Friday Recap for April 25,2025

This past week the following committees/commissions met:

Monday

• Williamson County Budget Committee
• Williamson County HR

Tuesday

• Williamson County Budget Committee
• Williamson County Opioid Task Force
• Franklin BOMA Work Session
• Franklin BOMA Board Meeting

Wednesday

• Williamson County Storm Water Appeals Board
• Williamson County Property Committee

Thursday

• Franklin Capital Investment Committee
• Franklin joint workshop of BOMA and Planning Commission
• Franklin Planning Commission
• Williamson County Board of Zoning and Appeals

My Comment for the week

Republicans in Williamson County are deeply divided and this is not good.  We had a reorganization convention on March 4^th and the losers challenged the results.  Election challenges are as old as our republic and they deserve to be taken seriously. The claim was made that the reorganization was the “most rigged” election in the history of Tennessee.  That is as serious charge to be sure.

The State Executive Committee of the Tennessee Republican Party (SEC) received both the challenge from the Williamson County Conservatives (WCC) as well as the rebuttal from the Williamson County Republican Party (WCRP).  A subcommittee of the SEC spent hours reading through both documents and evaluating their respective claims.  After deliberating for a week, they voted, unanimously, to reject the challenge and took their findings to the full SEC who subsequently voted 59-0 (there are currently 65 members of the SEC) in favor of their decision at their April 12^th meeting.

This wasn’t enough for the WCC.  Immediately after the 59-0 vote, they wrote this on their FB page, “the Tennessee Republican Party, just Soviet-style rubberstamped (sic) the sham of an ‘election’ that was the March 4^th Reorganization without any substantive discussion and without the evidence being presented to the full State Executive Committee”. 

 All through the Reorganization campaign, the WCC demonized the then current WCRP board, the Elevate 2025 slate and the Credentials Committee accusing them of being unethical, corrupt, engaging in backroom deals, supporting democrats, using Soviet -style bullying tactics, and more.  Since the convention of March 4^th, they have continued to slander these same people and have now added the SEC to their list.  I quote directly from their current website “After the misdeeds occurred on March 4^th, and were then furthered on April 12^th by the TNGOP State Executive Committee, we kept up the fight”.

Last night, the WCRP held its first mix and mingle since the Reorganization.  Interestingly, the WCC held their own mix and mingle at the same time not far away.  What’s even more interesting is that Jack Johnson, Lee Reeves, and Jake McCalmon were all present at their event speaking and taking pictures with their constituents.

The Last time I checked, the WCRP was the official Republican Party for Williamson County.  Their board was duly elected according to the bylaws of the Tennessee State Republican Party.  So, why weren’t Jack Johnson, Lee Reeves and Jake McCalmon at the WCRP event?  I thought they were part of the official State Republican party.

It is obvious that the WCC is trying to replace the WCRP.  They have not attempted, in any way, to unify our party but instead have decided that they are the true Republicans in Williamson County.  The presence of Johnson, Reeves and McCalmon certainly buttresses their position.

Where we go from here is anyone’s guess, but at the moment it’s not looking good for our party.  I am sure that the democrats are licking their chops right now and enjoying the division that will only help them going forward. 

AI Disclaimer:

The AI program I use is pretty accurate, but it does make mistakes from time to time and I don't always catch them. I provide agendas and videos/audios when I have them available and recommend that you watch the video and follow along with the summary to get the most accurate report.

I have Tennessee Stands Williamson County Citizen and Truthwire News sites listed below and I highly recommend all three plus all of the others if you want to get deeper into the current issues and You might want to check out Mom's for Liberty while you're at it.

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Williamson County School District

Monday April 21st

School Board met agenda video

AI Summary

Action Items

• [ ] Ms. Farmer - Meet with Budget Committee Meet with the County Commission Budget Committee on Tuesday following the Education Committee meeting to discuss the $12 million budget gap.
• [ ] Participant 1 - Form technology/screen time committee Form a committee to look at issues surrounding technology use in the district, including personal devices, cell phones, and screen time. Committee will include parents, administration, teachers, and faculty, with first meeting planned for May.
• [ ] Ms. Farmer - Prepare budget revisions Prepare budget revisions based on guidance from the Budget and Education Committees to present to the board next month.
• [ ] Ms. Farmer - Meet with Education Committee Meet with the Education Committee next Monday to discuss the $12 million budget gap and get guidance on closing the gap.

