Commemorating 10 Years Since 9/11 Tragedy

1-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 www.TML1.org

6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 62, Number 15 September 19, 2011 Remembering the fallen Commemorating 10 years since 9/11 tragedy Firefighters lost in the line of agement, and Jimmy Tuberville, of zations across Inside This Issue: duty in Tennessee, along with those the Milledgeville Volunteer Fire De- Tennessee: lost during the 9/11 tragedy, were partment, were lost in the line of duty Tennessee Page 1 honored at the Tennessee Fire Ser- in 2010. Fire Chiefs Federal Transportation Bill vice and Codes Enforcement Acad- Commerce and Insurance Association, passes U.S. House emy on Sept. 10. Deputy Commissioner Steven Tennessee To honor all fallen firefighters in Majchrzak delivered remarks at the Fireman’s As- Page 5 Tennessee, a bronze statue of a event. “At Commerce and Insurance sociation, August State Revenues firefighter was unveiled in the center – which includes the Tennessee Tennessee of the Fallen Firefighter Memorial. State Fire Marshal’s office – we Fire Service Page 7 In addition, a bronze beam from the cherish our ongoing efforts to train and Codes En- Summary of 2011 Public World Trade Center was unveiled to firefighters and to honor those who forcement Acts honor the 343 firefighters lost in the nobly give their lives in the line of Academy, the 9/11 terror attacks. duty,” said Majchrzak. Tennessee Page 10 During the ceremony, the Saturday’s memorial was part Chapter of the Bristol Speedway names of two Tennessee firefighters of the “Everyone Goes Home” International Celebrates 50th Anniversary were added to the Fallen Firefighter weekend at the academy. During the Association of Memorial. Buford Delwin Lee, of weekend, the academy offered Arson Investi- Marshall County Emergency Man- safety classes to firefighters, de- gators, Ten- signed to prevent any more names nessee Fed- from being added to the fallen eration of Fire firefighters’ list. Chaplains and FHWA eliminates deadlines Founded in 2002, the Tennessee the Tennessee Fallen Firefighter Memorial (TFFM) Professional to traffic sign regulations Committee comprises individuals Firefighters Association. Cities to upgrade signs at end of life cycle from the various fire service organi- A bronze beam from the World Trade Center was U.S. Transportation Secretary unveiled at the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Ray LaHood announced that the Academy to honor the 343 firefighters lost in the Obama Administration is eliminat- 9/11 terror attacks. ing dozens of burdensome regulations on traffic signs which cash- strapped state and local governments expect will save them millions of dollars. The U.S. Depart- ment of Transportation is proposing that communities replace traffic signs when they are worn out rather than requiring signs to be replaced by a specific deadline.The proposed changes will eliminate 46 deadlines mandated by federal traffic control regulations. and traffic signals. The Federal In January, President Obama Highway Administration (FHWA), called for an unprecedented gov- which has published the manual ernment-wide review of regulations since 1971, updates it periodically to already on the books. The purpose accommodate changing transporta- was to identify rules that needed to tion needs and address new safety be changed or removed because technologies, traffic control tools, they were unnecessary, out-of- and traffic management techniques. date, excessively burdensome or FHWA issued a Notice of Pro- overly costly. posed Amendments to eliminate 46 “A specific deadline for replac- of the deadlines in the manual. ing street signs makes no sense and “Local and state transportation would have cost communities agencies are best-equipped to deter- across America millions of dollars mine when they need to replace in unnecessary expenses,” said signs and other items in the course Secretary LaHood. “After speaking of their daily work,” said FHWA with local and state officials across Administrator Victor Mendez. “We the country, we are proposing to are proposing these changes to give eliminate these burdensome regula- them the flexibility they need to bal- To honor all fallen firefighters in Tennessee, a bronze statue of a firefighter was unveiled in the center of tions. It’s just plain common ance their many responsibilities and the Fallen Firefighter Memorial. Photos by Jeff Huddleston, Tennessee Fire Marshal’s Office sense.” make the best use of taxpayer dol- The regulations establishing lars.” deadlines for street and traffic sign The deadlines requiring that Tennessee’s College act emphasizes replacement came from the Manual certain street name signs be replaced on Uniform Traffic Control De- by 2018 to meet minimum retro- vices (MUTCD), which is a compi- reflectivity standards and requiring preparation, connection, rewards lation of national standards for all larger lettering on those street name pavement markings, street signs See SIGNS on Page 6 BY VICTORIA SOUTH TML Communications Coordinator

President calls for clean Across the nation, the image of fresh-faced high school graduates, Transportation extension collegiately ripe for the picking, is fading. Today’s facts are much BY LESLIE WOLLACK more sobering. A recently released Nation’s Cities Weekly At press time, the U.S. House report compiled by ACT (American passed a short term bill to ex- College Testing) “The Condition of NLC joined transportation ad- tend FAA and surface trans- College and Career Readiness,” indi- vocates across the nation in endors- portation programs, including cates only one in four (25 percent) of ing President Obama’s call for Con- the gas tax. The Senate is ex- high school students met all four gress to enact a clean extension of pected to pass it before the College Readiness Benchmarks and federal surface transportation pro- deadline. just under one in three (30 percent) grams when they return to Washing- met the College Readiness Bench- ton following the August recess. country, it represents the difference mark in Science. Highlighting state- Acknowledging that there will between making ends meet and not wide data on ACT scores, academic be no time to make policy changes to making ends meet.” achievement and post-secondary the current program before the Sept. A statement from NLC calling aspirations, the report indicates that 30 expiration deadline, the President for a clean extension of the federal in Tennessee alone, public high called for a clean extension of cur- surface transportation programs school students’ composite ACT rent programs without policy also noted that while a short-term scores dropped from 19.1 in 2010 to A recently released report compiled by ACT (American College Test- changes. extension and renewal of the federal 19.0 out of 36 in 2011. Across the ing) “The Condition of College and Career Readiness,” indicates 75 “As you know, the current gasoline tax in the legislation would state, only 24 percent of students are percent of Tennessee’s high school students lack the basic knowledge short-term legislation funding the solve the immediate crisis of cutting college ready in math, 55 percent in to take college core subjects without remedial help. highway, transit and bridge pro- off federal construction funds and English, 38 percent in reading and 17 grams will expire on Sept. 30th and costing communities hundreds of percent in Science. Additionally, 75 Morgan agrees. “We cannot con- the state’s diminished fiscal capacity federal authority to collect federal thousands of jobs, the real goal is a percent of Tennessee’s high school tinue to provide remediation as a to support higher education. fuel taxes will expire as well. Feder- long-term transportation plan for in- students lack the basic knowledge to stop-gap for poor high school out- One of CCTA’s key compo- ally funded construction projects vesting in the nation’s infrastructure take college core subjects without comes. It is imperative that our insti- nents is a new funding formula will be forced to cease immediately if and helping build local economies. remedial help. tutions work closely with our high based on concrete outcomes, re- the U.S. Department of Transporta- “The extension will prevent In the past, the Tennessee Board schools, our current teachers and warding schools financially for tion can no longer release federal hundreds of thousands of workers of Regents has buffered the blow, our future teachers to help improve graduation rates, rather than a for- transportation dollars,” President from being forced off the job and spending $26 million a year on reme- preparation,” he said. mula that was largely enrollment Obama said. keep much-needed infrastructure dial and developmental courses to Touted as landmark education driven. Its measures are designed to Noting the value to the projects moving forward during this help currently enrolled students at reform initiated by the Bredesen improve student success rates by economy, the President said, “This difficult economic period,” reads Higher Ed institutions become “col- Administration in 2010, the Com- establishing clearly identified cur- bill provides funding for highway the NLC statement. lege ready.” plete College Tennessee Act of 2010 riculum that will transfer from com- construction, bridge repair, mass NLC’s statement continued, “College readiness is not an is- (CCTA), is geared to eliminate reme- munity colleges to four-year univer- transit systems and other essential “While a short-term extension is sue determined in the 11th grade, but dial and developmental courses at sities and establishes dual missions projects that keep our people and our necessary to prevent disruptions, is the culmination of an entire system Tennessee’s universities. The at community colleges and universi- commerce moving quickly and the nation needs a long-term plan for of education,” notes Tennessee Edu- plan’s core embraces the need for ties simultaneously. safely. And for construction work- investing in our nation’s infrastruc- cation Commissioner Kevin Tennesseans to be better educated While Tennessee’s community ers and their families across the See TRANSPORTION on Page 6 Huffman. TBR Chancellor John and trained, while acknowledging See COLLEGE on Page 3 www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 will receive a $652,577 transportation enhancement grant to extend the Greenbelt from the confluence of the Holston River at Riverfront Park across the old Rotherwood Bridge and down Netherland Inn Road to Rotherwood Drive. The 1,200-foot BY TML STAFF REPORTS FRANKLIN addition will stretch under the The city’s noise laws have been Rotherwood Bridge and loop up the BAXTER overhauled with newer, more sim- bank on both sides of the river. The The groundbreaking for the much- plified regulations. The new laws total cost of the project is estimated anticipated Historic Welcome Cen- limit “plainly audible” noise from 10 to be $815,712, with the remaining ter/Depot in Baxter is unlikely to p.m. to 7 a.m. Sundays through $163,135 coming from Kingsport. happen soon. Snags in the required Thursdays and 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. on paperwork and procedures have de- Fridays and Saturdays. In the city’s KINGSTON layed the originally slated time frame mixed-use zones, which have JR Global Manufacturing Inc. has of groundbreaking in September. homes and businesses, amplified decided to build a new manufactur- “The delay at this point is agreement sounds — such as music from live ing facility on Gallaher Road. The on the terms of the lease with the bands or played through stereo 5,000 square-foot building will be Nashville and Eastern Railroad Cor- speakers — are banned when they home to phase one of the company’s The new Volunteering In America report, released by the federal poration,” said Mayor Jeff Wilhite, are audible within 100 feet from the new headquarters. The Owens fam- Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), shows who also serves as the construction property line of a residence. Viola- ily, who are Kingston residents, Nashville as the biggest gainer in volunteerism among large metropoli- committee chairman for the project. tions could result in a municipal cita- were joined by local business and tan areas — leapfrogging 19 places in the volunteer-rate rankings “The appropriate time to do the of- tion. Officers will carry micro-cas- government leaders for a ground- from 37 to 18. This is the highest jump of any city,achieved through the ficial groundbreaking ceremony sette recorders and will record the breaking at the site. efforts of more than 400,000 dedicated residents who volunteered in would be after a construction con- noise in question. Those tapes could some capacity last year. Pictured: Nashville’s volunteers help clean up tract is awarded and TDOT gives be entered as evidence if suspected LA VERGNE local neighborhoods after the historic flood of 2010. the notice to proceed with construc- violators fight a noise violation The city has made a national list as tion,” Wilhite said. charge in court. one of the most affordable places to for intersession. Scheduled in Octo- any additional funds to install larger live in the country. Money magazine ber and March, those days are meant capacity lines or other work re- BRENTWOOD GALLATIN ranked La Vergne 13th in the Top 25 to provide students with enrichment garded as a non-necessity by the Windsor Health Plans is planning to ABC Group Fuel Systems has de- cities. Relatively low home prices and help others that are falling be- state. The funds will come from the add 200 new jobs over the next few cided to expand its current facility. and high wages combined with out- hind. The option does not require water department and are included in years through a consolidation of its The expansion represents a $5 mil- door recreation and high performing any additional costs. Under the bal- the city’s budget. parent’s U.S. Medicare Advantage lion investment by the company and schools helped secure La Vergne’s anced calendar approach, the 2012- plan operations here. Windsor will will create 114 new jobs. ABC position near the top. 13 school year will start on Aug. 1, SIGNAL MOUNTAIN be the operations hub for owner Group Fuel Systems is a Tier 1 the two-day fall break would be Oct. Owners of rental properties trying to Munich Re’s Medicare Advantage manufacturer of plastic fuel tank LA VERGNE 11 and 12, and the first semester collect long overdue water bills from plans across multiple U.S. states, systems and urea systems for auto- Wonton Foods has purchased a would end Dec. 19. Spring break former tenants has become a never- including those that previously had motive and non-automotive original building in LaVergne for a manufac- would be March 25 to 29, 2012, and ending headache. The town is in the been managed by Sterling Health. equipment manufacturers (OEM). turing and distribution center that the school year would end May 24. process of drawing up an agree- Bellingham,Wash.,-based The company manufactures some will employ 75 workers. Wonton ment, which, if approved, would Windsor, has 288 employees at its 1.1 million multi-layer plastic fuel bills itself as the country’s largest NASHVILLE require property owners to be re- headquarters in Brentwood and at tank assemblies each year. manufacturer of noodles and for- Nashville’s ethic of service recently sponsible for covering water bill another office and call center in tune cookies. The 184,000-square received national recognition. The costs, if the former tenants failed to Nashville. GRAY foot building, bought for $3.6 mil- new Volunteering In America re- do so. Under the agreement, new A nearly $2 million addition to the lion, is in the Interchange City Indus- port, released by the federal Corpo- renters will not be connected until CHATTANOOGA Gray Fossil Site, under construction trial Park south of Nashville off In- ration for National and Community the previous bill is settled. The globally broadcast television for more than a year, is nearly ready terstate 24. Service (CNCS), shows Nashville show “Music Voyager” will be in for the public to use. The annex, as the biggest gainer in volunteerism SMYRNA Chattanooga shooting segments for which has been under construction LINDEN among large metropolitan areas — Smyrna Airport was named “Airport one of three episodes called “Music since March 2010, is complete. A NYX, Inc., a Michigan-based auto- leapfrogging 19 places in the volun- of the Year” by The Tennessee Highway Tennessee” featuring mu- formal grand opening is planned for motive supplier, is planning a $23 teer-rate rankings from 37 to 18. Aeronautics Division for the way it sic in cities across the state. Music the middle of October. The new million manufacturing facility to This is the highest jump of any city, “presents a quality image to the com- Voyager” is broadcast in 140 coun- building will include a classroom produce injection molded plastics which was achieved through the munity, operates at the highest stan- tries, in 33 languages, as well as on area that will accommodate about for a wide variety of automotive efforts of more than 400,000 dedi- dards, is aggressive in marketing and “in-flight” broadcasts. In its third 100 children, a multipurpose room manufacturers beginning in early cated residents who volunteered in community activity and has long season, “Music Voyager” airs on that will seat about 200 people, a 2012. The company, which also some capacity last year. Nashville’s range planning goals.” The airport Create TV and PBS in North cafe, an observation deck for the dig owns Bates, LLC, an existing auto- volunteer retention rate — a critical was also given the Red Carpet America. The program will feature sites and a weather station and solar motive manufacturing facility in indicator of whether participants Award for customer service and sights and sounds from across the power learning area. Lobelville, will create 400 jobs over saw their time as being well-spent — facilities and Airport Management of Tennessee Valley including Lookout a five-year period. was also lauded, placing third in the the Year. Mountain, downtown, and the KINGSPORT nation. riverfront—with a special feature at C&F Group of Galway, Ireland, of- MEMPHIS SPRINGFIELD Friends of the Festival’s Riverfront ficially inked a deal to locate in The city has launched a $23.5 NASHVILLE An expansion is planned for Nights with the Bluegrass band Yarn Kingsport as part of a $12.5 million million traffic signal project to help For nearly five years, plans have Electrolux, bringing new jobs and along with local musicians Dan investment that will create 450 new reduce congestion and air pollution. been in the works for a regional space. The company will add 70 Landrum and Matt Downer. jobs over a four-year period. The Funded entirely with money from black history museum in Nashville to engineers and technicians and build a new plant will be the company’s first the federal Congestion Mitigation Air showcase all aspects of black cul- 21,000-square-foot, three story CHATTANOOGA location in the U.S. The company Quality program, 334 existing traffic ture. However, the project’s direc- addition.The development project Outside magazine, America’s lead- provides decorative and functional signals will be linked on major thor- tion has changed. Now, it will be a includes a state grant for $200,000 ing active-lifestyle publication, has trim components in aluminum and oughfares. With the synchronized national museum focused solely on for improvements and a new indus- selected Chattanooga as the winner steel racking for the data manage- traffic lights, motorists traveling at music, honoring contributions from trial access road to accommodate in its search to determine the best ment industry, as well as small wind the speed limit or below should be greats like Mahalia Jackson and business growth. Outside town in America, following turbines. The Kingsport facility is able to travel through a progression Louis Armstrong. The museum is a three-week competition held on located at 10388 Airport Parkway, in of intersections without hitting a red expected to be completed in late SPRING HILL Facebook. Outside scoured the na- Northeast Tennessee Business Park, light. City officials note the entire 2013. Leaders say they’ve received TRG Customer Solutions, a leading tion to find cities that offered a and will manufacture products for project should be completed in two $10 million from the city, along with global business process outsourcing balance of great culture, perfect the three C&F Group divisions: au- to three years. $500,000 and the land donated by provider of customer management scenery, stress-free and reasonable tomotive exterior trim components, the state. It is anticipated that in the solutions and technologies, cel- cost of living, and easy access to the data management and renewable MT. PLEASANT first three years, the museum will ebrated the launch of its new contact outdoors. Chattanooga came out on energy industries. The C&F Group Sekisui Plastics officials to an- draw a $66 million impact to the city. center facility in Spring Hill. TRG top, receiving the official honor of also operates locations in Ireland, nounce the company’s decision to has operations in seven countries Outside’s “Best Towns Ever” and is Germany, Czech Republic, Philip- locate a second manufacturing facil- PIGEON FORGE worldwide and this will be the featured on the October 2011 maga- pines and China. ity in Mt. Pleasant. The Japan-based The City Commission voted to ap- company’s first site in the state. The zine cover. Chattanooga will be also company will invest $3 million and prove amendments that would allow new facility will initially provide be featured in an exclusive segment KINGSPORT create 25 new jobs over a four year the consumption of beer or wine on complex Tier 1 and Tier 2 technical on Outside Television. Eastman Chemical Company has en- period. The company will produce restaurant patios. The commission support and provide services to tered into a definitive merger agree- foamed plastics primarily used in also approved a measure to allow the multiple clients from this site. Lo- CLARKSVILLE ment to acquire Sterling Chemicals, automotive safety components. sale of beer at the city’s planned cated at the Workforce Develop- Nashville State Community College Inc., a single site North American Headquartered in Tokyo, Sekisui events center. ment and Conference Center at will be building a major off-site cam- petrochemical producer, for $100 Plastics produces foamed plastics Northfield on 100 Saturn Parkway, pus in Clarksville. The campus will million. The transaction includes for the transportation, electrical ap- SEVIERVILLE in Spring Hill, the 50,000 square foot be located at the former Saturn deal- Sterling’s plasticizer and acetic acid pliance and information technology The Board of Mayor and Aldermen facility will house more than 300 ership on Wilma Rudolph Boule- manufacturing assets in Texas City, industries. voted to commit $1.7 million for customer care representatives. vard. The new location is a partner- TX. Eastman plans to modify and , improvements to its water and ship between Austin Peay, Tennes- restart Sterling’s currently idled NASHVILLE sewer lines when the state expands SOUTH PITTSBURG see Tech Center and Nashville State plasticizer manufacturing facility to The Metro School Board unani- the bridge where Highway 66 After more than a decade of efforts Community College. Classes will produce non-phthalate plasticizers, mously passed the balanced calen- crosses the French Broad River.The by the South Pittsburg Historic Pres- focus largely on computer science, including Eastman 168™ non-ph- dar two for the 2012-2013 school bridge widening is part of the expan- ervation Society, private donors and with many students expected to thalate plasticizers. year. Under the balanced calendar sion of Highway 66 from four to six city government, the Princess The- transfer to Austin Peay. More than two, the first day of school would be lanes, running from Interstate 40 to atre opened its doors to the public for 2,000 students are expected to en- KINGSPORT Aug. 1. There would be 176 school downtown Sevierville. The state is the first time since the 1980s. The roll when applications start being The Kingsport Greenbelt received a days with a break approximately planning to complete the work in price tag for the reclamation was accepted next August. Renovations $650,000 federal boost, money that every nine weeks. It also includes an three phases. The final phase, con- around $1.3 million. Officials said to the building start in November. will go toward extending the 9-mile- eight-week summer break. Along necting Boyds Creek Road and Dou- the city’s payments on the loan to long walking and biking trail across with starting school earlier, the bal- glas Dam, includes the bridge and is complete the theater are covered in the old Rotherwood Bridge. The city anced calendar sets aside eight days set to start this fall. The city will pay the budget.

