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6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 72, Number 5 March 29, 2021

TN leaders tout positive economic recovery at Legislative Conference

By KATE COIL portion of our CARES money and TML Communications Specialist put it in our unemployment trust fund because of the rapid use of Gov. Bill Lee, Lt. Gov. Randy the dollars in that fund and nearly McNally, House Speaker Cameron 16% unemployment. We knew if we Sexton, and Comptroller Jason could keep that trust fund solvent Mumpower were among the state that the rates that employers pay leaders who discussed the important for unemployment trust insurance issues facing Tennessee and its mu- would not go up.” nicipalities at the TML Legislative As a result, Lee said Tennessee Conference held both virtually and is one of seven states in America that in-person on March 15, 2021. has had a positive economic return With participants both online since April 2020, which will allow and in the conference room of the the state to move forward with other Tennessee State Comptroller’s Of- priorities like healthcare, mental fice at the Cordell Hull Building, health resources, broadband expan- speakers hit on a variety of topics in- sion, and supporting businesses and cluding the state budget, education, communities. tax revenues, rural development, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee addressed 350 city officials via Lee also said he would like economic recovery, healthcare, ZOOM during TML’s 2021 Virtual Legislative Conference. to see more strong investments in and forthcoming federal stimulus Lt. Gov Rancy McNally reported on the foster care services, adoption ser- dollars. fiscal health of the state. vices, health services for families, Gov. Bill Lee said the state has modernizing TANF, and other issues faced numerous challenges since that impact children and families. March 2020 including tornados, House Speaker Cameron the pandemic, civil unrest, and Sexton discussed issues including economic concerns. the state’s budget, education, prop- “It has not been an easy year for erty taxes, and economic recovery you or any person in a leadership from the pandemic. Sexton said he role right now,” Lee said. “It has believes the Legislature is in favor certainly been a challenging year. of a proposal from Gov. Bill Lee to But at the same time, it has created allocate $200 million in state funds the opportunity for us to make in the form of local government decision that we think – together grants. collectively with city leaders, our “Whether it will be the whole office, and the Legislature – will $200 million, I’m not sure,” he said. have a positive impact on Tennessee “There will be some amount that as we navigate through some tough will go to the cities and counties. I waters.” would just say to be cautious and Lee highlighted how the state House Speaker Cameron Sexton discussed the state’s not budget what you think you are has maintained its commitment to economic recovery from the pandemic. going to get. Last time when the low taxes, investing in financial governor proposed this, we changed reserves, and responsible manage- At left: Comptroller Jason Mumpower talked the importat the formula to help the smaller and ment of funding despite the ongoing role municipalities have in the state’s overall financial health See CONFERENCE on Page 3 financial concerns created by the and the distribution of federal stimulus funds. pandemic. Unlike nearly half the states in the U.S., Tennessee’s un- CARES money and $150 million recognize one of the most important employment trust fund has remained to nonprofits,” Lee said. “We set things we needed to do was protect TN Comptroller releases solvent during this time. up an additional recovery grant our businesses in the midst of this “We have directly sent $200 program, the SURGE program, difficult economic time, so we made initial guidance to cities on million to businesses out of that that has $150 million set aside. We the decision to take the largest American Rescue Plan Act The U.S. Congress has passed Comptroller’s Office is providing Communication boards aim to the “American Rescue Plan Act” the following information: (Act) of 2021. Provisions of the Act 1. Funds received related to pro- include $130.2 billion for a Local visions of the Act should be main- include all at Spring Hill parks Fiscal Recovery Fund to be split tained separately from other funds between cities and counties, as well received by your organization. By KATE COIL as $122.7 billion for an Education Expenditures related to the use of Stabilization Fund, which states these funds should also be separated A new project is hoping to cre- are required to subgrant to local from other expenditures. Detailed ate ease of access for patrons with education agencies. documentation for all transactions disabilities at parks across the city At this time, the state is un- should be maintained. of Spring Hill. certain as to the exact amount of 2. The Division of Local Govern- The city will be installing com- funding that will be made available ment Audit will add new accounts munication boards on the perime- to Tennessee local governments and to the Uniform Chart of Accounts ter of the playgrounds at Harvey to the State Department of Educa- to allow counties to separately track Park, Evans Park, and Fischer Park tion. Some of this money will be funds provided by the Act. at Port Royal. sent directly to local governments 3. A separate set of files should The project was started by Al- from the U.S. Treasury and other be established for these funds. lyssa VelDink, a speech language funds will flow through the state. They will be subject to audit under pathologist at Arise Therapies in One half of Local Fiscal Recovery the Single Audit Act and OMB’s Spring Hill who specializes in funds are to be made available with- Uniform Guidance. augmentative and alternative com- in the next 60 days, with the second 4. The following should be con- munication device (AAC) therapy. half to be provided 12 months later. sidered before spending any funds Arise Therapies partnered with Local governments will have until associated with the Act: the Kiwanis Club of Spring Hill/ Dec. 31, 2024, to spend the funds. • No expenditures should be Thompson’s Station and the city As a local government entity, made before cities are certain of Spring Hill to install the boards cities should be preparing for an- that the use of funds comply at parks across the city. other large influx of federal funds. with the provisions of the Act. Kayce Williams, parks and As with the CARES Act, specific • The comptroller recommends recreation director for the city of guidance as to eligibility and these funds be used for one- Spring Hill, said the partnership is spending requirements is not yet time expenses. This should an example of Spring Hill residents available and may not be received be taken into consideration coming together with the city for before funds begin to be distributed. if funds are used for capital the benefit of everyone involved. New communications boards have been erected at playgrounds The Comptroller’s Office is waiting projects (i.e.; water, sewer, or “Our city staff is highly com- throughout the city of Spring Hill. The boards help those with a for further directions from the U.S. broadband) that may require mitted to serving our community vairety of conditions to better communicate with others. Office of Management and Budget future resources or on-going and our city leadership supports us, (OMB) and other federal and state maintenance. but sometimes we receive an extra for those who are non-verbal, than the successful understanding agencies. • These funds cannot be depos- blessing when we connect with highly unintelligible, or unable to of the message.” In the meantime, until the state ited in a pension fund or be wonderful private sector partners use traditional forms of speech to Williams said the commu- receives specific guidance, the See FUNDS on Page 5 who have that same commitment to communicate. These boards are nication boards are another way serving the community,” Williams composed of easy-to-understand of ensuring that all residents of said. “We are so grateful to Arise pictures and an alphabet board Spring Hill feel included in the Therapies and Kiwanis for making that patrons of all ages can use if community. this possible. Their partnership on they are in need of assistance or to “We want everyone to feel wel- this project has been amazing. To communicate with others. come and safe in our parks, espe- some it may seem like an insig- According to the Interna- cially those with verbal intricacies. nificant thing, but I promise you, tional Society for Augmentative It is not only important to provide a Save the Dates! it matters. Even if these commu- and Alternative Communication way for communication to happen nication boards only help just one (ISAAC), communication boards in the event someone needs assis- TML Annual Conference person, it’s worth it.” are “a set of tools and strategies that tance, it is also important to provide A type of AAC, communica- an individual uses to solve every another way for people to connect Sept. 18 - 21, 2021 Chattanooga tion boards can be used by people day communicative challenges” with one another,” she said. “Our With the uncertainty that the Coronavirus still presents and the with conditions including autism faced by both children and adults department’s mission is to provide risks that it imposes to our public health, the Executive Committee of spectrum disorders, speech aprax- with certain impairments. safe and accessible facilities for all the Tennessee Municipal League Board of Directors agreed that it is in ia, cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s “Everyone uses multiple forms of our citizens, enrich their quality the best interest of our membership to reschedule TML’s 2021 Annual disease, multiple sclerosis, strokes, of communication, based upon the of life, and foster community en- Conference for a time later in the year. dementia, traumatic brain injuries, context and our communication vironments. Community is about With this in mind and with the support of the TML Board, TML staff deafness, selective muteness, partner,” ISAAC’s website reads. living our best lives together. I worked to secur new dates – Sept. 18-21, 2021 – at the Chattanooga learning disabilities or delays, “Effective communication occurs believe that means meeting others Convention Center. ALS, and other disabilities. when the intent and meaning of one where they are in their life, not So please mark your calendars to save the dates. We will provide The boards have all patrons in individual is understood by another expecting others to adapt to us. It more program information in the upcoming months. mind, but are specifically designed person. The form is less important is an attitude of service.” www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021 Collierville unveils new police drone unit

CLARKSVILLE and is expected to be completed in power initiatives, Nashville recently The city of Clarksville has purchased 2022. Royal Canin’s investment modified its building codes for great- the historic Roxy Theatre at 100 will enable the facility to expand its er energy efficiency in residential Franklin Street from Roxy Theatre capabilities to manufacture the Roy- and commercial buildings. These Productions, Inc., to maintain the al Canin and Eukanuba health and upgrades could reduce energy use modern performing arts center in nutrition product lines. With the in- in newly-constructed homes by up the city’s downtown. The Clarks- vestment, Royal Canin will add more to 30% – resulting in a net lifetime ville City Council voted in February than 108,000 square feet of new utility savings of $8,034 for Nash- to purchase the theatre with final working space with five additional ville homeowners. transactions for the property closed highly automated production lines, in March. The city paid $810,000 for doubling the plant capacity. Found- NASHVILLE a clean-title purchase of the property ed in 1968 and purchased by Mars, NTT DATA officials announced that with closing costs bringing the total Inc. in 2001, Royal Canin is a global the company will establish an inno- to $813,000. Roxy Productions, Inc., leader in pet science, health and nu- vation and digital delivery center in will still operate out of the property trition. Royal Canin manufactures Nashville, investing $9.9 million under a lease agreement with the city. and supplies cat and dog food and is and creating 350 jobs. The global committed to science-based research IT services leader said the project Under the current agreement, the city The Collierville Police Department has announced the creation of and innovation that provides formu- will have a focus on healthcare and will combine the Roxy property with an eight-member Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Unit to help las with individualized nutritional manufacturing technology. NTT adjacent tracts already owned by the both fire and police personnel in their work. The team consists of solutions for cats and dogs. DATA’s new center will focus on city to construct the new performing three police officers from the Collierville Police Department and three developing and deploying digital arts center. Built in 1947 after a members of the Collierville Fire Department. Tyler Williams is the KNOXVILLE and industry skills within the IT previous theatre on the site burned UAS unit commander as well as the assistant commander for the Knoxville has become one of only 38 sector. The company will provide down, the Roxy Theatre has served STAR (Strategic Tracking and Recovery) Unit. Other members of cities and only the second in the state U.S.