1-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 www.TML1.org

6,250 subscribers www.TML1.org Volume 58, Number 3 February 12, 2007 State of State: Gov. Bredesen calls www.TML1.org for major investments in education TML Web site and the BY CAROLE GRAVES Hometown Connection TML Communications Director A new section to TML’s web with information on key issues As part of $243.3 million bud- site, entitled Hometown Connec- that affect municipalities, a bill get proposal earmarked for new tion, has been developed and will tracking system to stay current on education spending, Gov. Phil serve as a legislative library that’s specific legislation as it moves Bredesen is proposing $120 million open 24/7. through the process, as well as in new money for at-risk students in By accessing the Hometown access to Legislative Bulletins, grades K- 12 and $27 million annu- link, city officials will find infor- and Action Alerts distributed dur- ally for all student growth, in the mation on the League’s 2007 legis- ing the session. year in which it occurs. lative agenda complete with issue The new web site is now up “This will help the students briefs, background information, and running. However, many leg- who need extra, and it will help and specific legislation being pro- islative items will be added to the other students as well by stopping posed by TML. website throughout the legislative the robbing of Peter to pay Paul that This section will also feature a session and will continue to be a goes on now,” said Bredesen. series of legislative folders packed work in progress. The governor announced his proposed plan during his fifth State of the State Address delivered last week before a joint convention of Bipartisanship no pipe the 105th Tennessee General As- sembly. During the 30-minute dream for state pols speech, he told legislators that he was not in favor of making a radical BY BARBARA ROSEWICZ branch and the other has the major- overhaul of the Basic Education Stateline.org ity of one or both houses of the Program (BEP) and the wiser legislature, the two sides agreed to choice is to address the needs of As the nation wonders whether hike the minimum wage. In Massa- both urban and rural school dis- the new split in power between Con- chusetts and Vermont, GOP gover- tricts. gress and the White House is a sure nors worked with Democratic-con- “I believe – and the BEP Re- Photo by Victoria South trolled legislatures to cover the Gov. Bredesen focuses on education at fifth State of the State Address bet for gridlock, the lesson from be- view Committee has independently yond the Beltway is that plenty still medically uninsured. In California, come to the same conclusion – that The BEP committee was cre- of educating at-risk children; the can be accomplished when political Republican Gov. Arnold Schwar- it is a better strategy to build on and ated by statutory law in 2004 to re- cost of educating English language control is divided between Republi- zenegger reversed his governing improve what we have – to continu- view the state’s education funding learners; and the development and cans and Democrats. style to work with Democratic ma- ously identify specific needs and formula, giving specific consider- implementation of a system-level Just last year, in six states where jorities in the legislative branch and shortcomings,” he said. ation to three major issues: the cost See ADDRESS on Page 3 one party controls the executive take the nation’s lead in fighting global warming. Meanwhile, all those issues bogged down in fierce Illegal immigration issues dominate in 2007 partisan battles at the federal level. While divided government BY VICTORIA SOUTH seems like a stark change on Capitol TML Communications Coordinator Hill after a stretch of solid Republi- As illegal immigration issues can control, states have figured out spill over into 2007, lawmakers on how to work across the political federal, state, and local levels are divide. Frankly, they don’t have any anxious to lessen the flow with pre- See BIPARTISAN on Page 3 ventive legislation while new pro- grams and laws go into effect na- March 5-6 tionwide. Davidson County will become Legislative one of four municipalities in the country to participate in an immi- Conference gration enforcement program spon- sored by the Department of Home- at DoubleTree land Security (DHS). Davidson Make plans now to attend the County Sheriff Daron Hall attended Tennessee Municipal League 2007 a meeting in Washington, D.C., Legislative Conference, slated for hosted by U.S. Sens. Lamar March 5-6 at the DoubleTree Hotel Alexander and Bob Corker and in downtown Nashville. Tennessee Reps. Jim Cooper and The theme of the conference is: Marsha Blackburn following the Today’s Challenges are Tomor- signing of a Memorandum of Un- row’s Opportunities. derstanding (MOU) by DHS Assis- The conference will kick off at tant Secretary Julie Myers. 1:00 p.m. on Monday with Lt. Gov. There, the 287(g) program was Ron Ramsey, House Speaker Jimmy reviewed that authorizes sheriff’s Naifeh, and Comptroller John Mor- deputies to check the immigration Courtesy of Sen. Alexander’s office gan slated to address our member- status of every county jail detainee U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Julie Myers, Davidson County Sheriff Daron ship about key issues facing state since September and enforce appro- Hall, U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander and Congressman Jim Cooper meet in Washington to discuss the and local governments. priate immigration action including implementation of the 287(g) program that allows sheriff’s officers to run immigration background checks on The Monday afternoon session deportment proceedings. detainees at the Davidson County jail. will also feature a presentation by According to Hall, a five-week Tom Fleming, assistant to the training session for 12 individuals went very smoothly. Delegates Democrats have worked on our be- Davidson County jail can be identi- Comptroller for property assess- selected as immigration officers Blackburn, Cooper, Alexander, and half.” fied and our immigration laws can be ments, on the proposed Senior will be held in Nashville by DHS I have been working toward this “The federal government has enforced,” said Sen. Alexander. Homestead legislation. There will officials beginning March 3. since August. I feel this meeting done its part and now Davidson “It’s a shame that the federal also be time set aside for each district “I couldn’t be prouder,” Hall proved there are no bipartisan agen- County can complete the final step government has been so slow en- to meet. The Monday session will said from Washington. “Everything das going on. Both Republicans and so that illegal immigrants held in the See IMMIGRATION on Page 9 adjourn in time for city officials to attend the floor session in the Senate and House. African-American monument shines in Paris On Tuesday, a full breakfast will be served beginning at 8 a.m. BY VICTORIA SOUTH hill. The better made head stones on The rest of the morning will be spent TML Communications Coordinator the hill fared well, but the narrow updating city officials on ethics rows of sandstone through the de- regulations and requirements of Black history month is a time cades and the seasons like neglected elected officials, as well as the status for celebration, stories of amazing rows of teeth crumbled and withered on the Cable Franchise bill currently men and women marching against away until two worn, illegible slates being proposed by AT&T. all odds toward freedom, contribu- were the only evidence that an unde- Registration forms are available tors to society and the world at termined number of African-Ameri- at www.TML1.org. Delegate fees large. A monument in Paris, Ten- cans were buried across a grassy are $50 and spouse/guest fees are nessee honors such as these. slope in Paris. Then, two old friends $20. received divine inspiration from the Monday, March 5 Established in 1823, the same grave. 12 p.m. Registration year Paris was declared a munici- After ending a long career and 1:00 Welcome pality, the City Cemetery became serving with honors in both the U.S. 1:15 Speaker Jimmy Naifeh the resting spot for the remains of Army and Marine Corps, Georg 1:30 Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey the town’s deceased. Yet, even in Todd was ready to come home to 1:45 Comptroller John Morgan death, the bodies were segregated Paris. He missed his family and the 2:00 Break behind its gothic gates. hometown of his youth where he was 2:15 Tom Fleming Biographical plaques laud the born and raised. Comptroller’s office lives of white dignitaries buried A caring and civic-minded man, Sr. Homestead Exemption there, James Davis Porter, Tillie Todd soon became immersed in the 3:00 Break Out – TML Districts Cavitt Barton, John Wesley city arts council and educational Bill Review Crockett, yet, little is known about causes in the community. Like his 4:00 Adjourn the black citizens buried at the far dear friend, Paris City Manager Carl 5:00 Floor sessions north end, a bleak, barren spot adja- Holder, Todd intended to make a Legislative Plaza cent to the Quinn Chapel African difference. Tuesday, March 6 Methodist Episcopal Church. At a 2005 ceremony honoring 8 a.m. Breakfast Few, if any, records exist for those who’ve made Henry County 9:00 Ethics Regulations these unknown souls, and local his- what it is today, Todd agreed to per- A symbolic portrait of an African- American woman of the 19th century Cable Franchise Bill torians predict most were the slaves form a soliloquy honoring the slaves graces one side of the 6-foot granite monument at the Paris City Committee meetings of the whites reposed higher on the See AFRICAN on Page 6 Cemetery. An African-American farmer is etched upon the other side. Legislative Plaza www.TML1.org 2-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007

BY TISH WOMACK FRANKLIN Maryville and Maryville College. TML Research Analyst Moody’s Investors Services gave Franklin an Aaa rating on the city’s MCMINNVILLE BELL BUCKLE $20 million general obligation capi- The McMinnville Public Safety Bell Buckle town hall is the proud tal improvement bonds and affirmed Unit, a volunteer unit of auxiliary owner of a 1902 Behr Brothers up- the Aaa rating on its $84 million officers, has saved the city $140,000 right piano, donated by the First previously issued parity debt. since it began operations in 2003. Community Bank of Bedford The unarmed officers handle calls County. The piano, lovingly refin- GERMANTOWN that don’t require a law enforcement ished and refurbished, was origi- A mobile command center van with officer thus freeing up police offic- nally intended for the governor’s radio equipment, television screens ers to handle the police business. mansion, but was given to Bell and satellite and computer connec- Buckle when a baby grand was pre- tions has arrived in Germantown. MEMPHIS ferred for the mansion. The $330,000 van was purchased MovieMaker magazine’s winter is- with three Homeland Security sue lists Memphis seventh in its Top Photo courtesy of The Chattanooga Times Free Press BRIGHTON grants. 10 movie cities for this year, up from th Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield and Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin, The town’s fire department pur- 10 place in 2006. Memphis, the both strong advocates of civil rights, neighborhoods, and the homeless chased new air packs, another ther- HOHENWALD only Tennessee city to make the list, spoke in Chattanooga at a sold out event: The Power of One Mayor’s mal imaging camera, and other The Hohenwald city hall has new has been the site for Walk the Line, Luncheon. Both mayors were in Washington, D.C., recently attending needed items with its $88,000 U.S. efficient HVAC units and modified Hustle & Flow and Blake Snake the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Mayor Franklin received the President’s Department of Homeland Security ductwork that the city anticipates Moan movies. Award by the U.S. Conference of Mayors recognizing her as among the grant. will save $5,000 annually over the best of the best. The award focused on her energetic campaign to save next 14 years. The city used a zero MILLINGTON the Dr. Martin Luther King papers from being auctioned. CHATTANOOGA interest energy loan through the The U.S. Corps of Engineers se- Chattanooga is one of the finalists Tennessee Department of Economic lected Millington for its new Logis- for the new Toyota plant; the other is and Community Development as a tics Activity Center at the Naval a location near Marion, Ark. The Three-Star community. Support Activity Mid-South base plant will employ up to 2,500. that will employ up to 120 workers. HOMELAND SECURITY BY TISH WOMACK Maryville named Kristine Tallent CHATTANOOGA DISTRICT 1 MORRISTOWN of Seymour as finance manager. She Chattanooga has received about A rolling 911 center has been pur- The cutting facility of Berkline/ Tennessee Valley Authority Direc- began her new duties Jan. 29. $600,000 in a U.S. Department of chased with about $280,000 in Benchcraft LLC in Morristown will tor Bill Baxter, Knoxville, resigned Housing and Urban Development homeland security funds to be lo- close. The cost cutting and stream- his TVA board Athens Accounting Assistant Becky HOME grant for permanent housing cated in Gray, a centrally located site lining effort affects 150 employees. of director’s W. Leamon has been awarded the for low-income households. near two Interstate highways. The The shut down began this month. seat to spend designation of Certified Municipal trailer has a meeting room in the more time Clerk by the International Institute COLLIERVILLE front and the capacity to provide MOSHEIM with his Knox- of Municipal Clerks. Collierville police are now required communication with emergency The city has received a clean audit ville business. to wear bullet-proof vests while on workers during a crisis. report for the 2005-06 fiscal year He served as Lebanon Fire Chief Wayne Driver duty. Heavier duty vests able to stop with net assets valued at more than the last full- retired effective Feb. 2. projectiles will be worn by officers KNOXVILLE $11.5 million. time chairman when going on a raid. The city council approved plans for of TVA prior Athens Finance Director Mike upgrading and opening the World’s NASHVILLE to its restruc- Baxter Keith accepted the finance director/ COOKEVILLE Fair Sunsphere and Tennessee Am- Five Nashville bicycle police offic- turing in 2006. city clerk’s position with the city of The city council approved a measure phitheater by this fall. ers are now riding around the down- Cleveland. to create a legal department at their town area on motorized scooters that