Consulting • Design • Project Management JOEL B. SPAULDING TH&P & COMPANY, INC. Solutions for the Future 2402 WINFORD AVENUE Target Your Advertising NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE 37217 3428 Bristol Highway PHONE (615) 255-7766 Johnson City, TN 37601 Call Debbie Kluth-Yarborough FAX (615) 255-7767 615-255-6416 TYSINGER, HAMPTON & PARTNERS, INC. dkluth@ TML1.org. (423) 282.2687 P (423) 282.1621 F CONSULTING ENGINEERS [email protected] • www.tysinger-engineering.com

Your Professional Employee Benefit Company The Malone Company 124 North Main Avenue • P.O. Box 616 Fayetteville, TN 37334 Office: (931) 433-6907 FAX: (931) 433-9714 Toll Free (888) 752-7126

Email: [email protected] 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 www.TML1.org Tennessee’s College act emphasizes Details of Jobs Act unveiled BY JOHN GRAMLICH opposition.Obama announced he Stateline Staff Writer would pay for the legislation with preparation, connection, rewards higher taxes on wealthy families and others, a proposal that House Re- COLLEGE from Page 1 disagrees with. President Obama laid out the publicans swiftly criticized. “The most details of the $447 billion American colleges will continue to offer reme- NLC calls on Congress to pass plan effective safe- Jobs Act on Sept. 12 — including dial and developmental instruction NLC supports the plan and guard against how he intends to pay for it — as he and public universities may continue called it “a sensible approach to widespread sought to drum up support for the to enter into agreements with com- creating jobs right now, while estab- lowering of legislation in all 50 states. munity colleges to offer develop- lishing the building blocks neces- standards is the While Obama hit the road to take mental instruction to their students sary for greater long-term growth. Performance his case directly to the voters, the who need it. The structure will be The President’s proposal deserves Funding or White House issued a new analysis more in line with students’ interests action by Congress right away, and Quality Assur- of what the bill would do for resi- and normal course work, which America’s cities and towns will sup- ance program,” dents of each state. could be beneficial to Tennessee’s port efforts to ensure that happens.” he said. “This In Tennessee, for example, the growing segment of non-traditional Specifically, NLC reports that component of legislation would deliver a $1,270 tax students. The number of non-tradi- the bill will provide tax cuts for the outcomes cut to the average household; benefit tional students across the nation, small businesses and a greater tax formula mea- 100,000 Tennessee businesses by ranges from one-third to one-half of cut for small businesses that hire sures quality lowering payroll taxes; help 130,000 all college students. new employees; $30 billion for across a range Non-traditional students comprise one-third to one- of the state's long-term unemployed Non-traditional students are of- teachers; $5 billion for first re- of metrics such half of all college students nationally. stay afloat; and pump billions of ten adult students entering college or sponders; $50 billion in TIGER and as licensure pass rates, student sat- dollars into school construction, trade school for the first time, after TIFIA funds; $30 billion for school isfaction and program accreditation transportation and other projects, a number of years in the work force. modification; $15 billion for Project which would provide a clear signal if putting tens of thousands of teach- Other students may be struggling Rebuild; $5 billion for Pathways program quality were beginning to ers, first responders and laborers with severe financial challenges or Back to Work; and $10 billion for a erode.” back to work. could be a first generation college national infrastructure bank. In addition, Rhoda adds, “there The White House is hoping that student, lacking a knowledgeable For more specific details of is a high level of trust in the integrity specific, state-by-state numbers will support system from other family how the President’s Jobs Act will and professionalism of Tennessee drive support for the jobs act. De- members. Many non-traditional stu- impact Tennessee, go to http:// faculty; we simply do not believe spite the administration's promotion dents, particularly those who have www.whitehouse.gov/sites/de- that large numbers of faculty mem- efforts, there were fresh signs on been out of the educational system fault/files/THE_AMERICAN_ bers would intentionally lower their Capitol Hill that key aspects of the for a number of years, find out JOBS_ACT_Impact_TN.pdf through a college entry exam that standards in an effort to dramatically plan would face determined they are unprepared for college increase the number of degrees.” course work in one or more sub- At the TML Legislative Confer- jects. In the past, these students ence last spring, Rhoda encouraged TML Policy Committee to were required by the institution to city officials to support and initiate pass one or more remedial courses measures in their communities to meet in Nashville Oct. 19 successfully before proceeding to drive increases in the educational college level work in those subjects. attainment of their citizens.“This is Submission deadline Sept. 22 Remedial courses do not count about jobs in your counties, cities, TML Policy Committee will writing, to TML by Sept. 22 will be toward college credit, and depend- and towns,” he said. “It is about meet Oct. 19 at 10 a.m. in the TML considered by the Policy Commit- ing upon how many are needed, can better educated citizens, with more Knoxville, Nashville and Memphis building located at 226 Capitol Bou- tees. Each submission must include be costly and quite time consuming. and better options and opportuni- are all competing for the Talent Divi- levard in Nashville. The Policy Com- a summary of the problem, a de- According to data from the TBR, ties.” dend Prize, a joint effort of CEOs for mittee marks the first step in the scription of the proposed remedy, only 46 percent of full-time students Cities can be very important cities, the Kresge Foundation, and process that leads to the develop- and a statement of the anticipated at four-year universities graduate partners with higher education and Lumina Foundation for Education. ment of TML’s legislative initiatives benefits to municipalities pursuing within six years and only 12 percent business in helping facilitate the The prize will award $1 million for the second session of the 107th the proposed action. A “Proposed of full-time community college stu- CCTA, according to Rhoda. “By to the city that exhibits the greatest General Assembly that convenes at Legislative Initiative Form” can be dents attain associate degrees within partnering with local business, increase in the number of noon on Jan. 10, 2012. accessed on line at http:// three years. higher education, and workforce postsecondary degrees granted per Registration www.surveymonkey.com/s/ “Recognizing that many stu- development, leaders may look at the one thousand population over a four- A “TML Policy Committee Reg- RY7B87P. It must be submitted to dents enter college in situations such data and identify the barriers to suc- year period. Efforts are being devel- istration Form” has already been TML by Sept. 22. as this, placement into developmen- cessful postsecondary participation oped that are community-specific emailed to city officials. It must be Presenting Initiatives tal instruction at Board of Regents by traditional and adult students in and partnership-focused to answer completed and returned for those The sponsoring city must attend institutions has become more skill- their communities. “A community the question, “what can we do to who are interested in participating. the policy committee meeting to based and less course-based,” said can then decide how – through the raise educational attainment in our Registration is also available online at present an initiative to the policy Richard Rhoda, executive director pooling of resources – it can take city?” http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ committee, without exception. If of the Tennessee Higher Education productive steps to make Added benefits include prob- RWJZCLC. the sponsoring city is not present to Commission. “By this, we mean that postsecondary education more ac- lem-solving and initiatives developed Submissions explain the initiative, the committee placement now focuses on an indi- cessible to those who want to pursue out of the conversations and data- The policy committee affords will not consider the proposal. In vidual student’s actual skill gaps so it,” Rhoda said. sharing between higher education, you an opportunity to present your such cases, the proposal will be that these are targeted more effi- In Kingsport, the Higher Educa- city government, the business com- idea(s) for consideration by other forwarded to the TML Legislative ciently, enabling the student to move tion Program serves as a model of munity, local workforce and eco- local government officials from Committee with the note that the into college-level coursework in ac- what cities can do to improve the nomic development officials, and across the state. All ideas are wel- sponsoring city was not present and celerated fashion.” quality of life for residents through college access groups. come; however, the League encour- the proposal was not reviewed, According to Rhoda, today’s promoting increased educational at- For more information about the ages initiatives with broad appeal that ranked or approved by the policy skill gaps are likely to be addressed in tainment. The program started with Complete College Tennessee Act, may benefit many cities. committee. instructional modules tied to credit- a K-14 education initiative that funds visit www.state.tn.us/thec/ Submitting Initiatives For questions or additional in- bearing courses, rather than in an postsecondary education for quali- complete_college_tn/ Only those initiatives sponsored formation, contact the TML offices entire remedial course as in the past. fied students from the city and complete_college_tn.html by a city/town and submitted, in at 615-255-6416. The modules often are offered or Sullivan County. Coupled with the aided by computer-based instruc- Academic Village, where local enti- tion. Students may also choose ties could invest in the creation of courses that satisfy their general their future workforce, local busi- education requirements, playing to nesses and educational institutions their strengths or academic inter- partnered with Kingsport to train a ests. For example, students who do skilled workforce for the area. The not wish to take Algebraic & Trigo- Kingsport Higher Education Pro- nometric Functions may choose a gram is the winner of the 2009 Inno- course such as Statistics & Prob- vations in American Government ability or Logic, Problem Solving, & Award from Harvard. Geometry. Cities and counties may also In the article “States ask col- develop a college access program, leges to perform for money,” Ben affiliated with tnAchieves, to reach Wiedler, Stateline staff writer, sug- out to students with academic ability gests the existence of a parallel line who would not otherwise attend a between outcome-based funding postsecondary institution. and No Child Left Behind, as he tnAchieves is a statewide network of BankBank ofof AmericaAmerica writes, “The last couple of years college access programs serving have shown evidence in elementary communities in more than 20 coun- and secondary education of the po- ties. Affiliated programs are charac- isis proudproud toto supportsupport tential perils of linking major chunks terized by city or county leadership; of funding to attaining particular a college mentor corps that monitors benchmarks.” Under CCTA, bench- students’ progress and provides “in- TennesseeTennessee MunicipalMunicipal League.League. marks are not part of the formula at trusive” advising (academic, admis- Tennessee’s colleges and universi- sions, financial, and career) ties. Rather, the schools receive throughout high school; along with credits each time a student achieves “last dollar” college scholarships. one of 10 measures. Then, the num- The scholarships, funded by city or bers are weighted according to the county government, local busi- educational mission of the school, nesses, and private donors, fill the which will be distinctly unique, ac- gap between college tuition and stu- cording to Rhoda. “UT Martin is a dent resources after all other grant primarily undergraduate institution and scholarship aid has been applied. with little research activity and no “It is only by reaching out to low- doctoral degrees,” he explains. “In income, first generation, and return- contrast, UT Knoxville is the state’s ing adult students that the degree most complex research institution attainment goals envisioned by the with an extensive array of graduate CCTA can be achieved,” said programs. These weights reflect the Rhoda. fact that UTM is an access oriented, In Jackson, the Southwest Ten- Visit us at www.bankofamerica.com. undergraduate institution whose pri- nessee Regional Economic Develop- mary focus is on student retention ment District’s Regional Economic and bachelors degree completion. Development Initiative (REDI), UTK, however, places emphasis on stands out as one of the larger re- its graduation rate, research activity, gional college access initiatives. It is as well as graduate degree pro- a 12-county collaboration that programs.” vides mentors to help high school The plan also provides extra seniors and non-traditional students points to schools that take on at-risk prepare for the college application and non-traditional students, a com- and financial aid process. The Dis- ponent Wiedler warns could raise trict received the “2010 Innovation ethical concerns, as faculty faced Award” from the National Associa- with producing degrees from this tion of Development Organizations particular demographic of students, Research Foundation. REDI is the may trend toward lowering aca- only program in Tennessee to have Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. ©2004 Bank of America Corporation. demic standards to meet the mark. It received this distinction. SPN-41-AD is an assertation Rhoda vehemently The cities of Chattanooga, www.TML1.org 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 State bids farewell to a legend, Justice A.A. Birch BY TML STAFF REPORTS state. TTDC Franklin Mayor, works in partner- Dr. Ken Moore A popular trailblazer on the Howard Gentry, ship with the Ten- was named to Tennessee Supreme Court has former Metro nessee Depart- the Executive passed away from cancer at the age Nashville vice ment of Eco- Committee of of 78. Adolpho A. Birch, the first mayor, was nomic and Com- the Middle Ten- African American Chief Justice and sworn into office munity Develop- nessee Mayors the only Tennessean to serve on to fill the unex- ment and is Caucus. The ex- every judicial level in our legal sys- pired term of funded under an Haggerty ecutive commit- Moore tem, leaves behind a prolific legacy. former Metro agreement with the state. Designed tee is responsible for developing the A cherished role model and mentor clerk David Gentry to improve the statewide business overall work program; identifying to countless collegues, legislators Torrence, who recently resigned. climate for innovation and entrepre- issues to be addressed by the general and friends, Birch became a tireless The Metro Nashville Council chose neurship, TTDC serves as a comple- membership; setting the agenda and advocate for justice throughout the Gentry to replace Torrence on Aug. ment to ongoing business recruit- dates for general membership meet- state. 16. ment and expansion efforts of state ings; serving as nominating commit- The son of a preacher father and and local officials. tee for the Caucus Chair and Vice- a schoolteacher mother, Birch was Birch TDOT’s Chief Chair(s). born and reared in Washington, Engineer Paul J.C. McLin, the D.C. Determined at a young age to by naming its new criminal courts Degges, P.E., second African- Richard Smith, a become a lawyer to correct the building after him. He retired that has been pro- American to sit on former drug task wrongs of racism and segregation, same year in August. moted to Tennessee’s Court force officer, will he received his bachelor’s and law As a consistent challenger of Deputy Com- of Criminal Appeals, lead Portland’s po- degree from Howard University in death sentences in Tennessee, Birch missioner. has died after a bout lice department as Washington and began practicing repeatedly declined to uphold execu- Degges, who Degges with cancer. He was its new chief. law in Nashville from 1958 to 1966. tions, arguing that Tennessee lacked has been with TDOT 24 years, will 64. McLin was an Smith, who has Birch became known as a hard-line, an adequate “proportionality re- McLin continue to serve in his role as Chief attorney for 25 been the assistant but fair public defender and assistant view” of whether death sentences Engineer for the Department. years before beginning his judicial chief for nine Smith district attorney general. are handed down fairly and consis- career in 2000 as a Shelby County years, brings 27 Blazing new judicial trails in tently. In 2005, Birch won the Na- John Dreyzehner criminal court judge. He was ap- years of law enforcement and five 1969 when he became a Davidson tional Bar Association’s highest will serve as pointed in 2004 to the criminal ap- years of managerial experience to County General Sessions judge, honor, the William H. Hastie Award. Tennessee’s next peals court. the department. Birch ascended to the Criminal Birch was eulogized at Commissioner of Court in 1978, the Court of Criminal Cleveland Fire Chief Nashville’s War Memorial Audito- Health.Originally Lane Curlee was Appeals in 1987, and on to the state Chuck Atchley is rium. In addition to his son, Adolpho from Abingdon, sworn in as Supreme Court in 1993, where he retiring Nov. 1. A. Birch III, he is survived by his Va., he worked Tullahoma’s new was appointed by Gov. Ned Atchley will have twin daughters Andrea Birch and there as the direc- mayor. Curlee has McWherter. In downtown Nash- served the city for Angela Birch Cox, and four grand- tor of the Cumber- served three previ- ville, the city honored Birch in 2006 children. land Plateau Health Dreyzehner 30 years and has ous Tullahoma may- been chief since District since 2002. He also spent Atchley oral terms, last hold- Feb. 2006. ing the position in Dennis Wolf aboard as new MTAS two years working as acting director Curlee of the health district, and serves as Davidson County 2002. He later served one term as a Fire Management Consultant Chairman of the Board for One Care Circuit Court Judge city alderman. Curlee also served in of Southwest VA., Inc., a nonprofit Barbara Haynes the Tennessee General Assembly After serving 35 years with the consortium of health care agencies will retire after 29 from 1984 to 1992. Germantown Fire Department, 16 focusing on substance abuse issues years on the bench. as chief, Dennis Wolf has retired in in the region. Haynes will step Union City Police Chief Joe Garner order to embark on a new mis- down Nov. 15. She has been named 2011-12 president sion—statewide fire consultant for Tennessee Economic and Commu- began her judicial ca- Haynes of the Tennessee Association of the Municipal Technical Advisory nity Development Commissioner reer in 1982 as a Davidson County Chiefs of Police. Garner previously Service (MTAS). Begnning his ca- Bill Hagerty was named as Chair- General Sessions Court judge. In served as first vice president, sec- reer at the tender age of 18, Wolf, man of the Board for the Tennessee 1990, she was elected to the Circuit ond vice president and chairman of 55, volunteered with the Shelby Technology Development Corpora- Court judge in the 20th Judicial Dis- the TACP’s Homeland Security County Fire Department, then tion (TTDC). TTDC is a legislatively trict. In 1987, former Gov. Lamar Committee. He has been with the served as a volunteer firefighter created, non-profit organization cre- Alexander appointed her chair of the Union City Police Department for 32 with the Germantown FD. ated to encourage science and tech- Tennessee Sentencing Commission, years — 18 as police chief. Germantown hired Wolf full-time nology business development in the a position she held until 1994. in 1977, and by 1995, he was acting chief. Wolf received the 2010 Fire Chief of the Year award bestowed MTAS Says “So Long” to Dick Phebus by the Tennessee Fire Chiefs Asso- Wolf ciation due to his many contribu- After some 36 years of travel- Public Accountant examination. tions to fire service in Tennessee. fort to prevent drug related harm to ing across the state of Tennessee From that point forward, his inter- He leadership and involvement children and rescue, defend, shelter providing consulting services to lo- ests have been in finance and ac- were instrumental in the develop- and support Tennessee’s children cal governments, Dick Phebus has counting. ment of the state’s first Fire Service who suffer physical and psychologi- decided to retire from MTAS. In addition to consulting, Emergency Response Plan, a state- cal harm caused by the manufac- Since 1985, Phebus has worked Phebus has authored various MTAS wide mutual aid response plan for ture, distribution, sale and use of with MTAS assisting approxi- publications and resource materials the Tennessee fire service. Under illegal drugs, and abuse of prescrip- mately 60 cities in West Tennessee over the years. More recently, he the plan, a database of fire depart- tion drugs and alcohol. His other with finance and accounting issues. played a pivotal role in the development resources and a network of accomplishments include: achieving Prior to that, he served as a field ment and delivery of the TN Comp- coordinators are available to pro- accreditation as a Chief Medical Of- consultant and assistant director troller of the Treasury’s ongoing vide emergency resources to other ficer (CMO) through the Center for for the UT County Technical Assis- Certified Municipal Finance Officer , . departments across the state in Public Safety Excellence along with tance Service (CTAS) from 1973 to program. In acknowledgement of cases of man-made or natural di- holding personal accreditation as a 1983. During time away from the his contributions to the program, sasters. Chief Fire Officer (CFO), and per- university, he served as controller Phebus was awarded the first hon- While representing Tennessee sonal accreditation from the Institu- for a precious metals corporation in orary CMFO certificate by the as president of the Tennessee Fire tion of Fire Engineers. Fort Collins, Colo. comptroller’s office. During his ten- Chiefs Association, Wolf also cre- Phebus “Dennis is a tremendous pro- Phebus has enjoyed a varied ure with MTAS, he has served on the ated the mutual aid committee in fessional and continues the tradition career. He received his education boards of the Tennessee Govern- Government Corporation. “During response to the Intrastate Mutual of quality consultants with this from Vanderbilt University, gradu- ment Finance Officers Association that time he served municipalities Aid System initiative of the Interna- organization,”said Steve Thompson, ating in 1972 with both a bachelor’s and the Local Government Corpora- with a high level of integrity and tional Association of Fire Chiefs. MTAS executive director. and master’s in engineering. He tion. support. He was a great asset to the The committee created a draft plan In his new job, which began worked for the Tennessee Depart- “Dick Phebus has served on the University of Tennessee, the Local that was adopted by the Fire Chiefs Aug. 1, Wolf will be stationed in the ment of Transportation in its engi- board of directors for Local Govern- Government Corporation and Ten- Association’s Board of Directors. West Tennessee regional office. He neering division prior to joining ment Corporation for more than 12 nessee municipalities. That service Wolf served as secretary for will also travel across the state to CTAS as a highway consultant. years as a board member and chair- will be missed.” Phebus leaves the Tennessee Alliance for Drug provide management and technical Post graduate education enabled man of the finance committee,” said MTAS to take the position of assis- Endangered Children, a collabora- assistance to Tennessee’s 275 full- him to sit for and pass the Certified Mickey Wilson, president of Local tant finance director in Bartlett. tive statewide multi-disciplinary ef- time and volunteer fire departments. Good Risk Management is just Good Management

Cities and municipal agencies have joined together to create in the TML Pool what has grown to be the largest municipal insurer in Tennessee. The extent of the coverage provided for municipal exposures is staggering.

The Pool insures: • 40,575 municipal employees for workers’ compensation representing more than $951.7 million in annual payroll exposures; • 18,960 municipal vehicles with total insurable values of some $350 million for liability coverage; and provides • general liability coverage for 16,407 miles of streets.

