, have stalled overweight or obese -- and where for years as Congress has failed to nearly a quarter of all students get pass a major public lands bill since no physical activity during the 2009. “This legislation will protect school day -- walkable schools places taken right out of the pages could have definite positive health of our history and science books,” effects. Some communities have said Clark Bunting, president of the implemented “walking bus” pro- National Parks Conservation Asso- grams to encourage more students to ciation. www.TML1.org 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15, 2014 Knoxville helps citizens breathe new life into historic properties with grant funding Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. No charge to must be returned no later than 4:30 pm on HISTORIC FUNDS from Page 1 TML members. Send advertising to: TT&C Jan. 2, 2015, to City Hall Receptionist (100 toric properties across the city to Classified Ads, Mona Lawrence, 226 Cap- South Russell Street), faxed to 615-325- life again. Knoxville’s new Historic itol Blvd. Suite 710, Nashville TN 37219; 1481, or mailed to: Human Resources,Attn: Preservation Fund is specifically de- e-mail: [email protected]; or fax: John Grubbs, Portland City Hall, 100 South 615-255 4752. Russell Street, Portland, Tennessee 37148. signed to assist property owners with Upon completion of the recruitment and the often difficult and costly task of CHIEF BUILDING OFFICIAL selection process, a list of qualified appli- repairing and renovating historic MORRISTOWN. The city of Morristown cants will be established and maintained for buildings. is now accepting applications for the posi- six (6) months following Council approval The program, created for both tion of Chief Building Official. Deadline for the purpose of establishing a candidate to submit an application is Jan. 2, 2015. list for potential vacancies that may occur commercial and residential proper- Performs intermediate technical work in the during that time period.Pre-employment ties of historic significance, targets inspection of all phases of building plans and drug screen and physical required. The City buildings lying within the city’s am- construction; does related work as required. of Portland is EOE. ple historic overlay zones, Historic Work is performed in coordination with 1 and Neighborhood Conservation the engineering and planning departments POLICE OFFICER overlays, along with properties ap- and under the general supervision of the SAVANNAH. The city is accepting applica- Director of Community Development.Job tions for the position of police officer. This pearing on the National Register of requirements and qualifications can be ob- position is under the general supervision of Historic Places. tained from the city’s website. Starting pay the Chief of Police. Interested applicants Knoxville has experienced some is $24.74/hr. Applications may be obtained must complete and submit an “Application success restoring some of its larger from the Human Resources Department for Employment” utilizing forms furnished downtown buildings through TIFF on the second floor of City Center, or on by the city. These forms are available at Throughout the years, various programs such as Knoxville’s Facade the city’s website at www.mymorristown. the Savannah City Hall, 140 Main Street, financing, such as The Holston, Improvement Program, have supported the city’s historic preservation com. Send completed applications to: City Savannah, Tenn. between the hours of 8 am Sterchi Lofts and the JFG Building, goals. Knoxville has also seen burgeoning success in restoring its of Morristown, Attn: Human Resources and 5 pm, Mon. through Fri., except holi- as well as University Commons, larger downtown buildings through TIFF financing. But the city’s new – Chief Building Official, P.O. Box 1499, days. Application deadline is 5 pm, Dec. 31 the city’s first urban, vertical retail Historic Preservation Fund, targeted toward residential and commer- Morristown, Tenn., 37816-1499. 