Former Deputy Governor Dave late January meeting. The city has MARYVILLE are just as maneuverable but much Cooley has formed his own com- Memphis City Attorney Sara Hall grown to the point where a full-time An Environmental Protection faster in traffic than bicycles. pany, Cooley Public Strategies, that resigned her position to represent the city attorney is becoming a neces- Agency grant of will finance an is a subsidiary of the Nashville pub- Memphis-Shelby County Airport sity, according to City Manager Jim open-air classroom, outdoor labora- NEWBERN lic relations firm McNeely, Piggott Authority. Shipley. tory, and a boardwalk and parking Briggs & Stratton announced it will & Fox for whom he worked from lot at Pistol Creek. The project is a locate a manufacturing plant in 1993-2001. The Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s collaborative effort between Newbern. Office named Kingsport firefighter Former Tennes- Barry Brickey the 2006 Fire Educa- see U.S. Rep. tor of the Year for his efforts in Harold Ford increasing fire safety awareness in Jr. was named the city. chairman of the Democratic Mt. Pleasant City Manager Bob Leadership Murray submitted his letter of res- Council.He will ignation, effective June 30. He is BY TISH WOMACK shortage of nurses in the state by sioner Matthew Kisber. Among the also teach a credited for the attraction of several Ford paying 100 RNs per year to obtain grantees were: Mosheim, $149,640 class at manufacturing companies to the A study by the state Comptroller’s graduate degrees and teach under- for sewer system improvements at Vanderbilt University this semester. small city. Office of Education Accountability, graduate nursing studies for four the MD Recycling, Inc.’s facility; “State Approaches to Improving years. For each year a graduate Oak Ridge, $750,000 for Columbia city officials named City Etowah City Manager John Solsby Tennessee’s High Priority teaches in a Tennessee nursing stormwater drainage/site improve- Engineer Jim Fuller acting city announced he will retire sometime Schools,” indicates Tennessee school, 25 percent of the loan will be ments assistance to Professional manager. He replaces former City this year following the completion of doesn’t provide enough funding for forgiven. Project Services, Inc.’s facility; Manager Mike Miller. projects underway. urban school districts or provide ad- Portland, $367,650 to assist feder- equate support for new teachers. The Traffic fatalities in Tennessee ated Department Stores, Inc. with Clarksville Mayor Johnny Piper State Sen. Jerry Cooper was seri- report is available on the dropped 6 percent in the past two construction of a water storage tank named Capt. Al Ansley interim po- ously injured in a car accident Feb. 7. Comptroller’s website: years, according to preliminary at their distribution facility; and lice chief replacing Police Chief He’s in stable condition at www.comptroller.state.tn.us. 2006 figures. The drop is attributed Metro Nashville, $343,000 to assist Mark Smith. Vanderbilt University Medical Cen- to the state passing the lower blood Gateway Pro Partners, LLC with site ter. Gov. Phil Bredesen and state alcohol level (0.08) and the ability of improvements at its facility. health care officials launched a police to pull over drivers not wear- Josh Jones new MTAS legal consultant statewide campaign to raise funds ing seat belts. Tennessee ranked third in the na- for a scholarship program, The tion for insured property damage The Municipal Technical Ad- Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness The Tennessee Department of caused by tornadoes. In a report is- visory Service (MTAS) is pleased Program, to help current registered Economic and Community Devel- sued by Property Claims Services, to welcome new legal consultant, nurses pay the costs of earning opment has two new grant pro- Tennessee had $4,873 million in Josh Jones, to its Nashville office. graduate teaching degrees. The pro- grams: the Three-Star Priority Grant claims, 90 percent of which occurred Jones hails from Maryville and gram is part of the effort to ease the and the Three-Star Innovation last April after two sets of tornadoes graduated with a degree in psychol- Grant. The Three-Star Priority went through the state in one week. ogy from the University of Tennes- Grant, with a $2,500 maximum see at Knoxville. amount and a matching amount from The Tennessee Department of After two years with a Three-Star community, is to sup- Transportation (TDOT) is accept- AmeriCorps, Jones attended port strategic plans. The Three-Star ing grant applications for the Safe Brandeis School of Law at the Uni- Innovation Grant, a competitive Routes to School program, a federal versity of Louisville, where he matching grant program, is to en- grant program for infrastructure and earned his Juris Doctor. After spending a short time in The U.S. Census Bureau has begun courage communities to develop non-infrastructure projects aimed at Jones mailing informational booklets to all new and innovative community en- supporting increased biking and private practice, Jones served two state, local and tribal governments hancement programs. walking among children. The dead- years as a child support prosecutor view for the Tennessee Municipal asking for their assistance in provid- line is March 15. For more informa- in Chattanooga. League. ing updated addresses for their com- FastTrack Infrastructure grants tion visit www.tn.gov/tdot/bikeped Jones administers direct legal “I hope to provide a listening ear munities, part of an early, concerted were announced by Gov. Phil and click on Safe Routes to School, advice to city officials, provides and creative solutions to cities across effort to make the 2010 Census as Bredesen and Economic and Com- or call the program coordinator at training for municipal officials, the state,” said Jones. “I’m excited to accurate as possible. munity Development Commis- 615-253-2421. and assists with legislative bill re- serve with MTAS in Nashville.”

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P.O. Box 29268 • Murfreesboro, TN 37133- 2968 (615) 895-8221 3-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 www.TML1.org Political control split in many state legislatures BIPARTISAN, from Page 1 year, joining nine other states that choice. Exactly half the nation’s enacted pay increases by statute and state capitols are divided, with gov- six more that did so by ballot mea- ernors from one party and at least sure. In all, 30 states now mandate one house of the legislature in the higher minimum wages than does hands of the other. (Democrats con- Congress. trol both the executive and legisla- What states have learned is that tive branch in 15 states, Republicans cracking the tough problems some- in 10.) Before the 2006 election, 30 times requires crossing the political states had divided government. aisle, even if that means breaking Partisan colorations mean party stereotypes. That’s precisely somewhat less at the state level, what Schwarzenegger and fellow where pragmatism and problem- Republican Mitt Romney, as gover- solving are necessities. For one nor of Massachusetts, did when they thing, pressure to compromise is proposed a government-led solution built-in when all states but Vermont to the problem of the uninsured. are constitutionally required to bal- Sometimes leaders who do that have ance their budgets. For another, state more credibility precisely because lawmakers are more willing – and they’re going against the partisan because of the smaller scale, have grain, much as when anti-commu- nist warrior President Richard the luxury – to experiment with Photo courtesy of State Photo Service policy. And in 15 statehouses with Nixon moved to open relations with Gov. Phil Bredesen joins Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, House Speaker Pro Tem Lois DeBerry, and House Speaker term limits, legislators work under Communist China. Or when Demo- Jimmy Naifeh at the podium of the House chamber to deliver his fifth State of the State address. deadline pressure to make their mark cratic President Bill Clinton broke in six to 12 years. with many in his party to sign a A need to produce results means welfare reform bill passed by a Re- Bredesen Republicans at the state level are publican Congress. more accustomed to bending occa- President Bush himself is no sionally to Democratic ideas and newcomer to divided government. proposes vice versa. Arizona Gov. Janet One of his hallmarks as Texas gover- Napolitano (D) wielded her veto pen nor was his flair at working with new money like a machete last year over the Democrats who controlled the legis- GOP-dominated legislature, killing lature then. One starting point to for education 43 bills, including some to restrict stave off D.C. gridlock could be im- abortion and stiffen penalties on ille- migration, where the Democratic ADDRESS continued from Page 1 gal aliens. But she compromised on takeover of Congress makes it easier fiscal capacity model to address the her impulse to invest the state’s en- – rather than harder – to see a deal on differences of each school system’s tire $1.4 billion surplus in state pro- Bush’s proposed guest-worker pro- ability to fund K-12 education. The grams and savings, yielding to Re- gram. potential change to a fiscal capacity publicans who wanted tax cuts. In Tennessee model index is projected to increase On the minimum wage, states In Gov. Phil Bredesen’s State of state revenues for some school dis- proved far faster than Congress at the State address, the governor made tricts, while significantly decreasing responding to overwhelming public a call to Tennessee’s General As- state support for others. In most in- support in polls for raising the $5.15- sembly to put aside “politics as stances, city school systems would an-hour federal rate, last updated in usual” and instead make a bipartisan see reductions in state BEP funding, Photo by Victoria South 1996. Federal attempts to raise the commitment to the education of should a system-level fiscal capacity Speaker Naifeh visits with former Gov. Ned McWherter prior to wage fell apart before the 2006 elec- Tennessee’s children. model be adopted. Bredesen’s address. tions, though congressional Demo- “As I look out over this chamber Bredesen said that his plan will crats now are resurrecting the idea. tonight, I am proud indeed that bi- help resolve inequities in state fund- education system. includes: But at the state level, the rush to raise partisanship is not a new idea in ing between school districts and is a To fund these new initiatives, • preparing every student for suc- the minimum wage bordered on Tennessee; that we have been prac- major step forward for the state of Bredesen is proposing a 40-cent in- cess, stampede and even caught up two ticing it and getting results for our Tennessee. crease in the state’s cigarette tax. • providing adequate funding to Republican governors – Schwar- state for a long time,” Bredesen said. Other proposals in new educa- More than 90 percent of the money every district, zenegger and Arkansas’ Mike “To all of you from both sides of the tion spending include: raised by the proposed tax will go • raising standards and expecta- Huckabee. They broke ranks and aisle, thank you for putting the needs • $25 million to fund additional directly into the classroom and into tions, and signed minimum wage hikes last of our state first.” Pre-K classrooms statewide, the state’s colleges. About $21 mil- • making college more assessable Stateline.org is an independent • $48 million to hold tuition in- lion will be allocated to agriculture and affordable. element of the Pew Research Center. creases at state colleges and uni- and anti-smoking programs. “My message tonight has been versities to 6 percent, “The argument for a cigarette about educating our children, and at The state of partisan politics • $10 million to offer free commu- tax is straightforward: Our schools its heart has been simple: Tennessee nity college tuition to high school need more money,” Bredesen said. is ready – ready to lift its sights, students who make an average “Our cigarette tax is among the low- ready to look further, ready to seize score of 19 on the ACT - 19 on est in the nation, it has room to grow, the future. Tennessee is ready; the the math component and 19 on and even after such an increase, will question is, are we?” the test’s reading component, still be vastly below the national av- Bredesen will present his entire • $9.3 million to increase erage.” 2007-08 budget proposal later this Tennessee’s Hope Scholarships Bredesen said that these new month. It will contain specific re- to $4,000 annually, and initiatives are part of a comprehen- quests for investments in education, • $48 million to fund operating sive strategy for strengthening job creation, health care and envi- increases in Tennessee’s higher Tennessee’s public education that ronmental protection. State Revenue Department extends April 15 tax filing deadline to April 17 Tennessee taxpayers will have line. As always, we encourage tax- In addition to collecting state taxes, until Tuesday, April 17, to file state payers to utilize our online tax filing $1.8 billion of local sales tax was taxes due April 15. The Tennessee applications,” said Revenue Com- collected by the department for local Department of Revenue’s decision missioner Reagan Farr. governments during the 2005-2006 to extend the filing time follows an The Department of Revenue is fiscal year. announcement earlier this year by responsible for the administration of Besides collecting taxes, the de- the Internal Revenue Service that it state tax laws and motor vehicle title partment enforces the revenue laws was changing its federal income tax and registration laws and the collec- fairly and impartially in an effort to deadline nationwide to April 17 for tion of taxes and fees associated with encourage voluntary taxpayer com- this year only. those laws. pliance. The department also appor- The April 17 deadline will apply The department collects ap- tions revenue collections for distri- The 2006 elections gave Democrats control of the governor’s office to the following: Hall income tax proximately 92 percent of total state bution to the various state funds and and both legislative chambers in 15 states, up from eight, while and franchise and excise taxes. tax revenue. During the 2005-2006 local units of government. Republicans control 10, down from 12. Tennessee is among 25 states “We will follow the IRS’s lead fiscal year, the department collected To learn more, log on to with party control split between the governor and the legislature. in regard to the April 17 filing dead- $10.3 billion in state taxes and fees. www.Tennessee.gov/revenue.