-based service delivery to local, as a back drop for numerous films, the unit include Justin Lewis, Jessica Peterson, Matthew Medlock, of Tennessee to earn the Tree Cities national and international clients photo shoots, music videos, and and Richard Gallo of the Collierville PD; and Lt. Dustin Johnson, of the World Recognition from the and serve as a cross-industry and commercials. Daniel LaPlante, and Mike Sansone of the Collierville FD. Arbor Day Foundation and United technology showcase from its office COLLEGEDALE Nations’ Food and Agriculture Or- in downtown Nashville’s Capitol The city of Collegedale and McKee ganization. The city of Germantown View. NTT DATA Corporation, Foods are moving forward on a new was recognized by the program last based in Tokyo, Japan, is one of the Springfield city employees park after years of planning. The year. Knoxville has joined 120 other world’s largest IT and business ser- unnamed park is to be located on cities from 63 countries to earn this vice providers. A Fortune Global 500 give back to those in need 10 acres of land owned by the city unique designation, which aims to Company, NTT DATA Corporation behind Collegedale Commons with recognize the vital role trees play employs 130,000 people worldwide McKee Foods building and paying in healthy, livable, and sustainable and delivers services in more than 50 for the park. The city will then main- communities around the globe. countries. NTT DATA Services is a tain the facility once it is built. Plans Knoxville has been a Tree City USA U.S.-based division with headquar- for the park include an accessible Award honoree for 29 consecutive ters in Plano, Texas, that employs playground area, walkways, a climb- years. In 2020, city crews under the more than 50,000 professionals ing wall, zipline, and open spaces for direction of Urban Forester Kasey who work with the world’s leading games or picnics. Officials hope the Krouse planted 785 trees in parks, at brands. park project will be completed by the schools and in public rights-of-way. end of the year. The city boasts more than 30,000 NOLENSVILLE trees planted in public spaces. Visit The town of Nolensville will es- COOKEVILLE www.treecitiesoftheworld.org to see tablish its first fully-staffed fire A $87,000 donation from the com- a list of other recognized cities. department with the intention of the munity will help finish the restroom department being fully operational facilities at the city of Cookeville’s MORRISTOWN by July. The city has been building Dogwood Park’s fully accessible The city of Morristown has received the department from the ground up playground. The Heart of the City a $500,000 HOME Program grant since December following the hiring Playground began as a community from the Tennessee Housing Devel- of Fire Chief David Windrow. The project in 2015 bringing together opment Agency (THDA) to make town will begin hiring its captains members of the city’s playground much-needed repairs to the homes and higher-level staff in the coming committee, Cookeville Leisure of elderly and disabled residents. weeks while continuing to recruit Services, and a host of community Funded by the U.S. Department of full-time firefighters throughout the donors and volunteers to create a Housing and Urban Development spring. The town is expected to hire 12,000-square-foot, all-inclusive (HUD), the program recently award- up to eight firefighters. The new fire playground. The new funds will ed THDA $6.9 million to grant to department will be headquartered in allow for a restroom facility outside local governments and agencies the volunteer hall and will continue Employees with the city of Springfield lent a hand at a recent food the playground fence featuring a statewide. Morristown officials said to work with the volunteer depart- giveaway held by the Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency pagoda-style roof that will also pro- the funds will be used to renovate ment established in the town in 1973 at the city’s J. Travis Price Park. Food insecurity has become a vide additional shade. The restroom or rebuild at least 15 single-family as a combination department. major issue for many communities due to the ongoing COVID-19 will include two handicap accessible homes within the city, benefitting pandemic as citizens find themselves working less or out of work. toilets. The playground attracts fam- low- and very-low-income individ- SEVIERVILLE ilies from not just Cookeville but uals and families. The city of Sevierville is one of the Sit-in participants honored throughout the Upper Cumberland top wish-listed travel destinations in region to enjoy the specialized play MORRISTOWN the world for users of the rental web- with Jackson City Hall exhibit equipment. Officials with the city of Morristown site Airbnb. The company reported broke ground on Morristown Land- more than half of those who were FARRAGUT ing, the site of a new $36 million looking into staying in Sevierville A new temporary exhibit will high- community center that is expected were also looking at outdoor pursuits light the life of Farragut’s namesake, to be opened next year on the west in the area, particularly around the Admiral David Glasgow Farragut. side of town. The name of the site is Great Smoky Mountains National Born only a few miles from where a nod to the location near the local Park. Airbnb reported 76% of users the town is presently located, the airport and Morristown’s history said thinking about future travel Union Admiral made his name of aviation. The 100,000-square- plans helped ease anxiety during the during the Battle of Mobile Bay. foot facility will feature a 25-yard, pandemic with 60% wanting to visit Artifacts not typically on display six-lane lap pool, a family aquatic new places and 61% wanting to re- will be brought out at the Farragut center, fitness center, fieldhouse, four turn to a previous travel destination. Museum to showcase some of the hardwood courts for basketball and Other cities at the top dream travel extensive collection of family photo- volleyball, climbing walls, meeting destination included Los Angeles; graphs, manuscripts, letters, uniform rooms, event spaces, and an outdoor Seoul, South Korea; Atlanta; Paris, ornamentation, personal china, and splash pad. The new community France; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Bali; scrimshaw connected with the ad- center will also host camps, youth Indonesia; Mexico City; Cape Town, miral. The exhibit will be featured and adult sports leagues, and mem- South Africa; and London. in the museum’s Bill Dunlap Gallery bership programs for fitness. telling the story of how Farragut be- THOMPSON’S STATION came the first commissioned admiral NASHVILLE A new amphitheater carved out of in the U.S. Navy. The museum is The city of Nashville will install the historic Graystone Quarry in located within Farragut Town Hall 9,777 solar panels in a large-scale Thompson’s Station is expected to and is operating at reduced hour photovoltaic solar facility housed at open by the end of the year. Live due to COVID-19. Visitors can see three of the city’s water treatment Nation Entertainment is behind the the exhibit from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. plants. The panels will generate 3.2 7,500-seat open-air live entertain- Monday through Thursday. megawatts of power and achieve a ment venue on the 138-acre quarry carbon emissions reduction equiva- site. The amphitheater will be po- LEBANON lent to removing 600 vehicles from sitioned at the base of a limestone Royal Canin announced the compa- the road. In 2020, Metro Nashville rock quarry surrounded by cliffs up ny will expand its Lebanon opera- became the first local government to 100 feet tall, creating a dramatic A new exhibit at Jackson City Hall honors four local civil rights pio- tions, adding more than 90 jobs and to pursue access to utility-scale outdoor location with ideal visual neers who participated in sit-ins to end racial segregation in the city. investing more than $200 million. solar power in the Tennessee Valley and acoustic space for music events. Former Lane College students Shirlene Mercer (center), Kimmie The facility expansion began in 2019 Authority (TVA) service territory. The reclaimed quarry was active 50 Davis, Wesley McClure, and Ernest Brooks Sr.(right) are honored That project should result in yet years ago, with the rock used in the in the exhibit that details their sit-in protest at the Woolworth’s lunch another emissions reduction – this construction of Highway 65. In ad- counter in the fall of 1960. Known as “the freshman four,” the stu- one equivalent to taking more than dition to the amphitheater itself, the dents protest led to demonstrations at other downtown businesses TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY 14,000 vehicles off the road every space will include a 1.5-acre plaza Tennessee Town & City (ISSN 00403415, in Jackson and were instrumental in changing laws in the city. Also USPS 539420) is published semi-monthly year for 20 years. In addition to solar for gathering, dining, and retail. pictured is Jackson Mayor Scott Conger (left). except in the months of June and December 19 times per year by Tennessee Municipal League, 226 Anne Dallas Dudley Blvd, Suite 710, Nashville TN 37219-1894. Subscription rates: $6 per year to mem- bers, $15 to nonmembers, $1 a copy. Periodicals Postage Paid at Nashville TN. POSTMASTER:Send address changes to Tennessee Town & City, 226 Anne Dallas Dudley Blvd, Suite 710, Nashville TN 37219-1894. Official publication of the Tennessee Municipal League. Publisher: Anthony Haynes ([email protected]); Editor: Carole Graves (cgraves@TML1. org; Phone: 615-255-6416. Advertising: Publisher reserves the right to reject any ad- vertising deemed unacceptable. Fax classi- fied ads toTT&C: Attention Carole Graves at 615-255-4752, or e-mail cgraves@ TML1.org. Fax advertising copy to TT&C: Attention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or e-mail to dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions expressed by non League officials or staff do not necessarily reflect policies of TML. www.TML1.org 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021 State leaders tout positive economic recovery at Legislative Conference CONFERENCE from Page 1 counties in Tennessee, what is the more rural areas.” standing of your local govern- Sexton weighed in on a propos- ments. They understand the sum al that would cap property tax rates of the parts is key to understanding for municipalities in the state. the health of the whole.” “There are a couple diff erent The impact of stimulus money ideas on this,” Sexton said. “One is another issue Mumpower said is from the Beacon Center and an- his offi ce is working on with local other is to change how we access governments. Mumpower reported property taxes in the state. Florida previous stimulus funds are one of uses the market value of the house, the reasons why sales tax revenues a certain percentage of what the increased in nearly every city and value is unlike how we currently county in the state when compared do it. But mostly, our approach is to last year despite the pandemic not to control what cities do but to and helped contribute to the state make sure you don’t price out senior being more than $1 billion over citizens and lower-income people.” original estimates in terms of rev- Lt. Gov. Randy McNally enue. said he is still anticipating an April The new round of stimulus Sen. Richard Briggs Rep. John Crawford adjournment for the Legislature money recently approved by the Chairman Senate State and Local Committee Chairman House Local Government Committee despite early delays in the session federal government will provide from inclement weather. Education, relief as well as challenges, he said. the budget, rural development, and “What a great load of money closing gaps in internet and cell it is, but that is also a little scary,” service are some of the priorities Mumpower said. “And if cities McNally said the state will be tack- aren’t also a little scared about this ling during the ongoing session. bucket of money being dropped McNally said there will be in your lap, you aren’t taking it about $10.7 billion coming to the seriously enough. While it is a state from the Biden Administration program that will allow tens of for pandemic recovery that will be millions, hundreds of millions of a combination of state, local, and dollars to fl ow to Tennessee’s cities direct aid to individuals. Of the and counties, it is a great responsi- $6.3 billion going to state and local bility. You must be careful in how governments, McNally said $3.85 you choose to use it, spend it, and billion is expected to go directly to invest it so as to create benefi t for the state, $1.3 billion to counties, your community but not create an $513 million to metro cities, and ongoing challenge by using this $431 million to non-metro cities. one-time money.” McNally also gave an update Department of Revenue on the state’s fi nancial health. Commissioner David Gerregano “I would like to see us put more discussed the fi nancial impact the Revenue Commissioner David Gerregano into the state’s rainy day fund,” pandemic has had on the state. McNally said. “Right now, we can One surprise was the increase in Ken Moore, TML 1st Vice President run for about 25 days or so without sales tax revenues reported amid and Franklin Mayor any revenue. The standard is about 30 days. I would like to see that in- crease a little bit. The state took on no new debt in the past few years, and if you look at our overall indebt- edness, we are at the very bottom of states that borrow money. We have a structurally balanced budget.” Senate State and Local Com- mittee Chairman Sen. Richard Briggs said he believes working in local government is one of the toughest jobs but also one of the most important “I’ve always said the toughest elected jobs in government – other than being president of the U.S. - are those local government jobs,” he said. “If you’re on the local school board, the county commission, the city