6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 65, Number 10 June 23, 2014

Free Conference mobile app available Connects to all smartphone devices A mobile app featuring the 2014 can also set reminders Annual Conference information is for yourself if you like. available for free and is accessible Conference events are from any smart phone device. color-coded by each Be sure to check out special The app was developed by event type. By using the Tennessee Municipal League the filter button at the happenings in the Exhibit Hall to help improve smartphone users top to apply a filter, you conference experience with this can quickly reference The vendors’ program is an in the Exhibit Hall, TML will recog- easy to use digital guide. It contains categories such as food, important component of the overall nize several vendors and conference detailed conference information on workshops, or special conference experience. The Exhibit sponsors who have been involved workshops, speakers, exhibitors and events. Hall, located in Hall C-D of the with the League for more than 25 special events – and it’s all at your Speakers. To learn Chattanooga Convention Center, years. fingertips. about each of our con- provides the perfect opportunity for As TML celebrates its 75th To download the free app, it’s ference speakers, scroll local officials to learn about new Annual Conference, the League is as easy as searching for “2014 TML through the list and tap products and services, while inter- proud to recognize these companies Annual Conference” in the Apple on the speaker’s photo acting one-on-one with companies for their lasting partnership with the App Store or Google PLAY Mar- to reveal their bios. that support municipalities. League and their enduring support ketplace. There is a web app avail- Exhibitors. The ex- New this year is a special City and commitment to serve Tennes- able for Blackberry and Microsoft hibitors section includes Hall Showcase that celebrates see towns and cities. phones. contact information, city achievements, and highlights • Since 1976 (38 years): How to Use It booth numbers, and links successful, creative programs im- UT - Municipal Technical Once your app has successful- to company websites. plemented in municipalities across Advisory Service ly downloaded to your phone, the And once you’ve left the state. City programs featured • Since 1978 (36 years): conference schedule, workshop in- the conference, you can include: Utility Service Co., Inc. formation, vendor contact informa- always refer back to this • Athens’ sustainable initiatives; • Since 1983 (31 years): tion, plus much more is accessible app to find all the contact • Chattanooga’s neighborhoods Local Government Data Corp. through easy, navigable functions. information you need to program, violence reduction initia- • Since 1985 (29 years): Schedule. To access the confer- get in touch with a ven- tive, and youth and family develop- • Barge, Waggoner, Sumner, ence schedule, tap on the schedule dor. ment initiatives; and Cannon, Inc.; icon and scroll up and down, or flip Sponsors. TML • Franklin’s designation as a Val- • CMI Equipment; left and right through the different Sponsors help under- ley Sustainable Gold Community; • J.R. Wauford & Company days. You can also tap the arrows write some of the con- • Portland’s community wellness Consulting Engineers, Inc.; at the top corners to switch between ference expenses, as well initiatives; and • Waste Management dates. Touching an event will reveal as support us in the daily • South Pittsburg’s National Corn • Since 1986 (28 years): a description, and if it’s a workshop, work of representing Bread Festival. The Tennessee Advisory Improve your conference experience speaker bios are also available. As Tennessee’s municipali- Commission on Intergovern- with this easy to use free mobile app. an added feature, you can create your ties. In this section, you An informative vendor presen- mental Relations (TACIR) own personal schedule by touching can learn more about our tation will also take place in the Ex- the plus symbol next to events. You See TML APP on Page 3 hibit Hall on Monday, June 23, from TML greatly appreciates all of 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Entitled the vendors who participate in the When Disaster Strikes:Be Prepared annual conference and encourage Before and Recover After, will be city officials attending the confer- Upswing in state’s business filings presented jointly by the American ence to take the time to visit the Red Cross and Servpro® Industries, Hall. You just never know what Inc. new product or important business points to brighter economic forecast Also on Monday, during lunch contact you’ll find there! BY VICTORIA SOUTH TML Communications Coordinator

Water Infrastructure Bill Never before analyzed data from Tennessee Secretary of State finally clears Congress Tre Hargett’s office, suggests a strong correlation between the BY CAROLYN BERNDT nation’s aging infrastructure. number of new business filings in National League of Cities The bill includes several import- Tennessee and an upswing in the ant other provisions: state’s economy. The number of With large bipartisan majori- • Sets target expenditures for a initial filings is found to have a ties, the House and Senate passed gradual increase in the percent- positive and significant relationship the Water Resources Reform and age of user fees that are spent with a number of important Ten- Development Act (WRRDA) that through the Harbor Maintenance nessee economic indicators such as will provide resources to upgrade the Trust Fund for harbor and port employment, personal income, and nation’s aging water infrastructure. maintenance, reaching 100 per- total tax revenues, according to the The bill authorizes $12.3 billion for cent by 2025. newly released Quarterly Business Hargett Fox 34 new lock, dam, levee, port and • Amends the Clean Water Act to and Economic Indicators Report. ecosystem restoration projects and ensure that projects funded with “It’s a very timely database on is doing across the state, as well as “The durable manufacturing sector includes a new pilot program that State Revolving Loan Funds what businesses are doing in our the nation. is doing well. The non-durable with makes loans available to local gov- maximize the potential for effi- state,” said Dr. William Fox, director “As you look at the data, you see a life of under three years, aren’t ernments building large water and cient water use, reuse, recapture of the Center for Business and Eco- some really exciting things for Ten- seeing any growth, but the durable-- wastewater-related infrastructure and conservation; adds language nomic Research at the University of nessee,” Fox told reporters during a think automobiles--- is showing a projects and activities. NLC had that states may provide additional Tennessee, which partnered with the recent conference call. “By creating lot of health in Tennessee.” advocated for the bill, which now subsidization to local govern- state in developing the report. “It’s a a history such as the Secretary of Franchise and excise taxes ex- awaits the President’s signature. ments in the form of principal new tool in our arsenal to understand State’s office, we can study not just perienced better April collections The five year, $350 million forgiveness and negative interest what’s going on in Tennessee.” what’s happening in the current than the rest of the fiscal year, ac- pilot program, known as the Water loans; includes a Buy American With highs nearing pre-reces- quarter, but what’s happened in more cording to the report, a question Fox Infrastructure Finance and Innova- requirement for iron and steel sion figures, the report notes, in the than a decade, giving us a very good and his agency hope to gain greater tion Act program, (WIFIA, modeled and requires EPA to conduct a past 12 months, the state has filed measure of these relationships. What insight into in the coming year. after the successful TIFIA program), review of the SRF State allotment 28,798 new companies, compared we find in this most recent quarter is “It looks like there were a num- provides low-interest loans and formula. with 30,000 in 2007. a 10th consecutive quarter of growth ber of one-time events that might loan guarantees for large water and • Allows local project sponsors “Growth in the number of start- in the number of new entities. You explain why we saw such a big de- wastewater-related infrastructure to submit proposals to the Army up businesses in the first quarter have to go back to the middle of the cline, and not things strictly related projects and activities (projects of Corps, which in turn would sub- signals continued improvement in 2000s to see a window that long.” to underlying economic trends, but at least $20 million or $5 million mit a list to Congress for project the economy over the spring and According to Fox, sectors such more linked to tax planning and for communities serving less than authorization. summer,” Fox said. “We’ve seen ini- as LLCs, particularly those initially relationships between individual 25,000 people). While there are • Allows local project sponsors to tial evidence of this in employment headquartered outside of the state, companies in Tennessee,” said Fox. limitations on the use of the program, contribute their own funds to the numbers for April.” are faring very well along with do- “The thing about franchise and ex- including a cap on the percentage of Army Corps to carry out studies According to Fox, the report mestic entities. The leisure and hos- cise taxes is that their relationship a project that can be funded through and move projects forward via will accomplish three things: ex- pitality industry continues to grow with broad economic measures is the program and a provision that the processing of permits. plains and describes what’s hap- strongly, he notes, with business actually quite loose. You would tax-exempt municipal bonds cannot • Sets a hard deadline of three pening in terms of new business services showing vitality. think, the economy grows, so does be used for the non-federal share of years for Army Corps feasibility filings, reporting, and dissolutions of “We’re beginning to see a pick- franchise and excise taxes, but that’s the project, this is a good first step studies and requires concurrent Tennessee businesses over the recent up in construction, which has been simply not the case. There’s a limit- to providing communities with more reviews of feasibility studies and quarter and the last year, and shows a a little weaker than we would have ed correlation between them.” financing options to upgrade our environmental reviews. picture of what the overall economy expected for a recovery,” he said. The Secretary of State said the idea for the new quarterly report grew with the amount of data his of- Each state must cut carbon emissions under new EPA regs fice has been collecting throughout the years. That method led to great varia- BY CHRIS KARDISH other factors such as their ability The Environmental Protection “We collect hundreds of thou- tion among states, from a 14-percent & KEVIN TIDMARSH to shift to natural gas or expected Agency used a formula that con- sands of documents and filings that target in Rhode Island to about 72 Governing Magazine closings of coal plants when setting siders where states are now and have many different data points, percent in Washington state. EPA of- a 2030 goal. where they could be by 2030, whether it’s business startups or ficials explained in a conference call When the EPA announced it will The agency started with a base- leading to wide variation in emis- trademarks with all businesses,” with reporters that Washington’s tar- require states to reduce emissions of line of 2012 emissions and applied sions targets. Hargett said. “My desire is to look carbon dioxide to 30 percent below some key assumptions about what get is higher because the state already and see what the correlation is eco- plans to close a major coal plant in 2005 levels by 2030, it wasn’t apply- each state could reasonably achieve Tennessee 38.9 % reduction nomically and the different trends in 2020 and the state is aggressively ing that exact target to everyone. by 2030. The EPA took that 2012 2012 Emissions: 1903 lbs/MWh the state. We partnered with Dr. Fox pursuing renewable sources that will In practice, some states will data, assumed basic increases in Target: 1163 lbs / MWh and asked them to see what the cor- have to lower emissions by more efficiency, accounted for unused ca- likely curb emissions dramatically. relation is, and maybe give us some Big coal-producing states such than 30 percent while others will cut pacity in the less-harmful natural gas The cuts are in pounds of carbon information that policy and business as Kentucky, Wyoming and West below that, but the overall reduction sector, estimated how much a state dioxide per megawatt hour of elec- leaders across the state could use.” Virginia have more modest targets, would basically amount to the EPA could generate from renewable or tricity generated. To view the complete re- reduction. That’s because the agency nuclear sources and, lastly, forecast- at 18 percent, 19 percent and about port visit http://tn.gov/sos/be_re- set up a formula that looks at states' ed how much a state could decrease 20 percent respectively. Vermont ports/201405.pdf most recent emissions along with demand from users. See EPA on Page 6 www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014