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Jim Malone Office: (931) 433-6907 President FAX: (931) 433-9714 Toll Free (888) 752-7126 Email: [email protected] www.TML1.org 4-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 League launches new grassroots district program The Tennessee Municipal League has launched a new grassroots program implemented through each TML district. The newly-developed program is de- signed to capitalize on TML’s great- est asset – its members. After all, municipal officials are the most knowledgeable about their commu- nity and best suited to assess the effects of legislation, and therefore, are best able to articulate their views on an individual bill or amendment to their legislators. District meetings were held across the state in January to explain the new program and how it will help build, foster, and facilitate construc- tive relationships between city offi- District 1: Russell Treadway, Elizabethton city manager, and Charles cials and their state legislators. Stahl, assistant city manager of Johnson City. With implementation,advoctes District 1: Jeff Brighton, Bristol city manager, and James Epps, efforts will become more localized Johnson City attorney. as each district is established as a primary point of contact and a point of origin for all efforts. District di- rectors will actively engage in ar- ranging meetings for city officials with legislators and provide feed- back to the League on what they are hearing in the field. Through the District directors’ program, the League staff will pro- vide the support and tools needed to effectively deliver a coordinated message on city issues to legislators. Staff efforts will compliment each district’s work, but can not be a sub- stitute for the personal contact and relationship established with each District 1: Jim Messimer, Bristol mayor and district director; Jane respective legislator. Myron, Johnson City commissioner and district officer; and Randy Key elements of the program Trivette, Erwin city recorder and district officer. include: District 2: Rick Trent, Morristown council; Ralph “Buddy” Fielder, • District Meetings – New for- Photos by Carole Graves Moristown assistant city administrator; and Alan Hartman, Morristown mat with emphasis on district and Denise Paige development director. directors asserting more leader- ship and more tailored programs that foster more interaction and discussion of issues of impor- tance to the district. • District Legislative Meeting – Mayors and/or city managers in the district meet with legislators to convey TML legislative ini- tiatives and positions on other legislation of interest to munici- palities. These meetings should be a recurring event and should be planned at a time when the legislature is not likely to be in session and legislators will be back home. • Contact/Whip Reports – Lob- byist will provide weekly whip District 2: Joe Muscatello, TMBF representative; John Johnson, Jefferson City manager; Gary reports to each district director. District 2: Kay Senter, Morristown McClain, Maryville city manager; Roger Campbell, Maryville assistant city manager; and Randy District directors are to follow vice mayor and district director. Williams, TML Risk Management Pool representative. up with officials in his/her dis- trict to ensure each legislator is contacted and that the whip re- port is current and accurate. • Record Votes – TML will cre- ate a permanent record of legis- lators committee and floor votes on bills and amendments of in- terest to municipalities. The membership will be able to ac- cess each legislator’s score card through a members-only, pass- word protected section. • District Press List – District directors will serve as a spokes- person as well as identify other key individuals willing to re- spond to press inquiries, as needed. District 3: David May and Richard Banks, Cleveland council. District 4: Tommy Pedigo, Sparta mayor and district director, and J.H. Graham III, Crossville mayor.

District 3: John Proffitt, Athens mayor and district officer; Avery Johnson, Cleveland vice mayor and District 5: Jamie Steele, Hendersonville fire chief, and Billy Paul Carneal, district director; Linda Bennett, Chattanooga councilmember and district officer. Springfield mayor.

District 4: Jesse Kerley, Crossville council; Terry Crane, Spencer mayor and district officer; and District 5: Jim Bracey, Whitehouse alderman; Angie Carrier, Whitehouse Darius Sims, Town of Livingston city administrator; Mike Arnold, Whitehouse alderman. 5-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 www.TML1.org City officials attend meetings held across state

District 6: Bob Spivey, Smyrna mayor; Margaret Mahery, TML executive director; and Christa District 5: Paul Nutting, Springfield city manager and district director, Scott Foster, Martin, Columbia councilmember Hendersonville mayor.

District 5: Charles “Bones” Seiver, TMBF president; Johnny Piper, Clarksville mayor; District 6: Beth Lothers, Nolensville mayor, and Ed Craig, Shelbyville city manager and and Wilbur Berry, Clarksville finance director. district director.

District 6: Bell Buckle city officials District 6: Joe Sweeney, Brentwood mayor, Joe Reagan, Brentwood commissioner, and Mike Walker, Brentwood city manager.

District 7: Webb Banks, Brownsville mayor and Randy Brundige, Martin mayor and district director. District 7: George Killebrew, Milan mayor; Walter Winchester, McKenzie mayor and district officer; and Charles Beal, McKenzie city recorder.

District 8: TaJuan Stout Mitchell, Memphis government relations, and District 8: Keith McDonald, Bartlett mayor and district director, Jenny Falkof, Memphis compliance attorney. E.C. Jones, Memphis councilmember and distirct officer. District 7: Bob Kirk, Dyersburg Photos by Carole Graves alderman. www.TML1.org 6-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 African-American monument shines in Paris MONUMENT from page 1 6-foot obelisk in a heartfelt and emo- and free blacks who helped build the tional ceremony. town, yet lay buried in unmarked The faces on the monument re- graves. His character, Noah place the unknown. A portrait of an Crawford, representing the spirit of African -American woman embrac- a 19th century black farmer interred ing two children, one white and one at the north end of the cemetery so black, appears on one side of the moved Holder that afterward he ap- obelisk, an African American proached Todd. farmer on the other. Poignant in- “It’s a shame we have nothing in scriptions by former citizen Dr. town to commemorate the people Mordecai Johnson, the first black you spoke of,” Holder said. “There president of Howard University, and really ought to be. We can’t change an explanatory quote by Holder ap- the past, but we can change the fu- pear as well: ture.” Tears flowed as Holder sug- Nearby are the unmarked gested the two men work together to graves of an undetermined number make the memorial a reality. of slaves and others of African- Suddenly, the dream took on life American descent who though lack- in the town. An ad hoc committee ing personal freedom or equality of was formed, local artist Jan Foster standing as citizens contributed to was commissioned to design the me- the building of our community morial and symbolic portraits ap- through their physical toil, perse- pearing on the monument represent- verance and unfettered spirituality. ing the lifestyle of slaves and free Though they are unknown, we com- blacks of the era. The creation would memorate their lives and pledge to be crafted and erected by Paris seek the fulfillment of their hopes Mayor David Travis, the owner of a and dreams in their descendents. local monument business. For these purposes we dedicate this A year later, a large group of monument - Citizens of Paris, 2006. citizens of both white and black In the spring of 2007, women in Paris City Manager Carl Holder (left) along with citizen and community volunteer Georg Todd worked races gathered together at the north the community will plant flowers tirelessly to make the monument honoring African Americans in unmarked graves a reality. end of Paris Cemetery to christen the th typical of a 19 century African- American garden around the monu- The two are united in history playing about the cemetery,” smiled ment and circular walkway. through their ancestors on the me- Holder. “I told Georg, this is what “What they have done here is morial. civilization has been trying to ac- amazing,” said Pastor Kenneth The two children etched into the complish for 150 years.” Golphin of the Quinn Chapel AME memorial were modeled by Holder’s Then, there are the coinci- church, whose church members granddaughter, Lakota Brown, and dences, two markers, two friends, sang at the ceremony. Todd’s nephew, Joshua Todd. one black, one white and the granite “Carl’s commitment to the com- “After the ceremony the two Mayor Travis and others so lovingly munity amazes me,” said Todd children wearing costumes of the designed? It had to be special about his friend. period, buddied up laughing and ordered…all the way from Africa.

