Newsletter

Friday Recap for June 27, 2025

Bill Petty

28 Jun 2025 — 24 min read

My Comment

When I ran for commissioner, one of my main concerns was the growth of our county. It seemed to resonate with the residents countywide. Everybody agrees that we have extreme congestion on many of our roads. Columbia Ave. Liberty Pike, Franklin Rd. Hillsboro Rd. Nolensville Rd. the interchange of 65 and 96, just to name a few. Every time we build a new house or business, we create more burden on our infrastructure.

Land values in Williamson County have skyrocketed in the last 30 years. Just in the last four years, my home has increased in value by over 60%. People have tracks of land that are worth millions of dollars to them if they sell it to a developer. I certainly understand the temptation. But, in the long run, what does overdevelopment do to a community? At what point do we say we are overcrowded? If we stop growing, does that mean that we are dying?

I think we really need to ask ourselves what is Williamson County going to look like in 10 years? The City of Franklin's population in 1990 was circa 20,000; it is now over 90,000. That's a 350% growth over 35 years, which amounts to 10% a year. Obviously, much of that growth has occurred in the last 10 years. In 2015, Franklin's population was 72,646, which has grown by 24% to reach our current population.

I hear the argument about property rights and that the conservative view is less government interference and more freedom to do what we want with our property and I certainly agree with that wholeheartedly, but this is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, I think that we all agree that a person has a right to own property and manage it as they please. But just like freedom of speech stops when your fist hits my nose, so do property rights when your use of property infringes on my freedom and or safety.

We have zoning laws to protect residential property. I live in a neighborhood of about 250 homes. I could never decide to tear down my home and put in a fast food restaurant. Actually, because of HOA policy, I am restricted in many ways. Every house in my neighborhood has to have the same mailbox; no exceptions. If I wanted to make an addition to my house, I would have to go through my HOA architectural committee as well as acquire a building permit from the city. I don't have an unfettered right to do whatever I want with my property.

Property rights and government oversight are always going to be at odds. Where do we draw our lines? What is best for the community as a whole? When do one's property rights infringe on the property rights of another? These are eternal questions that have been debated from time immemorial.

Part of the problem is keeping infrastructure up with growth. A perfect example is the proposed widening of Columbia Ave. This project was approved by BOMA in 2015. That's 10 years ago when Franklin had a population of 72,646. It is now 10 years later and still nothing has been done. At Tuesday's BOMA meeting we were told that the actual start of the project is 2 1/2 years away. On top of that, how much help will the widening provide, and what will be the impact on the businesses that line both sides of Columbia Ave and their property rights? It is only from Downs Blvd to Mack Hatcher and both ends narrow to two lanes. If you want to learn more about this, go here. to see a 240 page blueprint of the project.

These are my observations. I know a lot of thought goes into planning for the county as well as the cities in the county. I know everyone loves our county and wants to see it continue to be a place where people want to live. But, reality is reality and I ask again, what will Williamson County look like in 10 years? Will it have the same charm it has today? Will it be livable and easy to get around? Will residents be able to easily make left turns out of their neighborhoods? Controlling growth and protecting properties rights is not easy. You can make your voice heard by emailing local leaders and speaking at open meetings as well as organizing your neighborhood. We all need to be engaged as we all have a stake in the future of Williamson County. I will do my best to keep you informed.

Concerned citizens came to the BOMA Work Session and the Franklin City Planning meetings and raised well thought out objections to two developments that are in the planning stages. The first was the Harlin project during the BOMA Work Session and the second was the Meyes Creek project during the Planning Commission meeting. See the full report on both below.

Franklin finalized their tax rate at $.296 down from $.32 that was proposed earlier. The Williamson Herald has a good article about this and the rest of the BOMA. meeting here

this past week the following committees/commissions met:

Monday June 23rd

Williamson Education Committee

Tuesday June 24th

Williamson County Election Committee
BOMA Work Session
BOMA

Wednesday June 25th

Williamson County Property Committee

Thursday June 26th

Franklin joint workshop BOMA and Planning
Franklin Municipal Planning Commission

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.

One of the limitations of AI is that if a participant's name is not called out, then they are listed as participant 1, 2, etc. A limitation with audio, as opposed to video, is that one cannot always identify a person by voice alone. As imperfect as these AI summaries are, they still give a pretty good account of a meeting.