2014. A complete job description, including complex, built at the site of a former essential functions required to perform this cial properties, is Knoxville’s first initiaitve developed exclusively for CITY MANAGER job available at Savannah City Hall and will factory. Various other programs historic properties that lie within the city’s Historic 1 and Neighborhood KINGSTON SPRINGS. The city is accept- be distributed with each application. The have also supported the city’s his- Conservation overlays, along with properties appearing on the National ing resumes for the position of City Manager. City of Savannah is EOE. toric preservation goals, such as the Register of Historic Places. Pictured: The Holston Building, which is Kingston Springs is located 21 miles west Facade Improvement Program, the listed on the National Register of Historic Places, at 12 stories tall, of Nashville, on the southwestern edge of POLICE OFFICER Blighted Property Redevelopment was once Knoxville’s tallest building. Private developers, through TIFF Cheatham County. The position is appointed PORTLAND. The city is accepting applica- Program (BPRP) and Owner Occu- by, and responsible to a five member Board tions through close of business Jan. 9, 2015 financing, have converted the building into 42 luxury condominiums. of Commissioners, for the day-to-day ad- for the position of P.O.S.T. Certified Police pied Rehab Program. Yet, the Histor- ministration of all city services and depart- Officer. Applicants must have current cer- ic Preservation Fund is the city’s first to preservation advocates, provided other interested parties, according to ments. The City Manager is responsible tification for consideration. The minimum program specifically geared toward ideas and suggestions about where Eric Vreeland, Knoxville’s commu- for oversight of a budget of approximately starting pay is $16.18/hour with full benefits. historic properties. the money would be most cost effec- nications manager. $2.1M and 15 full-time employees. The po- This position is full time, with full benefit “We know, as seen in the vi- tive. While the money will be dis- sition provides leadership and management package available including vacation, to the City, serving as the chief executive sick days, paid holidays; health, dental, brancy of our downtown, that resto- According to Rogero, attendees tributed in the form of grants, bonus officer, and directs all operations of the vision, life/AD&D, TCRS retirement and ration of these remarkable historic were asked what they most need- points will be given to applicants municipal organization as set forth by the supplemental voluntary benefits.Must meet buildings can help spark broader ed—and their responses shaped the choosing a repayment option to City Charter. The ideal Individual will have Minimum Standard Law (TCA 38-8-106) community revivals,” Rogero said. program’s Request for Proposals help rebuild the funds. Under the demonstrated ability to motivate employees requirements; have a high school diploma Becky Wade, Knoxville’s di- (RFP) that will be posted on the city’s repayment option, funding will be and delegate responsibility, and an ability to or GED, graduation from and accredited rector of Community Development website, including details about the structured as a zero percent interest identify long term goals and issues for the college is preferred; or a combination of Commission’s consideration. Candidates training, experience and education substan- agrees. “We’ve seen a huge re- application process and criteria for construction loan—borrowed by the must have demonstrated ability to deal with tially equivalent to an associate’s degree surgence of business coming into selection. building owner while they are in the the public, and able to be articulate and in- in police science; must be a citizen of the downtown and around our central “First, they suggested flexibility renovation process.“Once perma- teractive with the community. Experience United States; be at least 18 years of age corridor,” she said. Buildings, once to address a wide variety of projects,” nent financing is obtained, at the end in budgeting, control of expenditures, man- and meet the physical, psychological and vacant and blighted, are creating jobs said Rogero. “Second, they pointed of the project, whether the building agement of multiple departments, legislative criminal records requirements and other issues, and economic development are high standards for the assignment established by and the economic benefit is phenom- out a need for one-time funding that is sold, or the property owner gets a priorities. The ideal candidate will have: a the Portland Police Department; must have enal. We still have a lot of historic could span the relatively small finan- permanent mortgage, we are repaid,” bachelor’s degree in public administration an excellent work and attendance record and character in our neighborhoods, cial gaps that now are holding back said Wade. “It would be great to re- or business management, a master’s degree possess a valid Tennessee Driver’s License. particularly right around the inner redevelopment of many historically plenish the fund