5100 Maryland Way • Brentwood, TN • 800-624-9698 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 www.TML1.org

pened is the people who sell this product have made it appear safer, made it less expensive, and they give you the misconception that it’s less BY TML STAFF REPORTS formerly enslaved blacks for citizen- harmful if you smoke it,” said an ship and enfranchisement. The li- addiction specialist at a drug and State funds plant projects brary staff received digital copies of alcohol recovery center near Nash- The State Building Commission the correspondence while searching ville. Heroin is a highly addictive signed off on $346.2 million in state statewide for Civil War-era docu- drug cultivated from the opium taxpayer funding to help build two ments and artifacts. poppy flower. In the U.S., it either large industrial plants in Clarksville comes from Asia or Mexico. A 2010 and Cleveland, plus $7 million for the Highway projects receive grants national drug threat analysis by the Port of Cates Landing on the Missis- More than $7 million in grants have U.S. Department of Justice noted sippi River in Lake County. The been awarded in Tennessee to fund that authorities estimated that Mexi- $245.9 million in total state funding several highway-related projects, can heroin production increased 342 for the $1.2 billion Hemlock Semi- including the widening of Interstate percent from 2004-2008. Law en- conductor plant in Clarksville and 65 in Nashville to accommodate forcement officials say heroine deal- State and local officials recently joined Bedford County in celebrating $100.3 million for the $1.1 billion high-volume traffic. According to ers are savvier than most street the completion of the new Shelbyville Bypass (State Route 437). The Wacker Chemie polysilicon produc- the grant details, the cost of the I-65 pushers and have set up a business $14.8 million project creates a new transportation corridor on the east tion plant in Cleveland — plus a project is $3.75 million, making it the model aimed at maximizing profits, side of Shelbyville, and provides connection from US 41/State Route previously approved $100 million most costly project planned. Other including selling it outside heroin 16 to Highway 231. The Bypass was developed in order to provide for a new Electrolux plant in Mem- projects across the state include: addiction recovery centers. improved access to industrial developments within Bedford County phis — represent the first time state extending the Tennessee Riverwalk and an alternate route for commercial traffic.The project, which began government has spent money on the from Chattanooga’s downtown to Funds for Civil War Driving Trail in July of 2009, was funded through the American Recovery and actual construction and equipping of the base of Lookout Mountain and Gov. Haslam joined state and local Reinvestment Act. Cutting the ribbon are: former state representative plants. The projects, previously ap- the St. Elmo community with a officials to announce the award of a Clarence “Pete” Phillips, Shelbyville Mayor Wallace Cartwright, State proved by the legislature, include a lighted and landscaped walkway; $818,880 transportation enhance- Rep. Pat Marsh, Transportation Commissioner John Schroer, Sen. Jim combination of current tax revenue providing a comprehensive comment grant to the Tennessee Depart- Tracy, Shelbyville City Manager Jay Johnson, and Bedford County and state bonds, to be repaid by mercial drivers license training ment of Tourist Development for Mayor Eugene Ray. general taxpayer revenue. The new course, and constructing a rest area Phase III of the Civil War Driving $26.2 million Cates Landing river shelter, and installing markers at Trail. The Civil War Driving Trail is port under construction near Cherohala Skyway Scenic Byway. a multi-phased program that has es- Tiptonville is funded by the $7 mil- The Federal Highway Administra- tablished a statewide network of di- lion from the state, $13 million from tion awarded the grant money. rectional and historical signage to be August state revenues the federal government and $6.2 used in conjunction with the Ten- million in local funds. State leases cars in pilot program nessee Civil War map/guide and ap- up 7.65 % over last year Tennessee has launched a $65 mil- plicable map/guides developed by TDOT grant for Gray’s Fossil Site lion pilot program meant to cut driv- individual localities. The grant is Tennessee revenue collections Sales tax collections were $5.3 An award of a $145,026 transporta- ing costs for state workers by leas- made possible through a federally continued to show modest improve- million more than the estimate for tion enhancement grant to East Ten- ing up to 500 cars from a vehicle- funded program administered by the ment in August. Finance and Admin- August. The August growth rate nessee State University will go to- leasing firm. The state has signed a Tennessee Department of Trans- istration Commissioner Mark was positive 5.09%. ward the Miocene Habitat at the three-year contract with Mears Mo- portation. The Tennessee Civil War Emkes reported that overall August Franchise and excise taxes Gray Fossil Site Visitor Center in tor Leasing, a division of Bancorp Trails program is both a freestand- revenues were $806.6 million, combined were $17.4 million above Washington County. The project in- Inc., to lease 500 Ford Fusion se- ing, statewide program and a part of which is 7.65% above August 2010 the budgeted estimate of $16.5 mil- cludes outdoor enhancements to the dans for use by child welfare agents, the existing 700-site, three-state collections. lion. visitor center, such as a welcome inspectors and other state em- Civil War Trails program which has “August marks the 13th con- Gasoline and motor fuel collec- sign, signage for self-guided tours, ployees. Officials estimate it will been developed through similar secutive month in which total collections decreased by 0.40% from Au- landscaping, irrigation, picnic shel- cost the state about 33 cents a mile, grant funding. The project will en- tions surpassed the budgeted esti- gust of 2010, but were $1.5 million ters, art, and ADA accessibility. This including leasing costs, maintenance courage and reward local govern- mates,” Emkes said. “This is good above the budgeted estimate of project represents the completion of and gasoline. Tennessee reimburses ments and private sector partici- news, but nationally, leading eco- $71.7 million. the grounds and visitor amenities for state workers 47 cents for each mile pants that establish, promote and nomic indicators continue to indi- Inheritance tax collections were the visitor center. The grant is made they drive while using their personal maintain the program in their areas. cate a very slow recovery is in $1.1 million above the budgeted es- possible through a federally funded cars for business, and if the program progress. Coupled with the uncer- timate. program administered by TDOT. succeeds, the state could shift more On-line job ads drop in August tainty surrounding resolution of the Privilege tax collections were workers to leased vehicles. The De- Job openings posted online skidded federal budget, it means we must $2.6 million less than the budgeted TVA to put reactor up for bid partment of Children’s Services, this month in Tennessee, the Con- continue to closely monitor our estimate of $17.6 million For the first time, the Tennessee Department of Human Services, ference Board reported, continuing a spending in the months ahead to Tobacco tax collections for the Valley Authority wants to put one of Department of Financial Institutions decline that marked the end of the keep the current budget balanced as month were under collected by $2.1 its nuclear reactors up for bids. The and Department of Commerce and second quarter. The New York busi- we prepare for the up coming 2012- million utility plans to then lease and operate Insurance are taking part in the pilot ness organization said its Help 2013 budget.” All other taxes were under col- Watts Bar Unit 2 in Tennessee and program. Wanted Online gauge registered a On an accrual basis, August is lected by a net of $1.4 million. use investors’ money to fund con- drop of 2,700 online job ads in the the first month in the 2011-2012 The budgeted revenue estimates struction of a reactor the utility plans TVA logs 25,000 energy audits state. The decline in Tennessee and fiscal year. for 2011-2012 are based on the State to start building in 2013 at the The Tennessee Valley Authority has nationally reflected the pullback in August collections were $19.2 Funding Board’s consensus recom- mothballed Bellefonte plant in Ala- logged 25,000 home energy evalua- labor needs amid an economy that million more than the budgeted esti- mendation of April 15 and adopted bama. Although a first for TVA, its tions since launching an in-home has slowed the pace of its recovery mate. The general fund was over by the first session of the 107th executives say such lease-sale ar- program in March 2009. TVA Vice since the first quarter. The Confer- collected by $18.3 million and the General Assembly in May. They are rangements are not uncommon for President Bob Balzar said the steady ence Board said job vacancies online four other funds were over collected available at http://www.tn.gov/fi- utilities. TVA President and CEO growth in the program came be- dropped 163,900 to nearly 4 million by $900,000. nance/bud/budget.html. Tom Kilgore said the utility would cause power distributors strongly in August, coming on the heels of still control everything about opera- supported it. Balzar said the recom- declines in June and July. Among the tions and safety. TVA also plans to mendations from the audits help 10 occupation categories with the Legislative redistricting sell its new John Sevier combined consumers save energy and also most online advertised vacancies, cycle gas plant to help pay the $4.8 bring them up to $500 in reimburse- the only increase was found in de- billion cost of finishing the 37-year- ments when they make the recom- mand for health care practitioners plans posted on website old Bellefonte plant. The lease-sale mended improvements. Balzar said and medical-technical occupations. approach provides TVA money the back-story is how the program, House Speaker Beth Harwell mittee,” said Speaker Harwell. without adding to its debt. offered across the seven-state TVA Study on Race to the Top funds unveiled new information on the leg- In addition to information on service area, has stimulated local A new study from the state islative website that is dedicated to each district, redistricting guide- TSLA receives Wadsworth letters businesses as homeowners make comptroller’s office examines the the redistricting process in the Ten- lines, and current maps, the website For the first time, the Tennessee the improvements. TVA estimates way local school districts are spend- nessee House of Representatives. will also feature a “comment line” State Library and Archives in Nash- more than $54 million in home en- ing their portion of Tennessee’s Redistricting efforts in the House Tennesseans can call to leave sug- ville has a collection of letters from ergy efficiency improvements have $500 million award of federal Race will now have its own portion on the gestions and input for committee white officers who led black troops been made in the last two years. to the Top funds. Every local district legislative website at members. In addition to a public during the Civil War. The collection received a portion of the money, www.capitol.tn.gov/house/com- meeting, the website is part of an is “Brother Charles: Letters Home to Heroin use on the rise which was divided evenly between mittees/ (Ad Hoc Committee on Re- ongoing effort to make the process Michigan,” correspondence of the Law enforcement agents around the state and the local agencies and is districting). more transparent. Wadsworth Brothers. It is writings Tennessee are bracing for a resur- being distributed over four years. “By putting this new informa- “Redistricting is a long, com- by two white members of the 16th gence of heroin use as prescription The report found the money being tion on the legislative website, we are plex process and it always generates U.S. Colored Infantry, which was drug users turn to the drug, fueled by used for a wide variety of activities striving for a more open and trans- a lot of interest,” said Speaker encamped in Clarksville from 1863 users’ need for a low-cost alterna- intended to improve the schools. parent process than ever before. Harwell. “I encourage the public to to 1865. The two left their studies at tive and dealers’ aggressive market- Those include more than $20 million There is information on each dis- visit the site and leave comments on Oberlin College to enlist in the Union ing techniques. Law enforcement for instructional coaches for teach- trict, the population numbers from the tip line. Government operates Army. The collection discusses the agents said younger people and ers, another $17.5 million for leader- the census, the target population for better when citizens are active and inspiration for why some white of- those with high incomes are among ship training and $16.9 million for each district, and the members of the aware of the process,” she con- ficers wanted to educate and prepare heroine’s users today. “What’s hap- incentive pay plans. House Ad Hoc Redistricting Com- cluded.

Engineering | Surveying Knoxville Tri-Cities P.O. Box 2968 (865) 546-5800 (423) 467-8401 Murfreesboro, TN 37133-2968 www.VaughnMelton.com (615) 895-8221 www.griggsandmaloney.com Your Project... Our Promise

