Friday Recap November 14th, 2025

Commission meeting

Last week I mentioned several resolutions that were on the agenda for the commission meeting on Monday of this week. I am happy to report that we passed three of them and the fourth was obviated by the hiring of an attorney to represent the county in the potential hospital sale.

Resolution 11-25-39 Adequate Facilities Tax Adjustment. The full resolution is in the packet for the Commission Meeting, but basically, it raises the rate that the county charges on non-residential construction from $.34 per sf. to $2.00 per sf. This money is used for Highway and Fire/Ambulance costs. This resolution passed, and the votes are recorded below in my Williamson County Report.

Septic Permit Process — Resolutions No. 11-25-7 & 11-25-8. For years, getting approval on septic tanks in Williamson County has been more difficult and expensive because of excessive regulations that go way beyond state regulations. These resolutions will start the process of fixing this problem. Both passed.

Proposed sale of Williamson Health - Resolutions 11-25-5 and 11-25-33. There is a lot of concern about the future of Williamson Health. The County owns the building and the land that it is on, and the County Commission has final approval to accept or reject any offer to buy it. One of the concerns is, if it sells, where do the profits go. Right now, by state law, they must go into a trust fund and all monies will be used exclusively for health services in the county. Resolution 11-25-33 is an appeal to the state to grant a private act or amendment to the law so that the net proceeds from any sale of the Williamson Health come to the county and be controlled by the county commission. A 2/3 majority vote was required to pass this resolution and the vote was 17-6, so it passed.

Resolution 11-25-5 affirms the county's authority and calls for legal council to represent the county during the sale process. This resolution was pulled because the commission voted to hire attorney Jesse C. Neal to represent us during the potential hospital sale.

My Comment

The hiring of an attorney to represent the county commission during the potential hospital sale was sprung on us in last week's budget committee meeting. We debated deferring the decision until January (we don't have a full commission meeting in December). There was concern that we needed representation now, so we decided to approve the hiring on a temporary basis and revisit in January. Please read Mr. Neal's bio. Jesse C. Neal. There is more detail in my county report below.

For anyone who is interested, the property committee meeting scheduled for next Tuesday is open to the public, and you are entitled to comment during public comment. I will be there, and I expect a good number of commissioners will attend as well.

Property Committee will meet at 5:30 pm in the Executive Conference Room of the Williamson County Administrative Complex at 1320 W. main, Franklin Agenda Jesse C. Neal bio Committee members: Barb Sturgeon (C), Ricky Jones (VC), Brian Clifford, Jennifer Mason, Matt Williams.

County fire protection is an issue that we will need to address in the near future. We are having difficulty getting and retaining volunteer firefighters for the unincorporated areas of the county. See the commission meeting summary below for more details and the power point presentation.

U.S Representative district 7

 We all need to get behind our Republican candidate Matt Van Epps as this is not a lay down election.  The Democrats are well organized and energized.  As I mentioned earlier, the vote differential between Republicans and  Democrats in the recent primary was only 18%, 36,854 Republicans to 31,002 Democrats for a difference of only 5,852 votes. The Democrat establishment is zeroing in on this election and if they can flip this seat to blue, it will change the dynamic in Washington and give the Democrats a win that will reverberate around the country. We cannot let this happen.

Van Epps' opponent is a leftist who would fit right in with AOC and her cohorts.

How you can help

The Williamson County Republicans are organizing three ways to help:

Phone Call day on November 15th. There are three shifts: 9:00am to 12:00pm, 12:00pm to 3:00pm and 3:00pm to 6:00pm. To sign up, go here

Tent greeters for early voting. Starts on the 12th and runs through the 26th. Go here to sign up.

Pole Watchers during early voting. Sign up here

The voter registration deadline for the District 7 special election is Nov. 3, 2025.

Key dates:

• Voter registration deadline: Nov. 3
• Early voting: Nov. 12-26
• Absentee ballot request deadline: Nov. 22
• Election Day: Dec. 2

If you have any questions contact the Williamson County Election Commission at 615-790-5711.