as much as possible, would be preferred, and will have three to Upon completion of the recruitment and city. This fund will help revitalize valuable but blighted and sometimes so that more properties can benefit five years of experience as a City Manager, selection process, a list of qualified appli- Assistant City Manager, or Department cants will be established and maintained for those areas and hold on to those uninhabitable properties.” from the program.” Head in a similar sized community; or will six (6) months following council approval properties.” Proposals will be accepted for Rogero adds, “this new Historic have more than ten years of experience in for the purpose of establishing a candidate A public forum about the initia- a two month period, through the Preservation fund should make a a supervisory role in a local government list for potential vacancies that may occur tive, held in July, brought an outpour- end of January 2015, and then the difference for many redevelopers as setting or any equivalent combination of during that time period. An application and ing of support from across the com- applications will be evaluated by they close their financial gaps and education, training, and experience which job description may be obtained from the munity, where close to 80 individuals a presently, unnamed committee bring commercial and residential provides the requisite knowledge, skills, receptionist at Portland City Hall, Mon. and abilities for this position. Residency pre- through Fri, 8 am to 4:30 pm. They are also from property owners to developers comprised of city staff members and structures in our historic districts ferred within six months to one year, within available online at www.cityofportlandtn. back into reuse.” a ten mile radius of City Hall. Additional in- gov. Completed applications must be re- formation about the community can be found turned no later than 4:30 pm on Jan. 9, 2015, at the city’s website: www.kingstonsprings. to City Hall Receptionist (100 South Russell National Endowment for the Arts announces net. Salary range is $50,000 - $70,000; Street), faxed to (615) 325-1481, or mailed plus a competitive comprehensive benefits to:Human Resources, Attn: John Grubbs, 12 Tennessee’s 2014 Fall grant awards package. The City of Kingston Springs is Portland City Hall, 100 South Russell Street, EOE. Resumes will be accepted until 4:30 Portland, Tenn., 37148. Pre-employment Tennessee has received 12 geography, ethnicity, economics or ty Arts, Inc. received $30,000 for pm, Dec. 23, 2014. All interested applicants drug screen and physical required. The City grants from the National Endow- disability. Folk & Traditional Arts to support should submit a resume and cover letter of Portland is EOE. ment of the Arts (NEA), totaling The Creative Writing Fellow- traditional music programming at along with three professional references, $225,000. The grants were in three the Laurel Theater. In addition to and salary history to: Municipal Technical WASTEWATER COLLECTIONS SYS- ships in Poetry enable recipients to Advisory Service, 226 Capitol Blvd, Suite TEM TECHNICIAN different categories that include Art set aside time for writing, research, presenting live performances at a 606, Nashville, Tenn., 37219. Attn: Gary ARLINGTON. The Town of Arlington is Works, Challenge America, and Cre- travel and general career advance- weekly concert series and at the Jaeckel, Municipal Management Consultant accepting applications for a Wastewater Col- ative Writing Fellowships in Poetry. ment. These non-matching grants are Jubilee Festival, Executive Director lections System Technician. Beginning Sal- The awarding of these grants to or- for $25,000. Dr. Brent Cantrell and other re- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ary is between $31,269.89 and $37,523.87 ganizations, schools and individuals Communities benefitting from searchers will conduct fieldwork to KNOXVILLE-KNOX COUNTY. The joint depending on experience and qualifications. across the state is a testament to the document previously unrecognized City-County committee conducting a search This position is full time and comes with the grants include: Jonesborough, for a new executive director of the Metro- a full benefit package including vacation, rich heritage and cultural assets of Knoxville, Memphis and Nashville. local traditional musicians. Selected politan Planning Commission has formally sick days and paid holidays. Qualified Tennessee. The International Storytelling recordings from performances and posted the position, along with a detailed job applicants must have a State of