Tom Spencer Territory Manager

570 Beechgrove Way Burns, TN 37029 USA

T (615) 973-0367 [email protected] www.sensus.com www.TML1.org 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 Making Great Cities Even Better Works Director. The director reports to the City Administrator and will be responsible for every aspect Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. ing the mission and goals of the of public works including streets, No charge to TML members. Send Library as set by the Library Board; water and sewer departments as advertising to: TT&C Classified and functioning with a maximum lights, street lights, chipper service, Ads, Mona Lawrence, 226 Capitol degree of latitude for independent paving projects and other public Blvd. Suite 710, Nashville TN action within the scope of policy as works programs. Position is also 37219; e-mail: mlawrence@ set by the Board. Essential duties responsible for fleet maintenance TML1.org; or fax: 615-255 4752. include: ensuring a high level of and chairs monthly safety meetings. customer service; implementing Salary: $44 - $50K DOE/Q includes CITY ADMINISTRATOR/ strategic plan, goals and objectives; comprehensive medical (PPO), den- RECORDER preparing annual budget for ap- tal, vision benefits (city pays full ROCKWOOD. The city is accepting proval by the Board; directing the premium), vacation, paid time off, applications for the position of Mu- expenditure of Library funds; estab- sick time, STD, LTD, Life insur- nicipal Administrator/ City Re- lishing and maintaining effective ance. See full information at corder. Minimum Qualifications in- working relationships with various www.LaVergneTN.gov clude: a college degree and experi- agencies and community groups; ence in municipal management, pub- and effectively leading and supervis- PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR lic administration, business adminis- ing staff and volunteers. Qualifica- MORRISTOWN. The city is seek- tration, planning, or comparable ex- tions: Minimum qualifications in- ing applicants for Public Works Di- clude three years of progressively rector. The director supervises di- perience. Must possess good writ- The town of Hollow Rock closed a $50,000 capital outlay note with responsible leadership; excellent in- verse public works functions in- ten and verbal communications the Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund to be used for street paving. skills, computer proficiency, man- terpersonal and communication cluding: construction, maintenance skills; experience in providing sound and operation of storm drains, Pictured are: Vivan Grooms, city recorder; Mayor Tim Runions; and agement skills, and grant administra- Tommy Green, TMBF representative. tor experience. Responsibilities in- fiscal planning and management, streets, sidewalks, solid waste col- clude: budgets, personnel, oversight and thorough knowledge of current lection, traffic controls, sewer col- of daily city operations, liaison of- trends, technology, and best prac- lection, sewer collection/treatment, ficer, Council agendas and minutes, tices for organizational manage- engineering, equipment repair and public records, collection of taxes ment. Preferred qualifications in- building and grounds maintenance. Extension necessary for and revenues, city court, audits and clude a Master’s Degree in Library Reviews the performance level of managerial reports, compliance with Science from an ALA accredited assigned operations for efficiency, state and local regulations duties of program or its equivalent. Compen- effective operation, and service level federal Transportation bill sation: Beginning salary range be- and adjusts operations to effectively the Administrator and Recorder as TRANSPORTION from Page 1 listed in the Rockwood Municipal tween $50,000 and $65,000 depend- serve citizens. Reports to the city portation allocation on bicycle and Code and Charter, and other duties ing on qualifications and experience. administrator. Bachelor’s degree ture and NLC urges Congress and pedestrian pathways and hinted that as assigned. Salary dependent upon Benefit package including health in- from a four-year college or univer- the President to pass the full reautho- he might filibuster the bill to prevent qualifications. Open until filled. surance, retirement, vacation and sity in Civil or Environmental Engi- rization during the term of the exten- these provisions from passing. Send letter of interest, salary re- sick leave. For a complete job de- neering, Public Administration, sion. A national commitment to in- NLC and others seek to avoid quirements, and resume to: Tennes- scription, visit Business Administration, or related frastructure investment will employ any policy changes in the short-term see Career Center, Job Order #: TN www.springhilllibrary.org. Please field; four or more years of related hundreds of thousands of workers extension to ensure immediate pas- 5697800, 1802 N. Gateway Avenue, send resume and contact informa- experience, or any combination of while improving the efficiency of the sage and prevent any delay in distri- Rockwood, TN 37854 tion of three references by electronic education, training, and experience nation’s transportation network.” bution of badly needed federal trans- submission in PDF or WORD for- which provides the required knowl- Congress will only have four portation construction dollars. The CITY PLANNER mat to Mr. Dana Deem at edge, skills and abilities to perform weeks to reach agreement on a real fear is that Congress will not be LA VERGNE. The city is accepting [email protected]. Sub- the essential functions of the job. short-term extension of the federal able to reach agreement and the applications for the position of City mission deadline October 7, 2011. Salary DOQ; comprehensive benefit surface transportation bill before it federal fuel taxes that fund these EOE. Planner. Position reports to the Engi- package offered, including TCRS expires on Sept. 30.The extension vital transportation programs will pension. Applications will be ac- neering, Planning, Codes and Storm needs to continue the federal tax on expire. PARKS & RECREATION cepted until position is filled, with Water department director and will fuel, which funds the national high- The Senate Environment and be responsible for assisting with the DIRECTOR interviews beginning in early Sep- JOHNSON CITY. The city is taking tember. Mail resume and cover letter way, bridge and transit program. Public Works Committee has an- development and maintenance of all There have been some rum- nounced it will mark up a four- city planning programs including applications for an innovative and to: City of Morristown, PO Box st blings from anti-tax groups that they month extension of the program. land use, retail and industrial devel- experienced Director of Parks and 1499, 100 W 1 North St.; would oppose extension of the gas opment, etc. Salary: $40,831 DOE/ Recreation. The position is respon- Morristown, TN., 37816-1499, Senate Democratic transporta- Q includes comprehensive medical sible for leading a staff of 63 em- attn.: City Administrator. Informa- tax and let states raise their own tion leaders released a chart showing (PPO), dental, vision benefits (city ployees and managing a $3.42 mil- tion about the city can be obtained transportation funds. the number of job losses per state if pays full premium), vacation, paid lion department budget. Candidates from the website at www. Sen. Thomas Coburn (R-Okla.) an extension is not signed by Sept.30 time off, sick time, STD, LTD, Life should possess strong interpersonal mymorristown.com. has announced his opposition to pro- and federal construction dollars insurance. For full information, visit and communication skills; demon- visions contained in the current leg- cannot be distributed to states and the city’s website at strated leadership experience; exten- WASTEWATER CLASS III islation that allow state and local metropolitan areas.The chart shows www.LaVergneTN.gov. sive experience of a progressively OPERATOR governments to spend their trans- more than a 1.6 million job loss. responsible nature in organized PORTLAND. The city has a full LIBRARY DIRECTOR parks and recreational activities. time position available at the Waste- SPRING HILL. The Spring Hill Pub- Bachelor’s degree from an accred- water Treatment Plant for a licensed FHWA eliminates deadlines lic Library Public Library Board of ited college or university Class III Operator.An application Trustees seeks an experienced and required.Send a confidential resume and job description may be obtained energetic leader to direct this out- and application to City of Johnson from the city’s website, to traffic sign regulations City, Human Resources Depart- standing library. It has an active www.cityofportlandtn.gov or from stead, communities will be able to ment, P.O. Box 2150, Johnson City, the receptionist at Portland City Hall, SIGNS from Page 1 Friends of the Library organization, replace and upgrade these signs TN 37605. Visit our website at Mon. through Fri., 8 am to 4:30 pm. signs are among the series of dead- with a service population of approxi- when they reach the end of their mately 32,000 . Spring Hill is part of www.johnsoncitytn.org to access Completed applications must be re- lines eliminated under the amend- an application, and view the full ad turned no later than 4:30 PM on ment proposed today. The proposal useful life. the larger Nashville metropolitan The DOT has retained 12 dead- area. The director reports to a seven and job description. EOE Friday, September 23, 2011, to: Of- would also eliminate deadlines for lines for sign upgrades that are criti- member Board of Trustees and is fice of the Mayor, Portland City Hall, increasing the size of various traffic responsible for planning and direct- PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR 100 South Russell Street, Portland, signs, such as ‘Pass With Care’ and cal to public safety. These safety- ing the overall operations and man- LA VERGNE. The city is seeking Tennessee 37148. The City of Port- ‘One Way,’ as well as warning critical sign upgrades include install- agement of the Library; implement- applicants for the position of Public land is EOE. signs, such as ‘Low Clearance’ and ing “ONE WAY” signs at intersec- ‘Advance Grade Crossing.’ In- tions with divided highways or one- way streets and requiring STOP or YIELD signs to be added at all railroad crossings that don’t have train- activated automatic gates or flashing lights. Last November, FHWA published a request for comments in the Federal Register on deadlines and received almost 600 comments from highway agencies, state departments of transportation, other organizations, and private citizens. FHWA took these comments into consideration as it developed the Notice of Proposed Amendments. FHWA is also soliciting public comments for this proposed rule for the next 60 days, and comments should be directed to http://www.gpo access.gov/fr/ 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 www.TML1.org Summary of 2011 Public Acts that effects local governments