Early voting results as of Friday

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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.

Williamson County School District

Monday November 3rd

Policy Committee Agenda Video Last week I indicated that I expected to be able to access the video of this meeting but due to technical problems, the recording will not be posted.

Thursday November 13th

WCS Work Session Agenda Video

AI Summary

Action Items

• [ ] Jason Golden - Include current wireless communication policy in Monday agenda materials Add the current wireless communication device policy to Monday's board meeting agenda materials alongside the proposed amended policy for easy comparison.
• [ ] Rhea - Provide early childhood funding breakdown Calculate and provide the exact percentage of early childhood program costs covered by federal IDEA preschool funds and state preschool grant versus local funding to the board.
• [ ] Brian King - Send list of schools included in FOB and intercom system phases Send list of schools included in phase two and phase three of the internal FOB system and intercom/alert system project to the board member who requested it.
• [ ] Jason Golden - Provide LEA plan submitted to the state Provide a copy of the LEA plan submitted annually to the state to the board to help with potential future alignment of superintendent evaluation goals.
• [ ] Participant 2 - Remind principals to review TSSAA calendars when setting graduation dates Have conversation with high school principals again about reviewing TSSAA state competition calendars (track, baseball, etc.) when placing graduation dates to avoid conflicts where scholar-athletes must choose between competing at state and attending graduation.
• [ ] Rachel - Determine education impact fee fund balance Verify the current balance in the education impact fee account and provide that information to the board.
• [ ] Participant 2 - Confirm current textbook publisher for engineering courses Verify and confirm to the board which publisher is currently being used for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering courses (believe it's Cengage but need confirmation).
• [ ] Andy Davis - Provide year-over-year screen time comparison data Complete analysis comparing screen time data from one week in November and one week in December from last year (2023-24 when elementary students took devices home daily) versus this year (2024-25 when they don't). Compile and provide to board by January.
• [ ] Participant 2 - Compile list of existing named facilities across all schools Continue collecting from each school site all internal and external portions of school facilities currently named after individuals, and prepare to present the complete list to the board for informational purposes.
• [ ] Andy Davis - Investigate parent access to student screen time data through ClassLink Meet with ClassLink vendor next week to determine if and how parent access to individual student screen time dashboards can be made available. Also explore teacher access to the same dashboard to help monitor screen time.
• [ ] Andy Davis - Send detailed app usage data and PowerPoint to board members Email the screen time committee PowerPoint presentation, digital profile data packets with grade-level breakdown, top apps cheat sheet PDF, and all resource links to board members by end of day November 15, 2025. Include instructional minutes per day for each grade level as requested by Dr. Driggers.
• [ ] Jason Golden - Calculate raw spending amount on special education services Run an exercise to estimate the total raw dollar amount spent on special education services out of the entire district budget and share with the board.

Overview

• Board reviewed preliminary budget showing $562M total with 85% in salaries and benefits, estimated $4M for salary roll and $3.8M for 1% raise, but facing $4M less in fund balance than last year due to property tax collection rate change
• Five-year capital improvement plan projects first new school opening no earlier than fall 2030, with focus on maintenance and targeted additions including two 22-classroom middle school additions
• Screen time committee presented device usage data showing elementary students average very low minutes in K-1, consistent usage in grades 3-5 and 6-8, with high school minutes including online learning and dual enrollment
• Wireless communication device policy sparked extensive debate about bell-to-bell versus lunch access for high school students, with board members citing conflicting priorities between research on device impact and parent/student communication needs
• Textbook adoption process continues with state board voting November 21st to finalize publisher list for engineering, IT, and wellness courses, followed by public reviews starting January 2026
• District collected 612 Thanksgiving food boxes through partnerships with Girl Scouts, GraceWorks, and community organizations for families in need