Photos by Victoria South Time and weather have eroded the two remaining sandstone markers of African- Americans buried in the Paris City Cemetery. Pictured to the right: A walk-a-round encourages citizens to examine the poignant messages and artwork on the monument’s four sides. The grounds surrounding the obelisk are unmarked African- American gravesites. China trade mission open BY JAMES BROOKS munity economic development Nation’s Cities Weekly team” are charged for direct pro- gram costs. Historically, the cost For the fourth consecutive year, for business representatives is ap- NLC will collaborate with the U.S.- proximately $3,000 per-person. China Exchange Association to of- The chair of NLC’s Interna- fer American municipal officials tional Council for 2007, Ted Ellis, and their local business partners the mayor, Bluffton, Ind., participated opportunity to visit China and ex- in last year’s trade mission. plore commercial opportunities. “The trade mission was enor- The 2007 program will take mously valuable to me and to the place from June 23 until July 2. The local business leaders who partici- seminars and business match-mak- pated as part of the team from my ing sessions will be hosted in the community,” he said. “Smaller cit- cities of Shanghai, Chongqing and ies don’t always have access to glo- Beijing. bal programs that can help us en- All program costs for municipal hance our economic prosperity.” elected officials (airfare, hotels, For information, contact the BankBank ofof AmericaAmerica meals, translation, ground transpor- NLC International Programs staff tation, and tours) are provided by the by telephone at (202) 626-3163 or program sponsors. Private sector by e-mail at [email protected]. isis proudproud toto supportsupport participants who accompany the The registration deadline is elected officials as part of a “com- May 25. Tennessee Municipal League. Nominations open for 2007 Tennessee Municipal League. TDEC Stewardship awards The Department of Environ- Parks and Recreation; and Pollution ment and Conservation is inviting Prevention. Tennesseans to submit nominations Any individual, business, orga- for the Governor’s 2007 Environ- nization, educational institution or mental Stewardship Awards. The agency is eligible, provided they are awards recognize Tennesseans who located in Tennessee, its projects go above and beyond to protect the were accomplished during the 2006 state’s diverse environment. calendar year, and it does not have “The quality of our environment any outstanding non-compliance is- is a cornerstone of the lifestyle that sues with the Department of Envi- Tennesseans enjoy,” said TDEC ronment and Conservation. Self- Commissioner Jim Fyke. “Our envi- nominations are encouraged. Visit us at www.bankofamerica.com. ronment impacts everything from A panel of judges representing our recreational activities to the agricultural, conservation, forestry, health of our communities, so it’s environmental and academic profes- important that we recognize the sionals will select award recipients people and organizations that work based on criteria including on-the- so hard to protect it.” ground achievement, innovation, The Stewardship Awards cover and public education. 12 categories: Agriculture/Forestry; The deadline for nominations is Aquatic Resource Preservation; March 31, 2007. Award recipients Building Green; Energy Leadership; will be announced in late April 2007. Environmental Education and Out- For information about the reach; Green Schools; Greenways awards, log on to the Web site at and Trails; Hazardous Waste Re- www.tdec.net/awards. For more in- duction; Lifetime Achievement; formation, contact Dana Coleman at Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. ©2004 Bank of America Corporation. Natural Heritage Conservation; (615 ) 253-1916. SPN-41-AD 7-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 www.TML1.org Tennessee Municipal League 2006-2007 Officers and Directors New passport rules effect U.S. citizens PRESIDENT Tommy Bragg for implementation in 2008, would Canada, for example, represent only Mayor, Murfreesboro BY JAMES BROOKS VICE PRESIDENTS Nation’s Cities Weekly require passports for all persons about 40 percent of eligible citizens. Tommy Green traveling in the Western Hemi- In the United States, 25 percent are Mayor, Alamo Tom Beehan Beginning on January 23, all sphere and crossing borders by car eligible. A passport in the United Mayor Pro Tem, Oak Ridge persons, including U.S. citizens, or by sea (including cruise ships or States costs $97 and takes about six TENNESSEE Royce Davenport traveling by air between the United ferries). This could have an impact weeks to process. . Mayor of McMinnville on the familiar and spontaneous re- The rules could also impact pub- DIRECTORS States, Canada, Mexico, Central FESTIVALS Randy Brundige (District 7) and South America, the Caribbean, tail shopping habits of Americans lic health systems in cities such as Let us know the particulars about Mayor, Martin and Bermuda will be required to and Canadians in communities all Detroit, where more than 3,500 Ca- Ed Craig your most important festivals at least City Manager, Shelbyville (District 6) present a valid passport or similar along the 3,100-mile border. nadian nurses staff local hospitals. six weeks in advance of the event. E- Tommy Pedigo tamper-resistant proof of citizen- The new rules from the Depart- More detailed information is avail- mail Tish Womack at twomack@ Mayor, Sparta (District 4) ship and identity. Driver’s licenses, ments of State and Homeland Secu- able via the Internet at the Depart- Jean Davis TML1.org or fax to 615-255-4752. Vice Mayor, Cookeville voter registration cards, and birth rity could have economic impacts ments of State (www.state.gov) and Avery Johnson certificates will no longer be accept- on Sunbelt cities that rely heavily Homeland Security (www.dhs.gov), March 1-4: Nashville Lawn & Vice Mayor, Cleveland (District 3) able. on winter tourism from Canada and and at the Travel Industry Associa- Johnny Dodd, Garden Show, Tennessee State Vice Mayor, Jackson Additional proposed rules, set Europe. Passport holders in tion of America (www.tia.org). Bill Haslam Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mayor, Knoxville each day; 5 p.m. closing on Sun- W.W. Herenton Next steps in state’s alternative fuels strategy day. Fee: $8 for adults, $7 for se- Mayor, Memphis Gov. Phil Bredesen announced cant new markets for Tennessee agricultural resources of this state,” Jay Johnson niors, $1 for children under 12. For City Manager, Franklin (TMLRMP) that his proposed 2007-2008 budget farmers and new opportunities for said John Petersen, UT president. more information, visit www. Mark Johnson will include $61 million for a com- Tennessee’s economy. “That combination gives Tennessee nashvillelawnandgardenshow.com City Manager, Alcoa (TCMA) prehensive alternative fuels strat- The governor’s proposal aug- Dale Kelley the clear advantage in pursuing a Mayor, Huntingdon egy to position Tennessee to be a ments $11.6 million provided by leadership role in biomass fuels.” George Killebrew national leader in the production of the General Assembly for construc- “We appreciate Gov. Bredesen’s Mayor, Milan biomass ethanol and related re- tion of the Joint Institute for Bio- Ron Littlefield interest in Tennessee farmers and ru- Mayor, Chattanooga search. logical Sciences currently at ral communities,” said Lacy Keith McDonald (District 8) Combined with $11.6 million ORNL. The facility is scheduled for Upchurch, Tennessee Farm Bureau Mayor, Bartlett Jim Messimer (District 1) in existing funding for an ongoing completion in August. UT and president. “Converting biomass to Mayor, Bristol related project at Oak Ridge Na- ORNL are currently competing for energy is a perfect match for Tennes- Don Mull tional Laboratory (ORNL), the a $125 million Bioenergy Research see agriculture and has great income Mayor, Alcoa Paul Nutting (District 5) Governor’s proposal represents a Center from the U.S. Department of potential for our producers and the Feb 20: Tennessee Business City Manager, Springfield $72.6 million comprehensive plan. Energy. If successful, the rural economy.” Matchmaking Program, Jackson John Proffitt “This proposal, at its core, is Bioenergy Center would be housed Bredesen also announced three Civic Centre, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mayor, Athens Bill Purcell about joining the best of in the Joint Institute for Biological programs, representing a $3.5 million Registration deadline: Feb 11. Mayor, Metro Nashville Tennessee’s agricultural and aca- Sciences. investment, recommended by the Register at www.tnecd.gov/ Charles “Bones” Seivers demic resources and leveraging Other components of the plan state Alternative Fuels Working matchmaking. Registration fee: President-CEO, Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund Kay Senter them in a unique way that will posi- in the 2007-2008 proposed budget Group. They include: $35. Vice Mayor, Morristown (District 2) tion us to take advantage of the include: • Agricultural Feedstock Process- PAST PRESIDENTS opportunities of tomorrow,” • $10 million for UT and ORNL Feb. 23: Tennessee Municipal At- Charles Farmer (1995), Mayor, Jackson ing Loans to help attract invest- Dan Speer (1997) Mayor, Pulaski Bredesen said. “These investments to fund additional research to ment in soybean crushing facili- torneys Association Winter meeting Sam Tharpe (2001) Vice Mayor, Paris will help secure our economic and increase switchgrass production ties to create local markets for at Mariott Cool Springs, Franklin; 8 Tom Rowland (2002) Mayor, Cleveland environmental future and allow us and achieve efficiencies in the a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Featured speaker: Bob Kirk (2004) Alderman, Dyersburg Tennessee-grown soybeans and John Franklin Jr (2005) Councilman, Chattanooga to maximize our potential to be a production of cellulosic etha- supply the oil needed to create Bruce Androphy, Executive Direc- farm-based fuels leader.” nol. biodiesel. tor, Tennessee Ethics Commission. TML AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS (Ex-Officio Directors) Bredesen’s proposed budget • $3 million in research funding • Innovation Grants to help gov- Visit www.tmaa.us for more infor- Tennessee Municipal Attorneys Assn. will include $40 million to build a to find other, non-biomass al- ernments and state-funded uni- mation. Jennifer Noe, Ashland City pilot biomass ethanol plant that will ternative fuel sources. versities increase the use of alter- Tennessee Municipal Judges Conference Ewing Sellers, Murfreesboro operate at a capacity of five million • $8 million in agricultural incen- native fuels in their fleets, par- Feb 26-27: ICMA, Smart Growth Tennessee Chapter, American Public Works gallons per year. tives to help Tennessee farmers ticularly in areas not currently Network, and the U.S. Environmen- William “Bo” Mills, Germantown Scientists at ORNL and the tap into the new farm-based fu- attaining federal air quality stan- tal Protection Agency present Tennessee Government Finance Officers Assn. John Troyer, Knoxville University of Tennessee Institute els market and produce switch- dards. “Smart Growth for Local Govern- Tenn. Assn. of Housing & Redevel. Auth. for Agriculture have developed grass in the quantities required • Green Island Corridor Grants to ments: Creating and Sustaining Liv- Dow Harris, Cookeville ethanol from switchgrass, a crop to supply the pilot ethanol plant. build a network of publicly-ac- able Communities” in the First Floor Tennessee Building Officials Assn. Jim Brown, Bartlett that can be grown virtually any- “This initiative represents an cessible B20 and E85 refueling Training Rooms at ICMA Head- Tennessee Fire Chiefs Assn. where in Tennessee. Biomass crops incredible merging of scientific re- stations or “green islands” along quarters, 777 North Capitol Street, Phil Vinson, Bristol like switchgrass represent signifi- search and technology with the rich NE, Washington, DC. Registration: Tennessee Assn. of Air Carrier Airports Tennessee’s major highways. Larry Cox, Memphis $195 for individuals, $150 for teams Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police of three or more from the same juris- John Lowry, Johnson City diction, or $95 for students. Regis- Tennessee Water Quality Management Assn. Jack Graham, Maryville tration closes Feb. 21. For more in- Tennessee Recreation and Parks Assn. formation and to register: Dennis Suiter, Martin Tennessee Chapter, American Planning Assn. www.icma.org/smartgrowthdc. Steven Neilson, Brentwood Tennesseee Personnel Management Association March 5-6: TML Legislative Con- William Brown, Alcoa Tenn. Assn. of Municipal Clerks & Recorders ference, Doubletree Hotel, Nash- Connie Kittrell, Gallatin ville. Tennessee Assn. of Public Purchasing Susan White, Jackson TN Section, Institute of Transportation Engineers March 10-14: National League of Greg Judy, Nashville Cities Congressional City Confer- Tennessee Public Transportation Association ence, Washington, D.C. Tom Dugan, Chattanooga Tennessee Fire Safety Inspectors Tommy White, Sevierville Assn. of Independent and Municipal Schools Wayne Miller, LenoirCity Rain or shine, TML ASSOCIATE PARTICIPANTS sleet or hail, DIAMOND LEVEL MEMBERSHIP Bank of America every day is perfect GOLD LEVEL MEMBERSHIP ING Financial Advisers, LLC SILVER LEVEL MEMBERSHIP for a GovDeals sale! Sensus Metering Systems BRONZE LEVEL MEMBERSHIP Ademus Technologies Alexander Thompson Arnold, PLLC Scott Companies CORPORATE LEVEL MEMBERSHIP AMEC Earth & Environmental SECURITY American Concrete Pavement Association Askew Hargraves Harcourt & Associates, LLC Asphalt Zipper, Inc. Barge, Waggoner, Sumner, & Cannon, Inc. BellSouth Telecommunications Online Government Buxton Bulli Ray Enterprises Surplus Auctions—24/7 CH2M Hill Charter Communications CLE International Visit GovDeals.com today CMI Equipment Sales, Inc. or call 1-866-377-1494 Comcast Cable Communications Consoer Townsend Envirodyne Engineers