Overview

• Board approved AP Psychology textbook recommendation unanimously (11-0) after committee's unanimous selection
• Approved library materials policy on second reading with 8-3 vote, including language that automatically removes provisions if state law is ruled unconstitutional
• Approved $4 million letter grade bonus from state and $2,000 teacher bonus from state legislature
• Approved $12,153,000 for asphalt, roof, and HVAC repairs and $13,815,425 for security technology as part of capital projects fund
• Approved $3 million for Hillsboro K-8 renovation and $1 million for Grassland Middle renovation, both schools having no major renovations since 1981 and 1986 respectively
• Recognized numerous student achievements in DECA, FFA, HOSA, Speech and Debate, and other competitions

Public comments on textbook selection

• Angela Frederick expressed disappointment that board chose not to reconsider vote on STEM Scopes textbooks despite teacher feedback
• Jenny Davis reported 86% of community emails (148 people) opposed the board's science textbook decision
• Reagan Grossman urged board to trust teacher recommendations, citing Williamson County's high TCAP and ACT scores
• Tony Caudle criticized board for ignoring professional educators' recommendations on science textbooks
• Genevieve Pajos supported STEM Scopes decision to reduce screen time but expressed concern about bias in curriculum

Public comments on library materials policy

• Sarah Robinson (elementary librarian) expressed concerns about the mature materials list implementation by July 1st, noting librarians are 10-month employees not required to work summer
• Robinson requested time to develop the list and suggested using opt-out rather than opt-in system
• Emily Paisley suggested tabling library material policy points for further review
• Carolyn Brown thanked board for transparency in curriculum review process

Student and staff achievements

• Carol Birdsong presented numerous achievements including:
• Page Middle School named state superior FFA chapter with state champions in agronomy and quiz competitions
• Page High School named state superior FFA chapter with five students earning state FFA degrees
• Brentwood High School DECA chapter named chapter of the year
• Multiple state winners in DECA competitions from Franklin, Page, and Ravenwood High Schools
• Multiple state winners in HOSA competitions from Franklin, Page, and Ravenwood High Schools
• State champions in National Speech and Debate Association from Brentwood, Nolensville, and Summit High Schools
• Multiple winners in National Academy of Television Arts Sciences from Brentwood, Franklin, Fairview, Independence, and Page High Schools
• Ravenwood High School won first place in state Science Bowl

Budget approvals for various funds

• Approved $4,000 Atmos Energy Corporation donation to support literacy volunteer program
• Approved $4 million letter grade bonus from state
• Approved $10,119,750 reclassification due to new account code for instructional coaches
• Approved $2,080,927.52 Central Cafeteria excess fund balance for renovations and improvements
• District currently has $12 million budget gap, with next meeting with Education Committee scheduled for April 28, 2025 and Budget Committee on April 29, 2025

Library materials policy approval

• Approved policy 4.403 on second reading with 8-3 vote
• Policy includes language that automatically removes provisions if state law is ruled unconstitutional
• Dana Osbrooks (legal counsel) explained this language protects the district if challenged in court
• Superintendent Golden clarified librarians will have professional judgment in implementing policy
• Policy will include "mature materials list" rather than "mature reading list"
• Golden explained parents will have access to the list on school websites

AP Psychology textbook approval

• Board unanimously approved (11-0) the AP Psychology Textbook Adoption Committee's recommendation
• Otis Albright (committee member) noted selection was unanimous because it's the only textbook that aligns with national standards for the new exam
• Albright mentioned it's the same textbook used since 2009

Special education policy update

• Board approved policy 4.202 (Child Find and Special Education) on first reading (11-0)
• Policy updates reflect new law regarding parent/guardian notification and access to certain documents
• Green-highlighted section on service delivery logs not included in current vote, to be discussed at next policy meeting

Teacher bonus approval

• Approved $2,000 bonus for teachers from state legislature
• Bonus applies to full-time teachers spending more than half their time in direct instruction
• Funding will come after July 1, 2025
• Retirees will receive funds in next fiscal year, but new hires will not

Tenure recommendations

• Board approved superintendent's tenure recommendations with 10 yes votes, 0 no votes, and 1 abstention
• Mr. Galbraith abstained due to concerns about one individual on the list
• Superintendent Golden explained Tennessee tenure law changed in 2011 to include ongoing evaluations

Next Week:

There are no meetings scheduled for next week. The Policy Committee will be meeting on Monday May 5th

These are all public meetings and anyone can attend.