BY JOSH JONES status to repeal such status via a retail sales have been approved via sions revised. Amends Tennessee MTAS Legal Consultant resolution or ordinance approved by referendum. Manufacturer must Code Annotated Title 42, Chapter 3, a two thirds majority of the govern- hold an ATF Brewer’s Notice. Al- Part 1 by easing the requirements for Alcoholic Beverages ing body.Effective June 6, 2011 ternatively authorizes sale of high- the creation of an airport authority Chapter No. 27 (HB0052/SB0087). alcohol-content beer in a jurisdiction by three or more local governments Sept. 22-23: 58th Annual Sellers of liquor or wine for on- Chapter No. 411 (HB1338/ where manufacture of intoxicating within the state and at least one local Governor's Conference on Eco- premises consumption may also SB0730). Liquor by the drink autho- liquors has been authorized via refer- government from another state. nomic and Community Develop- serve beer. Amends Tennessee rized in unincorporated Shelby endum. Ratifies any license to manu- Removes Attorney General approval ment, Renaissance Nashville Hotel. Code Annotated Title 57, Chapters 4 County. Amends T.C.A. § 57-4-107 facture high-alcohol-content beer requirement. Also clarifies that pow- Join hundreds of state and local of- and 5 by authorizing an establish- by removing provision limiting sales issued by the ABC prior to this act. ers conferred by the Airport Au- ficials, business leaders, economic ment permitted to sell liquor or wine of alcoholic beverages in unincorpo- Authorizes a manufacturer to sell its thorities Act are in addition to pow- developers and more for unparal- for on-premises consumption to rated areas of a county with a charter products wholesale at a retail loca- ers conferred by any other law. leled networking and the sharing of also sell beer during any time that form of government to situations tion on its site. Hours for such sales Effective May 2, 2011 best practices. Working together we establishment may legally sell wine where a local-option referendum to and authorization to sell high-alco- can build real solutions for creating or liquor provided that the establish- approve the sale of alcoholic bever- hol-content beer to be set by the local Chapter No. 419 (HB1434/ jobs and growing Tennessee’s ment has an appropriate local beer ages was limited to residents in the governing body. A manufacturer of SB1239). East Tennessee Regional economy. Online registration for full permit. Also states that hours for unincorporated areas. high-alcohol-content beer may also Agribusiness Marketing Authority attendees, spouses, students, lun- sale of beer within river resort dis- Effective June 6, 2011 obtain a license for on-premises authorized to operate wastewater cheons, exhibitors and sponsors is trict may not be less than hours for sales. Where a retail license is issued authority. Amends Tennessee Code available on the site at www.tn.gov/ liquor by the drink. Chapter No. 447 (HB0985/ to a manufacturer of high-alcohol- Annotated Title 64 by authorizing the ecd/GovConf11/index.html. Effective March 31, 2011 SB1273). Special occasion licensing content beer the local governing East Tennessee Regional Agribus- authority expanded. Amends Ten- body must pass an ordinance or iness Marketing Authority to ac- Sept 21-Oct. 20: “Profitability Chapter No. 213 (HB0853/ nessee Code Annotated Title 57, resolution to impose a 15 percent quire, construct and operate a Through Pollution Prevention,” a SB1030). Direct shippers may ship Chapter 4, Part 1 by authorizing a inspection fee. Makes other various wastewater treatment and collection series of regional Tennessee Pollu- wine to any in state address. charitable, nonprofit or political or- changes related to alcoholic bever- system within its region. Does not tion Prevention Partnership work- Amends T.C.A. § 57-3-217 by au- ganization with a special occasion ages. Effective June 10, 2011 require consent of any city, county shops sponsored by The Depart- thorizing any licensed direct shipper license to serve or sell wine, alco- or utility district. System is overseen ment of Environment and to ship wine to any address in the holic beverages or beer within the Chapter No. 451 (HB1046/ by board of commissioners who Conservation’s Office of Environ- state, including an address within a boundaries of a political subdivision SB2017). License for sale of wine must be representatives of any city, mental Assistance. Workshops in jurisdiction that has not approved the where the sale of alcoholic bever- making space, equipment and ingre- county or utility district that has East, Middle and West Tennessee sale of alcoholic beverages by local ages for on-premises consumption dients authorized. Adds a new entered into an agreement with the will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. option referendum. has been approved. Also authorizes T.C.A. § 57-3-218 which authorizes authority. Authority consists of (local times apply) at the following Effective May 20, 2011 the issuance of a special occasion a license for a business that sells the Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, locations : East Tennessee: Sept. license for an event within the unin- ingredients and rents the space and Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, 21, Standard Aero Alliance, 1029 Chapter No. 231 (HB0969/ corporated area of a county where at equipment to make wine. Applicable Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Ross Drive, Maryville; Middle Ten- SB1037). Sunday beer sale hours least one city within the county has in a jurisdiction where establishment Sullivan, Unicoi, and Washington nessee: Oct. 6, GM / Spring Hill applicable countywide unless reso- approved the sale of alcoholic bever- of a winery is permitted. Effective counties. Effective June 6, 2011 Manufacturing Welcome Center, lution to the contrary passed. ages for on-premises consumption. June10, 2011 for purposes of pro- 100 Saturn Parkway, Spring Hill; Amends T.C.A. § 57-4-203(d)(5) Effective June 10, 2011 mulgating rules; effective Jan. 1, Chapter No. 420 (HB1827/ West Tennessee: Oct. 20, Holiday by providing that extended hours for 2012 for all other purposes SB1420). Border Region Retail Inn, Wolfchase Galleria, 2751 New sale of beer on Sunday applies Chapter No. 448 (HB0986/ Tourism Development District Act. Brunswick Road, Memphis. The countywide where a municipality SB1224). High alcohol content beer Animals Amends Tennessee Code Annotated workshops are free but advanced approves liquor by the drink unless sale and manufacture authorized. Chapter No. 74 (HB0567/SB0339). Title 7 by enacting the Border Region registration is required to ensure ad- the county legislative body passes a Amends Tennessee Code Annotated Bovine owner liability limited. Tourism Development District Act. equate materials are available. Regis- resolution to the contrary by a two- Title 57 by authorizing the manufac- Amends T.C.A. Titles 29, 43 and 44 Authorizes the creation, via ordi- ter online at www.bartlettchamber. thirds vote. Effective May 20, 2011, ture of high-alcohol-content beer by limiting the liability of a bovine nance, of a tourism development org. For more information, visit and applicable to any jurisdiction within the boundaries of a munici- owner for damages arising out of the district within a municipality that www.tn.gov/environment/ea/tp3 where a municipal referendum was pality where both retail and on-pre- inherent risks of bovine activity borders another state. Municipality or visit the TP3 program website at approved within the previous 12 mises consumption of alcoholic where the owner posts appropriate must allocate 75 percent of revenue [email protected] or e- months. beverages have been approved via signage. Effective April 14, 2011 over base tax amount to pay for mail Curtis Hopper at Curtis.Hopper referendum. Also authorizes such economic development in the dis- @tn.gov or call 615-253-1729. Chapter No. 407 (HB0280/ manufacture in the unincorporated Chapter No. 474 (HB0030/ trict. Projects include retail and tour- SB0601). Repeal of river resort sta- areas of a county where both retail SB0109). Apiary liability limited. ism. Effective July 1, 2011 Oct. 2-6: Tennessee Recreation tus authorized by two-thirds vote. and on-premises consumption of al- Adds a new T.C.A. § 44-15-124 and Parks Association’s Amends T.C.A. § 67-6-103(a)(3) coholic beverages has been ap- which provides tort immunity for Business Regulation 60th Annual Conference. Held at (F)(ii)(a) by authorizing a city or proved via referendum or if the personal injury or property damage Chapter No. 54 (HB0211/SB0264). Paris Landing State Park. Specifi- county that has elected river resort county is a river resort district and to a registered apiarist operating an Higher education institution employ- cally designed for parks and recre- apiary in a reasonable manner. ees exempt from locksmithing ation professionals across the state. Effective July 1, 2011 requirements.Amends Tennessee This educational conference will Code Annotated Title 62, Chapter feature expert presenters from Annexation 11, Part 1 by exempting employees across the country, in addition to a Interest rate set at 7.25% Chapter No. 111 (HB0466/ of the University of Tennessee and wide variety of educational sessions SB0461). Annexation ordinances Tennessee Board of Regents sys- and offsite tours. Sessions will high- on delinquent taxes and resolutions must be filed with tems from locksmithing require- light the current trends, programs register of deeds. Amends Tennes- ments.Effective July 1, 2011 and opportunities in parks and recre- see Code Annotated Title 6, Chapter BY WILLIAM HASTON for the current year (FY 2011). A ation. The TRPA conference will be 51, Part 1 by requiring that upon Chapter No. 340 (HB1040/ hosted by a statewide committee of MTAS Finance Consultant copy of the announcement by the SB1258). Pain management clinics Commissioner of Revenue can be adoption any ordinance or resolution parks and recreation professionals, be filed with the register of deeds in regulated. Amends Tennessee Code including professionals from the The payment of taxes to local found at http://tn.gov/sos/pub/tar/ Annotated Title 63 by authorizing municipalities or to the state of Ten- announcements/06-20-11.pdf. the county where the annexation department’s Division of Recreation occurred. Copy must also be sent to state licensure and regulation of pain nessee generally has a due date asso- Educational Services. Environment the Comptroller and the county as- management clinics. Authorizes ciated with it. If a taxpayer fails to Action Required by Muncipal Fi- and Conservation.More information sessor of property. Commissioner of Health to promul- about this year’s TRPA conference, pay the tax, or a portion thereof, on nance Staff gate rules and regulations to imple- or before the date the taxes are re- Finance directors, city record- Effective April 25, 2011 including a schedule of events, list of ment such. Effective May 30, 2011, speakers and event sponsors and quired to be paid, interest is added to ers and other finance office person- for purposes of promulgation of the amount of tax due. The Commis- nel responsible for collecting or re- Chapter No. 495 (HB1214/ registration is available at www. SB0055). Affected property owners rules; effective Jan. 1, 2012, for all sioner of Revenue determines the mitting delinquent taxes collected or trpa.net/displayconvention.cfm. must be notified of annexation by other purposes interest rate for delinquent taxes col- administered by the state of Tennes- referendum. In the case of a pro- Nov. 11-12: East Tennessee Pres- lected or administered by the state of see should review the interest rate Chapter No. 456 (HB1305/ Tennessee. Sales tax and local busi- currently used for delinquent ac- posed annexation by referendum, ervation Conference, Jonesbor- requires a municipality to notify, via SB0837). Bounty hunters required ough. Two days packed with helpful ness tax are examples of taxes falling counts and make the necessary ad- to undergo background check. into this category. justments to comply with the 7.25 first class mail, each property owner sessions covering topics related to of record in the territory proposed Amends T.C.A. § 40-11-318 by re- percent rate effective July 1, 2011. this year’s theme, “Positioning Pres- for annexation. Notice must include quiring a person who intends to en- Formula Rate of Interest ervation for Prosperity: Conserva- copy of resolution and must be sent gage in the functions of a bounty tion and Preservation in the New T.C.A. § 67-1-801 provides for Historical Interest Rates hunter to submit a criminal history the rate of interest to be charged on The following table from the Ten- within 14 days prior to the public Economy.” Enjoy networking, hearing. Does not apply to annex- background check to the sheriff of tours, access to experts and the delinquent tax payments. This rate is nessee Department of Revenue is a the county of the person’s perma- called the “formula rate of interest” historical presentation of the “for- ations by ordinance. latest tools, and much more. Lodg- Effective July 1, 2011 nent residence. Out-of-state bounty ing and accommodation information and is determined and set annually by mula rate of interest” as determined hunters must provide criminal his- the Tennessee commissioner of rev- by the commissioner of revenue. can be found at www.historicjones Authorities, Boards, and Com- tory background check to law en- borough.com. For more information enue. The rate effective July 1, 2011, This information is provided as forcement agency in jurisdiction in through June 30, 2012, has been set supplemental data to give finance missions about the conference, go to Chapter No. 139 (HB0909/ which an apprehension will occur. www.etpaonline.org at 7.25 percent. Municipalities will officials a perspective of interest Effective June 10, 2011 recognize that this rate is the same as rates for prior years. SB0761). Airport authority provi-