DBS & Associates Engineering Education Networks of America Employee Benefit Specialists, Inc. Missed an issue? Geothermal Utilities, LLC International Code Council, Inc. Iris Networks Johnson Controls Jordan, Jones & Goulding, Inc. Read it On-line J.R. Wauford & Co. Consulting Engineers, Inc. LaserCraft, Inc. at Local Govt. Corporation The Malone Company www.TML1.org Manatron, Inc. Mattern & Craig, Consulting Engineers, Inc. McGill Associates, P.A. TENNESSEE MUNICIPAL LEAGUE STAFF Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Margaret Mahery, Executive Director Nashville Tractor & Equipment, Inc. Chad Jenkins, Deputy Director Neil Group, LLC Carole Graves, Communications Director Nortel Edna Holland, Government Relations, TML/RMP Phoenix Tank Services John Holloway, Government Relations Public Entity Risk Institute Debbie Kluth, Dir. Marketing & Member Services Mona Lawrence, Administrative Assistant Reflex Traffic Systems Denise Paige, Government Relations ROBINSONGREEN, LLC Victoria South, Communications Coordinator Rush Truck Center, Nashville Gael Stahl, Editor, Tennessee Town & City SDP Government Solutions Sylvia Trice, Director of Conference Planning Smith Seckman Reid, Inc. Operate with confidence. Tish Womack, Research Analyst SSR Ellers Inc. Tennergy Corporation TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY Tennessee Asphalt Co. (ISSN. No. 0040-3415) Publication No. 539420 — Tennessee Cable Telecomunications Assn. Official publication of the Tennessee Municipal Tennessee Energy Acquisition Corporation Your city is safe with us. League. Publisher: Margaret Mahery (mmahery@ Tennessee Fiber Optic Communities TML1.org); Editor: Gael Stahl (gstahl@ TML1.org); Thompson & Litton, Inc. Classified ads and news briefs: Tish Womack Thompson Machinery ([email protected]). Phone: 615-255-6416.Ad- TLM Associates, Inc. vertising: Publisher reserves the right to reject any TRICOR advertising deemed unacceptable. Fax advertising copy Utility Service Co., Inc. to TT&C: Attention Debbie Kluth at 615-255-4752, or e-mail to dkluth@ TML1.org. Opinions expressed non Vaughn & Melton League officials or staff do not necessarily reflect Volkert & Associates 1•800•624•9698 policies of TML. Tennessee Town & City is published, Waste Management semi-monthly, 20 times per year at 226 Capitol Blvd., Wiser Company, LLC Suite 710, Nashville, TN 37219-1894. Periodicals W.L. Hailey & Company, Inc. postage paid at Nashville, TN. Subscription rates: $6 per year to members, $15 to nonmembers, $1 a copy. Postmaster: Send changes of address to Tennessee Town & City, 226 Capitol Blvd., Suite 710, Nashville, TN 37219-1894. www.TML1.org 8-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 Associate Profile Tennessee Fiber-Optic Communities

down at a moment’s notice, so you disturbing is Tennessee’s position Advertising: $9.25 per column inch. No operations. The successful applicant Founded in 2005, Tennessee Fi- always have the bandwidth you ranked 33rd in the United States in charge to TML members. Send advertising should possess training and experience ber-Optic Communities is a group of need, when you need it – without broadband penetration in 2005, hav- to: TT&C Classified Ads Editor Tish equivalent to four years of higher educa- individuals, organizations and mu- waiting for the installation of an- ing dropped from 24th. Womack, 226 Capitol Blvd. Suite 710, tion with a major in accounting, finance, nicipalities organized as a business other line. And because FTTH can The importance of broadband Nashville TN 37219; e-mail: twomack@ business administration or related field; league to secure the availability and deliver more than 100 mega-bytes of to Tennessee’s position in both na- TML1.org; or fax: 615-255 4752. four years of related experience; knowl- benefits of broadband and advanced information instantaneously, FTTH tional and global economies is im- edge of governmental accounting prac- measurable as it has become the tices; CPA preferred. Must be able to be communications services for the is virtually future-proof. COMMUNITY PLANNER bonded and must possess and maintain a economic development of, and im- High-speed fiber-optic technol- foundation for all our actions both at MCMINNVILLE. The city of valid Tennessee driver’s license. Must provement in the quality of life for, ogy is no longer a luxury. It is a home and at work. McMinnville is seeking qualified appli- have excellent verbal, written, and people communities throughout the state of necessity. It’s the economic cur- From ultra-high speed internet cants for the position of community plan- skills. Minimum salary: $53,983. Send Tennessee. rency of the future. And whether and digital connections that will ner who will be responsible for coordinat- required application, available through The Tennessee Fiber Optic we’re ready or not, fiber will define change the way we work to more ing and conducting site plan/plat reviews the city’s Human Resource Department, Communities group is committed to our future culturally, socially and television and on-demand entertain- with resume and references to: Human of conformance with city codes and sound improving the quality of life in their ment choices than ever before, fiber planning practices; conducting site in- Resource Department, City of Athens, economically. Asia and the Euro- spections; reviewing drawings, site plans, P.O. Box 849, 815 North Jackson Street, communities by providing access to pean Union already have policies to the home (FTTH) will have the applications, related documentation for Athens, TN 37371-0849. A background fiber to the home for all businesses designed to provide high-speed ac- greatest single impact on the quality compliance with ordinances; and main- check will be conducted. For more infor- and residents within those communi- cess to every home and business. of life in Tennessee since electric taining GIS system. Other related duties mation call: 423-744-2703; website: ties. The United States has yet to power. will include developing, coordinating and www.cityofathenstn.com; email: FTTH or Fiber to the Home is a develop a similar policy – but with- And it stands to make Tennes- maintaining an annexation plan, serving [email protected]. EOE fiber-optic broadband connection out one, we’re already being left see one of the leading economies in as professional advisor, and providing staff support to McMinnville regional FINANCE DIRECTOR linked directly to your home or busi- behind. the United States – and the world. planning commission, board of zoning ap- CROSSVILLE. The city of Crossville is ness. FTTH is more than 300 times The United States has fallen to For more information about our peals, and historic planning commission. seeking qualified applicants for the posi- faster than DSL, Cable or T-1 con- 19th place in the world in per capital organization, please contact Ellen Applicants must have considerable tion of finance director with demonstrated nections. It can also be scaled up or broadband deployment. Even more Bryson at 615-395-7451. knowledge of zoning codes and subdivi- analytical, numerical, interpersonal com- sion regulations as well as knowledge of munication, and supervisory skills. The planning and design theory and methodol- position serves as the comptroller for a Associate Profile CH2M HILL: A global engineering leader ogy, and principles of land use, develop- large public corporation, the Tennessee ment and planning. Strong communica- River Valley Career Center, with 170 em- facilities and has long been recog- tion skills, ability to communicate effec- ployees and a $37 million budget. The Headquartered in Denver, Colo- regional offices worldwide, CH2M tively with supervisors, members of the person hired must have a bachelor’s de- rado, employee-owned CH2M HILL HILL is an industry-leading pro- nized as an industry leader and pre- public and elected and appointed officials gree in accounting or related field, a is a global leader in engineering, gram management, construction ferred employer by business media are necessary as being highly proficient master’s degree preferred, a CPA license construction, and operations for management for fee, and design and professional associations world- with computer programs including GIS or C.G.F.M. and at minimum of three public and private clients. firm, as ranked by Engineering wide. Arc View or Arc Info, and PowerPoint. A years executive experience, or an equiva- CH2M HILL’s long-term ap- News-Record (2006). For more than 40 years, we have lent combination of education and experi- bachelor’s degree in urban planning or proach to serving clients and build- Since 1946, the CH2M HILL strengthened our presence in the geography is required; a graduate degree ence. A complete job description and sal- state of Tennessee, employing in urban planning and/or AICP certifica- ary range is available from the Career ing our business go hand-in-hand. family of companies continues to tion preferred. Work or intern experience Center, 60 Ridley Street. Salary is com- By focusing on where our clients are provide clients with an array of ser- nearly 300 professionals throughout will be considered in lieu of master’s de- petitive with a superior benefits package. heading and where our business will vices, staff and expertise unmatched the state responsible for delivering a gree. Applicants must have progressively Send resume to: Tennessee River Valley stand in the future, we are building in the engineering and IT industries. wide-range of engineering, consult- responsible experience in city or regional Career Center, 60 Ridley St. Crossville, an enterprise that works for every The firm’s work is concentrated ing and construction services. planning or related field with some having TN. , 38555 Deadline: Feb. 19. EOE. one of our clients. in the areas of transportation, water, For more, visit www.ch2m.com been in an administrative or consultative With more than $3.8 billion in energy, environment, communica- or contact Bruce Giles at 865-765- capacity. Salary range: $33,238-$38,417 GENERAL MANAGER 6238 or [email protected]. plus excellent benefits. Send resume to: CLARKSVILLE. The city of Clarksville revenue and 18,000 employees in tions, construction, and industrial City of McMinnville, Attn: Fredia Black, Gas & Water, Exceptional opportunity to 211 West Colville Street, P.O. Box 7088, lead a dynamic and well-respected organi- McMinnville, TN 37111; email: zation of 278+ employees with an annual Ribbon cut for Cleveland Police Service Center [email protected]. Call Jim revenue exceeding $97M. Position is re- Brock, Director of Planning & Zoning at sponsible for the overall operation of the 931-473-1204 for more information or water, sewer and gas system, including visit www.mcminnvilletenn.com. A post planning, budgeting, supervision of engi- offer physical and drug test are required. neering and construction, and manage- EOE. ment of staff. The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MAN- in management, business, or public ad- AGER ministration followed by 5 years of dem- METROPOLITAN NASHVILLE AIR- onstrated, relevant experience managing PORT AUTHORITY. The airport author- all aspects of a utility company. Interested ity is seeking qualified applicants for the candidates should respond with a letter of position of project manager for construc- interest, resume and salary history to: Ruth tion whose responsibilities include over- McPherson, Clarksville Montgomery seeing specific construction activities; County Career Center, 350 Pageant Lane, monitoring construction work and ensur- Suite 406, Clarksville, TN 37040. Phone: ing compliance with construction docu- (931) 648-5530 or (931) 648-5564 (fax) ments and all applicable standards, codes E-mail: [email protected] and guidelines; scheduling and conduct- ing pre-bid conferences, pre-construction SENIOR ACCOUNTANT conferences, and weekly construction BRISTOL. The city of Bristol is accepting progress meetings; coordinating construc- applications for the position of senior ac- tion activities among all concerned par- countant who will be responsible for su- ties; maintaining project files in accor- pervising and managing property taxes, dance with applicable guidelines; prepar- utility billing, records management, cus- ing change orders and amendments; keep- tomer service, and managing the general ing records and preparing reports; coordi- ledger for these areas. The position will be Photo courtsey of City of Cleveland nating material testing; identifying involved with the annual financial audit Members of city government including special guests attended the ribbon cutting ceremony in January changes to the scope of work; ensuring and preparation of the city’s Comprehen- opening the new $6 million Cleveland Police Service Center facility.The 32,400 square foot facility houses construction contracts are in compliance sive Annual Financial Report, and will training, administration, criminal investigations, criminal evidence and a city courtroom along with space for with applicable federal and state equal also work with the director of finance storage and archives. Crime scene tape was cut as ribbon for the ceremony and a U.S. flag that flew over opportunity legislation; coordinating ac- regarding achievement of departmental the U.S. Capitol was presented by U.S. Representative Zach Wamp and a Tennessee flag that flew over tivities with external and internal agencies goals and objectives and other accounting to ensure timely completion of all projects; related projects. A degree in accountancy the TN. State Capitol was presented by Cleveland’s Legislative Delegation. In attendance along with city and compiling and analyzing technical and a minimum of five to seven years in a officials were State Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell; Captain Cheryl Sanders, District Commander of data and preparing reports concerning a related field with supervisory experience the TN Highway Patrol; former TBI Director Larry Wallace, State Sen. Dewayne Bunch; Reps. Eric Watson project and related activities. The