Williamson County Commission

Williamson County Commission committees

Monday April 21st

The Budget Committee met The Budget Committee met Video

AI Summary:

Overview

• Budget Committee approved $8,943,624 for Ambulance Service, a $4 million increase, with Williamson Health still absorbing a projected $5 million loss next year
• Fire Prevention budget included new agreements with Nolensville, Fairview, and Franklin to reimburse cities $250 per call for responding to unincorporated areas
• Medical Examiner budget included a 3% increase in monthly rates, with plans to have cities pay for their own autopsies next fiscal year
• All department budgets reviewed showed increases primarily driven by salary adjustments, with most operational increases kept minimal

Circuit Court Clerk budget 53100

• Committee approved total budget of $2,231,909 with an increase of $70,011 entirely for salaries
• No adjustments were made to operational expenses

General Sessions Court budget 53300

• Committee approved total budget of $1,345,586 with an increase of $55,995
• Budget included $2,000 increase for periodicals due to rising shipping and handling costs
• Added $2,500 for office equipment including commercial shredder and money counter with counterfeit detection for probation office

Chancery Court budget 53400

• Committee approved total budget of $888,956 with an increase of $37,019
• Only $1,100 of the increase was for operations, including dues/memberships ($100) and maintenance/repair for office equipment ($1,000)
• All other operational increases were absorbed by moving funds between line items

Juvenile Court budget 53500

• Committee approved total budget of $834,482 with an increase of $33,379
• Increase was 100% for salaries with no operational changes

Judicial Commissioners budget 53700

• Committee approved total budget of $601,862 with an increase of $55,706 for salaries
• Only $800 in operational increases: $500 for communications and $300 for operating lease costs

Other Administration of Justice budget 53900

• Committee approved total budget of $351,118 with an increase of $17,187
• Budget consists of only two line items, both salary-related
• Includes four judicial assistant positions for state court judges

Juvenile Services budget 54240

• Committee approved total budget of $4,118,159 with an increase of $263,158
• Budget included $600 increase for dues/memberships, $500 increase for vehicle maintenance, and $3,000 for medical/dental services
• Significant 43% increase in overtime over the last three years, primarily for detention officers
• Director explained overtime increase resulted from liquidating comp time into payments and staffing challenges

Fire Prevention and Control budget 54310

• Committee approved total budget of $678,366
• Added new line item for Tennessee Department of Agriculture forestry division funding based on $2,700 in permits issued in 2024
• Added new line for agreements with Nolensville, Fairview, and Franklin to reimburse $250 per call when cities respond to unincorporated areas
• Maintained annual donations: $88,363 for Arrington Volunteer Fire Department, $296,661 for Williamson County Rescue Squad, and $161,342 for Fire and Emergency Service Foundation

Medical Examiner budget 54610

• Medical Examiner budget included a 3% increase in monthly rates, with plans to have cities pay for their own autopsies next fiscal year.

Public Defender budget 53610

• Committee approved total budget of $19,500, a $25,000 decrease from previous year
• Budget is 100% funded by the $12.50 fee collected on cases
• Office has collected over $55,000 this year with $137,000 in reserve
• Operational request reduced as office will request a new legal secretary position

Ambulance Service budget 55130

• Committee approved total budget of $8,943,624, a $4 million increase
• Williamson Health reported they will still absorb a $5 million loss next year even with the increased funding
• Phil explained the hospital has absorbed approximately $50 million in ambulance service losses over the past 11 years
• About 30% of ambulance runs receive no reimbursement because they don't result in patient transport
• Service currently operates 18 ambulances daily with 28 total in the fleet
• Michael noted Medicare reimbursement rates don't cover actual ambulance service costs

Office of Public Safety budget 54900

• Committee approved total budget of $10,563,127 with an increase of $469,109
• Of the total increase, $424,675 was for salaries and overtime, with only $44,434 for operations
• Budget included $14,957 increase for government contract training costs, 100% reimbursed by ECD
• Department implemented AI technology called CommsCoach for dispatch training and quality assurance, funded through Emergency Communications District

Emergency Management budget 54490

• Committee approved total budget of $25,000 with 0% change from previous year

The Human Resources Committee met

• They discussed the County's AI policy Since this committee is never recorded, I don't know what went on.
• The resolution on AI Policy
• Minutes from the joint Budget and Human Resources committee January 6, 2025.

Tuesday April 22nd

The Budget Committee met. Video

AI Summary

Action Items

• [ ] Chris Mobley - Get pricing for outright purchase of Axon equipment Obtain pricing information for purchasing Axon equipment outright instead of the proposed 9-year lease, as requested by the Mayor. Include all equipment in the current proposal (records management system, drones, etc.).