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Williamson County School District

Nothing scheduled until August

Williamson County Commission

Williamson County Commission committees

Special Note: Since Williamson County does not record any meetings other than the commission, budget committee and planning commission meetings, I am recording all the meetings that I attend on my iPhone. We are in the process of reviewing a technology upgrade that will allow the county to record more meetings as well as include agendas, minutes and packets on our website. I will keep you up to date when progress is made.

Monday june 23rd

Education Committee Agenda.

I did not attend this meeting but they voted in favor of the attached resolution.

Wednesday June 25th

Property Committee minutes/resolutions

AI Summary

Overview

Three resolutions passed unanimously during this 8-minute administrative meeting
Boy Scout Troop 298 will refurbish historic markers, flagpole, and donate a public bench at the Nolansville School Museum
Pam Stevens donated an 800-pound bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin reading the Constitution, to be placed at the Archives Museum at Five Points
Millcrofton Utility District received utility easement authorization for $10 to install a 6-inch water line 3 feet deep along Long Lane

Minutes approval

Commissioner Hayes called for motion to approve minutes from May 28th
Commissioner Sanders made the motion, Commissioner Hester provided second
Motion passed unanimously with no corrections or questions

Boy Scout donation resolution

Boy Scout Troop 298 from Nolansville will refurbish historic markers and flagpole at 7248 Nolansville Road
Project includes construction and donation of a public bench
Kevin Benson, director of property explained this is a typical Eagle Scout project involving landscaping around the historic marker at the old gymnasium
Property is owned by Williamson County, leased to Nolansville Historic Society for the historic school museum
County will assume maintenance responsibility after completion
Resolution passed unanimously

Benjamin Franklin statue donation

Pam Stevens from Williamson Memorial Funeral Home donated 800-pound bronze statue of Benjamin Franklin reading the U.S. Constitution while sitting on a bench
Statue will be placed at Archives Museum at Five Points, facing the square since Franklin is the namesake of the area
Kevin Benson compared size to Coach Gentry's statue across from the church - human-sized figure on regular bench
County will handle landscaping and accept as gift, becoming county property for maintenance
Resolution passed unanimously

Utility easement authorization

Millcrofton Utility District received authorization to install 6-inch water line 3 feet deep along Long Lane
Easement supports new residential development in corner area near the ag park
Kevin Benson explained two route options were considered - direct path across rock was undoable, waiting for new road connection to Pattonsville would take years
County received $10 payment for the easement
Kevin Benson confirmed the water line installation has no impact on ag park property utilization
Water line will tap off Long Lane line rather than directly from water tower
Resolution passed unanimously

Next Week

Tuesday July 1st

Parks and Recreation will meet at 5:30 in the Williamson County Administrative Complex Executive Conference Room 1320 West Main StreetFranklin Resolution

Wednesday July 2nd

Highway Commission meets at 8:30 am at the Williamson County Highway Facility 302 Beasley Drive, Franklin Agenda

Thursday July 3rd

Public Health meets at 5:30 pm Williamson County Administrative ComplexExecutive conference Room 1320 West Main Street Franklin Resolution Resolution Resolution Resolution

These are all public meetings and anyone can attend.

Williamson County Commission Committees

Board of Mayor and Aldermen

Tuesday June 24th

BOMA Work Session Agenda Video

AI Summary

Action Items

[ ] Joel Aguilera - Draft flag ordinance amendments based on board feedback Craft flag ordinance amendments based on the board's feedback on duration (flexible dates with limits), quantity options, and small stick flag exemptions to bring back later this year
[ ] Mark Stuckey - Validate Franklin Preservation Partners reconciliation numbers Complete validation of the Franklin Preservation Partners out-of-pocket costs reconciliation number (currently estimated at just over $2 million) and potentially bring a more specific Creekside property proposal to the July 8th meeting
[ ] Joel Aguilera - Present flag ordinance display topic at joint conceptual workshop Present the same flag display presentation at the joint conceptual workshop on Thursday to gather additional feedback for crafting amendments