Tennessee Art Works grants supports the Association in Jonesborough re- fieldwork will be broadcast via local description. The position will be advertised Grade II Collections System Certification, creation of art that meets the highest ceived $15,000 in the discipline of public radio stations. through the American Planning Associa- have graduated from a standard high school standards of excellence, public en- Watkins Institute in Nashville tion, local media, and other outlets. The or equivalent GED, possess a valid State of Folk & Traditional Arts to support Metropolitan Planning Commission serves Tennessee driver license, and have experi- gagement with diverse and excellent Storytelling Live!, a series of resi- received $10,000 in the category a population of greater than 400,000 with a ence in an industrial or municipal setting. art, lifelong learning in the arts and dencies for master storytellers. The of Challenge America to support staff of 35. The organization is responsible Pre-employment drug screen and physical the strengthening of communities program will showcase storytellers the annual Handmade & Bound for city and county-wide plans, reviewing will be required. This position will remain through the arts. representing a broad range of oral Nashville Festival, a celebration subdivision regulations and site plans, open until filled. The complete job descrip- The Challenge America catego- of printmaking and book arts. The preparing and recommending zoning ordi- traditions from all over the world. tion and application may be found on the ry offers $10,000 matching grants festival will feature independent nances and maps to the Knox County Com- Town’s website at www.townofarlington. In addition to storytelling, the mas- mission and Knoxville City Council, and org under employment opportunities or to support projects that extend the ter artists will offer workshops and publications; displays of handmade reviewing proposed zoning amendments. by contacting (901)867-2620. Completed reach of the arts to underserved present special programs intended books, magazines, and comics; and The executive director leads and manages applications must be returned to: Town of populations whose opportunities to to serve seniors and youth. an art exhibition. all aspects of the organization. He or she is Arlington, Attn: Human Resources P.O. experience the arts are limited by Knoxville’s Jubilee Communi- Visit http://arts.gov/ for a listing. appointed by the mayors of Knoxville and Box 507 Arlington, TN 38002. The Town of Knox County and reports to the chairperson Arlington is an equal opportunity employer. of the MPC and its executive committee. The successful candidate will have exceptional WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT communication and relationship skills, CHIEF OPERATOR Tennessee Drug Card saves Tennessee citizens $30M strong management experience, and will PORTLAND. The city is accepting ap- demonstrate the ability to lead successful plications for the position of Wastewater As cold and flu season falls upon public processes in a complex and dynamic Treatment Plant Chief Operator. Starting us, TML would like to remind you system. The ideal candidate will have broad rate of pay is $18.71 per hour DOE and about one of the League’s endorsed experience in planning; a record of having qualifications. This position is full time, programs, the Tennessee Drug Card, worked effectively with public officials and with full benefit package available including that offers a free statewide prescription stakeholders who represent diverse inter- vacation, sick days, paid holidays; health, ests; and demonstrated success in managing dental, vision, life/AD&D, TCRS retirement assistance program for your patients. and building a positive and productive work and supplemental voluntary benefits. Gradu- To date this program has saved place environment. AICP (American Insti- ation from a standard high school or equiv- Tennessee residents more than tute of Certified Planners) certification and alent GED with additional formal training $30,000,000 on prescription costs. at least 10 years of planning experience is re- (post-secondary is preferred) in chemistry, This program can be used for quired. Applications should include a cover biology, sanitary and/or environmental en- savings of up to 75 percent on letter and resume and be sent electronically gineering or related fields as applicable to to MPCDirectorSearch@cityofknoxville. the wastewater treatment industry. At least 3 prescription drugs at more than 56,000 org. Closing Date for Applications: Dec. 31, years’ experience in the operation of a water regional and national pharmacies. 