Veterans Day programs and Thanksgiving food drive

• Veterans Day programs occurred across district on November 11th with strong attendance from board members, county commissioners, and community
• Superintendent Golden attended high school, middle, and elementary Veterans Day programs and encouraged students to ask veterans to share their stories
• Girl Scouts partnered with district to organize Thanksgiving food drive providing boxes with complete Thanksgiving dinners
• District distributed 612 boxes as of the meeting through partnerships with Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, GraceWorks, One Gen Away, and the well
• Grassland Elementary area contributed 257 boxes
• GraceWorks director reported approximately 3,300 individuals in Williamson County need regular food support throughout the year

Textbook adoption update

• First textbook committee meeting occurred several weeks ago to establish criteria and create evaluation checklists before materials arrived
• State Textbook Commission meeting scheduled for November 21st to vote on recommended publishers and titles
• Preliminary list includes publishers for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering courses, IT courses, and Lifetime Wellness
• State did not vet middle school health curriculum, so district reached out to high school publishers for middle school samples
• District currently uses Code HS for most IT courses
• Next committee meeting scheduled for December 8th to present finalized publisher list and administer required oath to committee members
• Public reviews will be held at PD Center starting in January with both physical materials and digital access available
• Committee will submit final recommendations on February 24th
• Carol Birdsong's communications team will publish public review dates and times in December with reminder in January through InFocus

Screen time committee progress

• Committee shifted timeline to combine technology integration and screen time topics based on member feedback requesting comprehensive guidance document
• Four board members attended most recent meeting on November 8th (Tanya Hibma, Melissa Wyatt, Jay Galbreath, Dr. Driggers)
• October meeting focused on technology integration and internet safety with presentations from Phil Fulmer on network security and Andy Davis on application vetting process
• District requires all apps with student login to go through vetting process ensuring federal and state privacy law compliance and instructional alignment
• Teachers trained to start with standards first, use high quality instructional materials, and only implement technology when it enhances student learning
• Committee evaluated scenarios using assessment tool to determine whether technology was active or passive use
• November meeting presented ClassLink data on device usage by grade level for August and September
• Data includes full day usage, not just school hours, and shows minutes increase in second grade with one-to-one device introduction
• Minutes remain consistent in grades 3-5 and 6-8, with high school data including online learning, Vanguard, and dual enrollment
• District working with ClassLink to provide granular data at student and classroom level for parent access, with meeting scheduled next week
• Committee will receive research studies and resources package by end of November 15th to review before January 8th meeting
• Goal is creating district-wide technology integration guidance document with screen time protocols

Preliminary budget overview

• Current year budget totals $562M with 85% in salaries and benefits, 15% in operations
• Operations budget of $81M includes $11M utilities, $10M janitorial, $5M trustee commission, $6M insurance and workers comp
• Salary roll for next year estimated at $4M, with 1% raise costing approximately $3.8M across board
• Revenue breakdown remains consistent at 60-61% local, 38% state, 0.25% federal in general fund, 0.75% other sources
• Total federal funding including Fund 142 equals approximately 2% of revenues, with $10.5M received this year primarily for special education
• Fund balance used last year was $67M to balance budget, with no extra remaining after maintaining required 3%
• Property tax collection rate increased from 92% to 94% this year, adding $4M one-time to budget
• District already spent into fund balance for buses and must replenish by end of year
• Projected property tax revenue could increase $1.9M assuming 1% growth at 94% collection rate
• Projected sales tax revenue could increase $1.9M based on 1.6% growth in early months
• Full budget presentation scheduled for February 2026 with board vote in March 2026, submission to county commission by April 1st