Overview

City approved 6-month extension for PMA management contract for third party claim administrative services
New city hall construction is 20-25% complete with $6.5 million spent, tracking slightly ahead of schedule for early summer 2027 completion
Current city hall cost estimate increased to $103.9-112 million due to $14 million in tariff and construction contingencies, though base project remains around $89.9-98 million
Staff presented revised flag display ordinance options allowing additional temporary flags for 60-90 days annually with 7 consecutive day limits
Traffic analysis showed Franklin Road carries 25,300 vehicles daily north of Mac Hatcher, with proposed $15 million improvement to add northbound lane
Seven residents spoke against Harlan PUD development's proposed use of historic Hillview Lane, citing infrastructure concerns and preservation priorities

Contract amendments and policy updates

Margaret presented three policy updates that lacked quorum at previous budget and finance committee meeting
Travel and expense policy updated to clarify business expenses versus travel expenses and remove outdated phone call reimbursements
Payroll procedures amended to reflect software change from Green Employee to UKG and match November longevity program implementation
Jury duty pay policy changed - employees now keep their $10 county payments rather than turning them into the city
Investment policy updated to align with current TCA codes and investment advisor recommendations

New city hall construction update

Chris reported demolition complete and excavation starting next week with shoring work
Project tracking 20-25% complete and 10 days ahead of schedule for early summer 2027 completion
$6.5 million spent to date with contractor payout pending
ERP2 (foundations and structure) bids expected end of this week or next week
Current cost estimate $103.9-112 million includes $14 million in contingencies and tariff allowances
Base project cost remains $89.9-98 million without contingencies
61 value engineering items identified with $2.2 million in savings from 5 completed items
Tariff impacts include 15-18% increases on HVAC equipment with 52-week lead times and 120-week lead times for electrical gear
Staff identified $10,000 savings per table by moving conference room furniture against walls to eliminate slab penetrations
Alderman Baggett questioned 10% cost delta between low and high estimates for three-story city hall
Patrick emphasized importance of park infrastructure and Third Avenue streetscape quality for visitor experience

Flag display zoning ordinance update

Joel presented revised options based on March joint conceptual workshop feedback
Current standard allows 3 flags per lot year-round with 40-foot maximum height and 1/4 pole width flag size limits
Duration options: maintain status quo, allow temporary flags for 11 federal holidays plus 4 floating events (90 days max annually), or flexible 60-day annual limit with 7 consecutive day maximum
Quantity options: maintain 3-flag limit, allow 5 additional temporary flags (total 8), or board-determined number
Small stick flags (10x12 to 10x18 inches) exemption under consideration following Murfreesboro model
Nancy Laxton spoke supporting unlimited American flag displays, noting original violation recipient is hospitalized with cancer
Board consensus favored flexible 60-90 day duration with 7 consecutive day limits and exploring commercial versus residential distinctions
Alderman Barnhill supported Murfreesboro approach exempting flags under specific size threshold

Traffic data for CIP projects

Adam presented traffic analysis for 3 priority corridors identified in previous CIP discussions
Franklin Road north of Mac Hatcher carries 25,300 daily vehicles - high for two-lane road capacity
Mac Hatcher/Hillsborough intersection experiences significant westbound queuing during peak hours
Carohers Parkway northbound queuing primarily caused by Thales Academy traffic control and I-65 crash diversions
Proposed solutions: $4 million Mac Hatcher westbound widening, $15 million Franklin Road northbound lane addition, $650,000 Carruthers/Long Point Way traffic signal
$29 million Carothers Parkway widening project questioned - current volumes don't warrant full widening except during crash diversions
I-65/State Route 96 interchange identified as top priority needing $70-100 million reconstruction by 2035
24/40 migration analysis showed 29% AM peak volume increase after Murfreesboro Road widening as drivers avoid I-840
Columbia Avenue widening right-of-way acquisition underway with 60 properties requiring 2-2.5 years for acquisition, 6 months to construction start

Creekside property report

Mark reported 42 acres acquired on east side at end of 2023
Franklin Preservation Partners sold property #4 in April for $4.1 million
Remaining homestead property #7 acquisition cost estimated at $2-2.06 million - within $2-2.5 million CIP budget range
Quicker closing saves money on Franklin Preservation Partners' carrying costs
More specific proposal expected at July 8th meeting