authenticated items from the collec- Cumberland Region Tomorrow tion of Greg Page, a prominent col- lector of Presley artifacts. Items from recognizes Bernhardt, Cowan other private collectors also will be auctioned. None of the items will come from the Graceland Archives. BARTLETT 1,600 workers. Work has already Presley lived at Graceland for 20 Bartlett made the cut to appear in the begun to install the new equipment. years until he died on Aug. 16, 1977. June 2 NerdWallet.com list of best Hiring is expected to begin in June It will be the first auction of its kind small cities to call home. It appears for the newly created production at the house-turned-museum. on the list at No. 18. NerdWallet jobs, all of which are full-time. Ap- turned the spotlight on America’s plications for employment should NASHVILLE vibrant small cities — communi- be filed with a Tennessee Workforce Nashville is one of the nation's Top ties that are not only thriving eco- Development office. 25 largest cities, according to the nomically, but also are places that latest Census data. The population provide an affordable life-style for HARTSVILLE for the city stood at 634,464 in July residents. These are some of the best ARC Automotive, Inc., announced 1, 2013, a five percent increase since places to live, with the vitality and it will invest approximately $3 mil- 2010. It now has surpassed Balti- growth of big cities combined with lion to locate a new manufacturing more and is closing in on the cities affordability and income equality. facility in Hartsville to expand its au- of Boston and Washington D.C. The city experienced a 17.1 percent tomotive airbag inflator product pro- The numbers reflect only Nashville population growth between 2009- duction capability, creating 66 new growth, and doesn't take the entire 2012, and an income growth of 9.1 jobs. The new facility will be built metro area into account. When com- percent during the same period. Oth- at the PowerCom Industrial Center, paring metro areas, Nashville's rank- er factors considered in the analysis centrally located and convenient to ing drops to No. 36 overall. Still, the Cumberland Region Tomorrow, (CRT) a regional nonprofit organization were: change in poverty rates and ARC Automotive’s Knoxville and growth rate – both in Nashville and committed to quality growth, presented Rick Bernhardt, Metro-Nashville yearly homeowner costs/median Morgantown inflator manufacturing the entire metro area – ranks among Planning Department executive director, and distinguished civil engineer income. Collierville made the same operations. Site development is ex- the fastest-growing in the country Everett Cowan with awards for Regional Thinking and Action in honor list, ranking No. 17. pected to start within the next few over the past couple of years. of their leadership on regional growth and development issues. The weeks with the construction of roads, annual awards, one each for the public and private sectors, recognize BRENTWOOD buildings and infrastructure. NASHVILLE excellence in guiding regional growth and development and commit- Boiling Spring Academy, a two-sto- The tourism industry has hit a record. ment to appropriate planning, design, and implementation. They were ry brick schoolhouse built around HENDERSONVILLE The Tennessean reported that March presented by Steve Turner, honorary event chairman and a principal 1830, and Primm Historic Park, con- A healthcare center is set to open saw the highest number of hotel leader in development of the Gulch area in Nashville, during CRT’s sixth taining Native American mounds a new call center that will add 275 rooms sold in one month in the city. annual POWER OF TEN Regional Summit April 30. Both Bernhardt and that date back to 1200 A.D., will be new jobs. Xtend Healthcare’s latest The 640,000 rooms sold broke the Cowan were leaders in the development and implementation of CRT’s available for tours June-Oct. Open addition expects to open its doors to previous record in October 2013 by Quality Growth Toolbox, an award winning program of strategies and houses are scheduled from 2-4 pm the first 120 employees. The- com almost 7 percent. Compared to other recommendations which support appropriate growth and development Sunday, held the third Sunday of the pany already has one location in the Top 25 market for March, Nashville practices. Both are also nationally recognized leaders in the planning and month through October. Volunteer strip mall on Main St., as well as a reported the second largest increase engineering professions, and act as resource experts and spokesper- docents will be on hand to answer headquarters division and Antioch in rooms sold and it was in the top sons nationally and in Tennessee to advance best practices in land use, questions. The sites are on Moores branch. These three locations assist five for occupancy growth. The city’s transportation integration, and strategic infrastructure investments that Lane near Wilson Pike. in patient insurance claims. This will occupancy tax, which also indicates support Middle Tennessee’s Quality Growth Implementation. Pictured be the first customer-oriented loca- how the hospitality industry is faring, left to right: Steve Turner, CRT honorary event chair; Rick Bernhardt, CHATTANOOGA tion, assisting in payment of bills and also experienced growth, up 34 per- Everett Cowan; Bridget Jones, executive director, Cumberland Region Plastic Omnium Auto Exteriors, balances for hospital stays and doctor cent compared to March 2013. Tomorrow; John L. Batey, CRT board co-chair;Marion Fowlkes, CRT LLC, officials announced the com- visits. The new building will open on board co-chair. Artist Annie Goetze painted the two local scenes given pany will invest $65 million to con- the corner of Indian Lake Boulevard NEWBERN to the award recipients. struct a new facility on 27 acres at and Main Street. Royal Building Products officials Enterprise South Industrial Park. A announced the company will invest tier one supplier for Volkswagen and JACKSON $24 million in new equipment to other major Southeast automotive Metal Exchange Corp., which support PVC pipe production. The Country music stars to help manufacturers, the company will bought ElementAL Holdings LLC, company is a leading manufacturer create 184 new jobs by the time it out of bankruptcy in 2009, is closing and distributor of home remodeling, commemorate opening of starts production in 2015 and expand its Jackson location. ElementAL, building and municipal construction its payroll to include 300 people which has 39 employees in Jack- materials, and will create 85 new jobs within three years of opening. Man- son, converted prime and recycled in Dyer County. Bristol Sessions museum ufacturing operations at the Chatta- aluminum into precision “slugs” nooga facility will include injection used in the production of packaging SODDY-DAISY molding, painting and assembly of items including aluminum bottles The State Fire Marshal’s Office re- automobile exterior components, and components for the automotive cently hosted the first Get Alarmed such as bumpers and fenders, for sale and defense industries. “This is just smoke alarm installation event and delivery to OEMs. Initially, all unfortunate,” Jackson Chamber inthe community. With the help of of the products will be for the pro- CEO Kyle Spurgeon said. “Team the Soddy-Daisy Fire Department duction at Volkswagen Chattanooga, Madison County has worked with and Hamilton County Emergency but Plastic Omnium will soon extend ElementAL very close the past few Services, the Fire Marshal’s Office its reach to Ford, GM, Honda, Mer- years, and market conditions led to installed 200 smoke alarms in area cedes, Nissan and Toyota. the company’s closing.” homes. The Get Alarmed program is a part of a major effort to reduce CHATTANOOGA JOHNSON CITY fire deaths, injuries, and property Mayor Andy Berke signed an ex- A 6x5 foot sectional art project damage in Tennessee. ecutive order creating an open data unveiled recently at the city’s Blue policy. Executive Order No. 2014- Plum Festival features images of SPRING HILL 04 adopts open standards to im- Johnson City’s history painted by IBEX Global is preparing to hire 800 prove transparency of government more than 85 area youth, as part additional people for its call center, functions, provides more access to of the Targeted Community Crime raising its total workforce by 300- public information, and improves Reduction Project (TCCRP) and 400 and cementing its ranking as The Aug. 1 grand opening of the Smithsonian Institution-affiliated coordination and efficiencies among KidScape. KidScape, a partnership the second largest private employer Birthplace of Country Music Museum was made official during a joint organizations across the public, between TCCRP, Ink Revolution in Maury County. IBEX Global is concert-press conference held by the Bristol Country Music Associa- non-profit, and private sectors. Not Studios and Hands On! Museum, located within three buildings at tion and its various partners at the Paramount Theater in downtown only will the Open Data Policy be brought together young people ages Northfield Workforce Development Bristol.The album, entitled “Orthophonic Joy: the 1927 Bristol Sessions established, but the city will create 10-16, from various youth organi- and Conference Center and takes up Revisited,” was also unveiled during the event. The project will feature an open data web portal, advisory zations and the Johnson City Alter- about 75,000 square feet of space. performances by Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, and others. group, and data inventory, as well native School. The project’s goal is The company said it plans to hire as an annual open data compliance to help kids develop valuable skills about 240 people by June 9, hiring The Birthplace of Country Mu- The project will feature per- report. The order pushes city hall to outside the classroom. in phases until August when the sic Alliance (BCMA) is partnering formances by Dolly Parton, Vince collaborate and create open-source total 800 are slated to be employed. with some of country music’s big- Gill, Marty Stuart, Emmylou Harris, web applications that will address LEBANON IBEX opened in Spring Hill about gest names to not only commemo- Doyle Lawson, Steve Martin and the important issues like public safety Automotive parts supplier Southtec three years ago as TRG Customer rate the opening of a new museum Steep Canyon Rangers and several and growing the local economy. LLC, said that it will invest $23.6 Solutions. this summer, but also to pay tribute to other artists. Voice of the Grand Ol’ million to expand its manufacturing the legacy of the legendary producer Opry Eddie Stubbs is also participat- COLUMBIA facilities, bringing 210 new jobs. SPRING HILL Ralph Peer and the historic 1927 ing. Each track on the album, which The groundbreaking ceremony for The company will add 30,250 square City officials are ready to break Bristol Sessions. is currently being recorded and slated the first three buildings on the new feet of space to house two new au- ground on a long-anticipated, $4.7 The Aug. 1 grand opening of the for a October 2014 release, will be Franklin campus of Columbia State tomotive metal-stamping presses. million park and fire hall. Construc- Smithsonian Institution-affiliated selected from the list of original Bris- Community College will be July A second Lebanon location also tion began on the new Port Royal Birthplace of Country Music Muse- tol Sessions recordings by Nashville 18. The ceremony, which will be is being developed, in an existing Road Park and Port Royal Fire Sta- um was made official during a joint producer Carl Jackson. held at the college’s 36-acre prop- building, Southtec said. Southtec is tion — also known as Spring Hill Fire concert-press conference held by the The BCMA also announced a erty on Liberty Pike, signals a move part of Belleville, Mich-based L&W Station No. 2 — on June 9. Members BCMA and its various partners at nationwide contest that will allow into new, modern classrooms from Engineering Co. Founded in 1973, of the city’s Parks and Recreation the Paramount Theater in downtown one artist, or act, to perform a song the cramped classrooms behind the company is a Tier 1 auto supplier Committee and fire department Bristol, Tenn. from the Bristol Sessions on the al- Franklin High School. The Franklin that makes such products as oil pans, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony The album, entitled “Ortho- bum. campus is projected to be a draw for engine mount brackets and other at the site to celebrate the start of the phonic Joy: the 1927 Bristol Ses- More information on the contest future students living in the college’s components for auto manufacturers. two long-awaited projects. The park sions Revisited,” was also unveiled is at www.birthplaceofcountrymu- nine-county area. The three build- will include amenities such as sports during the event. sic.org. ings should accommodate about LEXINGTON fields, a splash pad, a playground for 2,200 students and will be dedicated Eighty people will lose their jobs handicapped children and a veterans to arts and sciences; mathematics; in coming weeks, as Altama Delta plaza. The cost of the fire station is and administration offices. The Corporation closes its doors. The estimated between $1.95 million and college’s current Franklin location company, which provides combat $2.14 million. is near capacity, with about 1,400 boots for the military, has been in students, school officials said. Work Lexington for more than 20 years. UNION CITY should be completed by 2016. The company, which has locations Officials from MVP Group -Inter in Tennessee and Puerto Rico, is national Inc., announced plans for GOODLETTSVILLE closing down due to lack of finances. expansion of its operations. The Officials from Tyson Foods, Inc. It is the leading provider for military home fragrance company will cre- announced the food processor will standard boots in America. ate 100 jobs, thanks to a $2 million invest $15.5 million to expand its investment. MVP is consolidating its current operations and hire and train MEMPHIS distribution operations from South 157 new workers. Tyson Foods will Graceland, the longtime home of Carolina and Mississippi to Obion add four production lines and expand Elvis Presley, plans to host an auction County to be closer to its manufac- cold storage capabilities at its Tyson of authentic artifacts related to the turing operations in Mayfield and Fresh Meats facility in Goodletts- rock and roll icon in Memphis. Elvis Fulton, Ky. The company designs, ville. The nation’s second-largest Presley Enterprises said the auction manufactures and markets private food processor produces case-ready is scheduled for Aug. 14, during the label, licensed and branded candles beef and pork products for grocery annual celebration of Presley’s life, and home fragrance products includ- stores and other retailers at the plant, music and movies known as Elvis ing Febreeze Home Collection. which already employs roughly Week. The auction will feature rare, 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014 www.TML1.org