councilmen and aldermen have to make these really tough decisions at every meeting that eff ect the TML Executive Director Anthony Haynes and PEP President/CEO people who live there. On top of Michael Fann that, when you go to church or go shopping, you run into those people and have to look them in the eye about making those decisions.” Briggs said this is why he feels it is important for the state to leave many issues up to local decision makers. “We have so many preemption laws,” he said. “What I try to do when we have the opportunity is to do what we call permission bills or local option bills. I don’t like man- dated bills, especially the unfunded TML Deputy Director Chad Jenkins mandates. Local governments know and Paris Commissioner Sam Tharpe the needs, the personality of the lo- cal community, and how the people there like their government run.” House Local Government Committee Chairman Rep. John Crawford said one of the issues the McKenzie Mayor Jill Holland and TMBF President / CEO Wade Morrell legislature is looking at is how the need for electronic meetings during the pandemic has changed the way the pandemic. tax at package liquor stores is up. some governments and constituents “The state was very concerned There is an obvious shift. What is want to see government business at the start of the pandemic, and as interesting is building materials and conducted. collections have come in, we have durable goods are up signifi cantly. A “Looking at the data that has been cautiously optimistic – with lot of people are staying home and been provided to me, it seems to an emphasis on caution – as we doing home improvement projects, me that those participating in elec- move forward,” Gerregano said. building out or refurbishing home tronic meetings have seen both the “Some of this consumption may offi ces. Home furnishing and appli- attendance of local offi cials go up have been driven by the federal ance sales are up, which is driven and there has been an increase in stimulus money that has come in, by stimulus and unemployment attendance by the public,” Crawford in context of sales tax in particular. payments.” said. “If Mom or Dad have to get I think unemployment benefi ts have Complete coverage of all of the Above: Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown and Lawrenceburg Mayor Blake home and fi x dinner for the kids, been a huge help in maintaining speakers’ remarks can be found on Lay. Below: Henderson Mayor Bobby King, Livingston Mayor Curtis they don’t have time to run out to consumption of sales taxable items. TML’s website at www. TML1.org Hayes and TML Council Doug Johnson the local city council meeting. If One thing in talking with the Labor they can pull it up on their computer, Department a little while back is that they can hear what is being said and they typically pay out $200 million still be a part of what is happening in unemployment insurance benefi ts in their community.” in a calendar year. In October, they Comptroller Jason Mum- had already paid out $6 billion.” power said municipalities have The revenue department has an important role in the overall also seen the way the pandemic fi nancial health of the state. is changing how Tennesseans are “It is important to the state of choosing to spend money. Tennessee that local governments “While overall collections are are successful,” he said. “Every up and that is really great news, year – except last year – we go to that doesn’t mean every sector has New York City in person, and we fared the same,” Gerregano said. place the state’s credit rating up for “We have certainly seen that in col- review in front of the major bond lections. Grocery store sales are up fundraising agencies. We did this while restaurants are dramatically virtually this year, but whether it’s down and have been down through virtual or in person, the way it has this whole period. Of course, these started for the past many years has things are constantly evolving. been the same. They start by asking Sales tax from liquor-by-the-drink us what is the health of cities and is down dramatically, but sales 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021 www.TML1.org Collegedale’s Rogers retires

Melisa watch pro- from his po- Brown has gram. Long sition as the resigned as has more city’s electric vice mayor than 23 director. Ardo of La Vergne years of ex- Bo, who pres- after making perience in ently serves the decision law enforce- as the electric to move out ment with operations of the city. Melisa Brown the Robert- manager, will Jack Suggs Brown was son County Jerry Long serve as in- first elected to the board in 2014 Sheriff’s Of- terim electric director. Suggs has and has served as the city’s vice fice and is a certified instructor been with the city of Oak Ridge mayor since 2019. The city will for EVOC and firearms. He holds since 1989 when he was hired as vote in April to name a replacement a bachelor’s degree in criminal assistant director of public works to serve the remainder of her term justice from Bethel University and after serving in several similar ending in November 2022 as well is a graduate of the Tennessee Law positions in Texas. He was pro- as to appoint a new vice mayor for Enforcement Academy (TLEA). moted to serve as the city’s electric Collegedale City Manager Ted Rogers, left, with Collegedale Mayor the city. director in 1991. Suggs has served Katie Lamb, right, at Rogers’ retirement celebration on March 12, Jo Math- in a variety of leadership roles with 2021, after nearly 15 years of service. Rogers has served as the Ray Burney erne, the the Tennessee Valley Public Power city manager for Collegedale since 2006. With degrees in allied has been pro- first female Association, Tennessee Municipal health, education, management, and a master’s in administration moted to bat- mayor of Electric Power Association, Appa- and leadership, Rogers is an ICMA credentialed manager, a certified talion chief Browns- lachian Public Power Association, municipal finance officer (CMFO), and was selected as City -Man for A Shift ville, died and national advisory roles for the ager of the Year by the Tennessee City Management Association with the Oak March 1, Electric Power Research Institute. (TCMA) in 2018. Ridge Fire 2020 after He holds a bachelor’s degree in Department. a struggle Jo Matherne engineering technology from Texas Burney most with cancer Tech University and a master’s of Ray Burney Chattanooga, Dayton hold recently at the age of 71. Matherne served civil engineering from Texas A&M served as a captain with the depart- as mayor of the city from 2010 University. ment and will take on the new role until 2014, during which time she March municipal elections following Eric Rackard’s recent helped Brownsville become part Tommy Voters recently went to the Incumbent Councilman Ken promotion to fire marshal. Burney of the Main Street Communities Thompson polls in municipal elections held Smith won the District 3 race has been with the Oak Ridge Fire program and the restoration of the has retired af- in March in the cities of Chatta- while incumbent Darrin Ledford Department since 2004 and has Flagg Grove School as part of the ter 44 years nooga and Dayton. fended off Bill Lloyd in the Dis- been in fire service since 1985 Tina Turner Museum at the West as district One new candidate was seat- trict 4 race. In District 8, incum- when he began working for the Tennessee Delta Heritage Center. attorney gen- ed and three races will go to run- bent Anthony Byrd retained his Blair Volunteer Fire Department in A Brownsville native, Matherne eral of Ten- off elections in April following seat over challengers Marie Mott Oliver Springs as a firefighter and earned a bachelor’s degree in nessee’s 15th Chattanooga’s municipal elec- and D’Andrew Anderson while EMT. He also worked part-time education and a master’s degree judicial dis- tions held on March 2. incumbent Demetrus Coonrod Tommy Tim Kelly and Kim White defeated Kelvin Scott to retain her as an EMT paramedic for Roane in communication from the Uni- trict, which Thompson County during that period. He versity of Tennessee at Knoxville. includes Wil- were the top vote-getters in a District 9 seat. began working as a fire protection She worked for several years in son, Smith, Macon, Trousdale, and crowd of 15 candidates for Chatta- District 7 voted to elect new- specialist at the K-25 site in 1990 marketing and public relations at Jackson counties. Thompson was nooga mayor. Kelly bested White comer and community advocate before coming to ORFD. He holds local banks and then at her own first appointed district attorney of by 300 votes in the initial election, Raquetta Dotley over former an associate’s degree in fire science firm. She returned to Brownsville the district in 1977 and was then though neither garnered the more mayoral chief of staff Ken Hays and bachelor’s degree in fire -ad in 1999 to work in the field and elected to the position in 1978 for than 50% total require to be seated in the race to replace councilman ministration both from Columbia became involved in numerous the first time. He would be elected as mayor. Erskine Oglesby, who unsuccess- Southern University. local causes such as the Haywood to five more terms. At the time of his Kelly and White are both ful ran for mayor. Heritage Foundation, Brownsville retirement, Thompson is believed to business and nonprofit leaders The District 2 and District 5 Jerry Long has been selected as Rotary Club, and Brownsville Art have the longest active tenure of any in the Chattanooga community. seats will head to a run-off elec- the new community engagement Council. Following her time as district attorney general in the state. Kelly is CEO of the Chattanooga tion. Hamilton County Board of officer for the Springfield Police mayor of Brownsville, she took Jason Lawson has been appointed Football Club and is the owner or Education Member Jenny Hill Department. The newly created a position with the Southwest pro tem district attorney general fol- past owner of several local busi- and local business owner Thomas position includes serving as a spe- Tennessee Development District lowing Thompson’s retirement with nesses including a car dealership. Lee will face off to replace retiring cial events coordinator, city court (SWTDD). Gov. Bill Lee expected to make an White is the former CEO and pres- Councilman Jerry Mitchell in the officer, and a liaison for local busi- appointment to fill out Thompson’s ident of the nonprofit redevelop- District 2 race while Hamilton nesses, general sessions court, his- Jack Suggs has been promoted to remaining term, which ends in Au- ment agency River City Co., and Conty Democratic Party Vice toric district, and the neighborhood deputy city manager of Oak Ridge gust 2022. served in recruitment for Fortune Chairman Dennis Clark and en- 500 companies. If elected, White trepreneur Isaiah Hester will vie would be the first female mayor of for the District 5 seat vacated by Congratulations to the following Chattanooga. Councilman Russell Gilbert, who members of the Lebanon Fire Top-runners up in the race in- ran unsuccessfully for mayor. Department for promotions in cluded former city attorney Wade Run-off elections for both the rank at the administrative level. Hinton and local entrepreneur mayoral seat and two open district David Means has been promoted Monty Bruell. Other unsuccessful seats will be held on April 13. to captain as communications candidates vying for the mayoral The city of Dayton held a coordinator. Joe Simms and Brian seat included Russell J. Gilbert Sr., special election on March 17 to Fountain have been promoted to Elenora Woods, Chris Long, Er- fill the term of late Councilman division chief of EMS and division skine Oglesby, Monty Dewayne Jim Lewis who died in December, chief of training, respectively. Cap- Bell, Robert C. Wilson, Andrew ahead of the city’s regularly sched- tain Means has been employed McLaren, D’Angelo Davis, Chris- uled election on April 21. with the Lebanon Fire Department topher Dahl, George Ryan Love, Local contractor Caleb Yawn since June 2005, with more than and Lon Cartwright. won the seat with 328 votes to for- 20 years total experience in emer- Nine city council seats were mer Graysville Mayor Ted Doss’ gency services. Division Chief also up for grabs in the city 125 votes and restaurateur Lance Simms has also been with the election. District 1 Councilman Sholl’s 59 votes. fire department since June 2005. Chip Henderson and District 6 Dayton citizens will return to Division Chief Fountain has been Councilwoman Carol Berz both the polls on April 21 to choose the with the Lebanon Fire Department retained their seats after running city’s mayor and two additional since November 2003. unopposed. council seats. No loan is too large or too small