2014. Contact: Kim Scarborough, Executive treatment facility. Strongly prefer minimum Assistant, Policy and Communications of one (1) year experience in supervision at Here’s how you can participate: Office, City of Knoxville, rectorMPCDi - the wastewater treatment plant level. Must • Display cards at your office loca- [email protected]. 400 Main possess a valid, State of Tennessee driver’s Street, Room 655, Knoxville, Tenn., 37902, license. Must possess a valid, State of Ten- tion for employees and residents Website: http://www.knoxmpc.org/ nessee Class III Wastewater Treatment Plant to take. Contact Natalie Meyer, Operators license. Must achieve State of program director, at Natalie@ FIREFIGHTER Tennessee Class IV Wastewater Treatment TennesseeDrugCard.com or a card in hand. the program to get a discount on PORTLAND. The city is accepting appli- Plant Operator license within 18 months of 1-888-987-0688 and a supply Through the Tennessee Drug Card prescription drugs that are not covered cations through close of business January placement in position. An application and program, you can help uninsured and by insurance. The program has no 2, 2015 for the position of Firefighter. HS job description may be obtained from the will be mailed to your office at Diploma / GED Required. Prefer current receptionist at Portland City Hall, Monday NO COST. underinsured Tennessee residents membership restrictions, no income Firefighter I or Firefighter II certification through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. A complete • Encourage members of your access much-needed prescription requirements, no age limitations, at the time of application. This position is job description is posted on the city’s web- community to print a FREE medications at a discounted rate. and no applications to complete. full time, with full benefit package available site, can www.cityofportlandtn.gov and by Tennessee Drug Card at Ten- The program is used by people TML hopes you take advantage including vacation, sick days, paid holidays; clicking the link: Portland Employment Op- who have health insurance coverage of this easy and innovative way to health, dental, vision, life/AD&D, TCRS nesseedrugcard.com. portunity. This position is open until filled. with no prescription benefits, which help members of your community retirement and supplemental voluntary Completed applications must be returned • Inform members of your com- benefits. Starting annual rate of $34,450. to: Human Resources, Attn: John Grubbs, munity that they can ask for the is common in many health savings get the prescription drugs they need. An application and job description may be Portland City Hall, 100 South Russell Street, Tennessee Drug Card discount accounts (HSA) and high deductible For more information about obtained from the receptionist at Portland Portland, Tenn., 37148. Pre-employment at any CVS pharmacy in the health plans. Additionally, people the Tennessee Drug Card, visit City Hall, Mon. through Fri, 8 am to 4:30 pm. drug screen and physical may be required. state – even if they don’t have with prescription coverage can use TML’s website at www.TML1.org They are also available online at www.city- The City of Portland is EOE. ofportlandtn.gov. Completed applications www.TML1.org 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15, 2014 Tennessee Municipal League 2014-2015 Officers and Directors EPA responds to cities’ Clean Water Act Affordability concerns PRESIDENT Tom Rowland BY CAROLYN BERNDT matically impacting low and fixed ence Anthony said, “The financial Mayor, Cleveland National League of Cities income residents. The consensus of capability framework outlines new VICE PRESIDENTS the local officials was that the current socio-economic factors that will TENNESSEE Curtis Hayes After nearly two years of dis- reliance on two percent of median paint a better picture of what is FESTIVALS Mayor, Livingston John Holden cussion with NLC, the U.S. Con- household income for wastewater affordable for residents and commu- Through Jan. 3: Bristol Mayor, Dyersburg ference of Mayors, and the National and combined sewer overflows con- nities. We must find a new approach Speedway in Lights Ann Davis Association of Counties, the U.S. trols is a misleading indicator of a to determining affordability because Two hundred light exhibits with Mayor, Athens Environmental Protection Agency community’s ability to pay, and often the current framework has been more than two million flashing DIRECTORS (EPA) has released a new Financial