Harlin PUD public comments

Seven Hillview Lane residents spoke against development's proposed road connection
Emily Begid emphasized mile and a half of historical tree-canopied lane cannot sustain projected traffic
Barry Beasley (Heritage Foundation CEO) supported preservation while acknowledging growth needs
Blair Garner questioned eminent domain justification for private development benefit
Christina Garner stressed irreplaceable nature of existing tree canopy and scenic character
Gene Lovell noted Columbia Avenue infrastructure inadequacy for additional 95 Garrett Farms houses plus Harlan development
Rob Dodson argued partial preservation isn't true preservation of historic character
Angela Lovell highlighted dangerous S-curves and 90-degree turns on Hillview Lane, citing traffic study projecting 4,800 new daily trips and 300-440 vehicles per hour during peak times

BOMA Meeting Agenda Video

AI Summary

Overview

Franklin city council set property tax rate at 29.6 cents after extensive debate and multiple failed amendments—originally proposed at 32 cents
FY 2025-26 budget of $248 million adopted unanimously, including $128 million for daily operations
Hotel occupancy tax increase from 4% to 5% deferred to August 12th due to state comptroller questions about legal compliance
Fire engineer Greg Tucker memorial acknowledged—killed in off-duty vehicle accident after 14 years of service
Harlan development project deferred to July 8th meeting due to complex county road transfer issues and resident concerns
July 4th community events announced: downtown festivities 10am-6pm, fireworks at Harlansdale starting at 6pm

Alzheimer's awareness month proclamation

Mayor Moore proclaimed June 2025 as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer's affects over 7 million people age 65+ in the US and is the 7th leading cause of death
In Tennessee, 386,000 family members provide 675 million hours of unpaid care valued at $13.2 billion
Alzheimer's is the 3rd leading cause of death in Williamson County
Residents urged to wear purple in support of those affected by the disease

Fire engineer Greg Tucker memorial acknowledgment

Fire engineer Greg Tucker was killed in an off-duty vehicle accident
Tucker served the Franklin Fire Department for over 14 years
Funeral service held on Friday, June 27th afternoon
Mr. Stuckey attended the service and praised Tucker as a great public servant and team member

July 4th community events announcement

Franklin on the 4th downtown event scheduled 10am to 6pm with food, music, and activities
Traditional fireworks at Harlansdale park with gates opening at 6pm
Fireworks display begins around 9pm when dark
Live music and family activities available at both locations

FY 2024-25 budget amendment approval

Ordinance 2025-12 to amend FY 2024-25 budget passed unanimously
Amendment addresses current fiscal year budget adjustments

FY 2025-26 budget adoption

Ordinance 2025-13 adopting $248 million budget for FY 2025-26 passed unanimously
Budget includes $128 million for daily operations
Budget supports 7 new public safety officers and IT staff positions
Staff compensation elevated to 90th percentile included in operational costs

Property tax rate debate and amendment process

Original proposal set tax rate at 32 cents per $100 of assessed value
Alderman Baggett proposed amendment to 28.6 cents, which initially passed 4-3 but failed to meet 5-vote majority requirement for tax rate setting
Multiple reconsiderations and amendments occurred throughout the meeting
Alderman Berger proposed compromise at 29.6 cents
Final rate of 29.6 cents passed 5-2 after Alderman Barnhill changed position
Rate generates approximately $3.4 million difference compared to 32 cent proposal
Tax rate funds Southeast Mac Hatcher partnership with TDOT at 50% split plus operational needs

Hotel occupancy tax increase deferral

Ordinance 2025-15 to increase hotel occupancy tax from 4% to 5% deferred to August 12th meeting
State comptroller raised questions about existing legislation and private act framework
Potential Attorney General review may be requested regarding 8% combined city-county tax limit
Implementation planned for January 1st if approved
Mr. Stuckey explained comptroller wants clarification on whether collective city and county taxes should not exceed 8%

Water and sewer fee updates

Ordinance 2025-09 updating water and sanitary sewer user fees for fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028 passed unanimously
Alderman Peterson initially questioned whether Option A or B was selected, but staff confirmed previous selection was already incorporated