www.TML1.org 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 NLC Congress of Cities slated for Nov. 9-12 TENNESSEE Online registration for the 2011 Congress of Cities and Exposition, FESTIVALS November 9-12 in Phoenix, is open, go to www.nlccongressofcities.org. This year’s conference will Sept. 23-25: Manchester have a restructured format to allow Old Stone Fort Bi-Annual Knap-In for more in-depth exploration of the Located on U.S. Highway 41, be- most pressing challenges facing cit- tween Nashville and Chattanooga, ies. Four concurrent conferences the Old Stone Fort is a 2000-year-old Square Great food and entertain- will be held on the topics of Your Native American ceremonial site, ment. Beginning at 6 am with pan- City’s Families, Green Cities, Eco- which consists of nearly 4,000 feet cake breakfast, full slate of enter- nomic Development and Infrastruc- of low, wall-like mounds enclosing tainment from 8 am and throughout ture. Each of these conferences will nearly 50 acres. A celebration of the the day. incorporate keynote speakers, ancient arts and archaeoskills, main workshops and peer networking activities and special programming Oct. 1: Nashville sessions. begin at 8 a.m. on Sat. until 4:30 Celebrate Nashville Cultural Festi- Congress of Cities attendees are p.m. Free. Learn about rope made val encouraged to choose one of the out of plant fibers and animal prod- Held at Centennial Park. Free admis- concurrent conferences. Attendees ucts to blowguns and rabbitsticks – sion. World Market vendors and can also be a “generalist” by sam- essential for survival during the more than 30 cultures perform on pling from each of the concurrent Stone Age. For more information, five stages. Sample cusines from all conferences and from sessions on visit www.tnstateparks.com/ over the world. The Frist Center will other challenges city leaders face. OldStoneFort or call 931- 723-5073. present activities based on “Con- NLC will explore the impact that necting Cultures.” Children’s activi- immigration has on communities Sept. 23 – 24 – Tullahoma ties include: a Maypole, “dress up” and constructive local action in cities 2nd Annual 41A Music & Arts Festival with theater costumes, games and across the country across all confer- Held downtown. Free admission. demonstrations of cricket, bocce, ence programming. With Phoenix as Music, art, local vendors and and soccer, storytelling, nature ac- the host city for the conference, children’s activities. Featured local tivities, puppet shows, painting and NLC will have an opportunity to bands include Utopia, Bad Monkey, hands-on art and much more. The highlight the need for comprehen- Soul Session, Lee Gibson and Children’s Area Stage will have in- sive immigration reform at the fed- Midget Wrestlers; national artists teractive music and dance programs eral level. include Space Capone, The Pop throughout the day. For more infor- The Opening General Session Rox, Webb Wilder and Bleu mation, visit the website http:// will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thurs- Edmondson. For more information celebratenashville.org/. day, Nov. 10. The conference will call 931-455-2648. wrap up Saturday with the Delegates Oct 1: Centerville Luncheon, the Annual Business Sept. 23 - 24 – Columbia National Banana Pudding Festival Meeting and the Phoenix Host City recession and more broadly and staff the chance to focus on strate- 2011 Southern Fried Festival Held at 979 Grinder’s Switch. Hon- Closing Event on Saturday evening, structurally as economic connec- gies to spur sources of growth from See the children’s parade on Sat. ors the ultimate Southern comfort Nov. 12. tions between communities around inside the community, including en- morning followed by a KFC stage food. National Banana Pudding The main educational program- the world continue to strengthen. trepreneurship and small businesses performance by the Zinghoppers. Cook Off, two entertainment stages, ming for the conference will be held Although these changes pose chal- development, and sources of Males, check out the city ‘s “Man arts & crafts and fun kid’s activities. on Friday, Nov. 11, and Saturday lenges to local leaders, they also growth from outside the commu- Cave” and for kids and the young at For more information, call 931-994- morning, Nov.12, with much of the present opportunities to enable a nity, including trade and foreign di- heart, Antique Jack will be entertain- 6273. content taking place within the con- competitive business environment rect investment. ing on Sat. For more details, visit current conferences. and improved quality of life using Conference sessions will fea- www.southernfriedfest.com. Oct. 7-9: Maryville strategic economic development ap- ture strategies and promising prac- Foothills Fall Festival Economic Development proaches. tices from cities and regions across Sept. 24: Waynesboro Three days of world class concerts, Local economies have experi- The Economic Development the country, networking opportuni- Fall Festival 85 juried artists and craftsmen, enced drastic changes both in the conference will give city leaders and ties and mobile tours. Held on the Town Square. Fun for all rides, inflatables, activities, games shorter term as a result of the recent ages. For complete schedule of and shows for the entire family. Green Cities events, visit the website at Admission free. Musical headliners The Green Cities conference www.waynecountychamber.org are Sara Evans, Reba McIntyre, and will explore topics fundamental to or for more information, call Nadine the band, Chicago. For more infor- building and maintaining strong at 931-722-4684. mation, visit the festival website at sustainability programs. Sustain- www.foothillsfallfestival.com. ability initiatives provide opportuni- Sept. 24: Dandridge ties for cities of all sizes to The 5th Dandridge Scots-Irish Fes- Oct. 7-9: Hohenwald strengthen their local and regional tival Annual Oktober Heritage Festival economies, reevaluate physical in- An old-time Main Street music festi- All day arts & crafts, food and enter- th frastructure, protect natural re- val, held in historic downtown. tainment. Enjoy the 18 Annual Fall sources, increase quality of life, pro- Sat.at 8:30 am, the individual piping Classic Car & Truck Show Sat. For mote public health and further social competition. Fully sanctioned by the more information, visit the website equity. Eastern United States Pipe Band As- www.hohenwaldlewischamber.com Conference activities will focus sociation. Also, the Scottish High- or call 931-796-4084. on increasing member engagement land Dance Competition. Musical headliner, CoyoteRun, one of the Oct. 8: Parrotsville and fostering the exchange of ideas th and experiences. hottest international bands on the 14 Annual Heritage Day This conference will provide Celtic music circuit. Vendors and Held at Parrott-LaRue-Myers Me- city leaders and staff with tools, clans line each side of historic Main morial Park from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. resources and practical examples to Street bringing musical instruments, Quilt show, flower show, pumpkin develop a strong foundation for clothing, books, jewelry, custom bakeoff, Harvest Day Beauty Pag- sustainability in their communities, iron work and family history items. eant, buckboard rides, children’s reassess and reinforce existing ef- Food vendors offer an amazing se- games, entertainment, story telling, forts and effectively expand initia- lection of Celtic fare and other antique cars and tractors, pumpkin tives throughout their communities. unique foodstuffs, as well as tradi- decorating contest, live demonstra- tional festival goodies. Learn about tions, 75 craft vendors, food ven- Infrastructure your family history, see the dog dors and live music all day. For more Cities’ infrastructure systems show and a 150th anniversary of the information, visit the website — transportation, water and tech- Civil War commemoration depicting www.parrottsvilletn.org/ nology and communications — are the Scots-Irish contribution in sev- parrottsvilletennessee/heritagedays/ the backbone of the regional and eral battles that took place in or near or call Sheilah Strobel at 423-623- national economies. Dandridge. Highland coos and black 8340. The Infrastructure conference faced sheep on display. Supervised will offer city leaders and staff the children’s play area. For more infor- Oct. 8: Athens roadmap for how collaboration at mation contact the Dandridge Trust- 8th Annual Pumpkintown Festival home, rather than a set of top-down A-Main Street Community office at Held from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. federal government programs, can 865-397-7420 ext. 17 or visit Downtown. Vendors include ensure the long-term vitality and www.mainstreetdandridge.com. blacksmiths,woodturners, prosperity of towns, cities and re- basketmakers, potters, bonnet- gions while strengthening the Sept. 26-Oct 2 – Lawrenceburg makers, jewelry-makers, cornhusk nation’s competitive position in the Middle TN District Fair dolls and more. See antique tractors world. Come out and enjoy the music, food and “Heritage Row” with Native Sessions will focus on creative vendors and games, rides and American cultural activities, the 3rd infrastructure financing such as more. For more information call Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest, public-private partnerships, land use 931-762-4911 or email the “Mutt Strut” and the “Doggie planning for housing and transit, in- [email protected]. Costume Contest” at Happy Hounds novative transit options and use of on Washington Avenue. Visit the 3rd technology. Sept. 30 - Oct. 1: Peavine Annual Heritage Quilt Show at the Heritage Festival Arts Center on White Street, across Your City’s Families Held at Parsons Centre Municipal from the Jackson Street entrance to At the foundation of a prosper- Building, 535 Tennessee Ave. S. and Tennessee Wesleyan College. Live ous, vibrant city are strong families at Memorial Park. Fri.and Sat. from music and entertainment on multiple living in neighborhoods where every 10am-5pm, the museum will host a stages throughout the day. For more child can thrive. Civil War exhibit and Sat. at Memo- information, visit the website As the nation’s largest gathering rial Park, a Civil War Living History www.pumpkintownfestival.com. of municipal leaders who are work- Demonstration. Dedication of area ing to improve the lives of children, Civil War Trails Project Marker, ar- Oct. 15 – 16: Bell Buckle youth and families in their communi- tillery demonstration, presentations, Webb School Art & Crafts Festival ties, the biennial National Summit on book signings, antique and Civil War Premier Art Show featuring crafts Your City’s Families offers city of- quilt exhibit, “Old Time Toby Tent and artist demonstrations. More ficials and staff a unique opportunity Show.” For a complete schedule, than 500 booths throughout the to learn effective and promising ap- visit the website http:/ town. Music, food, crafts and more. proaches for ensuring that every heritage.parsonspeavinefestival.com/ For more information, visit child has opportunities to learn and www.bellbucklechamber.com. grow, a safe neighborhood to call Sept. 30 – Knoxville home, a healthy lifestyle and envi- Annual County Wide Farm Day Oct. 21-22: Columbia ronment and a financially fit family in Held at the UT Dairy Research and The Athenaeum Rectory’s “Ghostly which to thrive. Education Center (Dairy Experiment Dinner” Summit sessions and work- Station) at 1070 New Lake Road, Start with dinner at the Athenaeum shops will highlight creative local from 8:30 – 12 noon. Students, as costumed hosts share mourning solutions to tough challenges and teachers and parents are all wel- customs and ghostly experiences, build participants’ capacity to exer- come. followed by dessert and a candlelight cise leadership on behalf of children, tour at Elm Springs. For more infor- youth and families. Oct. 1:Lewisburg mation and tickets, visit 18th Annual Lions Club Octoberfest www.athenaeumrectory.com. or Held in Lewisburg’s Downtown call 931-381-4822. 9-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 www.TML1.org