Mike Krause will Robin Roberts, Clay Thompson, join Gov. Haslam’s field consultant president of Cat Office as execu- with the County Financial Insur- tive director of the Technical Assis- ance Services, Drive to 55 and tance Service, has has been named Tennessee Prom- been promoted by chairman of The ise initiatives. He the University of Tennessee Cham- will lead and man- Tennessee’s In- ber of Commerce age the launch of Krause stitute for Public & Industry Board. Thompson both iniatives. The Tennessee Prom- Service to the po- Roberts He succeeds Wes Blumenshine, who ise commits to providing two years sition of CTAS executive director, announced his move to Caterpillar of community college or a college effective July 1. Prior to joining Inc. as Group General Counsel in of applied technology (TCAT) free CTAS, Roberts served as director of IL. Thompson joined Caterpillar in of tuition and fees to graduating accounts and budgets for Lawrence 1997 after practicing law in Daven- high school seniors beginning with County. He is a member of the Ten- port, Iowa. the class of 2015. Krause currently nessee Society of Certifi ed Public serves as assistant executive director Accountants, and a licensed CPA. Alisa White was named the next Mayor Karl Dean launched the fi rst coordinated afterschool system in for academic affairs at the Tennes- president to lead Austin Peay State Tennessee, the Nashville After Zone Alliance (NAZA) in 2010, which see Higher Education Commission, Danny Farmer, University. White is currently the targets high-need middle school students and aims to keep them en- where he has coordinated THEC’s veteran city man- provost and senior vice president for gaged by nurturing a passion for learning and adequately preparing work on Drive to 55, led the state- ager of Mt. Juliet Academic Affairs at the University them for high school. wide expansion of SAILS, and pi- from 1983 to June of Texas at Tyler. She will join Austin oneered state efforts in open online 2000, and former Peay on June 30. White holds a Ph.D. education. president of the in mass communications from the Nashville Mayor Dean honored Tennessee City University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Community Development Director Managers Associ- for work with school program Town of Farragut Assistant Town Shari Brown has been selected to ation, has passed This annual event is sponsored by Farmer Administrator Gary Palmer has BY EMILY PIKREN head Bristol’s new Department of away after a long the Afterschool Alliance. NLC has been accepted to the prestigious National League of Cities Economic and Community Devel- battle with Alzheimers Disease. a strong partnership with the After- Senior Executives in State and opment. The department will house He was 76 years old. Farmer was school Alliance to inform cities about Local Government program at Har- Karl Dean, mayor of Nashville the divisions of building inspection a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the state and federal funding streams that vard University’s John F. Kennedy and former co-chair of NLC’s Coun- and code enforcement, planning and U.S. Army, serving in Vietnam, and can support citywide afterschool sys- School of Government. Palmer will cil on Youth, Education, and Fam- zoning, administer of Community received The Bronze Star Medal and tem building efforts, as well as help attend in June. The program provides ilies (YEF Council), was honored Development Block Grants, and The Meritorious Service Medal. increase public awareness about the traditional and hands-on learning last month in Washington, D.C., for economic development. Brown has importance of afterschool. experiences to help seasoned public his commitment and leadership on received several honors during her Former Collegedale Commissioner Dean was one of 11 state cham- offi cials meet the changing needs of afterschool and expanded learning tenure, including the city's 2011 and Mayor David A. Magoon, 94, pions and the only mayor honored their constituents and communities. programs. honor for Best Planning Tool for passed away June 2. A World War at the event. The United Ways of Serving as assistant town adminis- Dean was named a State After- Small Cities and an Outstanding II veteran, Magoon moved to Col- Tennessee nominated Mayor Dean trator since 2006, Palmer received a school Champion at the “Breakfast Implementation award in 2013 from legedale in 1965. He is the father for the honor because of his strong scholarship from Harvard to attend of Champions,” part of the 13th an- the Tenn. Chapter of the American of TML Pool staff member Bill support for innovative approaches the program. nual Afterschool for All Challenge. Planning Association. Magoon. to expanding learning that build student skills and create pathways for lifelong learning. Education has been his top priority as mayor. Mobile app puts conference schedule at your fi ngertips Elected in 2007 and re-elected TML APP, from Page 1 in 2011, Dean launched the Nashville sponsorship partners, including how To access the conference schedule, tap on the sched- After Zone Alliance (NAZA) in to get in contact with their company. ule icon and scroll up and down, or fl ip left and right 2010, with a bold new line item of Convention Center Map. A de- through the different days. The events are color-coded $400,000 in the city budget, and has tailed map of the Exhibit Hall, home by event type. Use the fi lter button at the top to apply helped to grow support for NAZA of the TML Marketplace vendors, a fi lter and quickly reference categories such as food, to $1.6 million today. NAZA is the are available in this section, as well workshops, or special events. fi rst coordinated afterschool system as maps of the convention center in Tennessee. where the workshops and general A partnership between the session are held. You can move Mayor's offi ce, the school district, maps around, or swipe left and right local agencies and youth-serving or- between maps, or zoom in or zoom ganizations that is modeled after the out. The room numbers on the sched- Providence After School Alliance's ule correspond to the rooms on these "AfterZones" model, NAZA targets maps. The booth numbers attached high-need middle school students to exhibitors in our exhibitors section and aims to keep them engaged by correspond to numbered booths on nurturing a passion for learning and the Exhibit Hall map. adequately preparing them for high If you need help while at the school. conference, fi nd a TML staff member NLC worked closely with to assist you. After the conference, Mayor Dean and Metro Nashville contact Mark Barrett at TML at 615- to develop their afterschool system, 255-6416. and provided guidance and techni- cal assistance to get NAZA off the There is a web app available ground through NLC's 2010 Mayors' for Blackberry and Microsoft Institute for Children and Families, phones. ongoing consultation and through zwk11s.m.attendify.com/# connections to other city leaders building afterschool systems. "Four years ago, out of our You can scroll the maps of the con- collective concern about the high vention center fl oors or a detailed school dropout rate, we launched map of the Exhibit Hall, home of this innovative afterschool program the TML Marketplace vendors. to help fi ll a huge gap in high-quality afterschool programming for some The room numbers on the sched- of our most high-need middle-school ule correspond to the rooms on students,” Dean said. “What started these maps. The booth numbers as a pilot with 200 students will attached to exhibitors correspond now engage 1,500 middle school to the numbered booths on the students from across the city in aca- Exhibit hall map. You can learn about each of our conference speak- demic supports and fun enrichment. ers, by scrolling through the list and tapping on each Independent research has shown speaker photo to reveal their bio. links between these programs and improved school attendance, fewer school behavior issues and even improved grades in math."

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At the same time, natural ter in 2013. Area bankers say they are en-point, multi-agency plan to gas generation was 11 times greater seeing positive patterns revealing a combat Tennesseans’ “epidemic” — up 1000 percent. The study exam- healthier real estate market. abuse of prescription painkillers in ined the country’s 100 largest power a state that ranks No. 2 nationally producers based on their 2012 data. Mosquito-born virus making its for per-capita use of opioids. Parts The Tennessee Valley Authority is way to Tennessee of the plan call for increased focus the sixth largest energy producer in A disease that just emerged in on drug courts and treatment, which the nation. the Americas may have made its Haslam and administrative officials way to Tennessee. The Tennessee say ultimately reduce costs rather State brings back electric chair Department of Health said it is in- than repeated incarcerations. The Gov. Haslam signed a bill into law al- vestigating the first potential cases state ranked No. 13 in drug overdose lowing the state to electrocute death of chikungunya virus in the state. death, according to a 2011 U.S. Cen- row inmates in the event the state is It is a mosquito-borne disease that ters for Disease Control and Preven- unable to obtain drugs used for lethal is circulating in the Caribbean. tion study. Joined by agency heads, injections. State lawmakers over- Tennesseans who traveled there are Haslam said about 221,000 adult whelmingly passed the electric chair showing symptoms of the disease. Tennesseans used prescription pain legislation in April. Richard Dieter, The U.S. Centers for Disease Control relievers for non-medical purposes, the executive director of the Death and Prevention issued a warning in that’s almost five percent of adults. Penalty Information Center, said December about chikungunya when Of these, 69,000 are addicted to the Tennessee is the first state to enact a it was first reported detected on Ca- drugs, often obtained from friends Business Facilities Editor-in-Chief Jack Rogers visited Nashville and law to reintroduce the electric chair ribbean islands — the first confirmed presented Gov. Haslam and TNECD Commissioner Bill Hagerty with the and family members or prescribed without giving prisoners an option. cases of the virus being contracted by physicians. State of the Year Award for Economic Development. It was announced Dieter said he expects legal challeng- in the Americas. “This is often a in January that Tennessee grabbed top honors for the number of new es to arise if the state decides to go terribly painful and uncomfortable jobs created and amount of capital invested in 2013. TN among 12 manufacturing com- through with an electrocution, both illness with no vaccine to prevent it munities selected nationwide in terms of whether the state could and no specific treatment for those The Tennessee Valley led by the prove that lethal injection drugs were infected,” said Tennessee Health Cumberland Mountain, Edgar Evins University of Tennessee, is among not obtainable and on the grounds Commissioner Dr. John Dreyzeh- State Parks host grand re-openings 12 designated “manufacturing of constitutional protections against ner. “Recovery can be prolonged, so communities” identified by the U.S. cruel and unusual punishment. prevention is the only good option.” Commerce Department to take part Symptoms include fever, headache, in a federal economic development New TBI report shows drop in fatigue, nausea, vomiting, muscle effort intended to boost manufactur- domestic violence cases pain, rash and joint pain. ing jobs. These 12 areas across the Domestic violence rates have dropped U.S. were chosen from among 70 in Tennessee, according to the TBI. New plan spurs independent living applicants for the program, which The new report says this is the for intellectually disabled initially has $1.3 billion in federal greatest year to year decrease. More A new plan to overhaul the way the funds earmarked for qualifying than 200,000 domestic violence vic- state cares for people with intellectu- projects. The goal is to make tar- tims were reported. There were 5.7 al disabilities could make Tennessee geted investments in demonstrably percent fewer offenses compared to first in the nation to specifically gear strong public-private partnerships to 2.9 percent in 2012. The director services toward independent living strengthen regional manufacturing. of WRAP (Women’s Resources and and employment as the “first and In addition, each designated com- Rape Assistance Program in Jack- preferred option.” The plan rep- munity will also receive a federal son) says the report shows their work resents a sharp shift in state priorities liaison and branding and promotion has not been in vain. For a full look for the expenditure of about $860 as a designated Manufacturing at the report, visit http://www.tbi. million each year — a mix of state Located on the Cumberland Plateau near Crossville, Cumberland Community to help attract additional tn.gov/tn_crime_stats/publications/ and federal dollars that has largely Mountain State Park celebrated a grand re-opening of its 145-site private investment and partnerships. Domestic%20Violence%20in%20 gone toward paying for around-the- campground on May 21. Renovations include conversion from 30 amp TN%20%282011-2013%29%20 clock residential care for thousands to 50 amp electrical service and ADA improvements. Wi-Fi accessibility Major drop in carbon emissions SECURE.pdf. of people. Instead, the state would will be coming soon. Four campground areas are now open with the Carbon emissions in Tennessee provide more limited and less costly remaining one scheduled for completion in mid-June. The 1,720-acre dropped by a third over five years, Foreclosures reach pre-recession services, such as personal assistance park was opened in 1938 and includes a multi arched bridge and dam according to a new study by Mas- levels and transportation — largely minus at Byrd Lake. Pictured left to right: TN State Parks Senior Advisor sachusetts-based consulting firm Residential foreclosures are at the the housing component — while Anne Marshall, Cumberland Mountain State Park Manager Chip Hillis, M.J. Bradley & Associates. The lowest level in the state since mid- offering vocational training, job Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill, State Rep. Cameron Sexton, East study says the closure of coal-fired 2007 when the housing collapse coaching and job support to new TN Park Area Manager Robin Wooten and TN State Parks Facilities plants and the historically low price began, according to a Tennessee enrollees. State officials say the plan Management Director David Benton. of natural gas are driving the trend. Housing Development Agency would allow them to serve a greater number of people in a more cost-ef- fective way.

TN state parks among Top 100 Paris Landing, Pickwick Landing and Tims Ford State Parks were listed among the Top 100 Family Friendly Places to boat and fish in the U.S., according to Take Me Fishing, whose first Top 100 list was released recently including park and recreation areas in 24 states. The Recreational Boating and Fish- ing Foundation’s Take me Fishing campaign initiated the nationwide vote to provide families and outdoor Located on the shores of Center Hill Lake, Edgar Evins State Park enthusiasts with a recommended list celebrated a grand re-opening of its 60-site campground May 21 with of the best family-friendly places state and local representatives. Most of the 60 sites received upgrades to experience boating and fishing. from 30 amp to 50 amp electrical service. In addition, the platform-type Criteria for the top places to boat and sites of steel and concrete were inspected and any potential structural fish included having a public body of degradation issues were repaired. The renovation project also included water within an hour of a major city the extension of the length of several sites to accommodate larger RVs. and good fishing opportunities. Many of the sites have lake views.