Harlan development project deferral

Resolution 2025-24 for plan of services, Resolution 2025-25 for annexation, and Ordinance 2025-06 for zoning all deferred to July 8th
Project involves 311.21 acres west of Hillview Lane and north of Coleman Road
Developer Boyle requesting to follow 20-year preservation plan for Hillview Lane tree tunnel
Residents Emily McGid, Rob Dodson, and Angela Lovell opposed project citing traffic safety and character preservation concerns
Developer proposes 70% open space preservation under Village Green policy
Traffic study reviewed by city, county, and third-party engineers shows capacity is adequate
Project includes improvements to Coleman Road/Columbia Pike and Henpeck/Columbia Pike intersections

County road transfer and maintenance discussion

Staff presented challenges with county road ownership where counties maintain roads but don't own underlying property
First interlocal agreement with Harlan PUD allows county to transfer road maintenance to city
Staff working on Tennessee code amendment to streamline future county-to-city road transfers
Transfer would include ability to make improvements, establish easements, and condemn adjacent property if needed
Hillview Lane transfer requires updated traffic impact analysis if public access is limited
Emergency services response times could be affected by gating or access restrictions

Administrative policy updates

Resolution 2025-42 amending travel and expense policy for documentation, meals, and phone calls passed unanimously
Resolution 2025-43 updating payroll procedures for software, longevity program, jury duty pay, and crossing guard timekeeping passed unanimously
Resolution 2025-47 amending investment policy for non-pension assets passed unanimously
Contract amendments and appointments approved including Christina Christensen reappointment to Sustainability Committee

Thursday June 26th

Combined BOMA Planning Commission Agenda Video

AI Summary

Action Items

[ ] Staff - Prepare scope of work for signage ordinance updates for next budget year Prepare a scope of work for updating the signage ordinance to reflect more modern signage types, including digital wayfinding screens and LED lighting, for consideration in the upcoming budget year. This should include understanding what types of signage changes are desired by the board and planning commission to adequately prepare the scope for a consultant.

Overview

Orium development plan revised to 900 dwelling units, 450,000 square feet non-residential, 400 hotel keys on 27.19 acres with 4 modification of standards requests
Ovation development plan revised to 1,564 dwelling units, 1,655,000 square feet non-residential, 350 hotel keys on 103.93 acres with 9 modification of standards requests
Traffic study shows Orium reduces trips by 3,900 daily, 110 AM peak, 333 PM peak compared to previous plan
Ovation adds only 1,100 trips per day compared to 2014 study, staying within established parameters
Street lighting ordinance update proposes adding Granville with full cover and internal cutoff shields as dark sky compliant options
Flag display regulations under review with options for 60-90 day temporary flag periods and exemptions for small stick flags

Orium development plan revision

Development reduces office space from 750,000 to 350,000 square feet and hotel rooms from 700 to 400
Multifamily increased to 900 units with 92,000 square feet ground floor retail and restaurants
Features central 2-acre park with grand lawn, outdoor dining, and public art opportunities
Phase one construction starting in few months on southernmost multifamily building
300-room hotel planned at corner of McEwen and Carruthers with decorative pond water feature
Mountain bike park connectivity maintained with trails extending to Liberty Park
Greg Gamble presented master plan emphasizing pedestrian experience and mixed-use integration

Orium modification of standards requests

MOS 1: Allow pitched/gabled roofs for non-residential and mixed-use structures - staff supported as currently allowed in zoning ordinance
MOS 2: Allow maximum 3 digital/interactive wayfinding screen panels - staff does not support as prohibited and doesn't meet signage section intent
MOS 3: Allow neon lighting and LED lighting - staff does not support as prohibited and doesn't meet signage section intent
MOS 4: Allow string lights in designated areas - staff supported as currently allowed in zoning ordinance
Mayor questioned when city will update sign ordinance to reflect modern signage needs
Staff indicated signage ordinance updates would require consultant and budget request for next year

Ovation development plan revision

Plan incorporates additional 27 acres of RC12 zoned property previously set aside
Increases multifamily from 950 to 1,564 units (1,370 apartments, 194 for-sale condos/townhomes)
Central 2-acre park designed for community gatherings, outdoor movies, and events
Mixed-use buildings provide 400,000 square feet retail/restaurants and 1,225,000 square feet office
29-acre mountain bike park and 11-acre wetland park along McEwen Drive included
Alec Chambers from Highwoods emphasized partnership with Center Cal for retail/multifamily components
Economic impact projected at over $250 million annually in sales, hotel, and property tax