places a particularly high burden shown to have disproportionate im- bulbs, begins as vehicles enter the Andy Berke Capability Framework for devel- on residents at the lower end of the pact on our most vulnerable popula- drag way entrance of Bristol Motor Mayor, Chattanooga oping schedules for municipal economic scale. tions.” Speedway (BMS) off Hwy. 394 Randy Brundige projects necessary to meet Clean The Framework is intended to Examples of additional information for Speedway In Lights Christmas Mayor, Martin Water Act (CWA) obligations. clarify how the financial capability that may be relevant in negotiating Village, located on the BMS infield. Roger Campbell The Framework builds on existing of a community will be considered schedules for permits or consent de- Asst. City Manager, Maryville (District 2) Holiday-themed activities include efforts by EPA to recognize the chal- when developing schedules for crees includes residential indicators Wallace Cartwright toasting marshmallows over a fire; Mayor, Shelbyville lenges local governments face in permits and consent decrees, and such as income distribution, poverty visiting with Santa Claus and joining Vance Coleman, balancing environmental protection “provide examples of additional rates and trends, and sewer and water in with Christmas carolers. Ice skate Mayor, Medina (District 7) with economic feasibility. information that may help some usage. Additional information relat- inside the decorated tent of the John- Betsy Crossley The dialogue between local communities provide a ‘more accu- ed to community financial capability son Controls Ice Rink and tube down Mayor, Brentwood officials and EPA stemmed from rate and complete picture’ of their could includes population trends, HVAC Chill Hill. Open nightly from Karl Dean growing concerns that costly water financial capability.” unemployment data, and dedicated 6 to 10 pm. Tickets, available at the Mayor, Metro Nashville and wastewater mandates were dra- NLC Executive Director Clar- revenue streams or limitations BMS gate, are $12 for cars, Sun. Richard Driver through Thurs., and $15, Fri. and Sat. Mayor, Lafayette (District 5) John Hickman City Manager, Waynesboro (District 6) Dec. 19:Livingston Jill Holland UT MTAS January MAP Class Christmas in the Country Mayor, McKenzie 100 East Court Square. Hosted by Hoyte Jones the Livingston/Overton County Alderman, Sparta (District 4) Managing Your Office Efficiently Chamber of Commerce. Experience Chris McCartt Working for higher efficiency? Credit: 4 CPE/CMFO (Other). carriage rides, singing, hot choco- Asst. City Manager What you must do. These ses- late, shops all lite up in Christmas Kingsport (District 1) sions will be highly interactive, To register for a course, go to decor, and much more. Free admis- Bo Perkinson sion. Times 5-8 pm. Vice Mayor, Athens (District 3) using your experiences and good www.mtas.tennessee.edu. Or fax Madeline Rogero insights to send you away with to 865-974-0423. Credit card pay- Mayor, Knoxville practical methods and tools for ments must register online with Dec. 19-21: Knoxville Paula Sedgwick success. There will be some the Solution Point System: http:// Christmas in the Cave Alderman, Bartlett (District 8) theory, but much more practical Schedule of Sessions: www.solutionpoint.tennessee.edu/ Historic Cherokee Caverns, 8524 Charles “Bones” Seivers application will be emphasized. Jan. 6 — Johnson City MTAS or by invoice. MTAS will Oak Ridge Hwy. 5:30-9 pm Dec. President-CEO, TN Municipal Bond Fund Topics will include SMART plans, Jan. 7 — Knoxville need to receive payment in order to 19-21. Tour holiday decorated cave, Mary Ann Tremblay personal and mutual accountabil- Jan. 14 — Jackson confirm attendance. vendors, face painting, children’s Vice Mayor, Three Way ity, acting on troublesome people Jan. 15— Franklin For registration assistance, activities. Admission $8 ages 5 and Ron Washington and reducing conflict. call 865-974-0411. Or for more in- up. Photos with Santa in cave $10. Councilmember, Murfreesboro Cost: Tennessee Municipal Em- A.C. Wharton formation, contact Kurt Frederick, Time: All courses begin at 1 pm ployees—$50/person/class. A fee of training consultant, at 615-253- Dec. 31: Chattanooga Mayor, Memphis New Year’s On the River Cruise PAST PRESIDENTS and end at 5 pm CST/EST. $65 is charged for non-city officials. 6385. Dale Kelley (2014) Mayor, Huntingdon Ring in the New Year with great Ken Wilber (2013) Mayor, Portland food, live entertainment, dancing, Kay Senter (2012), Morristown Council toasts and more. Board at 201 River- Sam Tharpe, (2011) Mayor, Paris front Pkwy #2. Adults only. For more Tommy Green (2007) Mayor, Alamo UT MTAS January MAP Class information, call 423-266-4488. Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg AFFILIATE DIRECTORS Insurance Office Fire Suppression Rating Schedule Dec. 31: Memphis Keith McDonald, Mayor, Bartlett (NLC) The Insurance Services New Years on Historic Beale St. Dot LaMarche, Vice Mayor, Farragut (NLC) Cost: Tennessee Municipal Em- Office (ISO) Fire Suppression ployees—$50/person/class. A fee Thirteen bands rock Handy Park at Janice Casteel, Cleveland (TCMA) Rating Schedule is the manual 5 pm and well into the night. Don’t TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS of $65 is charged for non-city (Ex-Officio Directors) used in evaluating a community’s officials. miss the giant 10-foot Gibson guitar Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports fire protection capabilities. Using drop at Hard Rock Cafe and the fire- Larry Cox, Memphis Tennessee the schedule, ISO evaluates the Credits: 8 CPE/CMFO (Other). works show at midnight. During the Tennessee Building Officials Assn. communications capability, the Target Audience: Elected officials, day, participate in the unique “Bury Steve Mills, Hendersonville fire department, and the water city managers, city administrators, To register for a course, go to Your Blues” tradition, where people Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police supply to develop a numerical fire chiefs, directors of emergency www.mtas.tennessee.edu. Or fax throw their “blues” into an open Glenn Chrisman, Murfreesboro grading called a Public Protection communication centers/dispatch to 865-974-0423. Credit card pay- coffin on Beale Street symbolizing TN Assn. Municipal Clerks & Recorders Classification, commonly called offices, and water directors/super- a new start in the new year. Lynn Carmack, Collierville ments must register online with Government Finance Officers ISO rating. visors the Solution Point System: http:// Russell Truell, Franklin This class will familiarize www.solutionpoint.tennessee. Jan. 3: Clinton Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. students with the Fire Suppres- edu/MTAS or by invoice. MTAS The Tennessee Opry Chief Roger Robinson, Alcoa sion Rating Schedule, to allow the Time: All courses begin at 8:30 am will need to receive payment in Join us for the very first Tennessee Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors understanding of major elements and end at 4:30 pm CST/EST. order to confirm attendance. Opry show at the Ritz Theater in Tommy White, Sevierville used by ISO, to prepare to make For registration assistance, Downtown Clinton. The show will Tennessee Association of Floodplain strategic operational and budget- Schedule of Sessions: call 865-974-0411. Or for more in- feature Tedd Graves, Phil Campbell, Management (TN AFPM) Jan. 21— Knoxville-EST Marshall Andy and the 2014 Enter- Tenn. Assn. Housing & Redevel. Auth. ary decisions on how to improve formation, contact Kurt Frederick, Joyce Floyd, Knoxville the Public Protection Class, and Jan. 22 — Nashville-CST training consultant, at 615-253- tainer of the Year nominee The Farm Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. how to develop and implement a Jan. 28 — Jackson-CST 6385. Hands. Show starts at 7 pm. Tickets Larry Craig, Kingston Springs plan to improve the Public Pro- Jan. 29— Germantown-CST $10 each. For more information, Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference tection Class for the community. visit www.teddgravesmusic.com. Tenn. Chapter, American Public Works Ronnie Hammonds, Kingsport Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. Candi Rawlings, Franklin Tennessee Chapter, American Planning No loan is too large or too small Karen Hundt, Chattanooga Tennessee Personnel Management Assn. Rebecca Hunter, TNDOHR Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing Susan Huskey, Loudon Co. TN Section, Institute of Transport Engineers, Kevin Cole, Knoxville Tennessee Public Transportation Assoc. Jason Spain, Nashville Assn. of Independent and Municipal Schools Reecha Black, Alamo Tennessee Renewable Energy & Economic Development Council Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC) Tennessee Water Quality Management