Tennessee Municipal League 2011-2012 Officers and Directors Is Amazon undercutting vital interests PRESIDENT Kay Senter of state and local governments? Mayor Pro-Tem, Morristown VICE PRESIDENTS Jeff Bezos showing that avoiding Ken Wilber BY NEAL PEIRCE through affiliated third-party sellers. Mayor, Portland Washington Post Writers Group Amazon's standard response state taxes was critical to his strat- Allen Barker has been to file lawsuits or close egy for Amazon from the start. BY TML STAFF REPORTS Mayor, Humboldt Is Amazon.com "America's down all its affiliates (a seemingly Plus, Bezos knows that approval David May No. 1 Tax Evader," undercutting callous blow to thousands of smaller of the Fairness Act -- especially in The biggest overhaul to school Councilmember, Cleveland today's Congress with its powerful lunches in the past 15 years is DIRECTORS the vital interests of states and lo- businesses). Responding to the Cali- Bryan Atchely calities as they try to meet the needs fornia collection law passed just this anti-tax factions -- is a very long giving states heartburn. The fed- Mayor, Sevierville of their people in recession- year, Amazon is circulating a state- shot. The current sponsors are all eral government has mandated a Daniel T. Brown wracked times? wide petition for a referendum to Democrats, even though many Re- healthier menu, and state and school Mayor, Knoxville That's the assertion of former repeal it -- cynically asking citizens if publican state legislators are strong officials are trying to figure out how Kevin Helms supporters. Prospects would be to cope with the added costs. At City Manager, Oak Hill ( District 5) U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor they want to pay the taxes. Vance Coleman Marty Manley, writing on his As critics note, local retail stores brightened if Sen. Michael Enzi, R- issue is the sweeping Healthy, Hun- Mayor, Medina (District 7) JamSideDown website. And are being used as showcases for Wyo., a past supporter, decides to ger-Free Kids Act that Congress Betsy Crossley Manley is hardly alone. The Wall products later sold online. "When a endorse the new measure and line up passed last year to replace the junk Commissioner, Brentwood (District 6) Street Journal, in a story by corre- consumer can walk into a store, try Republican support. food and unhealthy lunches com- Karl Dean spondent Stu Woo, recently identi- What's discouraging is that mon in many schools with more Mayor, Metro Nashville out a product and then go home and Bo Perkinson fied "extreme measures" of the buy it online without paying sales some form of the Main Street Fair- fruits, vegetables and whole grains, Vice Mayor, Athens (District 3) massive retailer to avoid charging tax, Main Street businesses and ness Act has been introduced inter- and less salt and fat. The new David Gordon state sales taxes on its online retail downtowns lose," says Rep. Peter mittently since 2003 and never made healthier lunches are to be in schools Mayor, Covington (District 8) transactions. Welch, D-Vt. it out of committee. And as intergov- for the start of the 2012-13 school J.H. Graham III Based on a 1992 Supreme ernmental expert Frank Shafroth re- year. In the meantime, states and Mayor, Crossville Welch is one of a group (led by Bill Hammon Court decision, Amazon and other Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill.) spon- cently told The Bond Buyer, there is schools are grappling with more Asst. City Manager, Alcoa (District 2) nationwide sellers are exempted soring a Main Street Fairness Act "a very small minority of members in than a dozen rules and proposals Curtis Hayes from collecting sales taxes in states that seeks to put local retailers on an the House and Senate who remotely from the U.S. Department of Agri- Mayor, Livingston where they don't have a "bricks and equal footing with the remote na- understand" the issue. culture that put the law into place. Dot LaMarche, mortar" presence. Currently, Ama- Yet the facts are clear. The The U.S. Department of Agriculture Vice Mayor, Farragut tional sellers. It would give Con- Ron Littlefield zon collects these taxes only in gress' approval to the Streamlined United States, uniquely, has no na- plans on giving a reimbursement of Mayor, Chattanooga Washington state (its headquarters) Sales and Use Tax Agreement cre- tional sales tax. States decide for six additional cents per lunch to Keith McDonald and four other where it has offices ated by the National Governors As- themselves -- and are forbidden those schools that offer more fruits Mayor, Bartlett or another physical presence -- sociation to allow subscribing states from taxing national sellers by a and vegetables. The states have to Troy Beets Kansas, Kentucky, North Dakota (there are now 24) to oblige online dated Supreme Court decision writ- make sure schools are living up to Mayor, Kingston Norman Rone and New York (and it's suing New retailers to collect and remit sales ten before the Internet sprang upon the healthier standards before the Mayor, McMinnville (District 4) York to avoid collecting there). taxes. us. Internet sales are now approach- local districts can get the extra Charles “Bones” Seivers The net fiscal loss to the states The measure has strong support ing $200 billion a year -- hardly in money. In all, states expect to get President-CEO, TN Municipal Bond Fund of national retailers' non-payment from the National Governors Asso- need of preferential treatment. nearly $100 million over two years to Margaret Feierabend of sales taxes is roughly $11 billion ciation, the National League of Cit- Plus, the tax costs to states are ramp up these inspections, probably Councilmember, Bristol (District 1) A.C. Wharton a year, according to a University of ies, the National Conference of State enormous. California's Board of starting in 2012. But state school Mayor, Memphis Tennessee report. (Other estimates Legislatures and other influential Equalization estimates, for example, officials — already strapped for Ron Washington (Director-at-Large) run up to twice as much.) With state and local groups. that unpaid taxes by national retailers funds — say that amount won’t Councilmember, Murfreesboro states being forced into massive Surprisingly, Amazon has an- in the Golden State amount to almost come close to what is needed. The James Lewellen budget cuts and literally hundreds nounced its support for the legisla- $1.2 billion -- roughly the size of the $100 million in federal aid covers City Manager, Collierville only the beginning of the program. President (TCMA) of tax boosts to stay afloat, the tion, maintaining that it's long fa- state's cuts to higher education. John Holden resistance to the tax collection by vored "a simplified federal solution" Which leads one to wonder: States also are on the hook to make Mayor, Dyersburg national retailers -- Amazon the big- to bypass "complicated state-by- When -- when -- will Amazon (and sure poor children who are eligible PAST PRESIDENTS gest of all -- raises big equity con- state rules" (its official explanation all of us for that matter) start think- for free school meals are automati- Sam Tharpe, (2011) Mayor, Paris cerns. of its opposition to collecting states' ing of our society's future, not so cally signed up — meaning their Tom Beehan, (2008) Mayor, Oak Ridge families don’t have to fill out any Tommy Green (2007) Mayor, Alamo Numerous states -- among taxes). overwhelmingly our corporate or Tommy Bragg (2006) Mayor, Murfreesboro them, Texas, Illinois, Colorado, Skeptics may wonder whether personal advantage? applications. Children are eligible for Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg Arkansas and, most recently, Cali- Amazon's conversion is sincere. free meals if their family income is at Tom Rowland (2002) Mayor, Cleveland fornia -- have been trying to force Perhaps the firm believes it could Editor’s Note: Opinions ex- or below 130 percent of the federal Dale Kelley (2010) Mayor, Huntingdon Amazon to pay sales taxes on resi- improve its efficiency by being able pressed in this column are not neces- poverty level, which currently is $28,665 a year for a family of four. TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS dents' online purchases. They claim to site its distribution plants near sarily those of the Tennessee Mu- (Ex-Officio Directors) Amazon is actually operating in markets in big sales tax states. But nicipal League. To contact Mr. Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. some fashion within their borders, the Wall Street Journal article pro- Peirce, you can e-mail him at Joe Thompson, Gallatin or is actually operating there vided quotes from founder/CEO [email protected]. Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference John T. Gwin, Mount Juliet TENNESSEE MUNICIPAL LEAGUE STAFF Tenn. Chapter, American Public Works Margaret Mahery, Executive Director Calvin D. Clifton, Little John Engineering Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Tennessee Government Finance Officers Municipal Administration Program Mark Barrett, Legislative Research Analyst Daisy Madison, Chattanooga Carole Graves, Communications Director & Editor, Tennessee Town & City Tenn. Assn. Housing & Redevel. Auth. Schedule John Holloway, Government Relations Melba Johnson, Lexington Debbie Kluth-Yarbrough, Director of Marketing / Tennessee Building Officials Assn. Member Services Steve Mills, Hendersonville Kevin Krushenski, Legislative Research Ana- Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. lyst Jerry W. Crawford, Collierville The Changing Employment Arena Mona Lawrence, Administrative Assistant Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports Denise Paige, Government Relations Larry Cox, Memphis This course will address the Victoria South, Communications Coordinator Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police Dates and locations Sylvia Trice, Director of Conference Planning Gil Kendrick, Jackson effects on employment of the Oct. 4- Knoxville TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY Tennessee Water Quality Management recent American with Disabili- Oct. 6- Jackson (ISSN. No. 0040-3415) Publication No. 539420 Jack Graham, Maryville ties Act (ADA), Family Medical Oct. 12- Franklin — Official publication of the Tennessee Munici- Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. Leave Act (FMLA) amendments pal League. Publisher: Margaret Mahery George Brogdon, Germantown (mmahery@ TML1.org); Editor: Carole Graves and the new Genetic Informa- ([email protected]; Phone: 615-255-6416. Tennessee Chapter, American Planning Training Facilities Advertising: Publisher reserves the right to Karen Hundt, Chattanooga tion Nondiscrimination Act Franklin, Williamson County Ag Registration is required. Seat- (GINA) legislation. Other EEOC reject any advertising deemed unacceptable. Fax Tennesseee Personnel Management Assn. Expo Park, 4215 Long Lane ing is limited at all sites, so please classified ads to TT&C: Attention Mona Lawrence Peter Voss, HR Director, City of Bartlett issues pertaining to retaliation Jackson, West Tennessee Center for register in advance. Submit pay- at 615-255-4752, or e-mail mlawrence@TML1. Tenn. Assn. Municipal Clerks & Recorders and religious discrimination in Agricultural Research, Extension, ment with your registration. org. Fax advertising copy to TT&C: Attention Lanaii Benne, Franklin the workplace as it relates to To obtain a registration form, Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or e-mail to Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing and Public Service, 605 Airways dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions expressed by Rex Gaither, Smyrna employment will also be ad- Blvd. register or for additional informa- non League officials or staff do not necessarily TN Section, Institute of Transport Engineers dressed. Knoxville, UT Conference Cen- tion please visit the MTAS website reflect policies of TML. Tennessee Town & City Kevin Cole, Knoxville Time ter,600 Henley St. at www.mtas.utk.edu under the is published, semi-monthly, 20 times per year Tennessee Public Transportation Assoc. All classes begin at 8:30 a.m. and training tab or contact MTAS at at 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, TN Rebecca Harris, Cookeville 37219-1894. Periodicals postage paid at Nash- end at 12:30 pm. The registration fee for MAP 865-974-0411. ville, TN. Subscription rates: $6 per year to Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors courses for Tennessee city offi- Tommy White, Sevierville For more information, contact members, $15 to nonmembers, $1 a copy. Postmaster: Send changes of address to Tennes- Assn. of Independent and Municipal Schools Instructors cials is $25 each. A fee of $55 is Kurt Frederick at 615-253-6385 or Classes are taught by MTAS charged for non-city officials. see Town & City, 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Reecha Black, Alamo Elaine Morrisey at 865-974-0411. Nashville, TN 37219-1894. TML ASSOCIATE PARTICIPANTS Training Consultants Diamond LEVEL MEMBERSHIP Bank of America PLATINUM LEVEL MEMBERSHIP First Tennessee Bank GOLD L EVEL M EMBERSHIP Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A. Fifth Third Bank No loan is too SILVER LEVEL MEMBERSHIP ING Financial Advisers, LLC SpeedFix BRONZE L EVEL M EMBERSHIP Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC large or too small Alliance Water Resources Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC Lee Company Sophicity See us for your special projects needs. (615) 255-1561 CORPORATE L EVEL M EMBERSHIP A To Z MUNI-DOT Company Askew Hargraves Harcourt & Assoc., LLC Barge, Waggoner, Sumner & Cannon, Inc. CMI Equipment Sales, Inc. DBS & Associates Engineering Education Networks of America Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. GEO-Jobe GIS Consulting J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers, Inc. Kennerly Brown Pearman Kennerly, Montgomery & Finley, P.C. Local Govt. Corporation Mapletronics Computers Mattern & Craig, Consulting Engineers, Inc McGill Associates, P.A. One Source Document Solutions, Inc. Pavement Restorations, Inc. Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Tennessee Cable Telecomunications Assn. Tennessee Energy Acquisition Corporation Tennessee Fiber Optic Communities Third Rock Consultants Thompson & Litton, Inc. TLM Associates, Inc. Tri Green Equipment, LLC Tysinger, Hampton and Partners, Inc. URS Corporation Utility Service Co., Inc. Vaughn & Melton The city of Murfreesboro closes a $103 million loan, The town of Nolensville closes a $21,000 loan. Volkert & Associates the largest in TMBF history. Waste Connections of Tennessee Inc. www.TML1.org 10-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/SEPTEMBER 19, 2011 Race weekend shifts Bristol into high gear BY VICTORIA SOUTH On speedway’s 50th anniversary, city hosts up to 200,000 TML Communications Coordinator All because some people fell in pact of BMS.” from out of town love—with racing, that is. That’s The track’s streak of 55 con- working security. ultimately how in 1960, Carl Moore, secutive sellouts was snapped dur- “Everything is ana- Larry Carrier and R.G. Pope, in their ing the 2010 recession, but not by lyzed on a block by quest to build an innovative track, much. “Even though BMS has faced block basis,” contin- unwittingly changed the destiny of some challenges in keeping the facil- ues Metzger. The city Bristol, Tenn. The idea was origi- ity filled to capacity recently, com- has an internet link nally aimed at another small com- pared with other NASCAR venues, with Virginia’s community, Piney Flats, just seven miles we’re still at the top of the pack,”said mand center. The south of today’s location, but there Broughton. The influx of traffic dur- traffic operations was some local opposition to that ing the events forces the closure of center for Knoxville venture. So, with the flag of fate both Bristol and Sullivan county and Roanoke help out unfurling, the project swiftly schools on Fridays, while scores of too. “We’re all talk- switched gears to the purchase of a locals, from teachers to police offic- ing to each other and dairy farm less than 10 miles away ers, sell souvenirs, park cars, volun- changing message to the north of Hwy.11-E. With that, teer or become makeshift landlords, boards,” said Bristol’s future was set, all faster renting out rooms or entire houses to Metzger. “Helper Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images than one could say “Start your en- out-of-town guests. trucks come from Bristol Motor Speedway, the famous half- mile, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Two gines!” Area shopkeepers extend their Knoxville and Chatta- weekend NASCAR events each year, draws 200,000 fans to the city of Bristol, Tenn. Construction on the infamous hours and begin sprucing up early nooga.” Even a sys- half-mile oval was complete within for Thursday night’s race, the Food tem of manually operated traffic For situations where the city’s That would have been awful. We’re a year, and the first NASCAR Sprint City 250, where at least 100,000 signals, which are coordinated for full-size emergency vehicles can’t in a position now that if there is an Cup race took place on July 30, people will pour into Bristol’s down- 10-miles, is operated by radio fre- fit into a campground area, evacuation, or any significant prob- 1961. The Bristol International town for Food City’s annual Night quency by a person in Virginia. Bristol’s fire department, paramed- lem, we’re prepared for that.” Speedway, as it was christened Festival. Fans often spend up to “We have at least one big pre- ics and EMTs utilize fully loaded The MACC utilizes everybody back then, had seating for 18,000 $1,000 on gas, food, souvenirs and race meeting and a post-action re- ATVs purchased with Homeland from law enforcement to canine people and included parking for alcohol while they’re in town. view meeting where we discuss Security funds. “Our biggest chal- units, to hospital staff, fire, EMS, about 12,000 cars. Today’s modern Although the two weekends what went wrong and why,” lenge is the crowd and the traffic,” auxillary police and the National stadium, known as Bristol Motor pose exciting possibilities for the Metzger continues. “We don’t get said Bob Barnes, Bristol’s fire Guard. “We bring in about 400 po- Speedway (BMS), is a national region, every element is fraught with into finger pointing, we just make chief. “There’s no way with our lice officers from the TN Highway traffic, sure the mistake is corrected or normal staffing that we could do it Patrol, Virginia, Kingsport and health, infra- come up with a better idea for how alone.” The crew, which puts in Johnson City and the Sullivan Co. structure to handle particular situations and around 3,000 man hours during the Sheriff’s office,” said Blaine. and security move on.” events, needs. utilizes “As you Pedestrian Hold Period about 200 might imag- The city worked on signage and volun- ine, our wa- with the media to get the message teers. ter systems out about the need for pedestrian Along and road in- crossing areas. “If we didn’t do with frastructure something, 100,000 people would August’s receive a try to leave all at once as soon as the bee stings marked in- race is over,” said Metzger. “We and heat crease in us- developed something called the pe- strokes, age,” Sorrah destrian hold period, where we stop the biggest safety is- Each year, Bristol’s hillsides are transformed into RV said. Fifty- all the cars on Highway 11E and 394 sue, ac- cities, as 56 percent of BMS fans opt to camp at the six percent for about 45 minutes, so that people can walk across the bridge. Our cording to speedway or one of the city’s 200 satellite campgrounds. of fans stay Bristol’s Race Traffic Plan includes Pedestrian Hold Peri- record within a five-mile radius, Metzger is ods, where cars are stopped for about 45 minutes to allow phenomeneon, featuring ultra- at the two RV areas at BMS or one of where we tell all the police officers weather. pedestrians to walk across bridge systems. luxury skybox suites and seats for Bristol’s 200 satellite campground to get out of the road and let traffic “Its so un- 160,000 fans at capacity. Hundreds facilities. Others lodge in neighbor- run for an August race, is about two predictable between the spring and The department also has a close of RV’s swamp the landscape sur- ing cities such as Kingsport and hours and 50 minutes,” he adds. fall,” he said. The city now has all circuit TV system purchased rounding the giant bowl where Johnson City. Some stay as far The city also manages conges- of their campgrounds classified by through two Buffer Zone Protection NASCAR’S top gladiators line up to away as Gatlinburg and Pigeon tion through the liberal use of “No flood hazards. The creek monitors grants of about a quarter of a million tackle “The World’s Fastest Half- Forge. “Our 10 million gallon water Parking” zones. According to know which campgrounds to call dollars. “We’re able to monitor Mile.” plant typically produces and delivers Metzger, in the last five race week- first, and the campgrounds are help- about 20 cameras around the prop- After 50 years, at the about 5.7 million gallons per day ends, the city has only towed one ful in not letting people camp too erty and can view the coverage on speedway’s anniversary mark, through the year,” Sorrah continues, car. “Twenty years ago, it used to close to the creek,” said Metzger. large screen TVs inside the MACC,” BMS and racing is a huge part of “but during the events, that in- be 30 or 40 cars,” he said. BMS also Then there’s the springs that bring said Blaine. Bristol’s community, their identity creases to seven million gallons at operates a radio network fans are early snow. “We’ve seen carbon Both the MACC and closed cir- and culture. Weddings are routinely peak demand.” The public works encouraged to listen to as they ap- monoxide poisoning cases with cuit TV systems have drawn height- performed there and it’s even been department also handles the signage proach the track for up-to-the people running generators at the ened interest at the NASCAR secu- the site of the occasional birth. and traffic control devices both pre minute traffic information. campgrounds to stay warm,” rity summit held in Concord, North “Bristol wouldn’t be Bristol without and post race. Metzger adds. Carolina, where the Bristol police the speedway,” observes City Man- As for the remaining race chal- “A lot of hotels can’t live on two It is those same generators and and fire departments, along with ager Jeff Broughton. “Our commu- lenges, Bristol is meeting its goals weekends a year.” other camping equipment that BMS reps act as presenters. Bristol nity and the race track really are through proactive measures and “We used to get a lot of phone Bristol police say are most likely to police also routinely attend other one.” carefully choreographed plans with calls into our Command Center be involved in cases of theft. “We sporting events as they develop best An Economic Impact Survey regional partners, along with other (CS) that went something like this,” don’t have a lot of major crime at the practices benchmarks for performed by the Bristol Conven- entities they may otherwise have Metzger begins. (Caller) “Hey, my camp- tion and Visitor’s Bureau in 2004 never known.“Things have changed husband’s fallen and broken his grounds, con- estimates BMS’ annual financial im- a lot since I started back in 1989,” leg!” (CS)“Where are you?” firms Police pact to be $422,764,490—directly said David Metzger, Bristol’s traffic (Caller) “I’m in Ralph’s Camp- Chief Blaine and $1,902,440,205—indirectly. control engineer. “In the early days, ground.” (CS)“Where’s that?” Wade. “Of “BMS and its associated prop- it was primarily Bristol, Sullivan (Caller) “I don’t know.” (CS) course, a lot of erty are our largest property tax County and the Highway Patrol han- “Who’s Ralph?” (Caller) “I don’t alcohol gets payers and probably generate the dling things, but as the speedway got know, some guy with a Budwieser consumed, in his hand that let me park in his and we have backyard...” all the prob- Humor aside, Metzger notes lems that go that the lack of lodging facilities in along with Bristol really opens up sweeping that. But, there areas of responsibility for the city’s are some police, fire and EMS personnel. thefts that oc- “There’s not a lot of new hotels cur. People around here, because a lot of hotels bring in their can’t live on two weekends a year,” generators he adds. In response. Bristol en- and other acted an ordinance requiring all equipment and Bristol Motor Speedway hosts a few weddings each campgrounds and rental properties set it around.” year, where track officials are happy to let couples use to register with the city. The camp- “Occa- the facility free-of-charge. Pictured: Northeast Ohio ground or rental property must pro- sionally there residents Don Logan and Mary Miser say their vows vide a contact and emergency will be people before a group of family and friends. phone number along with verifica- who try to tion of fire extinquishers and other bring fraudulent name brand mer- NASCAR. “We police it in a way that safety equipment. “I keep track of chandise into the race area to sell is advantageous to the fans,” said A night festival, sponsored by Food City, can bring up to 100,000 all the data and disseminate it to all retail. The people that work those Blaine. “We try to not bother fans people to Bristol’s downtown, where fans meet the drivers, buy food the different agencies,” said specific types of crimes, plus the unless they’re in a situation that’s and souvenirs and frequent Bristol’s downtown shops and businesses. Metzger. proprietors of the name brands usu- causing problems for others and it’s And that’s just outside the ally facilitate the investigation with been pretty effective. Our main pri- most sales tax revenue for the city,” bigger and the radius of impact got bowl. “We knew we also had to us to help capture those people. In ority is to make this as safe an event said Broughton. “It is the major eco- larger, we began adding agencies in develop something that would pre- years past, there’s been car theft as we can without intruding in our nomic driver for our community.” Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky vent us from riding all over the rings come in. We have police ap- race fan’s lives— to be as invisible While the speedway offers year and Tennessee.” speedway looking for people who proaches that have been very effec- as possible.” round activities such as “Christmas At the time of this interview, were in need of services,” Metzger tive in reducing the number of stolen Bristol’s administration also in Lights” and the Bristol dragway, Metzger had just wrapped up the continues. “We have a 911 system cars. There’s been times when stresses the importance of maintain- it’s the two NASCAR weekend Pre-race Traffic Plan meeting for at the speedway, where every bath- there’s been more than 10 stolen ing a business-as-usual attitude, tak- events each year, in Spring and Au- August. The plans are large scale and room, concession stand, souvenir cars. Now we might have one or ing everything in stride and maintain- gust, that really test the chops of the sophisticated, similar to the protocol stand, electrical room and telephone two.” ing the status quo. “We were af- little city, which borders the edge of for national disasters. Personnel has a unique address based on what fected by the recession,” said Bristol, Virginia, and the Cherokee from TDOT, five counties, nine cit- level someone is on, what turn The MACC Broughton. “We’re still having fi- National Forest. Both weekends ies— all the way to the Department they’re in, and how far they are The Bristol Police have a sepa- nancial issues, but the city services draw approximately 200,000 fans, of Defense were there. “The big from the beginning of the turn.” rate command and control center set that we provide 365 days a year have transforming the peaceful commu- thing has been the growth of the Under the system, Metzger ex- up at the speedway, The Multi- not missed a beat; no program re- nity of 26,000, into the equivalent of speedway community, plus the plains that if an emergency call is agency Communication Center duction or projects that we felt we Tennessee’s third largest municipal- number of people who are just here made, the caller is advised to look at (The MACC) just on the outside of had to do. We’ve not had to address ity. for the party, who aren’t even going the door of the room for a red plate the bowl. Chief Blaine is glad about any staff issues. The important thing “It’s the equivalent of having an to the race,” said Metzger. with a number on it. “Number 315, that. “It was not coordinated very to remember is that this is not just a NFL franchise in the community Traffic management of the five for example, means the third turn, well a few years back,” he confides. public safety or public works exer- affecting the entire region,”notes Bill routes coming into the city, plus the first level and fifth from the end,” “If we had experienced a crisis, we cise. Every person who works for Sorrah, Bristol’s deputy city man- nine routes going out hinges on co- Metzger notes. “It was something would not have been as equipped to the city has a role. We have 350 full ager and public works director. operation between the agencies. the city and the speedway knew we handle it. If we had to evacuate, for time employees and it takes every- “From Knoxville to Asheville, NC, to Communication is paramount, even needed to do to help our emergency example, we would have had to one of them to pull off a successful Roanoke, VA— we all feel the im- between off duty police officers response.” evacuate the command and control. race experience for our visitors.”