Ovation modification of standards requests

MOS 1: Allow flat roofs with parapets for townhouses - staff inclined to support due to Orium precedent
MOS 2-3: Allow minimum 1.3-foot window recess for board/panel siding on multifamily and commercial mixed-use - staff concerned about flattened facades
MOS 4: Allow retail storefronts without transom windows/knee walls - staff does not support knee wall elimination
MOS 5-6: Allow precast concrete as additional material for office and commercial mixed-use buildings - staff needs more information on regulation
MOS 7: Increase retaining wall height to 22 feet behind Building J - staff needs more information, other walls also exceed limits
MOS 8: Eliminate plantings at retaining wall base - staff inclined to support due to existing riparian buffer
MOS 9: Allow parking structure parallel to Carruthers Parkway and McEwen - staff does not support Carruthers placement, contradicts ordinance intent

Ovation building heights and design concerns

Hotel at McEwen/Carruthers corner capped at 8 stories maximum height
Office buildings range 6-12 stories with corner building limited to 10 stories for transition
80-foot grade change from Ovation Parkway down to McEwen creates varying building heights
Alderman Berger emphasized need for elevated design quality, especially on east side visible from interstate
Commissioners stressed parking structure must look like principal building, not typical parking deck
Commissioner Williamson noted precast concrete can vary significantly in appearance and application

Ovation parking structure placement

4-story parking structure with 5 levels proposed parallel to Carruthers Parkway
Structure set back approximately 35 feet from roadway with landscaping
Staff does not support Carruthers placement as it contradicts zoning ordinance requiring building screening
Alderman Berger and others emphasized structure must be broken up visually and not look like typical parking garage
Commissioners requested different materials, lighting, and architectural offsets to create building-like appearance

Traffic study for both developments

Jimmy Wiseman presented joint traffic study results for both developments
Orium improvements already under construction include turn lanes on McEwen and Carrothers
Ovation 2014 traffic study numbers have been included in all subsequent area studies
Additional improvements needed: eastbound through lane on McEwen, westbound through lane on Carruthers to interstate
6 lanes of through travel planned on McEwen in both directions across frontage
Transit opportunities being explored with new multimodal coordinator Max Baker

Street lighting zoning ordinance update

Andrew presented options to add dark sky compliant fixtures to Middle Tennessee Electric catalog
Current ordinance limits pole height to 18 feet and requires ornamental fixtures
Granville with full cover and internal cutoff shields proposed as new options
Demo lights installed on Third Avenue near Bicentennial Park and in Sullivan Farms
Commissioner Williamson thanked staff and Alderman Caesar for collaboration on light pollution reduction
Alderman Berger questioned maintenance and paint durability on full cover option over 10-15 years

Flag display regulations update

Joel presented three categories for discussion: duration, quantity, and small stick flag exemptions
Current regulations allow 3 flags per lot year-round plus 2 temporary signs for 3 months
Duration options: no change, federal holidays plus 4 floating events (90 days max), or flexible 60 days annually
Quantity options: no change, 5 additional temporary flags, or alternative number to be determined
Small stick flags (10x12 or 10x18 maximum) proposed for exemption due to temporary nature
Only 1 violation in over 20 years of current ordinance enforcement
BOMA work session showed mixed support for specific numbers vs. unlimited small flags on residential properties

Franklin Municipal Planning Commission Agenda Video

AI Summary

Overview

Franklin Municipal Planning Commission approved Village Green land use amendment for 475 acres on Murfreesboro Road after extensive public opposition and initial 6-3 vote to disapprove
Ryan Companies received 36-month vesting extension for 555 Franklin Road senior living project until October 10, 2028
Gateway Church annexation process advanced through all three required steps for 10.58 acres on Lewisburg Pike
Williamson County Justice System rezoning from civic institutional to heavy industrial approved for 19.43 acres
Urban growth boundary amendments approved to align with updated Williamson County Growth Plan

555 Franklin Road PUD vesting extension

Ryan Companies requested 36-month extension from October 10, 2025 to October 10, 2028 for senior living development
Project includes 120 multifamily units and 142,500 square feet of non-residential space for age-restricted housing
Site plan approved in May 2023 but no building permits secured yet
David Erickson confirmed plans to break ground in first quarter of 2026
Delay caused by general market conditions and required off-site sewer improvements
Commission unanimously approved the extension