TML ASSOCIATE SPONSORS 5 Star Sponsor Bank of America 4 Star Sponsor Servpro Disaster Recovery 3 Star Sponsor Bank of New York Trust Co., N.A. First Tennessee Bank The city of Morristown closed a $20 million loan for sewer system 2 Star Sponsor The city of Ripley closed a $1 million loan for a new fire hall Alexander, Thompson, Arnold CPAs upgrades. and equipment. Alliance Water Resources Ameresco, Inc. Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC See us for your special projects needs. Energy Systems Group Fessenden Consulting Group (615) 255-1561 ING Financial Partners Master Meter, Inc. Nationwide Retirement Solutions Parsons Brinckerhoff Waste Management Inc. of Tennessee 1 Star Sponsor A2H Buxton Company Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers Local Govt. Corporation McGill Associates, P.A. Municipal Equipment, Inc. Pavement Restorations, Inc. Republic Services Smith Seckman Reid Utility Service Co., Inc. Vaughn & Melton Waste Connections of Tennessee Inc. Waste Industries USA, Inc. 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/DECEMBER 15,2014 www.TML1.org The spirit of Christmas sweeps across Tennessee

Photo by Victoria South Governor Haslam and First Lady Crissy Haslam push the giant candy cane switch that lights up the State Capitol Christmas tree alongside another famous couple, Santa and Mrs. Claus played by Pat and Dianne Photo by Victoria South Petty of Franklin. The State Capitol Christmas tree, a 75-foot Norway Spruce, was lit Dec. 1 despite the rain that brought the rest of the festivities inside Christmas arrives for soldier’s families for the evening. For the second consecutive year, a tree from the The city of Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen, in grounds of the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture’s Mor- November 2004, passed a res- gan County research forest was selected for the Christmas display. olution officially adopting the The tree, planted approximately 35 years ago, was used as part of soldiers of Delta Company a research study examining the needle retention characteristics of (1/327th 101st Airborne Di- various Christmas tree species. Martin Schubert, manager of the vision) as part of the America Cumberland Forest’s 8,000 acres in Scott and Morgan counties, Supporting Americans program said, “It’s a real honor to provide a tree for the enjoyment of the to support soldiers and their state’s citizens.” families. Over the years, several local schools have gotten involved by writing to the soldiers while they are deployed. Residents have also hosted the soldiers and their families in Franklin and sponsored their children at Christmas. Last year, former Franklin mayor and Rotarian Tom Miller brought Toyota Scion of Cool Springs on board in providing Christmas gifts to the children of the 1/327th at Ft. Campbell. Ft. Campbell soldiers pick up more than 200 new toys for the children of About 180 children re- Delta Company (1/327th 101st Airborne Division) supplied by Toyota Scion ceived gifts last year, with that of Cool Springs, customers, and cities in Tennessee and other states. number spiking to 430 sponsored children this year. “There was such an increase in the number of children, Tom Miller, Mike Alexander and myself enlisted help from other cities,” said Kris Krabill, general manager Toyota Scion. “Local and out of state cities, the Franklin Rotary, customers of Toyota Scion and the dealership all participated. A city in California will be sending more pallets of toys within the week,” according to Krabill. Ft. Campbell soldiers arrived to pick up the first load, around 200 toys at the dealership recently. “A couple of soldiers picking up the toys were overcome with gratitude for the effort,” Krabill said. The batalian’s six companies will host Christmas parties where children will receive their presents from Santa. Photo by Phil Stauder/ For the Times At the Adams Christmas parade, Emori Ballard (left) and Eddie Woodside smile for the camera as moms Jodi Ballard (left) and Traci Woodside look on.

John A. Gillis/DNJ Dancers entertain at the Rutherford County Courthouse annual tree lighting cermony in Murfreesboro. Nashville Mayor Karl Dean and Firemen from the Met- ro-Nashville Fire Department ring bells for the Salvation Photo by David Crigger/BHC Army Christmas drive during the busy lunch hour on the Bristol Mayors Lea Powers (Tennessee), left, and Catherine Brillhart (Virginia), streets of Downtown Nash- right, appauld after flipping the switch to light the community Christmas tree ville.

Below: Santa waves to the crowd at the Portland Christ- mas Parade “Winter Nights and Christmas Lights.”

Photo by Victoria South

Franklin Mayor Ken Moore, assisted by a group of Santa’s little helpers, and Jolly Ole’ Saint Nick himself,flips the switch, lighting up the city’s Christmas tree. Attended by more than 1,000 people, it was one of Franklin’s largest tree lighting celebrations ever.