The city of LaFollette recently closed on a $1.5 million note with the Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund (TMBF) to finance various public works projects for the city. LaFollette has used TMBF programs 16 times since 1993. Seated L to R: Mayor The city of Trenton recently closed on a $275,000 note with the Ten- Mike Stanfield, and Stan Foust, city recorder. Standing L to R: Steve Queener, nessee Municipal Bond Fund (TMBF) issued for city paving projects. TMBF marketing representative; Terry Sweat, finance director; and Jim Jeffries, Seated L to R: Leigh Ann Grice, city recorder, and Trenton Mayor Ricky city administrator. Johnson. Standing is Tommy Green, TMBF marketing representative. The city has used TMBF programs 10 times since 2000. See us for your special projects needs. (615) 255-1561 www.TML1.org 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021 Updates, upgrades ongoing at state park facilities Visitors to Tennessee State Parks this spring and summer will notice several renovations, The Great Smoky Mountains long-term growth in college updates, and upgrades to facilities National Park experienced its enrollment and graduate rates. across the state. second-busiest year on record Four years after the launch of the The Tennessee Department despite being closed for more program, the college-going rate of Environment and Conservation than a month due to COVID-19. of Tennesseans has declined from (TDEC) said approximately $184 The park had a total of 12,095,720 64.4% to 61.8% with less partic- million in capital projects were visits in 2020, just under the record ipants on track to graduate than conducted at the parks in 2020 with of 12.5 million visitors reported in five years ago. In order to achieve greater expectations for ongoing 2019. Park rangers have worked the state goal of increasing the projects in 2021. Tennessee State with local municipalities and visi- percentage of Tennesseans with a Parks have already opened facili- tors to solve challenges presented postsecondary credential to 55% ties including: by the pandemic, including a pilot by 2025, officials said the state • 117-room lodge at Montgom- project to address congestion in would have to increase the number ery Bell State Park in Burns, some areas of the park. The surge of students who enter and remain a $12.1 million investment in use did bring issues to the park in the Tennessee Promise program. expected to support 189 jobs. including traffic, overflowing park- The state reported a 10.3% drop in The economic impact of the ing lots, crowded bathrooms, liter, enrollment in community colleges construction is $29.1 million. and damage to park property. The this past fall due to the pandemic, • $11.7 million renovation of Smokies remain the nation’s most and officials are concerned fewer the lodge at Pickwick Landing visited national park. Tennesseans will be earning de- State Park, expected to involve grees in the future as the pandemic 183 jobs. The construction The new Tennessee State Library exacerbated retention rates. To economic impact is $28.1 and Archives building is set to read the full report, visit: www. million. open in April. State Librarian and comptroller.tn.gov. • $2.8 million visitors’ center Archivist Chuck Sherill told a State at Cummins Falls State Park Senate panel the ribbon cutting for A new report from the Tennes- in Cookeville, expected to Top: The new lodge at Pickwick Landing State Park was part of $184 the new facility is scheduled for see Bureau of Investigation has support 43 jobs. The construc- million in renovations to park properties in 2020. April 12. Work began on the $123.8 reported crime has decreased on tion economic impact is $6.7 Bottom: Renovations to the lodge at Fall Creek Falls State Park are million facility in 2005 with a K-12 school campuses, though million. part of ongoing projects at parks this spring and summer. groundbreaking ceremony held in the pandemic might be some of • $3 million visitors’ center at late 2017. Collections and staff cur- the cause. The number of reported Fall Creek Falls State Park in 689 jobs with an economic impact rant at Henry Horton State Park in rently situated at the 1950s era ar- offenses on elementary, middle, Spencer, estimated to support of $105.6 million. Both facilities Chapel Hill, an investment of $8.25 chives building directly west of the and high school campuses dropped 47 jobs. The economic impact have been greatly anticipated. million. Expected to be finished in State Capitol are currently being 59% between 2018 and 2020 with of construction alone is $7.2 Officials also recently cut the the late spring or early summer, moved into the new facility, which only 2,000 incidents reported in million. ribbon on the new Great River the renovations include an exhibit is located near the new Tennessee 2020. A total of 24,403 crimes Road Visitors Center at Reelfoot and interpretive area, indoor and State Museum at the Bicentennial were reported on campuses during In addition to its new visitor’s Lake State Park, which will serve outdoor dining areas, gift shop, and Capitol Mall State Park. the three-year period with simple center, Fall Creek Falls State Park as a gateway for visitors to the park, conference room. This construc- assault being the most common will see the opening of a new $40.4 northwest Tennessee, and the Great tion will support 129 jobs with an Despite increasing the number of offense followed by drug and nar- million, 85-room lodge, expected River Road Scenic Byway, which economic impact of $19.8 million. high school graduates attending cotic usage. TBI also reported the to support 634 jobs with an eco- was recently named to the federal Ongoing renovations at the college, a new report from the number weapons found or used on nomic impact of $97.2 million. list of scenic byways. Homestead Harvest Restaurant at Tennessee Comptroller’s Office school campuses declined from Construction is under way at Paris TDEC announced construc- Cumberland Mountain State Park suggests the Tennessee Prom- 4,895 in 2018 to 4,830 weapons in Landing State Park on a new $43.9 tion of a two-story visitors’ center are expected to be complete in ise program is not sustaining 2019 and 1,839 in 2020. million lodge, expected to support and new 6,381-square-foot restau- Spring 2021. February revenues over $112.7M TN Comptroller releases Tennessee Department of continue to do so in the near-term. a year-to-date basis they are $6.8 initial guidance to cities on Finance and Administration Com- Future economic projections will million more than estimates. missioner Butch Eley announced be difficult to achieve until that Tobacco taxes were $2.3 mil- American Rescue Plan Act that Tennessee tax revenues ex- federal aid ceases, which means we lion less than the February budget- FUNDS from Page 1 flow through the State Department ceeded budgeted estimates in must remain cautious.” ed estimate of $18.1 million. For used to offset revenue resulting of Education. February. On an accrual basis, February seven months, they are $7 million from any tax cuts enacted since 6. Local government entities must February revenues totaled is the seventh month in the 2020- more than the budgeted estimate. March 3, 2021. be careful to maintain adequate $1.13 billion, which is $112.7 mil- 2021 fiscal year. Privilege taxes were $11 • Funds may be used as replace- internal controls over the spending lion more than the state received in General fund revenues ex- million more than the February ment revenue to the extent of Act funds. This is required by February 2020 and $190.9 million ceeded the budgeted estimates in estimate, and on a year-to-date there has been a reduction in State statute and OMB’s Uniform more than the budgeted estimate. the amount of $154.2 million while basis, August through February, revenue as a direct result of Guidance. The growth rate for February was the four other funds that share in revenues are $55.3 million more the public health emergency. 7. If a primary government re- 11.06%. state tax revenues were $36.7 mil- than the estimate. Replacement revenue amounts ceives funding and decides to pass “The two largest contributors lion less than the estimates. Business taxes were $5.9 mil- should be based upon the most some of the federal funds down to the state’s tax base, sales and Sales tax revenues were $167.1 lion more than the February esti- recent full fiscal year prior to to another local government (i.e., corporate tax revenues, delivered million more than the estimate for mate. For seven months, revenues the emergency (FY19). For ex- sub-recipient grant), the primary extraordinary growth for the month February and 15.67% more than are $20.8 million more than the ample, local governments that government that originally received of February,” Eley said. “Sales tax February 2020. For seven months, budgeted estimate. experienced significant reduc- the federal funds will be subject to revenue growth, representing Jan- revenues are $900.4 million higher Hall income tax revenues for tions in tourism revenues due the strict OMB Uniform Guidance uary consumer sales tax activity, than estimated. The year-to-date the month were $800,000 less than to the emergency may use these requirements related to sub-recip- occurred in most all segments of growth rate for seven months was the budgeted estimate. On a year- funds to pay for expenditures ient monitoring. For this reason, the state’s economy, except for the 7.11%. to-date basis, income tax revenues that would have otherwise been we recommend not passing federal restaurant and bar industry. Reve- Franchise and excise tax reve- are $500,000 less than the estimate. funded by tourism revenues. funds down to another government nues from online sales taxes also nues combined were $16.1 million Mixed drink, or liquor-by-the- • Unused funds or funds deemed unless the primary government has boosted our monthly growth rate more than the budgeted estimate drink, taxes were $1.7 million less to have been used inappropri- a clear understanding of the roles re- with approximately $44.5 million in February and the growth rate than the February estimate, and on ately must be returned to the lated to monitoring sub-recipients. in growth attributed to remote sales compared to February 2020 was a year-to-date basis, revenues are U.S. Treasury. The guidance in this memoran- and marketplace facilitator laws. 7.06%. For seven months, reve- 21.1 million less than the budgeted • The federal government will dum is very general in nature. All To date, online sales tax revenues nues are $350 million more than estimate. require local governments to local government officials should have accounted for about 66.4% the estimate and the year-to-date All other tax receipts were prepare periodic reports pro- remain alert for specific provisions of all sales tax growth to the state. growth rate is 4.36%. less than estimates by a net of $1.5 viding a detailed accounting of the Act. The Comptroller’s Office “On a year-to-date basis, state Gasoline and motor fuel rev- million. of the use of funds. stands ready to assist you. They revenue collections continue to enues for February decreased by Year-to-date revenues for sev- 5. Tennessee counties will directly will be working with the Tennessee be well positioned to finish the 3.23% compared to February 2020. en months were $1.3 billion more receive approximately $1.4 billion Municipal League and the Munic- fiscal year ahead of our budgeted However, fuel taxes were $2.8 than the budgeted estimate. The to be distributed based on the coun- ipal Technical Advisory Service to estimates. Nevertheless, we must million more than the February general fund recorded $1.2 billion ty’s share of the U.S. population. help keep cities informed as more closely monitor the months of budgeted estimate of $90.4 mil- more than the budgeted estimates Cities in Tennessee will receive information becomes available. April and June as they are large lion. For seven months, revenues and the four other funds $72.5 over $944 million. Early guidance Address any questions to Bryan corporate tax filing months and are less than estimates by $10.5 million. indicates that some of these funds Burklin ([email protected]) can be quite volatile. Further, it million. These estimates are available on will go directly to cities while some or Jerry Durham (Jerry.Durham@cot. is important to note that federal Motor vehicle registration the state’s website at https://www. cities will receive funding through tn.gov) in the Division of Local Gov- aid related to COVID-19 is still revenues were $5.7 million less tn.gov/content/tn/finance/fa/fa-bud- the state. The Comptroller’s Office ernment Audit. They can be reached flowing into Tennessee and will than the February estimate, and on get-information/fa-budget-rev.html. anticipates education funds will by phone: 615.401.7841. 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021 www.TML1.org

ensure accurate and consistent messaging on to the public in a polite manner, and the ability Office, 201 N. Spring Street, and will be behalf of the city of Spring Hill. Four-year to work under pressure and deadlines to com- accepted until position if filled.EOE/Drug- degree in communications, public relations, plete recreation programming, grants, and all free workplace journalism, public affairs or related area of assigned tasks from the board of mayor and Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. No BUILDING INSPECTOR/CODE EN- study. Minimum of five years of relevant alderman and the recreation commission. A TOWN ADMINISTRATOR charge to TML members. Send advertising FORCEMENT OFFICER communications, media, or public relations BA/BS in parks and recreations with five years CHAPEL HILL. The town of Chapel Hill to: Carole Graves: [email protected]. PIPERTON. The city of Piperton has an experience. Excellent oral and written of experience in administration of parks and (Est. pop. 1,850) is seeking a city management opening for a full-time building inspector/ communication skills required. Knowledge recreation facilities and programs including professional to be their next town adminis- ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN/H.R. code enforcement officer. Duties will- in of media tactics, and modern principles of employee supervision is preferred. Applica- trator. The town administrator is appointed ASSISTANT clude residential construction inspections digital mass communications and public tions and full job description may be picked by and serves at the pleasure of the Board of PIPERTON. The city of Piperton has (building, plumbing, and mechanical), record relations required. Proficiency with Micro- up at City Hall, 200 W. Fort St. Manchester, Mayor and Aldermen. The town has a $2.5M an immediate opening for an accounting maintenance, responding to public requests soft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud. TN 37355. Online applications may be filled annual budget with 13 full-time employees. technician/H.R. assistant. The successful for service and resident’s concerns, and en- Management experience