Overview

• Budget committee approved $329,603 for risk management department budget, a 4.1% increase from previous year
• Committee approved $3,756,628 for general fund insurance, $726,298 for solid waste fund insurance, and $1,417,567 for highway fund insurance
• Capital requests were reduced by $5.6 million to a new total of $34,609,756 for general fund
• Sheriff's department proposed extending current Axon equipment lease from 5 years to 9 years at a total cost of $20,483,205
• Committee approved 13.5 new positions (8 full-time and 5.5 part-time) at a cost of $1,107,865.44
• Committee deferred final decision on capital requests until May 5th, 2025 to gather additional information

Risk management department budget approval 2026

• Participant 2 presented total proposed budget of $329,603
• Budget represented a $12,833 increase (4.1%) from previous year
• Increase solely attributed to 4% salary adjustments and salary study senior adjustments
• Committee approved budget with a 5-0 vote

General fund insurance budget approval

• Participant 2 presented proposed budget of $3,756,628
• Budget included 5% increase across all insurance lines
• Some line items showed larger percentage increases due to previous year reallocations
• Committee approved budget with a 5-0 vote

Solid waste fund insurance budget approval

• Participant 2 presented proposed budget of $726,298
• Budget reflected a straight 5% increase across all insurance lines
• Committee approved budget with a 5-0 vote

Highway fund insurance budget approval

• Participant 2 presented proposed budget of $1,417,567
• Budget included 5% increase across all insurance lines
• Committee approved budget with a 5-0 vote

Capital requests overview and funding sources 2026

• Participant 2 presented revised capital requests totaling $34,609,756 for general fund
• Original capital requests of $48.8 million were reduced by $5.6 million
• Proposed funding sources included:
  • Bond issue: $23.7 million (reduced from previous year's $25.2 million)
  • Fund balance: $11.9 million
  • Privilege tax: Funding for ambulance and parks facility improvements
• Participant 2 noted county will pay down $64.4 million in principal debt next fiscal year

Sheriff's Axon equipment lease proposal

• Sheriff proposed extending current 5-year Axon lease to a 9-year lease at total cost of $20,483,205
• Current annual payment of $1.3 million would increase to $2.2 million
• Expanded lease would include:
  • Records management software to replace end-of-life Southern Software
  • Additional body cameras for reserve deputies and new positions
  • Additional Tasers and fleet cameras
  • Drone program with four drones
  • AI efficiency system for report writing
  • Unlimited third-party data storage
• Participant 6 requested pricing for outright purchase versus lease options
• Participant 8 explained equipment refreshes built into lease (body cameras at 2.5 years, fleet at 5 years, drones at 3 years)
• Committee deferred decision pending additional pricing information

College Grove park development funding

• Parks department requested $10 million for College Grove regional park development
• Participant 4 explained project would include:
  • Baseball and softball fields
  • Multi-purpose fields for soccer, lacrosse, and flag football
  • Pickleball courts
  • Updated playground
  • Sports lighting
  • Walking trails
  • Restroom facilities
  • Community bandstand
• Participant 3 expressed concerns about funding method and suggested exploring public-private partnerships
• Participant 1 noted land was purchased 20 years ago and project has been long delayed
• Participant 4 explained phased funding approach similar to Bethesda park project

Personnel requests for new positions 2026

• Committee reviewed request for 13.5 positions (8 full-time, 5.5 part-time) at cost of $1,107,865.44
• Original request was for 20.5 positions at cost of $1.7 million
• Approved positions included:
  • Senior Benefits Specialist for HR department
  • Court Officer for Juvenile Court
  • Cybersecurity Specialist for IT department
  • Licensed Vet Tech for Animal Control (funded through donations)
• Committee discussed whether Court Officer position should be full-time or part-time
• Committee approved all personnel requests with a 5-0 vote

Tuesday April 22nd

The Opioid Task Force met and I have no further information.

Wednesday April 23rd

The Property Committee met audio I recorded this meeting on my iPhone. I asked permission before the meeting started even though that wasn't necessary because it was an open meeting. No one objected.

Hopefully, this year we will be getting better software so that the county website will have more information about meetings, agendas, resolutions and actual recordings. I will keep you posted.