position is required. A CPA is preferred. A demon- and Kevin Brooks; Bradley County Sheriff Tim Gobble, and Special Agent Bob Rowland of the United States is under the general direction of the direc- strated knowledge of Governmental Ac- Drug Enforcement Administration tor of construction. The ideal candidate counting Standard Board pronounce- must have a bachelor’s degree in civil ments; generally accepted accounting engineering, architecture, or related field, principles; governmental accounting, au- a valid Tennessee driver’s license, and diting, and financial reporting; compre- must obtain security identification display hensive annual financial reports; and area and airport operations area clear- statements of auditing standards are nec- Does your city ances. Related experience required, eight essary as well as ability to perform ac- years in construction activities related to counting and financial research. Knowl- architecture (large renovation and new edge of Microsoft Office and other related building construction) and civil engineer- software and network programs is neces- ing (concrete and asphalt pavement con- sary. Skills in interpersonal communica- struction) along with knowledge of airport tion, tact and diplomacy, keeping confi- need money for operations is preferred. Computer skills dentiality, resourcefulness, and in build- including Microsoft Windows, Excel, ing and maintaining effective relation- Word and PowerPoint are required. Salary ships with city staff and officials are de- range: $65,000-$75,000 DOQ/E. Send sired. Send resume and application, avail- required application (available in the Hu- able at www.bristoltn.org, to: City of capital projects? man Resources Department) to: Human Bristol, Human Resource Department, Resources Department, Metropolitan P.O. Box 1189, Bristol, TN 37621-1189. Nashville Airport Authority, One Termi- EOE. nal Drive, Ste 501, Nashville, TN 37214- 4114. EOE. SR ENGINEERING ASSOCIATE – GIS / If your pipes are calling, call the Tennessee Municipal Bond CAD ENGINEER I ALCOA. The city of Alcoa Public Works Fund for all your financing needs. GERMANTOWN. The city of & Engineering Dept. is accepting resumes Germantown is seeking qualified appli- from interested persons for the position of cants for two engineer positions. The jobs Sr. Engineering Associate – GIS / CAD. require bachelor’s degree in civil engi- This is sub-professional engineering work neering, EIT certified preferred. The per- in the Computer Aided Drafting and Geo- We offer: sons hired must be able to do independent graphic Information System fields. Em- evaluation, selection and application of ployees in this class are expected to per- • low rates, standard engineering principles, tech- form, under the direct guidance of a quali- niques and procedures. They must be fied civil engineer, design duties involved • lowest costs, and knowledgeable of all areas of civil engi- in the construction, maintenance, and op- neering including grading, streets, storm eration of municipal public works • best service. drainage, water distribution and sanitary projects. This employee will create and sewer collections systems. The ideal can- maintain facility & utility GIS didates should have the ability to work geodatabases that will support the PW&E independently, manage multi-project Department; the employee will also assist We’re making great workloads, prepare project reports, and other City departments in maintaining utilize engineering software. Individuals their respective GIS geodatabases. This is will represent the city and must have good a safety-sensitive position. Salary DOE/ cities even better. public relations skills. Salary: DOQ. Must DOQ. Successful applicants will be sub- possess a valid driver’s license. Send re- mitted to pre-employment physical, back- One loan at a time. sume to: Human Resource Department, ground check and drug screen. Excellent City of Germantown, 1930 S. benefits package. Applications and/or (615) 255-1561 Germantown Road, Germantown, TN Resumes will be accepted until position is 38138. EOE. filled. Resumes shall be mailed (no fax resumes accepted) to The City of Alcoa, FINANCE DIRECTOR 223 Associates Blvd., Alcoa, TN 37701 ATHENS. The city of Athens is accepting or email to chouseholder@cityofalcoa- applications for the position of director of tn.gov. Applications may be picked up and finance whose responsibilities will in- delivered to same address. The City of clude directing the city’s finance depart- Alcoa is an Equal Opportunity / Affirma- ment operations, city tax collection, busi- tive Action employer & Title VI compli- ness tax license, grant administration, and ant. No phone calls please. both PC and AS-400 Information System 9-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 www.TML1.org Illegal immigration issues dominate in 2007 IMMIGRATION from Page 1 that can’t speak English, are schools tive Order issued by Gov. abling sheriffs to have this power, are not receiving the scores they Bredesen prohibits the but I am pleased that, at least in should be and there are not enough state or any state entity Nashville’s case, the federal bureau- ESL teachers to help the kids who from contracting with cracy has moved with record speed,” can’t speak English. I have empathy anyone who knowingly added Rep. Cooper. for the immigrants. The vast num- uses the services of ille- Since the beginning of fiscal bers are good, hard working indi- gal immigrants in the per- year 2006, more than 9,000 indi- viduals. If it were hundreds instead formance of the contract. viduals have been placed into re- of thousands, maybe it would be Contractors found in vio- moval proceedings by officers in manageable, but when you can’t go lation would face stiff 287(g) departments. to the park, use the hospital or the penalties as well as dis- The meeting in Washington clinic, and children are not getting barment from seeking falls on the heels of President Bush’s the attention they need in school, state business for one recent proposal for a comprehensive citizens are becoming appalled and year. approach to immigration reform are moving out. Basically, local citi- According to Mu- which garnered approval from the zens are being squeezed out of their nicipal Technical Advi- National League of Cities. own services by individuals who are sory Services (MTAS) le- “We strongly support the not here legally. We can’t get federal gal consultants, cities un- President’s commitment to compre- or state government to do anything clear about the law’s hensive immigration reform and but provide lip service.” ramifications in regard to hope that he recognizes the impact Nutting favors some employer- municipal contracts increased immigration has on our sponsored benefits for immigrants in would be prudent to fol- Photo by Victoria South communities every day,” said NLC order to reduce the burden on mu- low the state law as well. Close to 6,000 immigrant rights protestors, primarily Hispanic, converged upon president and mayor of Indianapolis nicipalities and businesses. “The “The recently passed Legislative Plaza adjacent to the State Capitol last April Bart Peterson. “We are the ones who government should prove they are Public Chapter 878 pre- must provide essential services to all going to do something,” Nutting vents the state and its entities from in English whenever possible except costly for Metro, should the consti- our residents, without regard to im- said. “The state should take care of contracting with persons who know- when required by federal law or tutionality of the “English first” bill migration status.” the driving and services issues and ingly hire illegal immigrants,” said when public welfare, health, and be challenged legally. “English Municipalities such as the city help get these individuals on the road MTAS Legal Consultant Josh Jones. safety are at stake. first” is a hot topic never to have of Springfield, where illegal immi- to citizenship with work permits or “While neither this statute nor the Opponents of the ruling, includ- been about legal or illegal,” said gration has become a serious con- something.” governor’s recent executive order ing the Nashville Chamber of Com- Courtney. “It makes an assumption cern, could serve as an example. “The sovereignty of our country never specifically mentions local merce, maintain the law is too re- that the people coming here are not “Due to employment opportu- is so dependent upon our leaders governments, cities would be wise to strictive hampering the ability of the already trying to learn English.” nities, certain cities become problem stepping up for the issues,” said Sen. implement a similar prohibition. legal immigrant work force to func- According to Nashville attorney pockets,” said Springfield City Bill Ketron (R-Murfreesboro), a Such an action would fulfill the spirit tion in the community and bringing Jerry Gonzales, the bill is in viola- Manager Paul Nutting. Nutting at- strong adversary of the immigrant of the new law and more importantly adverse effects to the Nashville tion of federal law. tributes mass hiring of illegal immi- driving certificate program. Ketron, could preempt a number of problems economy. “Federally, there are 6 civil grants by an unnamed factory in the along with Rep. Hood (D- in the future.” “It means we will have to work rights procedures that require any area and greedy landlords eager to Murfreesboro), plan to reintroduce “I hope they will honor the intent harder to position the city in regard recipient of federal funds to provide rent properties by the head count to legislation to abolish the program of the law,” agreed Sen. Haynes. to economical recruitment or tour- language services to anyone,” groups of Hispanics crowded into altogether. “Whether vague or not, it is prefer- ism as a welcoming, inclusive city,” Gonzales said. “Complaints could single living quarters as the cause of Other bills sponsored by Ketron able that all governments follow the said Brian Courtney chamber vice risk federal funds being pulled, but 5,000 illegal immigrants migrating include English-only state driver’s spirit of the law.” president of communications.“The that’s not likely to happen.” to Springfield. license exams, the requirement of The passage of a controversial Nashville Chamber doesn’t think Gonzales stressed that any fu- “The park has become one of the two forms of ID for the initial appli- bill making English the official lan- the measure will help recent efforts ture litigation concerning civil rights big places to socialize,” said Nut- cation of tags, and U.S. citizenry guage of Nashville and Metro gov- to recruit international companies violations under the measure will ting. “Citizens can no longer find a requirement for notary licenses. ernment related businesses has such as Bridgestone. The chamber result from how the legislation is parking space to go to the park. They Out of 19, the only immigration prompted a flurry of debate across supports comprehensive immigra- implemented rather than enforce- are crowding the schools, the clinics, bill to pass the Tennessee legislature the city. tion reform on the federal level and ment alone. using the ER for charitable work, in 2006 was sponsored by Sen. Joe The Metro Council ultimately that hasn’t happened,” continued Nashville Mayor Bill Purcell and draining social services. Senior Haynes (D-Goodlettsville) and went voted the “English first” bill into law Courtney. “That’s why we’re seeing has requested a comprehensive legal citizens no longer want to use the into effect as law Jan. 1. 23-14 on the third and final vote. state and local governments trying to analysis of the ordinanace, with 10 clinic because it is overcrowded That law bans contractors doing Sponsored by Metro Councilman respond to that.” days from the council meeting to with Hispanics. Because of the large business with the state from employ- Eric Crafton, the bill requires gov- The Nashville Chamber cites either veto it or let it become law by number of children in our schools ing illegal immigrants. The Execu- ernmental business to be conducted enforcement challenges could prove taking no action at all. A Look Ahead: Organized Labor in 2007 BY MARK FLOYD with companies’ customer base organized labor’s willingness to any, effective protection against result of Republican-sponsored Miller & Martin PLLC through consumer boycotts, pour millions of member dollars into union intimidation, threats, misin- amendments including tax breaks handbilling, or letter writing cam- the election process. By some re- formation, or outright coercion is for businesses. President Bush’s The new year will be a busy one paigns. ports, the total contribution to being used in getting an employee to support for any current attempt to for organized labor on many fronts, As labor makes political gains at Democrats and liberal 527 groups sign a union card. increase minimum wage has been but with only one true goal: increas- the state and local level, the corpo- during the 2006 mid-term election With secret ballots, the union tied to the existence of tax as well as ing union membership. While the rate pressure has come in the form of cycle topped out around $100 mil- win rates traditionally are around the regulatory relief for small business. fight is the same – to get new dues challenging applications for indus- lion. There is an emerging trend to 50 percent mark. The AFL-CIO Health Care. A comprehensive paying members – the tactics are trial bonds, zoning variances, and use members’ money in state and reports more than 80 percent of proposal for healthcare reform is somewhat different. The core effort business permits. Political influence even local elections as well. newly organized employees are the pending. The proposal is sponsored in 2007, organizing, will remain. also allows unions to resist the grow- For example, unions pumped results of neutrality (or “gag” provi- by Sen. Wyden and has the support However, the approach is not ing trend of privatization of public hundreds of thousands of dollars sions prohibiting the employer from of SEIU