desired. Some out at www.cityofmanchestertn.com, resumes Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree candidate must have the ability to interact forcing city ordinances. Must hold or obtain event planning experience a plus. The city of may be sent to cdavis@cityofmanchestertn. from an accredited college or university in with a variety of city staff, appointed and and maintain ICC Certifications within one Spring Hill offers an extensive and generous com. Applications will be accepted until April public administration, business administra- elected officials, vendors and contractors year (building, plumbing, and mechanical employee benefit package, which includes 1, 2021, at 9 a.m. EOE. tion, or a field closely related to municipal and possess effective communication (oral inspector). Working knowledge of ICC and an 100% Employer paid Medical coverage management and a minimum of eight years and written) and interpersonal skills and local ordinances, legislation, rules and reg- option for the entire family, optional vision PARKS AND RECREATION of progressively increasing city management attention to detail. Experience with automated ulations is preferred. Computer proficiency insurance, employer paid dental insurance DIRECTOR experience, or any combination of education applications is desirable; computer literacy and excellent communication skills are a for the employee with the option to purchase TULLAHOMA. The city of Tullahoma is and municipal experience that demonstrates and extensive knowledge of Microsoft Office, must. High school diploma or equivalent and family coverage, Flexible Spending Account, seeking applicants for the position of parks proficiency in managing a complex municipal especially MS Word and Excel, is required. valid driver’s license is required. Priority will employer paid Life, AD&D and LTD In- and recreation director who works under the corporation. Residency within the town is not The candidate must have attained a high be given to certified inspectors or applicants surance, as well as voluntary life and STD. general direction of the city administrator. a requirement. Salary range $70,000-$90,000 school diploma or G.E.D., plus a minimum with current background in building or related TCRS Pension. Applications/resumes MUST Tullahoma has a population of 20,000, and is (DOQ). A position profile is available atwww. of two years accounting experience. A valid trades.Background check will be conducted. be submitted online at: www.springhilltn.org/ a progressive community located in southern townofchapelhilltn.gov. Send a cover letter driver’s license from state of residence is Salary $38-$45k and is commensurate with Jobs.aspx Questions to staylor@springhilltn. middle Tennessee close to Nashville, Chat- and resume immediately by electronic mail also required. The individual employed experience. Medical and retirement benefit org No phone calls please. EEO/AA/Title tanooga and Huntsville, AL. The city has to the University of Tennessee’s Municipal in this position will perform bookkeeping package is provided. Applications may be VI Employer. Minorities and women are numerous parks and greenways, nearby lake Technical Advisory Service, attention Chuck and fiscal work for various financial and obtained at the Piperton Administrative encouraged to apply. access and a top-rated school system making it Downham, at chuck.downham@tennessee. accounts management functions as well us all Office at 3725 Hwy 196 Suite B, or atwww. an ideal place to live. The parks and recreation edu. Initial review of applications will occur Human Resource functions including payroll pipertontn.com/jobs. Return application and ELECTRIC MANAGER director manages an operating budget of $1.8 on May 11, 2021. Please direct questions to processing. The accounting work involves resume to [email protected]. EOE CLARKSVILLE, AR. Clarksville Con- million and a staff of ten full-time employees Chuck Downham at the same email address. receiving, preparing and processing financial nected Utilities is accepting applications and up to 100 additional part time/seasonal documents; performing accounts payable CITY ADMINISTRATOR through 04/16/2021 for electric manager staff. The Parks and Recreation Director co- TOWN PLANNER and/or receivables work; advanced customer SPRING HILL. The city of Spring Hill The electric manager must understand stan- ordinates and directs a city-wide system that ARLINGTON. The town of Arlington is a service tasks; reconciling accounting transac- (Pop. 46,000+) is seeking a city management dard electrical distribution, construction, and includes two community centers; eleven parks growing community of 14,000+ residents, tions; maintaining and balancing accounting professional to be their next city adminis- maintenance methods. Which include (not including a disc golf course; an indoor and 12 miles east of the city of Memphis. The ledgers; creating and maintaining accounting trator. The city administrator is appointed limited to) receiving projects from the general zero entry water park; over twenty ball fields; full-time planner will perform professional databases and automated files; and preparing by and serves at the pleasure of the Board manager and completion in a timely manner, a city greenway and maintenance of 225 acres administrative and technical planning work records, repo1ts and summaries regarding of Mayor and Aldermen. The city has a resolve conflicts within the department (and of park land and 440 acres in partnership with using independent judgement and discretion. assigned fiscal operations. Hourly wages $90.55M overall budget with 261 full-time the public) and work with and the other de- the state of Tennessee. Responsibilities also This position reports to the town administra- will be commensurate with experience. A equivalent (FTE) employees. Candidates partment managers and the general manager include long and short-term planning related tor. Duties include: administering municipal background check will be conducted. Health should possess a bachelor’s degree from an as needed. The manager will plan, organize, to development of new park facilities, mainte- zoning, design guidelines, research, and insurance and retirement benefit package is accredited college or university in public direct, and review work of employees in the nance and enhancement of existing facilities, analysis in processing land development provided. Email letter of interest and resume administration, business administration, or operation/maintenance of the department. and the creation of recreation programs. applications from submittal to site occupancy; to [email protected]. EOE. a field closely related to municipal- man The position requires the individual to oversee Bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, code enforcement; assisting town officials agement and a minimum of eight years of trouble calls and emergency work to ensure business administration or a closely related and committees; long-range planning; and ACCOUNTS PAYABLE and progressively increasing city management a high safety standard with minimal outage field is required, with a Masters’ degree and coordinating with other local, county, and RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST experience, or any combination of education time for customers. Authorize and track NRPA certification preferred. Seven years of state agencies. Considerable knowledge of PUBLIC ENTITY PARTNERS. Public and municipal experience that demonstrates expenditures within the department. Assist progressive experience in the recreation field planning theory, principles, and practices, Entity Partners is a public entity risk pool proficiency in managing a complex municipal the general manager in the preparation of an and five years of management experience such as zoning, land use, comprehensive that has been providing risk management and corporation. Residency within the city limits annual budget by providing input relative to required. Starting salary range is $71,000 planning, economic and community devel- workers compensation, property and casualty will be a requirement. A position profile is the department’s current and future needs. - $76,000, DOQ. Tullahoma offers a com- opment, architectural design principles, and insurance services to Tennessee cities and city available at www.springhilltn.org. Salary Works under the general supervision of the prehensive benefits package and participates site planning necessary. Bachelor’s degree agencies for nearly 40 years. Public Entity commensurate with education, experience GM. Responsible for overseeing all things re- in the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement required, Master’s degree preferred, from an Partners insures more than 90% of the cities and marketplace conditions. Send cover letter lated to the daily operations of the department. System (TCRS). Interested applicants can accredited college or university in urban or in Tennessee and is headquartered in Franklin. and resume immediately by electronic mail Bachelor degree in engineering, or related mail a resume with cover letter and profes- regional planning or a closely related field. The accounts payable and receivable special- to the University of Tennessee’s Municipal field; six years of electric utility experience, sional references to “City of Tullahoma, Attn: At least five years of public management and ist will process and manage the company’s Technical Advisory Service, attention Gary three years in a managerial/supervisory Human Resources, P.O. Box 807, Tullahoma, professional planning experience, preferably accounts payable and receivable online Jaeckel, at [email protected]. Ini- role -or - high school diploma/equivalent; TN 37388” or send an email to Casta Brice, in a municipal setting. AICP certification is workflow, manual functions, and financial -re tial review of applications will occur in April/ ten years of experience in electric distribu- HR Director at [email protected]. preferred, as well as excellent project man- porting in accordance with company policies May, 2021. Please direct questions to Gary tion, three in managerial/supervisory role. Resumes will be accepted until Monday, April agement, oral, and written communication and procedures. Strong communication and Jaeckel, MTAS Management Consultant, at -or- any combination of related education, 19, 2021. Applications are subject to public skills. A background check will be conducted. interpersonal skills are essential as you will be the same email address. experience, certifications and licenses that disclosure. A job description is available upon Starting salary $60-70k based on experience, interacting with almost 500 local government will result in successfully performance. request. EOE/Title VI /Drug Free Workplace. with a competitive benefits package. Town members and approximately 2,000 vendors CLAIMS SYSTEM Clarksville Arkansas is located in Johnson of Arlington, 5854 Airline Road, Arlington, and business partners. Key competencies ADMINISTRATOR County and nestled between the Arkan- PLANS EXAMINER II. TN 38002. include: knowledge of and experience in PUBLIC ENTITY PARTNERS . Under sas River and the Foothills of the Ozark FRANKLIN. The city of Franklin is core business operations; creative thinking the direction of the Director of IT, the Claims Mountains, Interstate 40 and US Highway hiring a Plans Examiner II. Franklin TRANSPORTATION PLANNER I and problem-solving skills; strong work System Administrator is responsible to: Sup- 64 intersect within the city limits. Clarks- is accepting applications through the JACKSON.The city of Jackson is accepting ethic and results-driven outlook; ability to port, enhance, secure, optimize, and maintain ville-Johnson County is known for its close of business on April 7, 2021. All applications for a transportation planner I. work cooperatively and collaboratively on the Origami Claims Management System and peaches, scenic byways and abundance of interested applicants should apply here: The transportation planner will assist the a professional level’ ability to manage and supporting systems. Ensure data integrity natural outdoor recreational activities which https://cta.cadienttalent.com/index. planning director with work tasks to ensure maintain confidential information with the and that the system maintains a high level include hunting, fishing, floating, and walk- jsp?POSTING_ID=95936556669&lo- compliance with federal and state guidelines utmost care, security, and discretion. Bache- of security, performance, and availability. ing trails. Visit www.clarksvillear.gov for cale=en_US&SEQ=jobDetails&applica- and overall assistance with administration lor’s degree in accounting or related field from Work closely with any IT Staff & End Users an overview of our beautiful community. tionName=CityofFranklinTNKTMDReqExt of the transpo1iation-planning program, an accredited college or university, desired (internal, external, or third party) to resolve CCU is locally owned and operated such as the UPWP, TIP, LTRP, and PPP. but not required Proficiency in Microsoft any issues. Provide any assistance needed to with excellent pay and benefits and is an PLANNING DIRECTOR Specific job duties include: perform studies Office Suite, Sage 100 and AvidXchange, access PEP data sources to meet needs and Equal Opportunity, Drug Free Workplace. LAKELAND. The city of Lakeland is seeking related to transportation planning; conduct desired but not required. Minimum of five protect sensitive information. Work closely To Apply: Business Office: 400 West qualified applicants for the position of plan- research, analyze data, and prepare written years of experience in accounts payable and with Adjusters and other Claims staff to Main Street Clarksville, AR. 72830 ning director. This employee is responsible for reports. Manage preparation of meeting receivable functions. Demonstrated ability understand processes and workflows, then Email: debbie.pintado@clarksvilleconnect- a broad range of administrative and support packets or special materials for distribution to accomplish multiple projects and tasks make recommendations to automate these ed.net Online: https://clarksvilleconnected. services under the general supervision of the to the MPO Technical Staff and Executive on deadline. Strong interpersonal, commu- processes to gain efficiencies. Qualifications net/297/Current-Job-Openings city manager. The planning director is primar- Board. Prepare quarterly MPO grant bill- nication, and analytical skills. Technological include: undergraduate degree in a computer ily responsible for planning, organizing and ings. Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, competency in software applications. Full Job related field from an accredited college or FINANCE DIRECTOR directing all planning and land development Business Administration, or a closely related description can be found at pepartners.org. university, and six years of experience in the NASHVILLE. The Greater Nashville Region- for the city of Lakeland. Duties include: field. Transportation planning experience is Excellent benefits and retirement plan. Please computer-related or information technology al Council (GNRC) is seeking an experienced advising and making staff recommendations helpful, or any equivalent combination of send cover letter and resume to ctaylor@ field, or a substantially- equivalent combina- professional to serve as its finance director. to city boards, commissions and departments education, knowledge, skills and abilities pepartners.org or Attn: Celeste Taylor, 562 tion of education and experience is required. The Finance Director manages the agency’s on planning and land development issues sufficient to satisfactorily perform the duties of Franklin Rd. Suite 200 Franklin, TN 37069. Experience maintaining, optimizing, and se- financial, accounting, and budgetary functions including interpretation, revision, imple- the job may be substituted. Generous benefit Salary range: $65,000 -$75,000 (DOE) EOE/ curing Microsoft Windows network systems. and is a key member of the organization’s mentation and enforcement of regulations package; salary beginning at $24.94 per hour. Drug-free workplace. Experience supporting; Microsoft Windows senior leadership team. GNRC is a public and ordinances and the creation and imple- EOE/M/F/V/D. Minorities are encouraged to 10 systems and peripherals; Microsoft Office sector agency with a typical annual budget mentation of development and growth plans; apply. Job description on city web site: www. BUILDING CODE INSPECTOR III \ 365 suite; Microsoft Windows Servers \ of approximately $15 million. The vast directs implementation of sign ordinance, cityofjacksontn.gov. Please contact the City of GALLATIN. The city of Gallatin is seeking Networks. Experience using and supporting majority of revenue is sourced from state zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, Jackson, Human Resources Department, 127 applications for a building codes inspector any of the following applications preferred and federal grants allocated by formula or design guidelines, comprehensive plan and E. Main Street, Suite 303, Jackson, TN 38301: III. The purpose of this position is to perform but not required: Origami Risk Claim Sys- awarded competitively to fund the agency’s related plans and policies; provides strategic phone (731) 425-8252: Fax (731) 425-8673 intermediate technical work in the inspection tem; HTML \ XML; Microsoft SQL \ SSIS work across a variety of programs and services direction in short and long-range planning of residential, commercial, industrial, and Packages; C#; Microsoft Visual Studio; aimed at improving the region’s economy and and growth management; researches, prepares UTILITY DIRECTOR public facilities for compliance with building, Scripting; PowerShell. Full Job description quality of life. Approximately 60 percent of and implements technical and operational SPRING HILL. The city of Spring Hill is plumbing, mechanical, gas piping and elec- can be found at pepartners.org. Salary range the budget is used to fund the agency’s day studies, reports and projects; supervises staff accepting applications and resumes for a trical codes, and other ordinances. May be $90,000 - $102,000 DOE. Excellent benefits to day operations including its 80 member with responsibility for employment-related full-time, exempt utility director. He or she assigned specific inspection areas, and other and retirement plan.Please send cover letter staff. The remainder is subgranted to local decisions or recommendations that include will perform administrative and managerial duties per position. Performs field inspections and resume to [email protected] or community partners such as municipal and hiring, disciplining, training, and evaluating work in the planning, organizing, and direct- of residential, commercial, industrial, and Attn: Celeste Taylor, 562 Franklin Rd. Suite county governments, non-profit organiza- performance; develops and implements the ing of overall operations amongst the water public facilities for compliance with building, 200 Franklin, TN 37069. tions, senior centers, and aging and disability departmental operating budget and monitors and wastewater treatment plants; and, the plumbing, mechanical, gas piping and elec- service providers. The finance team is staffed costs to maintain budget integrity; evaluates water distribution, and sewer collection. This trical codes, and other ordinances. Conducts COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR by four professionals including the Finance and revises tracking procedures for devel- employee must possess the ability to make building and related inspections. Prepares SPRING HILL. The city of Spring Hill seeks director. For more information and to apply opment projects; makes presentations to prudent and independent decisions as they and maintaining inspection records and files. to fill the full time, exempt position of com- go to: www.gnrc.org/jobs. boards, commissions, volunteers and other apply to daily activities. The incumbent in this Receives and investigates complaints regard- munications director. He or she will develop, community groups. Successful applicants position will supervise assigned employees; ing non-compliant construction and inspects implement and maintain the city information HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER will possess the proven ability to maintain coordinate activities between departments, existing buildings for hazardous conditions program, and oversee public communications EAST RIDGE. The city of East Ridge effective working relationships with the and maintain records and budgets for various or systems failure. Receives and resolves throughout the organization. The director will is seeking a qualified human resources public, city officials, and other employees projects. The utility director provides substan- complaints regarding defective construction serve as the city spokesperson and primary manager. Duties include but not limited to and the ability to prepare and present accurate tive and highly complex staff assistance to the and handles enforcement issues. Researches news media liaison. He or she will develop managing/maintaining personnel/medical reports to the governing body; five to seven city administrator and operates under his or her manufacturing specs for compliance with and implement a cohesive communications files, employee orientation; recommends, years of progressive planning experience and direct supervision. The employee will perform standards. Communicates findings. Inspects strategy. Manage all news media relations, plans, and implements changes in personnel a bachelor’s degree with a focus in Planning other related and/or non-specific work as existing building for hazardous conditions, serving as city spokesperson; write news policies and procedures. Must be familiar with and American Institute of Certified Planners required, some of which will be mechanical. structural failure. Reports hazardous or releases, and other web and social media con- governmental requirements and reporting. (AICP) certification required. Competitive Must possess a bachelor’s degree in engi- life-threatening conditions to the building tent; manage primary city social media pages Manages workers compensation claims and salary and benefits offered. For more infor- neering; must possess professional engineer official and assists with the complaint as using government social media management annual audit, responsible for all government mation and for a complete job description, (P.E.) licensure from the state of Tennessee; assigned. High school diploma/equivalent. best practices; manage website using content reporting. Manages entire benefit program please visit www.lakelandtn.gov/job Must possess a valid driver’s license; 10 years’ Must have 5 years recent construction related management system, serving as website ad- and serves as liaison with insurance company. experience in water or wastewater system experience. Valid driver’s license. IAE/or ministrator; and gather facts to distribute to Responsible and oversees payroll administra- PLANNING DIRECTOR maintenance or construction, hydraulic engi- equivalent Electrical Certifications required. news media. Manage Multimedia Specialist tion and prepares documentation for budget SHELBYVILLE. The city of Shelbyville is neering, or civil engineering of which some Must have six (6) or more I.C.C. certifications position, approving all graphic design work, review. Clerical duties are also part of this job accepting applications for the full-time posi- experience having been in an increasingly as identified by and beneficial to the City print and digital promotional materials, function. Qualified applicants should have tion of planning & community development responsible administrative or supervisory Must meet TN requirements for plumbing, photos, video projects, and operations of five years experience in Human Resources director (planning director). The planning capacity. The city of Spring Hill offers an mechanical, and/or building. To apply: go to live video streaming system. Attend weekly management; or three years experience director will be responsible for daily admin- extensive and generous employee benefit www.gallatintn.gov or https://cogselfserve. department head meeting and write internal in Human Resources management with a istration of all planning and zoning activities, package, which includes an 100% employer gallatin-tn.gov/MSS/employmentopportu- weekly staff report; occasionally write staff bachelor’s degree in human resources man- including comprehensive planning, and the paid medical coverage option for the entire nities/default.aspx. Position open until filled. memos based on topical research; occasional- agement, business management, or related administration of subdivision regulations. family, optional vision insurance, employer EOE / Drug-free workplace. ly write mayoral speeches and talking points; field. Salary DOQ. Open until filled. EOE/ The planning director will also implement paid dental insurance for the employee with coordinate with community partner agencies Drug free workplace. and manage municipal projects related to the the option to purchase family coverage, BUILDING CODE INSPECTOR,I,II III to develop and distribute communications development of this growing community. The Flexible Spending Account, employer paid HENDERSONVILLE. The city of Hen- materials; provide communications support PARKS AND REC DIRECTOR ideal candidate will have at least a bachelor’s Life, AD&D and LTD Insurance, as well dersonville is currently recruiting for a to city departments; and develop, present and MANCHESTER. The city of Manchester degree in urban planning or a related field as voluntary life and STD. TCRS pension. Building Inspector I, II, or III position manage annual communications department is seeking a director of parks and recreation. (master’s degree preferred), and a minimum of Applications/resumes MUST be submitted in our Building and Codes Department. budget. Respond to citizen inquiries through This will include day-to-day operation of the 5 years’ experience involving municipal land online at: www.springhilltn.org/Jobs.aspx This recruitment is open until filled. multiple communications platforms; plan, recreation complex. This includes providing use planning at local government level. This Questions to [email protected] NO Clink on the job link to the Job Openings manage and execute annual State of the advisement to the board of mayor and al- is a full-time salaried exempt position with PHONE CALLS PLEASE. Applications page with all recruitment information: Job City Address event. The ideal candidate has derman on facility, program development, a starting salary between $64,896 - $79,601, will be considered on basis of qualifications, Openings | City of Hendersonville https:// strong writing and verbal skills, experience long-term maintenance of facilities, and depending on qualifications. Applications experience, and suitability for position without www.hvilletn.org/departments/human-re- in news media relations, social media and development of additional funding through and a copy of job description may be picked regards to race, color, religion, sex or national sources/job-openings website management experience, and a private donation and grant resources. Key up at city hall during normal business hours origin. The city of Spring Hill is an EEO/AA/ passion for working in the public sector. This attributes include ability to develop and update or download from the city website: www. Title VI Employer. Minorities and women are strategic communications position will serve long-range plans for department, speaking shelbyvilletn.org. Application/job description encouraged to apply. a pivotal role in citywide communications to ability to large groups of people, communicate must be returned to City Hall Administration www.TML1.org 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021