Application Deadline July 7 USDA announces funding for advanced communications technology in rural areas Agriculture Secretary Tom does not exist, provide a community other USDA efforts to improve rural Vilsack announced that USDA is center with broadband access, and communications. accepting applications for grants to offer broadband service to all resi- In the Public Television Station enhance telecommunications and dential and business customers. Digital Transition Grant Program, broadcast services in rural areas. USDA has had many successes USDA will provide up to $2 million "This funding will help small, through this program. Since it was as part of the Department's continued rural communities across the coun- created in 2003, USDA has approved support of rural telecommunications try gain access to communications more than $142 million in more than and broadcast services. Funds can technologies to improve health, 240 Community Connect projects be used to acquire, lease or install education and other services," Vil- to bring broadband service to rural equipment or software to complete sack said. "It will help open doors communities that lacked it. For ex- the transition to digital broadcast to the global marketplace. It will ample, Rural Development awarded signals. deliver specialized medical care and @Link Services, LLC a $544,164 While rural stations broadcast educational services. It will ensure Community Connect Grant to pro- their main transmitter signal dig- that public television stations can vide broadband services to Lima, itally, many also have translators fully convert to digital signals and Okla. Many institutions there have serving small communities or iso- transmit public safety, health, edu- benefited, including the new volun- lated areas, and these still need to cational and cultural programming teer fire department, the K-12 school, transition from analog to digital. in isolated areas." and the new community center. Some rural areas also need fill-in The funding is available from Also in a notice in the Federal translators, in cases when the signal the Community Connect Grant Register, USDA is making available reception from a main transmitter is Program, the Distance Learning up to $19.3 million in Distance lost. These Public Television grants and Telemedicine Program, and the Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) will support those stations to ensure Public Television Station Digital program grants to fund access to all rural households and businesses Transition Grant Program. rural education, training and health receive public television station Through the Community Con- care resources. transmissions. Details are on page nect Grant Program, USDA plans The DLT program finances tele- 29409 of the Federal Register. to provide up to $13 million to fund communications-enabled equipment USDA will offer special consid- broadband in unserved areas to sup- and advanced technologies for peo- eration to Community Connect and port economic growth and deliver ple who live and work in rural areas. Distance Learning and Telemedicine enhanced educational, health care Since 2009, USDA has invested applications that contain at least one and public safety services. Awardees almost $150 million in the program. end-user site within a trust area or a must serve an area where broadband These investments complement Tribal jurisdictional area. 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014 www.TML1.org Tennessee Municipal League 2013-2014 Officers and Directors PRESIDENT Dale Kelley Mayor, Huntingdon VICE PRESIDENTS David May Several recent studies show that studies covering 188 countries from the memory of those who fought and Councilmember, Cleveland entrepreneurial activity in the 1980 to 2013. The World Health Or- died at this crucial Civil War battle. July 13-15: The Tennessee Fire Curtis Hayes United States has slowed down, ganization recommends that heavy The “Hallowed Ground” tours are Chiefs Association’s Annual Con- Mayor, Livingston to the point where American people be sent to free weight-loss free, but reservations are required. ference held at the Marriott Airport David Gordon businesses are dying faster than classes to drop about 3 percent of More information is available at Mayor, Covington they're being born. A report from Nashville. For more information DIRECTORS their weight. It reasoned that losing www.nps.gov/stri. the Kansas City Star analyzes new just a few pounds improves health about the conference, go to http:// Bryan Atchley www.tnfirechiefs.com/confer- research that has some economists and is a more realistic goal. According to a report in The Mayor, Sevierville ence-and-meetings. Alonzo Beard worried about what a slower start- Los Angeles Times, about 1 in 8 up rate could mean for the United The Obama Administration says American children will experi- Alderman, Ripley (District 8) Save The Dates: Andy Burke States' future. The report says econ- Americans’ electricity bills will ence some form of maltreatment Sept. 13-17: International City/ Mayor, Chattanooga omists aren't worried about business shrink and their children will be serious enough to be confirmed County Management Association Wallace Cartwright failures, which are expected and healthier due to new emissions by government authorities, new Annual Conference in Charlotte, Mayor, Shelbyville aren't happening at a faster rate than limits on power plants. Promoting research shows. Slightly more than NC. For information or to register, Vance Coleman usual. The concern is that failures the climate change plan during a 2 percent of kids are victimized Mayor, Medina (District 7) visit http://icma.org/en/icma/events/ release supplies into the market, like conference hosted by the American during their first year of life, 5.8 per- Betsy Crossley conference/about/annualconference Mayor, Brentwood workers and buildings, and in a good Lung Association, the president said cent are mistreated before their fifth economy, new startups come along the plan provides a huge incentive birthdays, and 12.5 percent experi- Ann Davis Sept. 20-24: International Per- to put those resources to better use. for states to become more efficient ence some form of abuse or neglect Vice Mayor, Athens sonnel Management Association Without those startups, slack begins and to boost solar, wind, hydro and before they turn 18, according to a Karl Dean Annual Conference in Philadel- Mayor, Metro Nashville to appear in the market. other clean sources of energy. The study published JAMA Pediatrics. phia, PA. For more information or to Jerry Gist plan aims to curb carbon dioxide The estimates are based on data register, visit http://ipma-hr.org/pro- Mayor, Jackson Almost a third of the world is emissions from power plants by from the National Child Abuse and fessional-development/conferences Kevin Helms now fat, and no country has been 30 percent by 2030. The Tennessee Neglect Data System Child Files, City Manager, Oak Hill (District 5) able to curb obesity rates in the Valley Authority says it has already which identified nearly 5.7 million Oct. 12-14: Tennessee Renewable John Hickman last three decades, according to a reached that target system-wide and children who suffered documented City Manager, Waynesboro (District 6) Energy & Economic Development new global analysis. Researchers “expects to exceed it.” cases of neglect or physical, sexual or Jill Holland Council (TREEDC) International found more than 2 billion people emotional abuse from 2004 to 2011. Mayor, McKenzie Conference. For more information worldwide are now overweight or The National Parks Service is (The true count is believed to be Hoyte Jones contact Warren Nevad at warren. obese. The highest rates were in offering free tours of the Stones much higher, since most cases never Alderman, Sparta (District 4) [email protected]. Dot LaMarche the Middle East and North Africa, River National Cemetery this make it to government officials.) Re- Vice Mayor, Farragut (District 2) where nearly 60 percent of men and summer. The hour-long “Hallowed searchers from Yale University, the Nov. 13-14: 61st Annual Gover- Chris McCartt 65 percent of women are heavy. Ground” tours are conducted by a University of Southern California, nor’s Conference on Economic Asst. City Manager, Kingsport (District 1) The U.S. has about 13 percent of park ranger and take place by lan- the University of California, Berke- and Community Development at Bo Perkinson the world’s fat population, a greater tern light. The tours will include ley, Columbia University, and the the Renaissance Nashville Hotel. Councilmember, Athens (District 3) percentage than any other country. stories from the letters and diaries University of Washington used that Madeline Rogero Rooms will be available at a special China and India combined have of men who fought and died in the data to extrapolate the cumulative Mayor, Knoxville rate of $185 per night for conference about 15 percent. The Institute for Civil War. The cemetery is located risk that American children would Charles “Bones” Seivers attendees. Registration and confer- Health Metrics and Evaluation at the within Murfreesboro’s Stones River become victims of these types of President-CEO, TN Municipal Bond Fund ence details at govcon.tnecd.com. James Talley University of Washington, which led National Battlefield, a 650-acre na- maltreatment before they reached Mayor, Ducktown the study, reviewed more than 1,700 tional park dedicated to preserving adulthood. TENNESSEE MUNICIPAL LEAGUE STAFF Ron Washington Margaret Mahery, Executive Director Councilmember, Murfreesboro Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director A.C. Wharton Mark Barrett, Legislative Research Analyst Mayor, Memphis UT MTAS July Classes Carole Graves, Communications Director & PAST PRESIDENTS Editor, Tennessee Town & City Ken Wilber (2013) Mayor, Portland John Holloway, Government Relations Debbie Kluth, Director of Marketing / Kay Senter (2012) Member Services Councilmember, Morristown Kevin Krushenski, Legislative Research Analyst Sam Tharpe, (2011) Mayor, Paris Municipal Legislative Update Mona Lawrence, Administrative Assistant Tom Beehan, (2008) Mayor, Oak Ridge Denise Paige, Government Relations Victoria South, Communications Coordinator Tommy Green (2007) Mayor, Alamo Time: All courses begin at 8:30 am Cost: Tennessee Municipal Em- Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg Sylvia Trice, Director of Conference Planning and end at 12:30 pm EST and CST. ployees- $50/person/class. A fee of TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY Tom Rowland (2002) Mayor, Cleveland $65 is charged for non-city officials. (ISSN. No. 0040-3415) Publication No. 539420 AFFILIATE DIRECTORS — Official publication of the Tennessee Mu- Keith McDonald, Mayor, Bartlett (NLC) 4 CPE/CMFO (Financial) nicipal League. Publisher: Margaret Mahery Bill Hammon, Alcoa (TCMA) Schedule of Sessions (mmahery@ TML1.org); Editor: Carole Graves TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS July 22 - Jackson ([email protected]; Phone: 615-255-6416. (Ex-Officio Directors) July 23- Nashville-CST Advertising: Publisher reserves the right to To register for a course, go reject any advertising deemed unacceptable. Fax Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. This course will provide a July 29- Kingsport to www.mtas.tennessee.edu Or summary of legislation passed by classified ads toTT&C: Attention Mona Lawrence Jack Hyder, Bristol July 31- Knoxville-EST fax to 865.974.0423. Credit card at 615-255-4752, or e-mail mlawrence@TML1. Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference the Tennessee General Assemply payments must register online with org. Fax advertising copy to TT&C: Attention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or e-mail to Tenn. Chapter, American Public Works during the 2014 session that will Locations: the Solution Point System: http:// Bill Yearwood, Bartlett impact municipalities. Public Acts dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions expressed by Tennessee Government Finance Officers Knoxville, Univ. of TN. Confer- www.solutionpoint.tennessee.edu/ non League officials or staff do not necessarily touching every aspect of municipal ence Center MTAS or by invoice. MTAS will reflect policies of TML.Tennessee Town & City is Russell Truell, Franklin operations will be discussed. published, semi-monthly, 20 times per year at 226 Tenn. Assn. Housing & Redevel. Auth. Jackson, Univ. of TN - West TN- need to receive payment in order Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, TN 37219- This course will offer partici- Research & Education Center to confirm attendance. For registra- John Snodderly, LaFollette pants the opportunity to ask ques- 1894. Periodicals postage paid at Nashville, TN. Tennessee Building Officials Assn. Nashville, TBI Headquarters, 901 tion assistance, call 865-974-0411 Subscription rates: $6 per year to members, $15 Steve Mills, Hendersonville tions about any new legislation. R.S. Gass Boulevard or for more information, contact to nonmembers, $1 a copy. Postmaster: Send changes of address to Tennessee Town & City, Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. Kingsport, Kingsport Center for Kurt Frederick at 615-253-6385 or Instructor: MTAS legal consul- 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, TN Chief Lynn Murphy, Henderson Co. Higher Education [email protected]. 37219-1894. Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports tants Larry Cox, Memphis Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police Glenn Chrisman, Murfreesboro Tennessee Water Quality Management No loan is too large or too small Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. Greg Clark, Germantown Tennessee Chapter, American Planning Karen Hundt, Chattanooga Tennesseee Personnel Management Assn. Rebecca Hunter, TNDOHR TN Assn. Municipal Clerks & Recorders Lynn Carmack, Collierville Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing Rex Gaither, Smyrna TN Section, Institute of Transport Engineers, Kevin Cole, Knoxville Tennessee Public Transportation Assoc. Jason Spain, Nashville Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors Tommy White, Sevierville Assn. of Independent and Municipal Schools Reecha Black, Alamo Tennessee Renewable Energy & Economic Development Council James Talley, Ducktown TML ASSOCIATE SPONSORS 5 Star Sponsor Bank of America 4 Star Sponsor Servpro Disaster Recovery The city of Morristown closed a $20 million loan for sewer system The city of Ripley closed a $1 million loan for a new fire hall 3 Star Sponsor upgrades. and equipment. Bank of New York Trust Co., N.A. First Tennessee Bank 2 Star Sponsor Alexander, Thompson, Arnold CPAs Alliance Water Resources See us for your special projects needs. Ameresco, Inc. (615) 255-1561 Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon, Inc. Carr, Riggs & Ingram LLC Clayton Lancaster Benefits Energy Systems Group Fessenden Consulting Group Master Meter, Inc. Nationwide Retirement Solutions Parsons Brinckerhoff Waste Management Inc. of Tennessee 1 Star Sponsor A2H Buxton Company CDM Smith, Inc. Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers Local Govt. Corporation McGill Associates, P.A. Municipal Equipment, Inc. Pavement Restorations, Inc. Republic Services Smith Seckman Reid Utility Service Co., Inc. Vaughn & Melton Waste Connections of Tennessee Inc. Waste Industries USA, Inc. www.TML1.org 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014

Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. No TENNESSEE charge to TML members. Send advertising to: TT&C Classified Ads, Mona Lawrence, FESTIVALS 226 Capitol Blvd. Suite 710, Nashville TN 37219; e-mail: [email protected]; or July 2: Munford fax: 615-255 4752. Celebrate Independence A free event held at the city park on PLANNING DIRECTOR College St. Beginning at 7:30 pm, SPRINGFIELD. The city is accepting applications for the position of Planning the Navy Band Mid-South’s con- Director. Individual will plan, organize temporary entertainment ensemble A complete listing of Main Street summer events can be found at: and direct the activities of the Community will perform a 45-minute concert. http://tn.gov/ecd/pdf/Other/MainStreetEvents.pdf Development & Planning Department Grand finale is a spectacular fire- under a Council/Manager form of govern- works display. Food and beverage ment. Current director is retiring with more will be offered for sale in support than 14 years of service in the position. The Community Development & Planning of the Munford High School Band and drink vendors top off the full contact Amy Rose, 639-7105 or of Americana Music.” For more Department administers all planning func- along with t-shirts and other items day of fun. [email protected], or visit information, visit www.homeofam- tions and activities, economic development at the “Celebrate Munford” table. www.greenevilletn.gov or www. ericana.com or call 1-800-876-7393. projects, residential, commercial and indus- Rest room facilities located inside July 4:Nashville facebook.com/TownofGreeneville. trial development and codes administration. the Munford Police Department. Music City Hot Chicken Festival July 11-19: Kingsport Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree July 4: Knoxville Fun Fest 2014 in planning, public administration or other Limited handicap parking will be Held from 11am – 3 pm at East Park related field, required master’s degree in available in the city hall parking lot on Woodland Street. This free event 4th of July Festival Both nights the Sunset Concert planning and AICP certification preferred. at the corner of Munford Ave. and features the unique southern flare of This free festival begins at 4 pm Series features a variety of musical A minimum of five years (5) of supervisory, College St. Bring your own lawn local restaurants and puts amateur and ends at approximately 10 pm. genres. Internationally known Chris- administrative or consultative experience in chairs and your family and friends cooks head-to-head in competition Good music, food and fun on the tian group MercyMe will kick off the municipal or regional planning, community for this fun event. for the best hot chicken recipe. For Festival and Performance lawns of series Thurs., followed by Martina development or related field required. Sal- the Worlds’ Fair Park. Regal’s Kids McBride on Fri. On Sat., the series ary range$ 55,703-$76,066 (DOQ). Appli- more information, visit http://www. cations must be received by Monday, June July 3: Clarksville hot-chicken.com/. Zone. Starting at 8 pm, the Knoxville finale will be Train. Enjoy great food, 30, at: Human Resources Department, City Independence Day Celebration Symphony Orchestra begins its free games, Fun Fest Parade, Fishing of Springfield, P 0 Box 788, Springfield, Features music and fireworks. Held July 4: Greeneville two-hour concert on the World’s Fair Tournament, Car Show and much Tennessee, 37172. The City of Springfield at McGregor Park from 5 to 10 American Downtown 4th of July Park’s performance lawn, the perfect more. For more information, visit is an AA/EOE employer. pm Spectacular fireworks on the Celebration accompaniment to the fireworks www.visitkingsport.com/funfest/. FINANCE DIRECTOR/ASSISTANT river is choreographed to a patriotic The celebration kicks off at 2 pm spectacular at 9:35 pm. Free parking: TOWN ADMINISTRATOR soundtrack and will be broadcast on with a Main Street Parade themed World’s Fair & Blackstock Parking July 11-12: Ripley DANDRIDGE. The town is accepting Q108, The Beaver 100.3 FM, Z 97.5 “Let Freedom Ring.” Nearly 20 Lots, 11th Street, Locust Street, State Lauderdale County Tomato Festival applications for the full-time position and Eagle 94.3 radio stations during musical and dance acts perform on Street & Market Square Garages - Kicks off on Thurs. night on the of Finance Director/Assistant Town Ad- the show. Performing are the 100th two stages in the Big Spring area ADA Parking at Fort Kid Parking Lot newly renovated downtown square ministrator. This position will perform Division Rock Band, Hypertension, This event is rain or shine. For more with a concert by “Dr. Zarr & The difficult professional and administrative behind the Greeneville-Greene work in planning, organizing, and directing and Chris Robertson & The Country County Library in the afternoon information, visit http://www.city- Funk Monsters”. Opening ceremo- the financial activities of the town, along Music Band. For more information and evening kicking off at 2:30 pm. ofknoxville.org/events/4th/default. nies at 10 am on the main stage at with other related work as required. The or for ADA assistance, call 931- From the Big Spring area, see head- asp or call the Knoxville Office of Ripley City Park. Tomato Tasting, work will be performed under the general 645-7444. liner Annabelle’s Curse from Bristol Special Events at 865-215-4248. Saturday Salad, Methodist Market, supervision of the town administrator. TN, who take the stage at 8:25 pm, Pistol Shoot, the 5-K run, art exhib- The job’s essential duties include: daily July 4: Kingsport it, tomato contest, car & bike show, financial reporting, budget preparations, July 3-5: Jonesborough along withlocal favorites: swing grants administration, auditing & financial Jonesborough Days Festival tunes from Heppy Kats, rhythm & 4th of July Celebration Poker Run, sidewalk sales, tent sale, controls, financial planning, purchasing, Parade at 10 am on July 4. Fireworks blues from Frank Bowman & the Live music at 6:30 pm; fireworks at carnival rides, food, crafts, and much and other duties as assigned. Supervisory at 10 pm on July 5 in downtown New Chronic Dream, classics by JB 9:45pm on Broad Street. For more more. Main stage entertainment responsibilities include: Town Recorder/ Call 423.753.1010 for more infor- (John Brown) and the Wild Honey information, visit info@down- by South Wind Band on Fri. night. Executive Assistant and Human Resources mation or visit Jonesborough Days Band, and bluegrass from Lonesome townkingsport.org. Gospel Jubilee Sat., and headliner Clerk. Required Education: A bachelor’s band Sat. night. Bring swimwear degree in finance, public management, or on Facebook. Pine. A mix of pure country, contem- related discipline from a four-year college porary Christian, and high-energy July 4: Pigeon Forge and cool off at the Ripley Pool and or university; or four to five years related July 4: Bristol rock from Richard Spain, Savannah 24th Annual Patriotic Festival Water Slide. See the 1st Annual Fes- experience and/or training; or equivalent 4th of July Parade and Fireworks Faith, Makayla Edwards with Tyler Thousands gather at Patriot Park for tival Softball Tournament and Tennis combination of education and experience. Free event held from 5–11 pm Warren, Nick Fillers & the Fugitives, this free event. The fun starts around Tournament in the park. Preferred Education and/or Experience: (combined with Border Bash and R.J. Smith, Step Cousins, Claxton noon with games and activities for Master’s degree (M.A. or M.S.) or equiva- lent in finance, public management, or re- fireworks in Cumberland Square Creek, and Capgun Alliance. Three kids. Live musical entertainment, July 19: Covington lated discipline; or four to five years related Park in historic downtown. For more local dance groups Winter & Compa- starting early in the afternoon until Art on the Square experience and/or training; or equivalent information, visit www.believein- ny and LMH Cloggers are joined by 9:30 or 10 pm. The event headliner is An all day event at the historic down- combination of education and experience. bristol.org. Studio 922. Seating limited in the Big Lonestar, the Tim Kellar Band, blue- town square featuring sidewalk chalk Preference will be given to a Certified Public Spring area. Festival goers encour- grass group Adkins & Loudermilk, art, vendors, homeade artwork, kids Accountant, Certified Municipal Finance July 4: Nashville aged to bring chairs and blankets. and the Jimmy Buffet tribute band activities and live music. Visit the Officer or Certified Government Financial Manager. This position will be a 9 in a job Let Freedom Sing The Funville Kids Zone offers free Sons of Sailors. A trolley shuttle unique shops downtown. Admission classification series, non-exempt status, The sky above downtown will light inflatables and a variety of activities service will run from the Municipal and parking free with handicapped with a salary range beginning at $17.28 up with more than 25,000 fireworks for younger members of the crowd, Parking Lot on Teaster Lane right parking available. per hour, negotiable DOQ/E + benefits. shells coordinated with the Nash- food vendors, and more. The Yankee into Patriot Park. Applications and a detailed job description ville Symphony’s original medley Noodle Dandy macaroni cooking July 19: Mountain City may be picked up and will be accepted at July 4: Franklin The Sunflower Festival Dandridge Town Hall, 131 East Main Street, of songs performed live. The cel- contest coordinated by local chef Dandridge, TN, during the hours of 8am- bration includes an amazing array of Jan Charles. For information, contact Franklin on the 4th Held downtown on Main and Church 5pm, Mon.-Fri. until June 30, 2014. For musical artists including Billy Cur- Scintillare restaurant, 1240 East An- Starting at 10 am, the square will Streets from 9 am-5 pm. Live mu- more information, call 865-397-7420 ext. rington, Ashley Monroe and Striking drew Johnson Highway, 638-1000. be bustling with music stages, sic, festivities, quilt show, contests, 11. The Town of Dandridge is EOE and does Matches. Family Fun Zone located This year, a large fireworks display to children’s activities, food, crafts, as family and children’s activities. At not discriminate based upon all applicable along 2nd Avenue, features games, be launched from the nearby practice well as other things to do and see. least 75 vendors selling everything federal, state, and local law. cool inflatables, free samples, and field at Greeneville High School. For The Kid’s Zone includes inflatables, from rare antiques and collectibles, activities. Plenty of delicious food more information about the event, slides, climbing walls, a petting zoo to handmade and popular jewelry, to and pony rides. There will also be Native American art, to African and an expanded craft vendor section metal yard art. For more information, featuring high quality hand made call 423-727-1950 or visit www. items. The Children’s Parade begins johnsoncountytn.org. at 5 pm. (Children will begin lining up at a designated marked location July 26: Monteagle at 4:45) There will be prizes for best 55th Annual Mountain Market costume and decorated bikes and Arts & Crafts Show wagons. Pets are welcome.The event Located behind City Hall, 16 Dixie ends at 8:00 pm.. Lee Ave. from 9 am -5 pm Sat. and 10 am-4 pm Sun. One hundred artisans July 10:Gallatin and crafters displaying handmade Music at the Market creations including: fine art, stain The Music at the Market is a new glass, pottery, both fine and primitive series of family-friendly events furniture, bird houses, paintings in taking place this summer. The con- a variety of media, quilts, wood- certs, which run from 6:30 to 8 pm, crafts, toys, jewelry, metal art, hand are held at the Farmers Market, 160 sewn and embroidered items and Franklin Street near the Gallatin Po- much more. Several demonstrators lice Department. Coming up, Mike on hand including: soap making, Scott takes the stage with Banjo blacksmithing, charcoal and graphite and Bluegrass. And on Aug. 14, the painting, woodcrafts and chain saw market comes alive with The Todd carving. Enjoy live entertainment London Jazz Trio. For more infor- both days by local and area musi- mation, contact the mayor’s office cians. Train and pony rides and arts at 615-451-5961. & crafts for the kids. A juried art show with cash prizes. A variety of July 11: Livingston delicious food from beans & BBQ Live in Livingston to German Schnitzel & Baklava. For A free summer concert series the sec- more information, including vendor ond Friday night of July, and August info, lodging and schedule of events, from 5:30 pm - 9 pm on the historic visit www.monteaglechamber.com , Courthouse Square in Downtown email at mmtnchamber@blomand. Livingston. Bring your family and net or call the Monteagle Mountain experience true Americana Music in Chamber, 931-924-5353. Livingston, Overton County. “Home States cut carbon emissions under new EPA regulations EPA from Page 1 their current power. “The EPA is not and Washington, D.C., have no asking a state to go farther than its emissions goal because neither has resources will allow it to go,” Tierney a fossil-fuel-powered plant. added. Susan Tierney, an expert on States will have the opportunity energy policy at the Analysis Group, to question the targets set by the said that she believed the EPA’s new EPA over the next 120 days and try requirements were and “respectful to amend them before the agency of existing technology” in each finalizes the rules are finalized a state, and that the methodology to year from now. The rules will likely determine how much each state must face legal challenges from states and reduce emissions does not unfairly private companies. target states that rely on coal for 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014 www.TML1.org TML presents the 2014 Municipal Achievement Awards Knoxville: Excellence in Green Leadership Creating a green city takes time, cooperation and resources and Knoxville has invested all three in its quest for a healthier, sustainable and more cost effective environment for the com- munity. The city’s initiative, backed by quality staffing and innovative programs, is not only producing measurable results in air quality, but is setting the bar for green energy programs across the state. In honor of the city’s efforts to provide a cleaner environment for its citizens, the Tennessee Municipal League recognizes Knoxville with an award for Excellence in Green Leadership. Since 2007, Knoxville’s Energy and Sustainability Initiative, supported by countless mu- nicipal staff and community partners, has helped make the city a greener, more sustainable community, one where the city’s economy and environment thrive both today and in the future. Championed by Mayor Madeline Rogero, the goals of the initiative, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated within both city and community operations by 20 percent by the year 2020 (relative to 2005 levels), is supported by two full-time staff members at the city’s Office of Sustainability. A unique position was also created, Alternative Transportation Engineer, to help advance transportation infrastructure for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit users. The project’s recent inventory, based on 2012 data, shows significant progress where city operations greenhouse gas emissions dropped 12.99 percent, hitting a projected milestone for 2012. Emissions, on the community level, also fell approximately 7.75 percent, relative to 2005 levels. In 2013, the city won an IBM Smarter Cities Challenge technical assistance grant, which enabled the city to mobilize an effort to improve energy efficiency services for the community’s lower income residents. Partnering with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s focus on reducing vehicle emissions brought about the community’s first public car-sharing program, ZipCar. The city also continues to expand its recycling services and facilities and has launched recycling at city parks, while Since 2007, Knoxville’s Energy and Sustainability Initiative, supported by countless munic- creating a new educational website on e-waste (knoxecycles.org). ipal staff and community partners, has helped make the city a greener, more sustainable The city is currently updating its 2014 Energy & Sustainability Work Plan and Emissions community. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated within both city Inventory online, and is working with the Tennessee Renewable Energy & Economic Devel- and community operations by 20 percent by the year 2020 (relative to 2005 levels). As opment Council (TREEDC), of which Mayor Rogero is a member, in its educational outreach part of the initiative, the city continues to expand its recycling services and facilities and activities across the state. has launched recycling at city parks, while creating a new educational website on e-waste. In 2013, TVA awarded Knoxville a platinum rating in the TVA Valley Sustainable Comunities program. This award – the first platinum award presented in the state – recognizes the many sustainability programs in the city and highlights local commitment to integrating economic development principles into sustainability efforts. Jackson: Excellence in “The city of Knoxville has become a national role model in pursuing green initiatives,” said Warren Nevad, University of Tennessee Municipal Technical Advisory Service consultant and TREEDC executive director. Community Wellness “They are, without a doubt, deserving of the TML Green Leadership Award.” Morristown : Excellence in Governance

Paths throughout the nearby residential site provide opportunities for physical activity along the way, and connects the Jackson Walk health- themed development with downtown. The development is anchored by an 82,000-square-foot/7,600 square mile, medical care–based fitness/ wellness center called LIFT.