AI Summary

Overview

• Committee approved 9 property-related resolutions including 3 utility easements, 3 donations, and 3 K9/weapons-related items
• Approved utility easement for Middle Tennessee Electric on Wilkins Branch Road to provide electricity to a landlocked property owner
• Accepted donation of a 2025 enclosed adoption trailer valued at $1,053 for the Animal Center
• Approved transfer of 2 retiring K9s to their handlers and accepted donation of a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois trained in narcotics detection
• Granted temporary construction easement to Piedmont Natural Gas at Fairview health department for $1,569

Utility easement for Middle Tennessee Electric on Wilkins Branch Road

• Committee approved utility easement to Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corp for property at 5664 Wilkins Branch Road
• Participant 3 introduced property owner Mr. Peter Eastland and his son Grayson who needed electricity access to their landlocked property
• Participant 3 clarified the easement would not disrupt the bike park area on the county property
• Middle Tennessee Electric will determine whether to install underground or overhead power lines

Utility easement for Nolensville College Grove Utility District on Depot Road

• Committee approved utility easement to Nolensville College Grove Utility District for property along Depot Road
• Easement will provide water service to Station 18 Volunteer Fire Department and increase water capacity for the entire College Grove area
• Participant 3 explained the pump station will be approximately 12 by 12 feet with an 8-foot security fence
• Utility district will access the site directly from the road

Easement for Columbia Power and Water Systems on Commonwealth Drive

• Committee approved easement to Columbia Power and Water Systems for property on Commonwealth Drive in Spring Hill
• Easement will allow installation of equipment to provide electricity to adjacent property being developed
• Participant 3 explained the location is near Longview Elementary School and Longview Rec Center
• Developer will connect to an existing stub near the Verizon tower at the back of the property

Donation of adoption trailer for Animal Center

• Committee accepted donation of a 2025 enclosed facility adoption trailer from Cindy Enderley through Friends of the WCAC
• Approved budget amendment of $1,053 with revenues coming from donations
• Trailer will be used for animal adoption purposes

Donation of picnic area from Boy Scout Troop for Fairview library

• Committee accepted donation of a picnic area from Boy Scout Troop 297 for the Fairview library branch
• Participant 3 noted the county will be responsible for ongoing maintenance
• Maintenance will involve sanding and restaining the picnic area every couple of years

Transfer of retiring K9s to handlers

• Committee approved transfer of 2 retiring K9s to their respective law enforcement handlers
• Approved transfer of Belgian Malinois named Cass to his K9 officer
• Approved transfer of Dutch Shepherd named Hattie to her handler

Surplus declaration of Sheriff's Office weapons

• Committee declared certain Williamson County Sheriff's Office weapons as surplus
• Weapons included several Glocks and Remingtons that are no longer used
• Participant 3 clarified the weapons will be sold to Class 3 law enforcement weapons dealers
• Credit from sales will be applied toward purchase of new weapons

Donation of Belgian Malinois K9 for law enforcement

• Committee accepted conditional donation of a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois trained in narcotics detection
• Donors Jessica and Charlie Richard specified the K9 must be used for law enforcement purposes
• Donation will benefit the Williamson County Sheriff's Office

Temporary construction easement for Piedmont Natural Gas

• Committee approved temporary construction easement to Piedmont Natural Gas at 2629 Fairview Boulevard
• Property houses the Fairview health department with a large front yard
• Piedmont will pay the county $1,569 for using the property to stage equipment and materials
• Easement supports expansion of gas lines for the Fairview area
• Agreement requires Piedmont to restore the property to its original condition after construction

Storm Water Appeals met agenda. I have no further information.

Next Week:

Monday April 28th

The Education Committee will meet at 5:30 p m in Executive Conference Room Williamson County Administrative Complex 1320 West Main Street Franklin. Resolution I don't have an agenda, so I don't know what else will be discussed.

Tuesday April 29th

The Budget committee will meet at 4:30 p m in Executive Conference Room Williamson County Administrative Complex 1320 West Main Street Franklin. they will be reviewing the Williamson County School Budget for the second time.

Thursday May 1st

The Public Health Committee will meet at 5:30 pm in Executive Conference Room Williamson County Administrative Complex 1320 West Main Street Franklin. I have no further information.

Williamson County Commission Committees

These are all public meetings and anyone can attend.