Tennessee Municipal League 2020-2021 Offi cers and Directors PRESIDENT Mike Werner Mayor, Gatlinburg VICE PRESIDENTS Ken Moore Mayor, Franklin Bobby King Mayor, Henderson Ron Williams Mayor, Farragut DIRECTORS During the March TML engagements. The ways we commu- Improved Reporting to the lead- ing with UT-MTAS, in developing Andy Berke Board of Directors meeting, as nicate, directly and through various ership and Board – With the start the framework for our Strategic Plan Mayor, Chattanooga TML’s new executive director, media channels, are critical for the of 2021, a weekly report is distrib- that will launch with a stakeholder Paige Brown, I reviewed my fi rst 100 days. organization. survey. Working with the executive Mayor, Gallatin uted to the executive committee Randy Childs The following highlights are • Value – Members, sponsors, that summarizes key points of staff committee, we will review and fi ne Councilman, Kingston (District 2) from the report along with a partners and all who interact with us engagement, issues and activities. tune the next steps with the goal of Vance Coleman few insights that will advance must fi nd real value in our actions, A monthly report is generated to engaging our membership in early Mayor, Medina our organization and the inter- and our capacity to lead. the full board. We believe a better summer. John Cooper ests of the people we all serve. informed board makes for a stronger Mayor, Metro Nashville During the fi rst 100 days, these are organization. Employee Baseline Assessment W.T. Daniels – TML’s Mayor, Greeneville THE 100 DaY REPORT some of the key actions that are & Performance Metrics Mike French First, I want to thank the underway: Strengthening the Partnership job/position descriptions will be Alderman, Somerville (District 7) members of the search and Communications – Communication among TML, UT-MTAS, Bond reviewed, updated and include Blake Lay executive committees and the is our lifeblood. The various ways Fund and Public Entity Part- measurable, performance metrics. Mayor, Lawrenceburg (District 6) TML board for the opportunity in which we communicate have ners – All of our sister agencies This will make us a stronger team Terry Jones to serve as your executive dramatically changed and there is were established by TML to assist and perform at a higher level for Mayor, Millington (District 8) director. no end in sight. We are assessing with our mission for cities to have our members. Indya Kincannon Mayor, Knoxville In recent months, I have our existing communications tools better access to capital, improve Katie Lamb listened and learned from our and platforms and looking at ways to risk management and to provide Annual Review our Legislative Mayor, Collegedale (District 3) mayors, city council members, strengthen our internal and external essential training and consultation Impact –At the end of a legislative Christa Martin city managers, board mem- communications and messaging. on municipal issues. At the start session, our legislative team will Vice Mayor, Columbia bers, and legislators. Your time We have engaged an experienced, of 2021, we committed to meeting review and refl ect on our perfor- Keith McDonald and counsel have answered the outside media and communications monthly to discuss and implement mance – how well we did, what Mayor, Bartlett question: “What advice do you consultant to work with us on these ways to achieve our mission and worked and what could have been Wade Morrell President-CEO, TN Municipal Bond Fund have for the new guy?” initiatives and on developing a stra- better support our towns and cities. improved. We will also be looking Todd Smith During interview process tegic communications plan. at our team’s metrics and ROI. City Manager, Greeneville (District 1) for this position, one question Strengthening the Partnership Jim Strickland was on what is my approach to Digital Platforms – A migration to with our City Managers and Continue to Evaluate and Assess Mayor, Memphis the TML leadership job. These digital platforms helps us: Administrators – Also beginning the Value of our Brand for Spon- Mary Ann Tremblay are my four areas of focus: • Provide immediate news and with the new year, I committed to sorships and Affi liation – Our Vice Mayor, Three Way • Unifi cation – Organizing information you need and use; sponsorship levels were updated PAST PRESIDENTS a standing meeting with the lead- Jill Holland (2019) Mayor, McKenzie ALL of our cities as one voice • Capture analytics on our govern- ership of the TN City Management over a decade ago. It is past time Wallace Cartwright (2018) Mayor, Shelbyville and one force to tackle our ment relations work to share the Association. These are the profes- for a review. The move to digital Bo Perkinson (2017) Vice Mayor, Athens grand challenges and provide return on investment; sionals who passionately support our platforms enables us to gather var- John Holden (2016) Mayor, Dyersburg leadership for our state. • Expand our base of friends and cities and state and have a wealth of ious analytics, off ering sponsors Curtis Hayes (2015) Mayor, Livingston • Respect and Credibility – supporters to include the public knowledge to share. tangible data on the impact of their Dale Kelley (2013) Mayor, Huntingdon The way we do business with through connections on Twitter, TML investment. This information Kay Senter (2011) Morristown Vice Mayor Sam Tharpe (2010) Commissioner, Paris others – with our members and Facebook and LinkedIn. LOOKInG AHEad will also provide additional capital Tommy Pedigo (2009) Councilman, Morristown our government leaders. • Assess the real economic value Survey and Strategic Plan – An support for TML to achieve our • Communications and of our brand and reach based on updated strategic plan was identifi ed mission of support for Tennessee’s AFFILIATE DIRECTORS Visibility – TML needs to be human interactions and our media, as a necessary tool to help move our cities and towns and the people who Tracy Baker, Sevierville (TCMA) seen, heard and visible in our messaging and engagements. organization forward. We are work- live and work in our communities. TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS Going forward, I will share (Ex-Offi cio Directors) with you the progress being made TN Assn. of Air Carrier Airports TN Building Offi cials Assn. on these focus areas, and new ones TN Assn. of Chiefs of Police that emerge. Your continued sup- TN Assn. Municipal Clerks & Recorders port of the Tennessee Municipal TN Government Finance Offi cers Assn. League will strengthen the voice TN Fire Chiefs Assn. of our towns and cities and the TN Fire Safety Inspectors Nearly one in fi ve Americans every state but Nevada where they Tennesseans who call them home. TN Assn. of Floodplain Management nifi cant spring drought since 2013 TN Assn. Housing & Redevel. Auth. have lost a friend or family with roughly 74 million residents hold 60% of the seats. Gains at the TN Municipal Attorneys Assn. member to COVID-19, ac- from the Pacifi c Coast to the South- state level are also mirrored on the TN Municipal Judges Conference cording to a new AP-NORC west to the Great Plains and Upper federal level where women now TN Chapter, American Public Works survey. Black and Hispanic Midwest and even Florida impacted, hold a record 27% of seats. TN Recreation and Parks Assn. respondents to the survey ex- according to the National Oceanic TN Chapter, American Planning perienced the highest amount and Atmospheric Administration Adults under stay-at-home or- TN Personnel Management Assn. of loss with 30% and 29% TN Assn. of Public Purchasing (NOAA). Drought conditions could ders during the pandemic put TN Section, Institute of Transport reporting they had lost some- grow worse and expand in other ar- on an average of two pounds TN Public Transportation Assoc. one close to them during the eas of the country if hotter-than-av- a month, according to a new April 6 - 8, 2021 Assoc. Independent & Municipal Schools pandemic. Only 15% of white erage temperatures and less rainfall study. A study in the Journal of TN Fire Chief Association TN Renewable Energy & Economic respondents reported the continue. Water supplies could also American Medical Association Spring Conference Development Council same. The survey also found dwindle in some areas. tracked weight measurements from Gatlinburg TN Urban Forestry Council that those from low-income Bluetooth-connected smart scales TN Stormwater Assn households were more likely A record-breaking number of and found that adults under shel- April 7 - 9, 2021 TML SPONSORS to know someone who had women are serving in state leg- ter-in-place orders were gaining TCMA Spring Conference 5 STaR SPOnSOR died (24%) than those from islatures and in leadership po- more than half a pound every 10 Murfreesboro Voya Financial Advisors households making $30,000 sitions within those legislatures days. Under lockdown habits, the 4 STaR SPOnSOR or more (17%). The virus according to a new report from average American could gain 20 June 2 - 4, 2021 Blue Cross Blue Shield has claimed more than 2.62 the National Conference of State pounds in the course of a single TAMCAR Spring Conference 3 STaR SPOnSOR million lives worldwide with year. Obesity already a major issue Murfreesboro First Horizon Bank Legislatures (NCSL). In 2021, 2 STaR SPOnSOR roughly 20% of those coming more than 2,200 women were serv- for American adults, and those with Alexander, Thompson, Arnold, CRA’s from the U.S., the nation that ing in legislatures across the state higher BMIs are at a greater risk of Sept. 1-3, 2021 Alliance Water Resources has been hardest hit by the with 90 women serving in leadership developing more severe cases of TCMA Fall Conference Bank of America pandemic. positions within those bodies. NCSL COVID-19. Researchers noted that Chattanooga Bank of New York Mellon, Co. tracking shows women held about many of the studies participants Entegrity Nearly half of the U.S. is in a quarter of all seats in state bodies had been actively losing weight Sept 15 -17, 2021 Environmental Products Group the midst of a moderate to prior to the pandemic, but shelter- TAMCAR Fall Conference Waste Management Inc. of Tennessee between 2009 and 2018, but that 1 STaR SPOnSOR exceptional drought con- number has begun shifting upward in-place orders prevented them Franklin The Brick Industry ditions with government since 2019. Women now account for from continuing healthy habits, Charter Communications forecasters expecting condi- about 30% of all state lawmakers. like regular gym attendance or eat- Sept. 18-21, 2021 Employee Benefi t Specialists, Inc. tions to grow more severe in However, women represent 51% of ing less healthy diets. Lockdowns TML Annual Conference J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers coming months. The country the U.S. population and hold less also resulted in many becoming Chattanooga Local Govt. Corporation is presently in its most sig- than half of the legislative seats in more sedentary in general. Mattern & Craig, Inc. NORESCO Pavement Restorations, Inc. Republic Services Smith Seckman Reid Tennessee 811 Trane Commercial Systems & Services TLM Associates, Inc. Waste Connections of Tennessee Inc. Waste Industries USA, Inc. TML SPOnSOREd PROGRaMS Public Entity Partners Tennessee Health Works Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund TML PaRTnEREd PROGRaMS American Fidelity GovCard GovDeals Omni Partners Peachtree Recovery Services, Inc. Reach Alert TN Drug Card VC3 TML STAFF Anthony Haynes, Executive Director Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Mark Barrett, Legislative Research Analyst Kate Coil, Communications Specialist Jackie Gupton, Administrative Assistant Carole Graves, Communications Director & Editor, Tennessee Town & City Sylvia Harris, Conference Planning Director John Holloway, Government Relations Debbie Kluth, Marketing Director / Member Services Kevin Krushenski, Legislative Research Analyst Denise Paige, Government Relations 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/MARCH 29, 2021 www.TML1.org Role of local airports vital to tourism, military operations By KATE COIL TML Communications Specialist