President Andy Stern. The limited to the single drive for tar- services, a concept that normally re- into last year’s Fresno, California expressing any view about unioniza- new chair of the Senate Education, geted employees at a distinct loca- sults in the union losing representa- Unified School District campaigns. tion to the employees) and card Labor, and Pensions Committee, tion., Those type of “traditional” tion status, and thus, dues paying In Boston, three unions spent check agreements. In 2005 alone, Sen. Kennedy, has promised to make campaigns leading up to a National members, in the transition from pub- $3.9 million supporting pro-labor the AFL-CIO reported gaining more health insurance reform and the push Labor Relations Branch (NLRB) su- lic to private sector employment. candidates for state office. The re- than 150,000 new union members for universal health care a primary pervised election will be less the Another emerging corporate or- sult of these efforts, and others like through card check procedures es- objective, again garnering the sup- norm. Organized labor’s plan, ap- ganizing tactic is the filing of class it, allows Labor to push an agenda at tablished with employers. Likewise, port of organized labor in reaching proaches the drive for new members action claims on behalf of the tar- the state and local levels has yet to Change to Win member unions have this goal. The Healthy Families Act, through top-down organizing, geted employees. These claims, usu- find success on the national stage, increasingly relied upon card check another union backed health care growing political influence, and leg- ally brought by attorneys represent- agenda items such as minimum agreements to boost membership. related bill sponsored by Senator islative initiatives. ing and being paid by the labor orga- wage increases and even card-check Getting the card-check bill Kennedy, may likewise find itself Organizing nization, typically target such hot- procedures for public employees. passed will be a challenge. First, 75 the subject of debate in the coming Without question, 2006 saw the button employee issues such as There has been some attempt to percent, of Americans favor the legislative session. This bill would emergence of Service Employees wage-hour violations, discrimina- regulate the free-flow of union present secret ballot used in NLRB require employers with 15 or more International Union (SEIU) strategy tion, or health and safety violations. money into political races. This year, supervised union elections, accord- workers to provide seven paid sick adopted by the Change to Win fed- Similarly, in conjunction with the United States Supreme Court ing to the non-partisan Opinion Re- days a year. eration. The thrust of the strategy is international unions, U.S. labor or- will address whether public em- search Corp. Second, even if labor is Immigration Reform. Orga- to bypass the normal NLRB-super- ganizations have brought claims un- ployee unions must receive permis- able to maintain 100 percent of the nized labor, or at least the AFL-CIO, vised secret ballot election, a pro- der international law against U.S. sion before spending dues on politi- sponsor’s support, currently there is expected to resist President cess that results in only a 50 percent companies. For example, in 2006, cal causes. The state law also re- are not enough votes in the Senate to Bush’s announced plan of compre- win rate for labor. labor unions in Mexico, Canada, and quires a refund of any dues money stop a filibuster or in either chamber hensive immigration reform. At is- In its place, under the SEIU the U.S. jointly filed charges against spent on political activity with which to override a veto. The issue will sue is labor’s opposition to the “tem- leadership, the federation and its the state of North Carolina under the the member disagrees. The AFL- remain a major priority for labor porary guest worker program,” a member unions have taken an ap- North American Agreement for La- CIO and the Change to Win federa- through the 2008 presidential race. core component of the president’s proach that targets key employers in bor Cooperation (the labor provi- tion filed a joint brief with the Su- Organized Labor is not alone in plan. The U.S. Chamber of Com- select industry segments with the sions of the North American Free preme Court against the Washington this battle. The proposed bill taking merce has said business would not goal of obtaining card-check and Trade Agreement). They claim, state law arguing the regulation un- away the individual right to vote has support any reform that does not neutrality agreements through a va- North Carolina and the U.S. are vio- fairly restricts the rights of unions to also found support in the editorial include a good temporary worker riety of corporate campaign tactics. lating the treaty by denying collec- contribute money as they determine pages of the People’s Weekly World program. In the past conservative Change to Win’s strategic orga- tive bargaining rights to the 650,000 to be in the union’s best interest. and has garnered the endorsement of Republicans had blocked effective nizing center has targeted certain public sector state employees. Legislative the Communist Party, USA. consideration of any attempt at com- industry sectors that the federation One other emerging trend worth Taking full credit for putting the One other aside, while labor en- prehensive reform. With a Demo- believes are tied to production or noting is the cross-union campaign U.S. House and the Senate in the dorses the idea of doing away with cratic controlled House and Senate, services that cannot be easily relo- tactic. The cross-union campaign hands of the Democratic party, orga- secret ballot elections when it comes reform opposition by the AFL-CIO, cated. These include property ser- teams together labor organizations nized labor is now looking for a to getting in, it remains supporters of a core constituencies of and signifi- vice groups, such as commercial within the Change to Win federa- return on that investment. As the the NLRB supervised secret ballot cant contributor to the Democratic cleaning businesses and security tion, as well as unions outside the chair of the Change to Win federa- process when it comes to voting a Party does at least complicate the guards, retail, healthcare, transpor- federation, to target a particular em- tion, Anna Burger, pronounced in a union out. matter. tation and warehousing, as well as ployer (such as Wal-Mart) or a spe- Jan. 4, 2007 release, “it’s time for the Minimum Wage. Labor-spon- Trade Agreements. The AFL- food production and manufacturing. cific industry (such as health care). new Congress to live up to its end of sored measures to increase mini- CIO, along with certain advocacy In 2006, Change to Win In 2007, we should see a stron- the bargain.” mum wage have had some success at groups, is mobilizing support to launched its “Make Work Pay” or- ger response by companies willing The agenda includes the follow- the state levels. Now, with the mandate that trade agreements nego- ganizing initiative targeting major to fight labor’s corporate cam- ing: Democrats in control of the U.S. tiated and entered into by the United employers within these selected in- paigns. With labor becoming more Employee Free Choice Act. House and Senate, labor returns to States carry rules regarding employ- dustry sectors in more than 35 cities. creative, companies are beginning to The “card check” bill, as it has Congress in an attempt to push for a ees’ rights to organize and form To date, these corporate cam- think outside of the box as well. For been called, is “top priority” in nation-wide increase. unions as well as environmental pro- paigns have included a wide range of example, last year’s UNITE labor’s legislative agenda. House The House will likely move first tections. In addition, organized la- tactics, such as: HERE’s postcard campaign target- Speaker Pelosi has promised the on the minimum wage issue. The bor is pushing provisions which • enlisting the support of political, ing patients and prospective patients new Congress will move quickly to House plan, supported by the AFL- would repeal tax breaks and subsi- religious, and community lead- of one hospital chain’s maternity address labor’s interest in the bill. CIO as well as groups like ACORN, dies that, at least in its view, are seen ers; ward resulted in a $17 million judg- Under the bill, the private, raises the federal minimum wage as encouragement for corporations •picketing the homes, clubs, and ment against the union for defama- NLRB-supervised secret ballot is from $5 to $7.25 an hour by 2009 in to send work outside of the country. offices of corporate executives; tion. replaced. In its stead, a procedure three steps. Going into 2007, employees in •shareholder initiatives; Union spending on federal, state allowing a union representational The anticipated battle will come all industry segments as well as all •attacks in the media aimed at dis- & local races rights simply by producing union in the form of proposed amend- geographic areas must be vigilant crediting targeted companies; as The last two or three federal cards signed by a majority of the ments. Past efforts to raise the mini- and prepared in addressing orga- well as direct communications election cycles have demonstrated targeted workers. There is little, if mum wage have failed largely as the nized labor. www.TML1.org 10-TENNESSEE TOWN & CITY/FEBRUARY 12, 2007 Rep. Doug Overbey, knows local government/state priorities BY GAEL STAHL passed and was signed by the gover- Editor nor. With the state Senate speaker and the House minority leader from TT&C: Proposed changes to the Blountville and Bristol respectively, BEP is of major concern to many and both Republicans, one has to cities, certainly those in your dis- wonder if there is something going trict. on in the air or water or whatever DO: Some of the proposed changes makes politicians out of upper East in the BEP are of great concern to the Tennessee so vigorous and tena- city councils of Maryville and cious. Alcoa. Some proposals to change Back in the late 1700s, that mi- the fiscal capacity index would lieu produced legendary giants with cause them to lose a couple of mil- hustle, the likes of William Blount, lion dollars. Blount County might John Sevier, and Andrew Jackson gain a little but not enough to offset who muscled together a state with municipal losses. In the next two or grass-rooted, rock-ribbed energy. three years there will probably be For 200 years, the state’s political some changes in the BEP formula. framework has predominantly been But, it would be irresponsible to en- the Jeffersonian/Jacksonian Demo- act a change that would hurt the cratic Party – more or less.. systems that are performing well. In the last few years at the turn Photos by Gael Stahl of a new century, the state’s third But, it would be irresponsible to en- I think the [open records and open Perhaps increasing the tax on ciga- TT&C: What about lowering the century, a new cycle of state stal- act a [BEP] change that would hurt meetings law affecting local govern- rettes to increase revenue would be a sales tax on food? warts seems to be arising with a bit the systems that are performing well. ments ] has served well. good way to help our trauma centers. DO: It is going to be an issue. While of the same gritty resoluteness of we have to take a long look at it, we character and energy out of that he served as Chancellor of the Epis- in political science, speech, and cret Safe Place for Newborns of also have to be fiscally responsible. relatively small part of the state. copal Diocese of East Tennessee. He French, along with some history and Tennessee. The 2001 law provided a At first blush you say, of course, we They work in the framework of the is the only lay person ever to be economics and philosophy thrown place and gave the obligations of need to take the sales tax off food. ever evolving Republican Party. elected to serve as president of that in. It was an excellent preparation for doctors and health facilities, but it But as a member of the Budget Sub- While they are not creating a new diocese’s Standing Committee. law school. didn’t provide for disseminating committee where we’ve got ultimate state, there does seems to be some- Overbey has also experienced this information to pregnant responsibility to present a balanced thing of a shift in influence arising political defeat. After taking a break TT&C: Did anyone especially in- women, so we formed this organiza- budget, we would have to see where out of the east. from politics on leaving local gov- fluence your future career? tion to spread the good news about the funds would come from to re- A native of that area is Doug ernment in 1990, he ran for the DO: I give a lot of credit to my high this secret safe haven option. place whatever is removed from Overbey, who was raised and spent House seat that incumbent Townie school teacher and debate coach, The organization provides the food. One of the proposals advanced his developmental years, nearly half Anderson vacated in 1994. With six Nancy Pridemore. She is now de- information packages with instruc- last year on removing the sales tax on his life, in Kingsport before moving in the primary, Overbey came in sec- ceased, but that little old lady with tions about the law and disseminates food amounted to about $7 a month to practice law in Knoxville. He won ond, about 17 votes shy. There was coal-black hair was a spitfire. If you them to middle and high schools and for a typical family. Last year, our election to the state legislature at the an election machine snafu and a re- felt lazy or tired or just didn’t want to colleges, and healthcare providers. advisors in the Comptroller’s Office beginning of the new century, taking count, an altogether surrealistic ex- do it, it was she who would say to They started a television commer- were asking why would you remove office in 2001. He is a former Blount perience for a man used to success you: Come on, you can do this, you cial on Feb. 7. We just celebrated the sales tax from one of the most County commissioner and currently and achievement. He threw himself ought to do this. She challenged us to our fifth anniversary. There was one stable parts of your sales tax base. serves as Alcoa city attorney. While back into the practice of law and challenge ourselves. safely abandoned baby in 2004, and not holding a party leader position, civic pursuits and put political office I wasn’t thinking of going to DCS had two in 2005 and two by TT&C: How does the Budget Sub- he is highly respected by his General out of mind. But, when another open- Carson-Newman, but they offered August 2006. Four babies in 2005 committee decide which fiscal Assembly colleagues on both sides ing came in 2000, he ran, won, and me a scholarship to be on the debate and one in 2006 were unsafely aban- bills get funded? Do you do the of the aisle. has been reelected three times since. team. After my freshman year, the doned. bidding of the leadership or weigh Born in Kingsport in December In the General Assembly, debate coach left, and I didn’t have needs? 