Board of Mayor and Aldermen

Tuesday April 22nd

Boma Work session Agenda video

AI Summary

Action Items

• [ ] Eric - Follow up with Franktown to get additional budget information Obtain Franktown's operating budget information including how funds are spent, salaries, and other financial details as requested by Alderman Barnhill to help evaluate their funding request.
• [ ] Paul - Provide options for scaled-down versions of high-cost transportation projects Develop and present lower-cost alternatives for Franklin Road, Boyd Mill, Eddie Lane, and Carruthers Parkway projects to make funding go further and potentially allow for more projects to be completed.
• [ ] Michael Walters Young - Finalize performance indicators for strategic plan goals Complete the development of performance indicators and measures for the six strategic goals to be included in the final strategic plan for summer approval.
• [ ] Eric - Research AI tools for traffic analysis Investigate available AI tools and software that could enhance the city's traffic analysis capabilities as suggested by Alderman Berger.
• [ ] Eric - Bring Resolution 2025-34 regarding Franktown funding to next voting meeting Prepare and present Resolution 2025-34 with funding options for Franktown's stormwater infrastructure project at the next voting meeting for board consideration.
• [ ] Paul - Provide traffic count data for prioritized road projects Compile and present current traffic count data for all prioritized transportation projects to help the board make more informed decisions based on actual usage rather than anecdotes.

Overview

• Board prioritized transportation projects with $75 million available capacity, focusing on addressing traffic congestion throughout Franklin
• Carothers Parkway expansion ($29.9 million) and Franklin Road improvements emerged as key debate points based on traffic impact and funding responsibility
• Board approved exploring scaled-down options for high-cost projects to stretch funding further
• Board tentatively supported providing up to $650,000 for Franktown Open Hearts stormwater infrastructure
• Staff presented new strategic plan mission statement: "Serve, Connect, Lead, Deliver"
• Board reviewed upcoming $113 million bond issue planned for early 2026, including $85 million for new City Hall

Capital investment plan prioritization

• City has $75 million capacity within existing revenue structure for capital projects
• Paul presented two ranking methods: non-weighted (total votes) and weighted (priority ranking)
• Alderman Brown advocated for prioritizing Franklin Road improvements as a critical traffic corridor
• Paul confirmed Franklin Road has approximately 17,000 vehicles per day
• Carothers Parkway ($29.9 million) received significant board support but faced questions about cost relative to total available funding
• Alderman Baggett questioned spending nearly half of available funds on one road project
• Paul reported Carothers currently handles 15,000 vehicles per day compared to 3,000-4,000 on Eddie Lane
• Staff agreed to provide traffic count data and explore scaled-down options for high-priority projects
• Alderman Caesar advocated for Jim Warren Park improvements to maintain competitive position for sports tourism

Transportation project funding options

• Board discussed potential funding sources including TDOT partnerships, federal grants, and road impact fees
• Eric noted state funding for Franklin Road improvements unlikely in next 10 years without MPO funding
• Alderman Barnhill suggested exploring property tax options to fund transportation infrastructure
• Alderman Berger proposed dedicated transportation tax with sunset provision
• Mayor noted city has had two tax increases during his tenure, both tied to specific project funding
• Board requested more data-driven approach to prioritizing transportation projects based on traffic counts and queue lengths

Franklin Road improvement considerations

• Franklin Road identified as major pinch point between Mac Hatcher and Moore's Lane
• Paul confirmed Franklin Road carries approximately 17,000 vehicles daily
• Alderman Brown noted traffic backs up from Mac Hatcher to Clearview Baptist Church 3-5 hours daily
• Board discussed potential for smaller intersection improvements rather than full widening project
• Alderman Caesar expressed concern about using city funds for state road improvements

Carothers Parkway expansion debate

• Project cost estimated at $29.9 million from Falcon Creek to SR-96
• Currently handles 15,000 vehicles per day
• Alderman Blanton supported project due to anticipated growth from Pearl Park and sports facilities
• Alderman Baggett questioned spending nearly half of available funds on one road segment
• Paul suggested exploring intersection improvements as alternative to full expansion

Parkland impact fees and public art

• Lisa presented amendment to parkland impact fee ordinance to include public art funding
• Amendment allows public art in open spaces or park-like amenities to receive parkland impact fee reimbursement
• Projects require approval from Franklin Public Arts Commission and Board of Mayor and Aldermen
• Lisa suggested developing citywide master plan for public art with funding from each quadrant

Franktown Open Hearts stormwater funding

• Board discussed funding request to offset stormwater infrastructure costs for new facility
• Original request was $900,000; staff presented options ranging from $450,000 to full amount
• Project would improve Johnson Circle infrastructure to city standards
• Alderman Brown proposed funding up to $650,000, representing difference between underground system ($785,000) and original above-ground option ($137,000)
• Eric suggested using County Adequate Facilities Tax and CDBG funds first before general fund
• Alderman Caesar requested confirmation project would only proceed if fully financed and ready to go