In the world of health and- Opening in January 2013, the longevity, there are many success LIFT facility alone has attracted stories, but none quite as extensive more 3,000 members and exceeded as the city of Jackson’s, which after membership and financial projec- taking its first collective step with tions in its first year. Operated by a community walking program, West Tennessee Healthcare, it’s the Greater operational efficiency has been fostered since the transfer of ownership of the city of Morristown’s determined to change the shape of area’s only medical fitness center, sewer system to the Morristown Utility Board. As the board administers the city’s water system, the switch, the community. The city’s drive to also housing a preventative care including transferring all the employees, was accomplished with little or no disruption of service to citizens. decrease healthcare costs and deliver wellness center, a primary care clin- wellness opportunities to citizens ic, and a café that serves sugar-free The key to a successful city lies The city’s cooperative spirit In the Planning Department, a not only culminated with a nation- meals for diabetics and calorie-con- in good management and a drive carries over to its outstanding part- new “sheparding” program is taking ally recognized health initiative, scious diners. to keep reaching for the best. It’s nerships with other community en- the guess work out of the review pro- but a multi-million, health-themed, The fitness center, includes the hallmark of the way Morris- tities. Forging a partnership between cess for potential developers. With a downtown community, anchored a gym with a basketball court, town conducts business. The city’s the city, Hamblen County 911 and new “developer friendly” focus, the by a $50 million, state-of-the-art indoor pools, cardiovascular and council and staff interact as a team Morristown Utility Board has not process provides guidance to devel- wellness center. The development strength-training equipment, and an devising the most innovative and only resulted in each agency gaining opers about city codes compliance. not only establishes Jackson as the indoor walking track. The wellness economical approaches to every- access to a GIS mapping program, New programs are being gener- healthiest city in Tennessee, but has center offers physical and occupa- day services through partnerships, but each has saved money in the ated throughout the extended com- injected new hope and economic tional therapy; cardio and orthope- education initiatives and creative process by sharing operating costs. munity as well. Cleanup’s a breeze vibrancy into the city’s downtown dic rehab; and programs focused programs, all designed to keep since the city kicked off its new litter area. on women’s health. The center Morristown on the move. In honor Greater operational efficiency reduction program, the first of its For Jackson’s efforts in build- holds numerous outreach events at of the city’s strong emphasis on has also been fostered, since the kind to utilize a crew to assist neigh- ing wellness into the very fabric of schools and seniors’ centers, and has cooperation, quality services and transfer of ownership of the city’s borhoods with community cleanup the city, the Tennessee Municipal an extensive disease- management creativity in governance, TML is sewer system to the Morristown efforts. League is proud to present Jackson program that offers free educational proud to present Morristown with an Utility Board. As the board admin- Reaching out to Morristown’s with an Excellence in Community programs on diabetes and congestive Excellence in Governance award. isters the city’s water system, the youngest and most vulnerable citi- Wellness award. heart failure. Those who undertake the effort switch, including transferring all the zens, for the past two years, the city It’s a fitness dream. The Healthy Located near three of the city’s to improve city services, while all employees, was accomplished with has administered a Summer Feeding Community master developer se- largest employers, the center’s cor- the while, having to budget for and little or no disruption of service to Program, which has resulted in more lected an 82,000-square-foot/7,600 porate-wellness program partners maintain a long list of other ser- citizens. than 30,000 meals being fed to local square mile, medical care–based with Jackson businesses to offer pre- vice-related demands, are a rare and Continuing education is vital children each summer. fitness/wellness center as the main ventative care resources and guid- special group. They tend to have a to progressive cities. Morristown The city’s staff are reaping the attraction and anchor for a commer- ance to employees. unique ability to look forward, to partnered with the town of Green- benefits of an employee clinic, op- cial/residential, health-themed com- Visitors can walk or drive to articulate long-range goals, build eville recently to send supervisory erated in partnership with Hamblen munity called Jackson Walk. The the gym, visit the drycleaner, grab a support for such efforts, and see the personnel through the MTAS Mu- County. The clinic is free of charge to center was christened LIFT (Living quick lunch, or even go to the West projects through from beginning to nicipal Management Academy. Both employees and dependents, and has in a Fit Tennessee) and what it rep- Tennessee farmers’market, without end. Morristown is a city like that. communities have now completed generated significant savings for the resents is years of tireless dedication ever having to drive to each destina- Known as one of the best governed Levels I and II of the academy and city. by the city toward the health and well tion. and best managed communities in have budgeted to finish Level III in “As with all well-governed being of Jackson’s citizens. New single-family homes, a East Tennessee, cooperation and in- FY 2015. In addition, Morristown cities, these projects did not have to In 2010, Tennessee had the city-owned amphitheater, and a dog novation is the name of the game in joined the MTAS Benchmarking happen. Services were fine as they second highest obesity rate in the na- park create a warm neighborhood Morristown, where the city council Program, where data from the were,” said Pat Hardy, MTAS munic- tion. Children were suffering from environment around the center. The and staff are a perfect blend of policy program helps the city measure its ipal management consultant. “But early onset diseases such as Type 2 infill redevelopment features retail and administration. These two gov- municipal services. The program constantly looking to improve is diabetes, the earmark of childhood space and apartments as well. erning components devise an array recently generated data to evaluate what the Morristown city council and obesity. News that potentially high In the meanwhile, the city’s of top-notch traditional services, the city’s fire department. staff is all about. Projects like these employee health care costs had ac- Jumpstart Jackson initiative, which while encouraging and supporting Having received accreditation cannot be accomplished without a tually discouraged a company from encourages citizens to eat right, get a variety of creative approaches to through the Tennessee Law En- high-quality governance team of moving to Jackson. It was a wakeup out and get active, is credited with service delivery. forcement Accreditation program both elected officials and appointed call for the city. reducing employee healthcare costs. Good government begins with for the sixth time, the city’s police staffs, who are able to work together In 2007, the city started the The community-wide health and good communication and Morris- department established a reserve to conceive of, design, and imple- Jumpstart Jackson program, with the wellness initiative prompted the U.S. town has reached out to the commu- officer program where a group of 10 ment exciting and new approaches intent to improve the health of local Conference of Mayors to select the nity by revamping the city’s website appointed officers enhance police to otherwise standard service deliv- citizens, while also drawing healthy city in 2013 as one of the most livable to make it more user-friendly. The activities during special events. The ery. The city of Morristown is well economic development opportuni- small cities in America. addition of Facebook and Twitter project has created significant sav- deserving of the TML Excellence in ties to the community. “Jackson Walk certainly de- helps keeps the public well in- ings from reduced overtime costs. Governance Award.” Jackson Walk and LIFT is the serves recognition,” said David formed. culmination of this initiative, a hub Angerer, UT MTAS Municipal Man- offering healthy activities and nu- agement consultant. “The project merous community events, includ- has attracted national attention and ing monthly five-kilometer runs, could not have been possible without TML Achievement Awards presented Tuesday, June 24, 8 to 10 a.m. at the obstacle course runs, and high-speed the city’s enthusiastic support. The Annual Awards Breakfast, Chattanooga Covention Center, Ballroom E-F bicycle races that attract several city has worked very hard on this thousand people. project and it is paying benefits.”