1954 and raised there, Doug Over- Overbey is in his seventh year repre- the same rapport with the new one. I TT&C: You sponsored the Ten- DO: It is a heavy responsibility to be bey’s father is a U.S. Navy veteran of senting the 20th House district – since debated that one year and was fortu- nessee Medical Association pro- part of the budget subcommittee, to World War II and Korean War and January 2001. In all four terms he nate to be elected freshman class posal for malpractice reform that recommend a balanced budget to the worked for 44 years at Eastman Ko- has served on the Health & Human president. In my junior year, I be- was defeated 13-16 in the Senate. Finance Committee and then to the dak in a pilot plant that ran test Resources Committee and three came, as best I know, the first junior Will you try again in 2007? entire House. We sift through a lot of batches for various products includ- terms on the powerful Finance Ways to hold the office of student body DO: I ran the bill in the House Civil good ideas that we can’t afford to ing methanol, methyl acetone, and & Means Committee. He has also president. Practice and Procedure Subcommit- fund in trying to present a balanced photographic chemicals, WWII ex- served on the Budget Subcommittee, tee where it was defeated 4-3. Once and fair budget. Members take the plosives, and in the 1950s, acetate Calendar and Rules, the Select Com- TT&C: Graduating at the top of it was defeated in the House sub- responsibility seriously. There is a yarn. His mother, worked for mittee on Ethics, and the Select Com- your class must have helped your committee, it didn’t come up for a lot of give and take. Eastman Company 1943-1947 and, mittee on Children and Youth, and as job search after college. vote in the Senate Judiciary Com- We’re not told to do this or don’t after her marriage, was a home- chairman of the House Health Care DO: In 1979, I joined the Knoxville mittee. The vote you are referring to do that as directed from the top maker for her husband and two sons. Facilities Subcommittee and of the firm of Fowler and Robertson, the was when they attempted to add it as down. The members would not react Overbey has always been a high Tennessee Arts Caucus. firm of Claude Robertson who ran an amendment to Gov. Bredesen’s well to that. We respect one achiever. He graduated from Doug and Kay Overbey married for governor in 1970 and lost to Cover Tennessee legislation. another’s opinions, but even mem- Dobyns-Bennett High in 1972 on Dec. 30, 1995. They have a Winfield Dunn in the primary. I had I have been asked to sponsor the bers of the Budget Subcommittee where a major influence on his fu- blended family of three daughters by no idea he had been party chairman bill again this year. I intend to do have bills that don’t get funded. ture was a special woman, debate previous marriages. Kay’s daughter and candidate for governor when I that. We worked on that important Members try to be as fair as possible and theater teacher Nancy Hannah is a senior at East Tennessee interviewed to work as a law clerk for piece of legislation a long time. A lot to all. Pridemore. Looking back, he sees State University. Doug’s daughter the firm while in law school. It was of people look at it from the stand- I have no idea what percentage how her program played a major Kathleen, the oldest, works for First the largest or one of the largest firms point of insurance rates or medical of bills get funded, but as we get part in developing some skills that Tennessee Bank in Franklin and will in Knoxville at the time. malpractice insurance. I look at it down near the end of the session, I’d would prove useful. He earned his marry in May. Kathleen is a 2005 Three years later, in 1982, when more from the viewpoint of access say hundreds of bills are put “behind B.A. degree from Carson-Newman graduate of the University of Ala- Robertson and three partners started to medical care. I don’t have the the budget.” At times, there has been College in Jeffer-son City, graduat- bama. His youngest, Elizabeth, is in their own firm, they asked me to join statistics at hand right now, but no funding for bills that were outside ing magna cum laude in 1976. He her last semester at the University of them as Robertson, Williams, many Tennessee communities do the governor’s proposed budget. also graduated top of his class at the Alabama. Ingram, Faulkner and Overbey. The not have an obstetrician or birthing This past year was a little different, University of Tennessee College of other four have passed away leaving specialists. I think this legislation is and we were able to fund some Law in 1979. TT&C: You were in Washington me the lone survivor. I miss them but, a matter of providing my daughters, projects beyond those in the He apparently worked just as during the Watergate hearings I think they’d be pleased with how our children and grandchildren, governor’s budget or proposed bud- studiously between semesters as he and Nixon’s impeachment? we tried to maintain the firm. We with ready access to medical care get amendments. did during the school year. The sum- DO: The death of President Gerald have ranged from seven to nine and treatment. mer after high school, he immedi- Ford brought a lot of memories back members the entire time doing a TT&C: What’s your position on ately went to work at Ridgecrest from that summer of 33 years ago. I broad range of civil, commercial, TT&C: The TML Risk Manage- the new constitutional amend- Baptist Assembly in Ridgecrest, started working for Mr. Quillen as an and corporate litigation. I owe a lot to ment Pool would have an interest ment that allows local govern- N.C. After his first year of college, he intern through a Carson-Newman my partners for my presence here in that bill. Do you or your law ments to cap property taxes of se- did shift work at Eastman, the same program in January of that year. He today – not only the forming partners firm have a personal interest? niors? kind of work his father had done. In kept me on during the summer. I was but also my present partners for al- DO: Some of my sisters and breth- DO: I think it is an option for cities 1973, Eastman was still making 85 there when Richard Nixon resigned lowing me the opportunity to be in ren at the bar have a different point and counties to decide whether or percent of domestic cigarette filters the presidency. Congressman Nashville five to six months of the of view. They don’t think Tennessee not it is desirable for them. In a lot of out of a liquid chemical that turned Quillen made it possible for me to be year. is in crisis, that we don’t have run- ways, our local governments are into a fabric that came down the line on the floor of Congress when away juries and it’s not yet the prob- asking for more options, broader in continuous strands. Overbey and Gerald Ford first addressed a joint TT&C: Did your partners encour- lem in Tennessee it is in other states. powers. This was a constitutional a partner boxed them into bales to be session as president. age you to run for county office? I just think it is time for us to get amendment. I saw no reason not to shipped to the various cigarette I remember the Washington Post DO: No, they probably were not very ahead of the curve, not let it become put it before the people. It is another companies that transformed them headlines and still have them some- excited having the new kid on the a desperate situation before we do empowerment for local govern- into the filter tips of their various where: Aug. 6, “Nixon won’t re- block taking time away from the something. There are already in- ments to decide whether it will work brands. For most of 1974 he worked sign.” Aug. 7, “Nixon resignation practice to campaign for a local gov- stances of physicians, especially for them. in Washington, DC, as an intern for near.” Aug. 8, “Nixon resigns.” It ernment office. I did it, I think, be- specialists, leaving Tennessee or Congressman Jimmy Quillen and was quite a time to be in that environ- cause working for Jimmy Quillen put being recruited to go to a state that TTC: What about changing the the next summer studied French in ment. the bee of public service in my bon- has malpractice reform. open records and open meetings France. net. I saw then what you can do for law affecting local governments? He married during law school TT&C: How did you happen to your constituents. I did enjoy being a TT&C: What is your tack on tort DO: I think the law that is on the and lived for two years on campus in study in France between your jun- county commissioner for eight years. reform in general? books has served well. As to whether married student housing. When he ior and senior years? I just thought that by then I’d made DO: I think that eventually we need it needs to be strengthened or not, graduated in 1979, he was named to DO: A scholarship from Rotary gave my contribution and did not seek to look at the whole canvas. But I’m not going to get ahead of the the Order of the Coif and Phi Delta me that opportunity to study at the reelection in 1990. right now, I’m concentrating my ef- committee that’s been charged by Phi’s Graduate of the Year. He Universite’ d’Aix en Provence in forts on one part of it, the medical the General Assembly to study it and worked in a law firm from 1979 to France. It’s a huge French university TT&C: You cofounded A Secret malpractice reform portion of it – report. 1982 when he cofounded the firm of where I spent the summer of 1975 Safe Place for Newborns of Ten- and just one part of that, access to Robertson & Overbey. That same studying French in a gorgeous an- nessee, Inc. What’s that? healthcare for our children and TT&C: How has the ethics bill year, he was elected Blount County cient Roman town that is about 30 DO: I’m very proud of that. In 2001, grand children who need obstetri- changed things on Capitol Hill? commissioner and served until miles north of Marseilles. In Aix you the legislature passed what some cians, neurosurgeons, and cardio DO: It has changed the culture. 1990. are in the impressionist painter people called the “abandoned ba- physicians. Rather than being in the back of He has served as a member of Cezanne’s milieu. He painted doz- bies” bill – the Secret Safe Haven That is my focus, but in 2006, I everyone’s mind, it’s in the forefront the House of Delegates of the Ten- ens of canvases of Mont St. Victoire Bill – to give pregnant women a safe did sponsor and pass the Silica of everyone’s mind, whether we’re nessee Bar Association and has just northeast of town. I went out place to leave babies they don’t want. Claims Priority Act that deals with a in Nashville or back home. That’s a been a presenter at various continu- there a lot and remember Bastille The 2001 law provided a medical portion of the tort reform issue by positive thing. The business of the ing legal education seminars. He Day in Aix, the parades down the facility for them and outlined the making some changes in claims legislature has to be done up front in has been president of Maryville main boulevard. obligations of doctors, walk-in clin- filed for silicosis. A lot of claims our public sessions so that people Kiwanis, the United Way of Blount ics, emergency rooms, and public have been filed in Texas for silico- can have confidence that the deci- County, and a board member of the TT&C: Was French your major? health departments on turning the sis- caused breathing illnesses. We sions are being made for the right Blount County Chamber of Com- DO: My children, who are in col- babies over to the state Department reached an agreement with some of reasons. It doesn’t mean we all have merce. lege, don’t believe me, but I gradu- of Children Services for care and the trial lawyers and amended the to agree on what decisions need to be He was a member of the ated without a major. At that time, placement. bill. Everybody saw the need to keep made. We are 132 different mem- Maryville College Board of Church Carson-Newman had a program Two Blount County women, real injuries and health-linked pri- bers of the General Assembly with Visitors and is on the board of called individual direction. You Shawna McConnell and Lisa Yount, orities moving through the system, different backgrounds and different Blount County Children’s Advocacy could take any course you wanted to along with former Sen. Bill but we don’t need to clog the system points of view. We need to bring Center and A Secret Safe Place for at any time you wanted to. It was like Clabough and Rep. Joe McCord and with non-meritorious claims. The those points of view forward after Newborns of Tennessee. A member a self-directed liberal arts major. I I in the House incorporated a not- major issue was certification from being informed by a constituency in of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, probably had enough hours to major for-profit organization called a Se- competent medical authority. It making legislative decisions.