Bond reimbursement for city projects

• Christine presented resolution to reimburse city for $113 million in project expenditures with bonds
• Bond issue planned for early 2026
• Major components include:
  • Fire apparatus replacement
  • Road resurfacing program for 2026-2028 paving seasons
  • $15 million for Bransford Park project including Robinson Lake
  • $85 million for new City Hall project (representing 80% of that project's funding)

Strategic planning mission statement

• Michael presented progress on strategic planning process that began December 2023
• Vision statement: "We strive to be America's finest hometown, driven by excellence, balancing preservation and progress"
• Staff developed mission statement: "Serve, Connect, Lead, Deliver"
  • Serve with excellence
  • Connect our community
  • Lead with vision
  • Deliver with integrity
• Six strategic goals identified: safe/clean/livable city, sustainable growth, fiscal soundness, quality life experiences, organizational health, and operational excellence
• Board generally supported mission statement, with Alderman Brown noting staff should own the mission while elected officials focus on vision

BOMA Board meeting agenda video

AI Summary

Overview

• Board unanimously approved rezoning for The Factory at Franklin, which will increase parking spaces contrary to media reports
• Mayor Moore proclaimed April 27-May 3, 2025 as Franklin Water Week to promote water sustainability and Harpeth River preservation
• Ray Dawes received recognition for 4,365 volunteer hours with Medicare counseling, saving clients an estimated $445,716 in prescription drug costs
• Board unanimously approved reducing Liberty Pike speed limit from Mac Hatcher Parkway to I-65 overpass to 35 mph
• Vice Mayor announced McEwen phase four groundbreaking on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 10:30 am, a $46 million project with $30 million in federal funding
• Main Street Festival scheduled for April 26-27, 2025 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, expecting over 100,000 attendees

Charlton Green fire access path concerns

• John Thompson from Charlton Green (109 Wren Court) opposed the city's request for Toll Brothers to add a 20-foot wide fire access path aligned with his alley
• Thompson noted the alley is privately owned and maintained by eight homeowners, not the city
• Harris Pierce (103 Woodview Court) stated the proposed fire access path would be in a floodplain
• Mary Pierce expressed concerns about losing screening between Charlton Green and the Green project if the fire access path proceeds

Franklin Water Week proclamation

• Mayor Moore proclaimed April 27-May 3, 2025 as Franklin Water Week
• Proclamation highlighted the importance of the Harpeth River as a natural asset for the community
• Mayor encouraged citizens to participate in activities promoting water sustainability and preservation of the Harpeth River
• Brittany Perez accepted the proclamation on behalf of the organizers

Ray Dawes volunteer service recognition

• Mayor Moore presented a certificate of recognition to Ray Dawes for his Medicare counseling volunteer work
• Dawes contributed 4,365 volunteer hours since 2012 with Greater Nashville Regional Council's Medicare counseling program
• Since 2019, Dawes conducted 5,437 Medicare counseling sessions resulting in 256 Medicare Plan enrollments
• Dawes' work saved clients an estimated $445,716 in prescription drug costs
• Dawes received the President's Volunteer Service Award Lifetime Achievement Award for contributing over 4,000 hours of service

Grassland Middle School cheer team recognition

• Mayor Moore recognized the 38-member Grassland Middle School game day cheer team for winning the large game day Junior High National Championship
• Team competed against 27,000 athletes from 1,286 teams across 34 states in Orlando, Florida in February 2025
• Team also won first place and grand champion at the Bullet Bash in Shepherdsville, Kentucky
• Team secured back-to-back TSSAA state championships in large Junior High game day division

Factory at Franklin rezoning approval

• Board unanimously approved Ordinance 2024-51 to rezone 20.115 acres from Plan PD 0.2 to Plan PD 243,000 for 120 district
• Property located north of Liberty Pike and east of Franklin Road at 230 Franklin Road
• Alderman Brown clarified that contrary to media reports, the plan will increase parking spaces, not reduce them by 34%

Parkland impact fees amendment

• Board unanimously approved Ordinance 2025-04 to amend Chapter 4, Title 25, Sections 25-405, 25-406, and 25-420 of the Franklin Municipal Code
• Amendment concerned parkland impact fees