8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014 www.TML1.org TML presents the 2014 Municipal Achievement Awards Athens: Excellence in Community Service Known for its pioneering spirit and willing volunteerism, a large number of volunteers turn out each year at Athens’ Day of Service event. This year, was no different, as corporate executives to Eagle Scouts showed up to contribute time and energy to the Blazing Trails project. Volunteers cleared the way for two unique trail projects that will ultimately open the door to greater health and recreational opportunities for the community. The project also saved Athens countless manpower hours and thousands of dollars. In recognition of the city’s tremendous work ethic and ingenuity in creating this unique vounteer opportunity that will bring years of pleasure and physical fitness to the community, the Tennessee Municipal League recognizes Athens with an Excellence in Community Service Award. On Athens Day of Service, volunteers typically handle projects not solved by local governments, such as graffiti removal, creek cleaning, tree planting and community garden building. But this year, the focus was on two very spe- cial trails, built on land that could not be developed. Located on Redfern Road in an industrial park, the Eagle Trail property was acquired as part of an economic development investment of property marketed as having rail access. One section of property was identified as being too steep for industrial development but perfect for trail development. Today, a trail head exists in the gravel parking lot and in the future, incoming industry where employees have access to healthy walking areas. Eagle Trail runs more than three miles and includes picnic tables, benches, and great views from the peaks of the city. In 2009, Athens and McMinn County were notified that CSX was abandoning the rail line between Athens and Englewood that split McMinn County. For almost a 100 years, trains ran on this line carrying people to and from the region. The rail will be alive once more, as Athens and McMinn County have acquired more than four miles of rail and trail head property and are developing this as a greenway for walking, biking and horseback riding. Volunteers removed tires, crossties, brush and garbage by the truckload to make the trail usable. Phase One of the trail involves the construction of a “health triangle.” This is a half mile walking triangle with signs relative Volunteers Brett Hansen (Eagle Scout) and Troy Caison are blazing to diabetes education and simple items such as how many laps equals one cupcake. Promoting community health trails during during Athens’ Annual Day of Service. The trail project through education and exercise is essential to a healthy quality of life which is vital to a strong economic base. The saved Athens countless manpower hours and thousands of dollars. rails to trails project will be a landmark project not only for Athens and McMinn County, but also will be a tourist attraction for Tennessee. “Many citizens across our nation have come to believe that it is the sole responsibility of government to provide the means for their every need and project. In Athens that is not true, as the volunteer spirit is alive and well,” said Bulls Gap: Margaret Norris, Municipal Technical Advisory Service management consultant. “The city deserves this TML award. The staff and council have a respectful relationship, they work well together, and move forward accomplishing great things.” Small Town Progress Clinton: Excellence in Police Services A culture of planning, caring and ex- cellence; it’s what takes a municipal Po- lice Depart- ment from or- dinary to out- standing. And the Clinton Bulls Gap Town Square was once the site of the old central railroad Police Depart- station. Today, the site serves as a popular stopping point, where pas- ment is all that. sengers riding the old railroad steam engine from Bristol, disembark, eat A model of effi- box lunches, listen to Bluegrass and tour the town’s two museums, one ciency and out- dedicated to the city’s native son, Hee Haw comedian Archie Campbell. reach, officers, several with In Bulls Gap, town leaders are financial savings for the communi- advanced spe- strategically building economic ty. This strong board of Mayor and cialty degrees, vitality for the community upon Aldermen also strive to work coop- strive to pro- the town’s rich railroad heritage; eratively with the town’s Planning vide the utmost they have successfully preserved Commission, targeting new areas in communi- the past—while ensuring a modern for growth and implementing quality ty service and and viable future through effective programs— from ensuring citizens training to area planning and services. receive sanitary sewer service—to schools and Clinton Police officers provide information to citizens at the city’s recent Emergency Man- In honor of the city’s ingenuity increasing employee productively, other agencies, agement Fair. The department provides training to schools and other police agencies in building upon its resources, the and saving money through sensible while being throughout the region. Tennessee Municipal League is town purchases. proud to recognize Bulls Gap with a Striving to maintain the utmost good stewards of the community nicipal Technical Advisory Service department purchases used vehicles Small Town Progress Award. in financial professionalism, Mayor resources. An extraordinary focus on police consultant. from the Missouri State Police. The Twice yearly, the old railroad Mike Solomon stepped up to the communication among the depart- Taking a leadership role through- vehicles have limited miles and are steam engine makes its way to Bulls plate to become the town’s Certified ment’s command staff is reflected in out the region, the department’s K-9 well maintained. The savings made Gap from Bristol Tennessee, where Municipal Finance Officer, ensuring the city’s reduction in crime rate. For division currently provides training way for a new command vehicle and passengers disembark from vintage the community met state require- Clinton’s efforts to provide a model to eight other law enforcement agen- a crime scene truck. railroad cars to enjoy a box lunch ments. police department to the community, cies. Three of the department’s five Reaching out to the extended and savor the rich history along the Town leaders continue to re- TML awards the city with an Excel- investigators alone hold National community, the department suggest- town square. Once the site of the old main active with the Tennessee Rail lence in Police Services Award. Forensic Academy certifications. ed a venue change to the downtown central railroad station, live blue- Coalition, as it works to promote It was a banner year for the Clin- They extend this training to area area for the American Cancer So- grass music fills the air, as visitors passenger rail service throughout ton Police, as Anderson County At- schools, where officers developed ciety’s Relay for Life event. “The are free to explore the town’s two Tennessee. They were also instru- torney David Clark announced that the Core Safety Program, teaching department “made it happen,” said museums, all part of this typically mental in establishing a region-wide the department had reduced crime 5th and 6th graders the basics of gun Relay for Life Coordinator Joyce sold out fare. annual Labor Day Celebration that is by 20 percent this year. Two years safety, bike safety, social media and Klee. “They provided the tactical as- Late Hee Haw TV show co- enjoyed by the entire community. ago, the department’s command staff drug/alcohol prevention. The new sistance needed to ensure the safety median and Bulls Gap native son, “Each of these accomplishments formed the unique habit of meeting program replaces the older DARE of the teams and participants.” Archie Campbell’s museum is demonstrates what quality leader- each morning to exchange informa- program. Child safety continues to “From patrol officer to the Chief, located inside the town’s historic ship and the commitment of a strong tion from the previous 24 hours and be a priority in the city of Clinton. I don’t know of a police department town hall, an impeccably preserved Board of Mayor and Aldermen can plan their strategies for the next 24 The department started the School with the quality, commitment, results museum piece in itself. Every Labor accomplish,” said Pat Hardy, Mu- hours. While meeting that often is Resource Officers program in 2013, and culture of excellence of the Day weekend, the citizens of Bulls nicipal Technical Advisory Service demanding, the results speaks for placing one officer in each of the Clinton Police Department,” Clark Gap celebrate Campbell’s life with management consultant. itself. three K-6 elementary schools. The said. “They have set a standard for a street festival in downtown Olde “Working to move forward, “The Clinton Police Department city and the schools share the cost of the entire state.” Bulls Gap, complete with vendors while also preserving a rich historic has consistently performed over the the program. Barton agrees, “They are perfect and live music. An old caboose past, can be difficult, as competing last decade and this last year was no Saving taxpayers thousands of candidates for the TML Excellence parked beside town hall serves as a views pull on decision-makers,” exception,” said Rex Barton, Mu- dollars over the past 15 years, the in Police Services Award.” reminder of the town’s continuing said Hardy. “But Bulls Gap has done relationship with the railroad. a fantastic job of balancing these Other signs of progress in- challenges and are deserving of the clude staggering four-year terms award for Small Town Progress.” MT. Juliet: Excellence in Fire Services to increase continuity and promote Mt. Juliet re-established a mu- a quarter-century. But as Mt. Juliet Erron Kinney was selected from nicipal fire department from scratch grew, residents requested improve- a field of 45 applicants. A former and in a short time period, as part of ments in fire services, and the city tight-end for the Tennessee Titans, the city’s mission to provide the best explored the pros and cons of re-es- Chief Kinney immediately began and most economical fire protection tablishing a city fire department. the process of purchasing apparatus for its citizens. The city’s new fire In 2012, at the request of Mt. Ju- and equipment, hiring and training station, trucks and equipment, along liet’s City Manager, Kenny Martin, new firefighters, writing standard with an outstanding fire department the Municipal Technical Advisory operating procedures, equipping staff, is a reflection of the commu- Service (MTAS) conducted a review and furnishing the new fire station, nity’s hard work and cooperation in of fire service options, including: finalizing the first operating budget, bringing this project to life. The new continuing to contract for fire ser- and many other critical tasks. The fire station on Belinda Parkway, is vices with Wilson County EMA, Mt. Juliet Fire Department began staffed to serve this ever expanding contracting with a private company, providing service to the community community in a progressive manner, and starting a municipal fire depart- September 30, 2013. and are already becoming trusted ment. “Residents challenge govern- neighbors and safety partners with In September 2012, the city ment officials and leaders to deliver the community. commissioners voted to start a mu- or improve services at the lowest cost For Mt. Juliet’s initiative in nicipal fire department, with the goal possible,” said Dennis Wolf, MTAS researching all the possibilities in of transitioning into a fully function- Fire Management Consultant. “The providing safe, effiicient and afford- al fire department in 2½ years. Once city leaders and residents of Mt. Ju- able fire services to its residents, the decision was made, things moved liet desired improved fire services, the Tennessee Municipal League quickly. The city began construction and the city delivered. This would is proud to present the city with an on a 7,000 square foot fire station that not have been possible without the Excellence in Fire Services Award. was completed and dedicated in June full support of the city commission, Many years ago, Mt. Juliet 2013. In a very short period of time, city staff, and residents, and the dedi- The Wilson County Emergency Management Agency provided fire had its own fire department, but in the city went from having contract cation and hard work of the members protection to Mt. Juliet since 1986. But the city decided to re-establish 1986, the city made the decision to fire services to having a professional of the fire department. Mt. Juliet has its own municipal fire department, as part of Mt. Juliet’s mission to pro- allow the Wilson County Emergency and progressive full-service combi- improved significantly the level of vide the best and most economical fire protection to its citizens. The Management Agency to provide fire nation fire department. fire protection in the community, community accomplished this feat in a short time frame, building a new protection for the city. The relation- Searching for a progressive fire and they truly deserve recognition fire station on Belinda Parkway, adding new fire trucks and equipment ship served the community for over chief to lead the new department, for their efforts.” and hiring a quality staff along with Fire Chief Erron Kinney. 9-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014 www.TML1.org TML presents the 2014 Municipal Achievement Awards Algood: Small City Progress In Algood, city leaders aren’t of the usual three. The improvement than the city has seen in the past. afraid to tackle the larger challenges has placed extra manpower back on The hiring and training of a to provide the best in services for the the city’s streets, as only one driver new codes officer is improving the community. Algood citizens enjoy is needed, rather than the former two safety as well as the appearance of the same conveniences as much additional employees. the community. Algood’s plan to larger communities, with the con- The city’s Water and Sewer de- improve neighborhoods has brought struction of the city’s new municipal partments have taken a step into the the new codes officer to 135 different building, with all city departments future as well, with new equipment properties, all with violations that are under one roof for one-stop ease. and the purchase of a new F450 being resolved and only 21 needing Upgrades to vehicles and services crane truck to lift pumps out of the further attention. The yearly average in the Public Works and Utilities stations. The truck provides more prior to this change was only 15 be- departments have resulted in greater safety to employees and efficiency ing addressed per year and corrected. efficiency as well throughout the of operation. It also has a built in air Also on the safety front, citizens community in sanitation, water/ compressor and power inverter, re- are feeling more secure, in the event sewer and brush pickup. New em- ducing the need for extra equipment of a medical emergency, now that the phasis on public safety along with on job sites. city has partnered with the Putnam expanding growth is changing the As the city continues to purchase County EMS. A new 12-hour ambu- face of the city. The Tennessee Mu- newer equipment and vehicles, lance service is operating out of the nicipal League is proud to recognize greater economic success is being current fire hall. Algood’s continuing achievements achieved through the repurposing Algood’s Police department with a Small City Progress Award. of the city’s retired vehicles. For was the recipient of a GHSO grant 2013 was a year of change in example, the city’s new Tarco leaf for $5000, which allows for a much Algood. Revising its charter, the city machine, equipped with power hose needed upgrade in computers for the also took the community to the next lift to keep the leaves and debris city’s officers. level of service with the completion off the street, will be pulled by a “The city has received numerous of a new city hall. The building retired residential garbage truck that awards and recognition from state- As Algood purchases new vehicles and equipment, they are repur- houses the utility office, police became surplus after the new auto- wide organizations, so it is fitting that posing retired vehicles at a huge savings to the city. The city recently department, council chambers, and mated service came into play. The TML awards Algood with the Small repurposed a 1994 Ford F800 truck from a boom truck to a new brush court room all under one roof and garbage truck has been retrofitted City Progress Award,” said Warren truck. The truck was in the city service through the surplus equipment should take the community into the in- house to be used as a leaf and chip Nevad, MTAS municipal manage- program and was too big for the city’s needs. Employees removed next century. truck, freeing up a dump truck for ment consultant. “ The community the bed and sent the truck to Stringfellow of Nashville for an upgrade The building has expanded the other use. The retro fit of this truck has the city’s leadership, administra- to a new knuckle boom loader for brush and large trash items pick accessibility to the public with a was done at minimal expense to the tion, mayor and board of aldermen up service. The $150,000 outfit came in at only $57,000 cost to the drive thru window and drive up night city bringing new life to the older and staff to thank for a great job.” community. This improvement of service has removed the need for a drop for payments. Much needed truck. backhoe and a dump truck to go around town. office and meeting space as well as The city is also repurposing a dedicated space for a council cham- 1994 Ford F800 truck from a boom bers and court room, alleviates the truck to a new brush truck. The need for meetings to be held at the truck was in the city service through community center. The best part is the surplus equipment program and the building is completely paid for was too big for the city’s needs. Em- with no incurred debt for the project. ployees removed the bed and sent the The Sanitation department truck to Stringfellow of Nashville for went through a major upgrade in an upgrade to a new knuckle boom service recently, with the help of loader for brush and large trash items Stringfellow, Inc., providing a new pick up service. The $150,000 outfit automated residential service truck came in at only $57,000 cost to the and 96 gallon Toter carts to the com- city, through the use of this truck munity. The new automated service frame. This improvement of service has improved the look and overall has removed the need for a backhoe efficiency of residential garbage and a dump truck to go around town service, with the new truck running