Generating more than $20.5 billion in economic impact for their communities, small and regional airports across Tennessee play a ma- jor role in generating value to both the state and local municipalities. A recent Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) study on the economic impact of aviation in Tennessee found that the indus- try generates $40 billion worth of economic benefits to the state and employs more than 220,000 people. Of that economic impact, 51.25% came from the 70 small and regional airports operated out of the state’s non-metro municipalities. While serving local businesses Outside of Tennessee’s big four metro cities, the Tri-Cities Regional Enthusiasts of the Beech Aviation Company are frequent visitors to through travel, shipping, and other Airport is one of only two airports in the state that provide daily and the Beechcraft Heritage Museum at the Tullahoma Regional Airport, services is one of the major drivers weekly commercial flights. Destinations like Bristol Motor Speedway, which was started by a local family who were fans of the plane. Co- of this economic impact, local air- the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the Appalachian Trail founded by a Pulaski native, the love for this American aircraft draws ports can also serve other important are some of the major destinations bringing air travelers in to the visitors from all over to visit the airport for its annual “Beech Party” roles in their communities. John area from Texas, Georgia, North Carolina, and Florida. and other associated events. R. Black, executive director of the Smyrna Airport, said many peo- transit. Squadrons will fly in to the ple are not aware of the variety of airport together, go across the street, services their local airport may offer. meet with their detailers, and figure “There are so many services out the next step of their careers.” that airports provide, like medical Tullahoma’s THA began life services, agriculture, cargo and as William Northern Field, an air freight, law enforcement, military, training base for Liberator bombers and flight training,” he said. “There originally constructed for the U.S. are medical services like life flight Army Air Corps. The airport was services that are located at airports then sold as military surplus in all around so they can easily respond 1946. Recently, renovations began to things like traffic accidents. Here a World War II-era hangar at the air- in the last year, three times a week port by a local company that intends we fly COVID samples to the labs. to refurbish it for use by three local During the pandemic, we have businesses. played a pretty big role in that. I Glass said the airport’s military know in West Tennessee, especially, legacy can still be felt. they have a lot of crop dusters and “When the airport was declared work with agriculture.” surplus, the city of Tullahoma was From hosting talent for local given the first option to buy it, but musical festivals to bringing in the city couldn’t afford it,” he said. vacationers to facilitating military “John Harton, who was a mayor operations, local airports serve a of Tullahoma and a state treasurer, variety of functions. bought the airport in 1947 and kept it going for 30 years as a private- COME FLY WITH ME ly-owned, public use airport. In Travel is big business for air- Airshows, like the event shown here at the Millington-Memphis Airport, are a big tourism draw for many 1977, the city began buying back the ports across the state. Of the nearly local and regional airports across the state. Airports provide an important tool for tourism, whether its airport from the family and it is now 7 million people who came through bringing in big names to Bristol Motor Speedway or the Bonnaroo Main Stage or offering aerial tourism, fully city owned. However, the mili- Tennessee airports during the year of skydiving lessons, and quick access to tourism destinations. tary conduct drills here from time to the study, approximately 70% of air time, usually out of Fort Campbell.” travelers came for leisure purposes. use our airport to stage from. They that can go anywhere. We have a lot developed into the local airports The Greater Tullahoma area is Of these visitors, an estimated 5.7 mainly fly in the performers, and of people in the community who are used by communities today. still home to the Air Force as well. million came through commercial then Bonnaroo picks them up in flying for leisure travel.” Millington is one such com- In 1949, Tullahoma was selected air service while 884,000 flew into SUVs or limousines and drives them Airshows can be another big munity that has deep ties to the by Congress as the site of a new air a general aviation airport. Tennessee to the festival. Before I worked here, draw to regional airports. Black said military, both as a city and through engineering development center, airports generate more than $8.6 I worked at the Nashville airport. I visitors from as much as nine differ- its airport. Millington is well-known which is now known as the Arnold billion in visitor spending directly occasionally might see Vince Gill ent states come annually to watch as the home of Naval Support Ac- Engineering Development Center at associated with these travelers. or Alan Jackson, but it was nothing the Smyrna Airport’s annual show. tivity Mid-South, a naval base that Arnold Air Force Base. Jon Glass, airport manager of like what I see here.” “You would be surprised how provides logistic and operational While the actual airfield at the the Tullahoma Regional Airport The Tri-Cities Regional Air- much tourism activity we see support. The base began life at base was decommissioned in 2009, (THA), said the airport gets a lot of port (TRI) is also no stranger to through here,” Black said. “A lot what is now the adjacent Milling- Arnold Air Force Base is still used visitors flying in to visit the nearby big names coming through the of our corporate aviation actually ton-Memphis Airport before the Air for missions supporting the Ten- Jack Daniels Distillery in Lynch- terminal. From NASCAR drivers goes out on trips on weekends or Force became its own branch of the nessee Army National Guard and burg and the airport itself is the home to musicians performing at venues brings people in to town for dif- U.S. military. Fort Campbell. It also maintains the base of Skydive Tennessee, a local like Bristol’s Rhythm and Roots ferent events. We also hold one of “Millington used to be the Na- largest and most advanced complex business owned by former military Festival, TRI Executive Director the major signature events in this val Air Technical Training Center of flight simulation facilities in the personnel that gives visitors an Gene Cossey said the facility sees area, which is the Great Tennessee for all of the U.S. Navy’s aviation world. Military contractors also extreme view of Middle Tennessee, its fair share of celebrities. Airshow. That single weekend has training. We only became a civilian work in the area. Glass said one of whether it’s their first time skydiv- “We see people come in all a million-dollar impact on the area. airport in 1999,” Remington said. the airport’s tenants is XP Services, ing or they are an old pro. the time for music festivals and This year is a 50th anniversary of “The city fathers of Millington and who provide government and mili- Another major tourism draw in for race weekends at Bristol Motor the airshow in June. The show draws Memphis saw aviation as the next tary contracting. the Tullahoma Area is the Beech- Speedway,” he said. “A lot of times from every state that touches our big thing in the early 1900s. The The Smyrna-Rutherford craft Heritage Museum, which has folks come in for those on private border and even some further away. airport here at Millington was first County Airport was built in 1942 its roots at the airport. aircraft, and sometimes they come We usually have folks from around opened here in 1917, right on the to serve as the home of the Army “The Parish family started the in on the commercial aircraft. We a 200-mile radius come. People love cusp of World War I. The Millington Air Force Combat Crew School, Beechcraft Heritage Museum here definitely get drivers, team owners, aviation. We also offer airport tours Chamber of Commerce and Mem- training troops to fly B-24 and B-17 in 1974,” Glass said. “They were big and musicians coming through. The and a big fish fry in the hangar that phis Chamber of Commerce gave aircraft. It was deactivated at the end enthusiasts of the Beechcraft Stag- NASCAR drivers tend to ship all brings people from all around. “ the seed money to grade the proper- of the war and then reactivated in gerwing, and it’s just grown over the of their cars and equipment in on Millington-Memphis Airport ty, clear the timber, and then donated 1948 under the U.S. Air Force and years to include all Beechcraft mod- trucks, but they fly their crews and Executive Director Roy Remington it to the U.S. Army. Any aircraft renamed Stewart Air Force Base els. Walter Beech, the co-founder of drivers around to the events.” said the Millington airport also operations during World War I were in 1950. The airport was finally the Beechcraft Aviation Company, Cossey said the airport also holds a popular regional airshow. under the U.S. Army Signal Corp, decommissioned fully in 1970 and was born in Pulaski. Every October brings in visitors to see some of the Known for his high-energy aerial and they operated the equivalent of transferred to civilian operation. the museum has a ‘Beech Party’ area’s other biggest tourism draws. acrobatics, airshow pilot Skip Stew- an air base. After the war, it fell into However, Black said that doesn’t that brings in about 150 aircraft. “The biggest thing the airport art is based at Millington. When he’s general use, but with World War II, mean the military doesn’t still have They have expanded to having more does for this region is facilitate easy not practicing, he’s one of several the Navy saw this centrally located a home there. events and have a pretty full sched- travel in and out of the area,” he pilots who is often featured on the inland base as ideal for their naval air “A lot of military comes through ule this year. There is an event about said. “We have a lot to offer in this bill for the Midsouth Airshow. The operators, so they took it over. They here, especially the National Guard,” every other month.” area as far as tourism. People come event has been known to attract then really built it out. “ he said. “When they deploy or re- Tullahoma has also garnered here all the time for events, and we approximately 75,000 spectators to In 1942, the facility became the cover troops going on any kind of a national reputation for aviation expect to see more of that as things Millington. U.S. Navy’s Naval Reserve Aviation mission, they do most of that out of enthusiasts. like the casino planned in Bristol, “The Blue Angels are really the Base, later becoming Naval Air the airport. Last year, we had about “In 2014 and in 2019, the Air- Va., open. We offer easy access to big draw, and they’re the rock stars Station Memphis and the Mid-South 6,000 troops in and out of Smyrna. craft Owners and Pilots Association the Appalachian Trail. We work a lot of the aviation world. When they Naval Air Station. It wasn’t until There is a piece of the airport the Na- picked our airport as the location for of with the different tourism groups come to town, Millington gets the 1993 that the facility and 550 acres tional Guard still owns and operates. one of their regional fly-ins,” Glass to develop more air service. tax receipts from fuel sales, people of undeveloped adjacent property They have a lot of training schools said. “Twice we have been selected TRI operates commercial flight who buy food, rent hotel rooms were transferred to the city of Mil- here people transition through and a as one of four or five airports in the services that allow locals to take and spend the night. All of that lington as a result of a realignment medical unit here. There are several country used for that event, which trips for business or pleasure to a helps drive the local economy. It of military bases. different units that operate from the is huge.” variety of destinations. The air- also signals how important the U.S. Today, Remington said it’s not Smyrna Airport, and then there is Of course, the biggest event port offers regular flights from the military is not only for Millington unusual to see naval personnel at a joint facility used by the Army, that draws the biggest names to Tri-Cities area to Atlanta, Char- but also our nation. Those pilots are the airport. Navy, and National Guard. There THA is actually an event that takes lotte, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Orlando, the best in the world, and they really “All of the high-level staffing is still a big military presence here. place in nearby Manchester. THA and St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Fla. demonstrate the pride and strength decisions, all of the admiral ad- They’re great neighbors, and we is the closest general aviation air- Outside of Tennessee’s four major of the U.S. Navy, which is our larg- vancement boards, and ordering love working with them.” port to the world-famous Bonnaroo metro areas, TRI and Jackson’s est employer here in Millington.” and administrative functions of the While no longer a military base, Music and Arts Festival. Traffic at McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport U.S. Navy are all based in Milling- the Smyrna Airport is still home to THA increases by as much as 80% are the only two that offer regularly AIMING HIGH ton,” he said. “Every U.S. sailor a Tennessee Army National Guard during the month of June when both scheduled commercial flights. Many of Tennessee’s airports around the world gets their orders helicopter unit that operates 60 he- performers and attendees fly in for “The biggest thing our region have longstanding connections to from Millington. Even though they licopters with around 300 full-time the event. as a whole benefits from is our com- the military. During World War II, turned over the airport proper, they personnel. The Tennessee Air Na- “We have had pretty much mercial air service,” Cossey said. the military and the burgeoning kept the property adjacent to it and tional Guard also leases part of the every star you can think of fly in “We have American, Delta, and U.S. Air Force used many already have about 8,000 soldiers and sail- airport facility for its Grubbs/Kyle for Bonnaroo like Paul McCartney, Allegiant Air flying in and out of the existing airports as training grounds ors based there. Even though we Training Center, which supports 24 Elton John, Tom Petty, Metallica, airport on a daily or weekly basis. or bases of operations as well as built aren’t a base, they still use us quite units and 1,270 part-time and full- Pearl Jam, Eminem, Steve Martin, We have flights daily to Charlotte, many new facilities across the state a bit. You can imagine with 8,000 time personnel. Sting, Beyonce, Jay-Z, and I could Dallas, and Atlanta and connecting as part of the war effort. After World people, there are going to be needs For more information on the TDOT go on and on,” Glass said. “Most to the rest of the world there. We War II, several of these air bases for people to come for staffing rea- Airport Economic Impact study, visit of the big performers at Bonnaroo occasionally get charter flights in were sold off as surplus and were sons, dignitaries that fly in, and VIP https://www.tasp2040.com/.