Liberty Pike speed limit reduction

• Board unanimously approved first reading of Ordinance 2025-07 to reduce the speed limit on Liberty Pike
• Speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph from Mac Hatcher Parkway to the I-65 overpass

Transit vehicle titles update

• Board unanimously approved Resolution 2025-29 authorizing the update of transit vehicle titles to Franklin Transit Authority

Water and wastewater infrastructure authority delegation

• Board unanimously approved Resolution 2025-30 allowing delegated authority of water and wastewater infrastructure to the director and designee of the Water Management department
• Board approved Contract 2025-0096 with Tennessee Department of Environment Conservation for delegated authority for wastewater infrastructure
• Board approved Contract 2025-0097 with Tennessee Department of Environment Conservation for delegated authority for water infrastructure

Civil War Historical Commission reappointments

• Board unanimously approved the reappointment of Kelly Kautzman, Pam Lewis, and Rachel Finch to the Civil War Historical Commission

McEwen phase four groundbreaking announcement

• Vice Mayor announced McEwen phase four groundbreaking on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 10:30 am
• Project will improve the road from Cool Springs roundabout to Wilson Pike to a four-lane divided road
• Project estimated at $46 million with at least $30 million funded by federal dollars
• Construction expected to take approximately 3+ years to complete

Main Street Festival announcement

• Vice Mayor announced the 41st Main Street Festival scheduled for April 26-27, 2025
• Festival will run from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm both Saturday and Sunday
• Event expected to bring over 100,000 visitors to downtown Franklin

The rest of the meetings for this past week can be found here

Next Week

Go here for all meetings next week

These are all public meetings and anyone can attend.

Election Commission

Tuesday April 22nd

The Election Commission met on Tuesday Agenda

Report

Four of the five Williamson County Election Commission commissioners were present for the meeting.  Chairman Jonathan Duda missed the meeting but was able to attend their State Election Commission-mandated Sexual Harassment Training afterwards.  Commissioner Donna Choate chaired the meeting. 

• She introduced the newest Republican commissioner, Jim Burnett, who took Doug Grindstaff’s place on the commission.
  • A few highlights to his background include:
    • He joined the Republican Party in 1984 and was said to be a “grassroots activist.” 
    • He has served as State Chairman, Tennessee Young Republican Federation, Director, Davidson County Republican Party and spent two terms on the Republican Party’s State Executive Committee.
  • For more information, here is a link to a 1999 General Assembly resolution about him:   https://capitol.tn.gov/bills/101/Bill/HJR0020.pdf
• Chad Gray reported turnout in the Brentwood election has been moderate.  Election day is May 6^th.
• There was no mention of the results from the Spring Hill election, which the Maury County Election Commission always runs for Spring Hill and the WCEC.
• Jonathan Duda (R) was re-elected as chairman of the WCEC and Wanda Graham (D) was re-elected secretary by the WCEC members.  Both will begin a two-year stint. 
  • As is the case with every county election commission throughout the state, there are three Republican members on the county commission, one of whom serves as chairman, and two Democrats, one of who serves as secretary.  Five total members. 
  • Williamson County Election Administrator Chad Gray supports the election commission but is not a voting member of the commission.

Next Week

There are no meetings scheduled for next week. 

These are all public meetings and anyone can attend.

If not me, who?

If not now, when?

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb. 11:1)

“We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer gently.” (1^st Corinthians 4:12-13)

Blessings,

Bill

pettyandassociates@gmail.com

Community resources

If you like Friday Recap, check out these other grassroots conservative projects!

• Williamson County Citizens Provides free tools and information to help grassroots conservatives exercise their citizenship here in Williamson County.
• TruthWire News covers a broad spectrum of political and governmental issues, from the actions of your local school board and county commissioners to the machinations of city councils and state government officials.
• Tennessee Voters for Election Integrity is helping restore confidence in Tennessee Elections.
• Williamson County Republican Party is one of the most active parties in the state and captures the conservative heart of Tennessee.
• Mom's For Liberty Williamson County is dedicated to fighting for the American family by unifying, educating and empowering parents to defend their parental rights at all levels of government.
• Tennessee Stands produces video media, podcasts, and live events, and provides social commentary on relevant issues in our state.
• M4LU is a new site developed by the national Mom's for Liberty but generated right here in Williamson County. The mission of M4LU is to to inform, equip, and empower parents with knowledge, understanding and practical tools.
• WCSB Substack. This site reports on the Williamson County School Board meetings. It provides accurate summaries of all WCSB meetings.

Help educate citizens of Williamson County

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