Williamson County Justice System rezoning

19.43 acres at 408 Century Court rezoned from civic institutional to heavy industrial
Heavy industrial is only zoning district that permits correctional facilities
Request maintains existing operations and allows facility enhancements
No new uses requested, only continuation of current justice system operations
Commission unanimously approved the rezoning

Gateway Church annexation process

Gateway Church requested annexation of 10.58 acres at 1288 Lewisburg Pike
Property is non-contiguous to city limits but within southern portion of Franklin's urban growth boundary
Church has owned property since 2009 and operated for 18 years
Charlie Weir explained 3 acres currently occupied by septic system, seeking sewer access for additional green space
Plan of services, annexation resolution, and civic institutional zoning all approved unanimously
Easement crossing neighboring property required at applicant's expense for sewer service

Urban growth boundary amendments

City-sponsored amendment to align Envision Franklin with updated Williamson County Growth Plan completed in late 2024
Franklin added territory in Goose Creek Basin and removed territory in west basin along Carter's Creek Pike
Also removed territory south along US 31 Columbia Pike
Updated Figure 4.1 design concepts map for newly added and removed parcels
Added special considerations for corridor setbacks in Goose Creek Basin
Commission unanimously approved the amendments

Village Green land use amendment

474.94 acres along Murfreesboro Road requested change from rural reserve to Village Green design concept
Proposal includes single family houses, duplexes, multifamily, live-work units, and supporting commercial uses
Special considerations requested for rural retreat hospitality use with event venue and continuum of care use up to 95,000 square feet
138 acres in floodplain marked for conservation
Extensive public opposition citing traffic concerns, flooding issues, school overcrowding, and infrastructure inadequacy
25+ residents spoke against the proposal during public hearing
Key concerns included:
Traffic problems at I-65 and Highway 96 interchange
School capacity issues with Trinity Elementary at 89%, Page Middle at 100%, Mill Creek Middle at 117%
Flooding on North Chapel Road, Trinity Road, and surrounding areas
Inadequate water infrastructure with 8-inch lines from 1970
1,300 proposed homes would overwhelm rural road network
Jeff Hines representing applicant emphasized 70% open space preservation and 10-20 year buildout timeline
Applicant proposed using Real Estate Infrastructure Development Act (RETA) for financing
Initial motion to disapprove failed 6-3, then motion to approve passed 6-3
Commissioners Allen and Williamson and alderman Peterson voted against both motions, citing infrastructure and timing concern

For Next Week go here

Election Commission

Tuesday June 24th

Election Commission Agenda

AI Summary

Action Items

[ ] Mr. Gray - Follow up with Franklin city administrator about election call Contact the administrator for the City of Franklin tomorrow regarding the call for elections for October 28, 2025 City of Franklin Municipal Election for Ward 4.

Overview

Commission approved $15,500 firmware upgrade to version 6.3.0.0 for voting machines, saving $5,000 in travel fees by coordinating with scheduled maintenance after July 4th
Congressional special election planning underway for 7th District due to Rep. Mark Green's potential resignation—71% of Franklin voters affected, with primary within 80 days and general election within 100 days of resignation
Franklin municipal election confirmed for October 28, 2025 with potential coordination with congressional special election to reduce costs
Performance audit completed for May 6, 2025 election with most compliance items accepted
Chair defended election staff against accusations of "lazy" budget work, clarifying budget process was completed properly in March

Election security compliance requirements

Participant 4 questioned compliance with President Trump's election executive order regarding EDS systems, voter verifiable paper ballots without QR codes, cybersecurity processes, and foreign entity restrictions
Chair explained current VVSG 1.0 systems from 2005 remain valid under EAC lifecycle policy, with VVSG 2.0 standards updated in 2021 but only 3 systems nationwide approved since 2022
Chair noted 95% of US jurisdictions still use VVSG 1.0 systems and EAC has no plans to decertify them
Tennessee requires precincts with over 500 registered voters to use machines and counties must complete vote counting by end of election day