picking up brush. The operation is garbage routes in two days instead now much safer and more efficient McKenzie: Excellence in McKenzie is hosting more community events and festivals, as part of a strategic plan to draw more tourists Community Planning to the city. More than 300 volunteers also painted, cleaned up, painted murals and landscaped downtown. If imagination is good for the and increasing the city’s economic monthly basis to discuss topics McKenzie Special School District. is not only injecting more fun into soul, then dreams are coming true potential. This meeting resulted in relevant to business owners and to The group hears a speaker and dis- the community, but dollars. The city in McKenzie where city officials, a Quality Master Plan and a flurry develop strategies to help local busi- cusses strategies to further the local revived its popular July 4th Freedom business owners, citizens and oth- of projects that are now drawing nesses succeed. workforce and area’s industrial de- Festival, which attracts approxi- er local entities are bustling with visitors to the community. “The city has significantly in- velopment. mately 5,000 people each year, and plans to help revitalize the city’s Having achieved Certified Local creased business licenses by creating The town purchased the historic added a Southern Fried Food and downtown and add business poten- Government status, the city passed an environment where businesses train depot, which is on the National Sweet Tea Festival, along with nu- tial. In the process, the community a historic zoning ordinance to pre- want to open downtown,” said Dana Register of Historic Places, reno- merous other cultural events. such is employing new development serve its downtown business district, Deem, Municipal Technical Adviso- vating the structure to create quality as “Nights on Broadway.” The event strategies, hosting more community setting up a conservation district as ry Service management consultant. office space for the Industrial De- brings a different musical group to events and funding historic resto- well, to preserve surrounding neigh- “This effort has helped to fill empty velopment Board. The city created a the downtown square every Saturday ration projects, as part of the new borhoods. buildings and increase pedestrian dual website shared with the IDB, for night during the months of May and vision for the city. In recognition The city also partnered with traffic downtown.” easier access to information concern- June. of McKenzie’s efforts to boost the Bethel University, sponsoring a The new McKenzie Economic ing the city. The remaining portion The city’s expanded Parks and communitiy’s quality of life and “Make a Difference Day,” where Development Task Force utilizes of the building has been transformed Recreation program provides qual- create a more economically sound more than 300 volunteers worked the Bethel students as interns and into an interesting train museum. ity of life experiences to people of future for its citizens, the Tennes- to paint, clean up, paint murals and volunteers who cold call a list of Renovations to the historic Park all ages, with specialty classes from see Municipal League is proud to landscape the city’s downtown area. companies identified to do well in Theatre are also taking shape, restor- cake decorating to pottery along with present the city with an Excellence McKenzie’s business community expanding or relocating to the city. ing the beloved landmark to its 1940s the Carroll County Walks program. in Community Planning Award. applied for and received a Tennes- The effort was achieved through a grandeur. The town plans to use the Area children can’t wait to get their In 2010, when the town kicked see Downtowns development grant, partnership between the city, Beth- facility for movies, community per- chill on at the highly anticipated off its first “Re-Imagine McKenzie” which was used to improve and beau- el University and the Tennessee formances, job training and meeting downtown splash pad, in the works. meeting, town leaders, business tify downtown building facades. The College of Applied Technology. An space. The water venue will join an existing owners and residents sat down to- grant awardees participated in a se- Industrial Leadership Breakfast also For Civil War buffs, the Tennes- skateboard park and 18-hole golf gether to define the direction the city ries of city-sponsored small business meets quarterly, in order to gather see Historic Commission has placed course. should take to ensure future success. seminars aimed at helping them grow leaders in industry, such as: the city’s two Civil War Trails markers to rec- “McKenzie has made significant Ideas included drawing more vis- their businesses. Industrial Development Board, ognize significant Civil War events progress in their master plan and de- itors and business prospects to the The renewed McKenzie Busi- City Council , College of Applied which took place in McKenzie. serve the TML Community Planning city, revitalizing the downtown area ness Association also meets on a Technology, Bethel University and A boost in events and festivals Award,” Deem said. www.TML1.org 10-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/JUNE 23, 2014 Crime reduction, increasing youth literacy, ending homelessness among Berke’s top priorities as mayor of Chattanooga our firefighters and police officers to ensure BY LINDA BRYANT they understood the scope of the problem. We discussed the various potential solutions, so Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke is of- that we could identify what was most import- ten referred to as a rising political star. The ant to keep as we restructured benefits. We put 46-year-old attorney is likely one of only a forward a solution that the employees bought handful of Democrats in the state who can lay into. It was a pretty big achievement. claim to such a title. Before leaving the Tennes- see State Legislature to run for mayor, Berke TT&C: When you were in the Tennessee represented Hamilton and Marion counties in General Assembly, education issues were a the 10th District as state senator from 2007 to priority for you. You won several awards 2012. for your service, including the Tennessee During Berke’s five-year legislative ten- PTA’s 2012 Legislator of the Year. As ure, he served as the vice-chairman of the mayor, how are you bringing forward your Senate Democratic Caucus and was a member educational priorities? of the Senate Education and Transportation AB: Yes, education is a very important issue committees. He worked on key legislation, to me. I have two young daughters, so I under- including Tennessee Works, First to the Top stand how critical education is to their future. and Complete College Tennessee. He also We all have a role to play in making sure our sponsored a number of bills to help spur kids can succeed. One example is the new entrepreneurship, including the Tennessee Literacy Initiative we put forward. One year Small Business Job Tax Credit, which offers later, we have more than 2,000 kids enrolled tax credits for small businesses that expand in the initiative. In six months time we’ve seen and hire new employees and the Tennessee 437 kids make a year’s worth of progress. On New Entrepreneur Tax Credit, which helps September 2013, we had 31 students reading Tennesseans start up small businesses for the on their grade level. Now we have 341. In addi- first time. tion, we’re working on character issues. They Berke says he learned the basics of are very important in determining who’s going “how to move a community forward” in the to be successful in life. For example, we’ve legislative chambers of the State Capitol. Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke taken 25 young men and 25 young women to Chattanooga voters apparently approved of do intensive mentoring, job training and life the experience and knowledge Berke gained at skills coaching. the state level. He won his mayoral seat in a landslide in early 2013, receiving a whopping TT&C: You have stated growing the local 72 percent of the vote. economy and creating jobs in Chattanooga Chattanooga roots run deep in Berke’s as one of your top priorities. What are you extended family. His grandfather, Harry, doing to achieve these goals? founded a local personal injury and family AB: We have seen 2,047 jobs created in law practice 80 years ago in 1934. His father Chattanooga over the last year. The city has Marvin and uncle Ronald work at the firm, gotten more involved in business develop- and it’s also where Berke landed in the 1990s ment through the Department of Economic after getting his undergraduate degree from and Community Development. In addition, I Stanford University and his law degree from started a process called Chattanooga Forward. the University of Chicago. It consists of six task forces, and one of them Following law school, Berke worked as – the Gig, Tech and Entrepreneurship Task a law clerk for Judge Deanell Tacha of the Force – is key to technology job growth. United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Chattanooga has the fastest, cheapest Judicial Circuit in Denver, CO. During this and most pervasive Internet in the Western time, he also taught at Kansas University Law Hemisphere. We’re committed to keeping our School as an adjunct professor. When he saw momentum going forward, as we continue to many of his former classmates and colleagues build a world-class high-tech ecosystem right migrating to big cities to take jobs with large here in Chattanooga. The Technology, Gig corporations or law firms, Berke started to re- and Entrepreneurship is hard at work and has alize that he preferred Chattanooga for many put forth a report that says we need to do the reasons, not the least of which was the friendly, following three things. No. 1 is to capitalize on person-to-person attributes of the family law tech and business development opportunities practice. here in Chattanooga. No. 2 is to establish an Chattanooga also stood out as a fine place With his family by his side, Andy Berke announces his decision to run for Chattanooga Innovation District that brings together young to call home because Berke recognized that it mayor. Pictured are his wife Monique, and daughters Orly and Hannah. creatives, existing business and university would be a great place to raise a family. He is students and faculty in one place to foster the married to Monique Prado Berke, a prominent greatest creativity. The third is to cross the business leader and classmate from Stanford, ‘digital divide.’ and is father to Hannah, an eighth grader, and Orly, a fifth grader. TT&C: Most towns and cities are chal- Berke has had a full-plate during his first lenged with aging infrastructure. What year in office. He restructured the city gov- are some of your biggest infrastructure ernment and launched numerous initiatives challenges? -- from crime reduction to increasing youth AB: We’re operating under a consent decree literacy to ending homelessness, particularly for water, which is estimated to cost the city among veterans. roughly $250 million over the next 15 years. He’s also keenly focused on making sure Through the Department of Transportation Chattanooga is known as one of the most we’re trying to ensure that we prioritize the innovative and technologically advanced mid- most important projects first. We have a finite sized cities in the country. Sounds lofty, but it’s amount of resources and we have to be sure probably not a stretch to think of the city of we’re using them in the best possible locations. 172,000 in these terms. We have a number of projects going on, Chattanooga is the first city in the Western including changing our streets to make sure Hemisphere to offer one-gigabit-per-second they are friendly to people whether traveling fiber Internet service to all residents and busi- by car, bus or bicycle. Recently, we passed nesses. At 200 times the speed of the national a Complete Streets policy to ensure that our average –“the Gig” as Chattanoogans call roads are efficient and friendly to all travelers. it – is the most advanced smart grid system in Complete Streets follows what some other the nation. Berke and other city leaders see cities have done in working to make sure pol- it as a foundation to continuing innovation During his five-year tenure in the Tennessee General Assembly, Berke served on the icies work to keep streets safe for every type in job creation, education and public use of Senate Education and Transportation committees. He worked on key legislation, including of transportation – pedestrians, bicyclists, technology. Tennessee Works, First to the Top and Complete College Tennessee. cars, and bus riders. We know that one-third “In our past, Chattanooga has experi- of Americans don’t drive, whether by choice enced the dangers of letting time pass us by, General Assembly? How did it prepare you been absent from the education discussion. I because of health issues or because of eco- of relying on industries that pollute our air for your current job? wanted to change that, and I believe strongly nomics. I believe that transportation is about and river, ” Berke said in his State of the City AB: I had never served as an elected official that we need to help all young people succeed connecting people to opportunity, business to address in April. “Today we plant seeds in before I got elected to the legislature. I learned in our city. We also started a new department of market and neighborhoods to each other. It’s new fields. By growing companies that harness a lot just from the act of serving and from Economic and Community Development. Tra- incredibly important and we should make sure the power of Chattanooga’s gigabyte infra- watching Gov. Phil Bredesen. I’m talking ditionally, the city had relied on the Chamber our streets fulfill that promise. structure and utilize the vast amount of data about basics such as writing a budget, getting of Commerce for our recruitment and retention collected over our smart grid, we are staking bills passed and establishing priorities. All efforts. I thought the city needed to have a seat TT&C: Public safety is another one of your out our place in an innovation economy.” those experiences formed my beliefs about at that table. I’ve prioritized four things here in top priorities, particularly the reduction of Berke loves his family life, sports and how we can best move a community forward. Chattanooga – safer streets, smarter students, violent crime. How is it going? watching movies. He’s also known for being In addition, I learned a lot about how to deal stronger neighborhoods and a growing econ- AB: Our streets have been too violent. It’s an avid fan of American rocker Bruce Spring- with legislative bodies. I certainly remember omy and sounder government. We’re making been the No. 1 issue here in Chattanooga. steen. He hosts an annual celebration and my days in the legislature, when I talk to and progress on all fronts. We’ve seen progress. We changed the way fundraiser “Bruce, BBQ and Berke” to stay dealt with city council here in Chattanooga. that we police thanks to the Chattanooga Vi- in touch with constituents and feed his passion In the legislature, I learned how to deal with TT&C: What were you most surprised olence Reduction Initiative. At the end of last for the Glory Days. different voices and opinions. I learned the about during your first year? Did you have year, we saw a 40 percent reduction in our importance of constituent service and making any unexpected challenges, disappoint- shootings. We have budgeted for more police TT&C: You were born and raised in Chat- sure the priorities of different areas and neigh- ments or great victories? officers than ever before in our history. We also tanooga and went on to college at presti- borhoods are recognized. AB: We took on the issue of our pension fund, budgeted to allow a new U.S. Attorney to be gious schools such as Stanford University which was a very difficult process. When I focused solely on crimes that occur within the and the University of Chicago Law School. TT&C: You have been mayor since April took office, the fund was 52 percent funded. Chattanooga city limits. You decided to settle in Chattanooga in the 15, 2013. You recently hit the one-year mark I couldn’t look at our police officers and fire- 1990s, even though it seems like you could and also recently gave your first State of fighters in the eye and tell them that the benefits TT&C: What is an example of something have lived just about anywhere. Why? the City address. You came into office with would be there for them when they retired. you are doing to build and strengthen AB: I love Chattanooga. Certainly, when I was a goal of restructuring city government. Through a lengthy and difficult process, we neighborhoods? growing up here, it wasn’t the city it is today. Can you share some of the changes you’ve ended up making the future of the fund secure, AB: Chattanooga has a problem with afford- I went off to college; I didn’t really realize made? while saving the city of Chattanooga $227 mil- able housing. We have started the Affordable I’d be back someday. When I looked at the AB: When I first came into office, we imme- lion in the process. Securing the pension fund Housing Pilot Program to try to put blighted possibilities, it was clear that Chattanooga diately eliminated four departments and put is big victory for sounder government because parcels back into the market. The program was the right place for me. It was, and still is, the core functions into three new ones, saving it saved taxpayers a great deal of money. It provides incentives for developers to turn a place where a lot is happening. People care taxpayer dollars in the process. Part of what we also has great implications when it comes to vacant or empty city-owned lots into quality about each other, and there’s a real sense of did was to match the city government structure safer streets because we need to have a solid homes that are also affordable. We’ll take community. It’s big enough to be a real city to community priorities. We established a new pension fund to recruit our police officers and pieces of property that currently have zero but not so big that people get lost in it. Department of Transportation because of the firefighters. value to the neighborhood or negative value importance of transportation to business de- to the neighborhood, and make them assets to TT&C: You served in the State Senate be- velopment and neighborhood streets. We put TT&C: How did you do it? the community again. We’re partnering with fore you were elected mayor in 2013. Can together a new Youth and Family Development AB: We put together a task force of business developers who are willing to invest their you share some lessons you learned in the Department because the city has traditionally and public service leaders. We worked with personal capital.