Voting machine firmware upgrade

Commission approved upgrade from current version 6.1.0.0 to 6.3.0.0 for $15,500
New version approved by EAC in 2022 and Tennessee Division of Elections in 2024
Key improvements include: DS200 scanner naming capability, ballot numbering for risk-limiting audits, removal of problematic checkbox on ballot marking devices, enhanced reporting consolidation, and hash verification audit logs
Upgrade scheduled during annual maintenance after July 4th to save $5,000 in travel costs
Update provides groundwork for easier transition to VVSG 2.0 standards

Congressional special election planning

Rep. Mark Green intends to resign from 7th Congressional District pending reconciliation package
71% of Franklin voters are in the 7th District
Primary election required within 80 days of resignation writ, general election within 100 days
County responsible for all special election expenses
Mr. Gray notified state that 61% of Franklin residents are in the district and requested coordination with October 28th municipal election if timing allows
Commission will likely need supplemental budget request for unplanned election costs

Franklin municipal election updates

Election scheduled for October 28, 2025 but call for election not yet received from city
Chair deferred agenda item until call is formally received
Franklin Tomorrow's "I Voted" sticker design competition underway with 6-7 finalists selected, mostly youth submissions
Final sticker selection will be presented at late July commission meeting
Commission participated in voter registration at June and July community events

Performance audit for May election

Performance audit conducted for May 6, 2025 election as optional process for municipal elections
Commission accepted most compliance items including logic and accuracy testing, machine technician certifications, and official training verification
Emergency poll signature list artifact marked as not accepted due to unavailability during meeting
Audit checklist helps organize required election activities and ensures state code compliance

Budget process clarification

Chair defended election staff against public comments calling budget work "lazy" made to County Commission
Budget recommendations submitted to County Commission in March with proper process followed
County Commission approved election budget request for current fiscal year
Chair praised Chad and Evelyn's budget work and collaboration with Mayor's Office and budget director

Additional notes from Frank Limpus

There were two citizen comments.
- Frank Limpus followed up questions he sent in writing to the WCEC yesterday concerning President Trump’s executive order and how the WCEC planned to comply with certain components of the EO that affect Williamson County:
  - Ensuring the voting machines conformed with the Election Assistance Commission’s updated 2.0 safety guidelines.
    - Right now our ES&S voting machines only meet 1.0 standards, which were established in 2005. Yes, 2005. Your iPhone, which was first launched in 2007, meets far more stringent and current security standards than our voting machines do!
  - Ensuring we have voter-verifiable paper ballots without a bar code that encases the voter’s vote and can’t be verified by humans.
    - At this time we do not have voter-verifiable paper ballots because our voter selections on that ballot/summary card are encased in a bar code – which is what the tabulator reads to count your vote – and no one can read bar code to be sure it reflects your choices.
  - Ensuring the company that manages our voter roll and voter registration system has its cybersecurity processes verified/certified.
    - We have no knowledge about their abilities or cybersecurity processes/technologies.
  - Ensuring the WCEC is working with the state and the US Attorney General and Secretary of the Treasury so that no foreign entity or foreign-supported entity is contributing funds or advice to the WCEC in how to run elections.
- Williamson County Commissioner Bill Petty discussed the importance of transparency for all WC organizations.
The WCEC then approved the call for the October 28, 2025 City of Franklin Municipal Election for four ward aldermen.
They determined next steps in the “I voted” sticker competition which is driven by Franklin Tomorrow seeking youths to draw potential “I voted” stickers for voters on election day.
Approved updating the firmware of the ES&S voting machines from version 6.1.1.0 to 6.3.0.0.
- Duda discussed various supposed advantages of this, but we need to do more study to ascertain what is and what isn’t factual.
They discussed the pending election to replace the retiring US Representative Mark Green.
- While Green has announced his resignation, he has yet to send to Governor Lee his resignation letter. When that happens, Lee/WCEC has 80 days to conduct a replacement election.
- WCEC Administrator Gray has suggested to the governor that if possible that election be held at the same time as the Franklin municipal election to save the county money.
- 71% of Franklin residents live in Green’s district and would be eligible to voter in this election.
The WCEC conducted a performance audit for the May 6, 2025 City of Brentwood Municipal Election.

There is no meeting scheduled for next week

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.
Tennessee Voters for Election Integrity is helping restore confidence in Tennessee Elections.
TruthWire Local news and commentary.
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.

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