Five-year capital improvement plan

• Most up-and-coming new school projected to open no earlier than fall 2030, five years from current date
• In 2024-25, district requested just under $30M versus $55.5M in five-year plan, deferring some projects
• Plan includes $1M for Spring Station Performing Arts Center architectural planning work in current year
• Two 22-classroom middle school additions planned for split-log area ($45M with $10M upfront grading) and Cox Road area ($37M)
• Hillsboro and Grassland renovations already have partial intent to fund from last year
• Phase two of FOB system and intercom/alert system will be completed before start of next school year
• Phase three of security systems included in current five-year plan as final phase
• Heat maps presented showing elementary, middle, and high school capacity by location with red indicating 90%+ capacity, yellow 75-90%, green under 75%
• Sunset Middle at 83% capacity, Arrington Elementary at 87% and growing noticeably
• District considering potential rezonings in Nolansville and Page areas, not for fall 2026 but potentially fall 2027
• Updated middle school capacities coming soon after Heather Hayes and Eric mapped programming changes at all middle schools
• Education impact fee fund estimated at $75-80M
• Total five-year plan reduced from over $900M when first presented years ago to approximately $650M currently

2026-27 and 2027-28 calendar approval

• 2026-27 calendar previously approved by board, now adding proposed early release and late start days mirroring current practice
• One teacher professional learning day shifted in 2026-27 but doesn't affect overall calendar structure
• Teachers do not return until August in both calendars, except new hires
• 2027-28 calendar includes additional election day for March presidential primary with no school and teachers present on campus
• One additional teacher admin day adjusted around winter break in 2027-28
• Calendar committee spent significant time discussing early release days and inclement weather days
• Committee recommended keeping early release on Wednesday rather than Friday for three reasons: better for teacher planning, prevents long weekends with poor attendance, families use Wednesday afternoons for appointments
• Committee recommended keeping 10 inclement weather days stockpiled despite not using all in recent years
• Elementary feedback indicated instructional minute loss from reducing inclement weather days not worth the gain
• District attends 177 days plus stockpiles for 3 additional days, with 7 extra minutes daily for early release and late start
• Early childhood does not attend on Wednesdays, aligning with early release schedule
• Fall break aligned with end of first quarter
• Graduation window being reviewed to avoid conflicts with TSSAA state track and field, baseball competitions, particularly with state meet moving to Knoxville

Brentwood Middle and Innovation Center project updates

• Brentwood Middle School phase three covering exterior work is completed
• Contractors still working on punch list items and final cleanup at Brentwood Middle
• Innovation Center HVAC system installed with flooring completion scheduled for next week
• Kitchen equipment delivered and being installed for culinary program at Innovation Center
• Final asphalt at Innovation Center will be completed by beginning of December 2025

Naming facilities policy

• Policy establishes board approval requirement for naming portions of school facilities after individuals or based on financial contributions
• Guidelines include criteria for evaluating naming requests
• Staff collecting inventory of internal and external facility portions already named after individuals to present to board
• District will maintain running log of board-approved naming decisions
• Similar process to school naming committee but streamlined for facility portions
• School recommendations will go through assistant superintendent and superintendent before board consideration

Report cards and transfer GPA policy

• Policy adds procedures for transfer student GPA recalculation to ensure consistency and transparency
• Change driven by University of Tennessee guaranteed admission for top 10% of graduating class starting last year
• Transfer GPA calculation procedures previously in high school programming guide, now elevated to board policy due to significant impact
• Policy clarifies for families transferring to district how GPA calculated and affects class ranking
• Ensures students consistently reviewed and submitted for UT guaranteed admission program

Wireless communication device policy debate

• Policy on second reading after first reading approval with amendment removing high school lunch access
• Dennis researched 95 Tennessee counties finding 38 already have bell-to-bell policies, with some counties moving from partial to bell-to-bell but none reversing
• National research shows 60% of states have some policy, 40% have stricter bell-to-bell, with 27 states recently adding 5 more moving to bell-to-bell
• Washington DC, California, and New York have strict bell-to-bell policies covering approximately 18% of US students
• Studies cited showing over 1 hour daily cell phone use cuts adolescent cognitive ability by 50%, with American students averaging 7-9 hours daily
• Dr. Gupta's email highlighted endogenous distraction from dopamine craving and exogenous distraction from alerts and notifications
• Student committee feedback indicated students like current policy allowing them to place phones in cubbies to avoid distraction
• Parent questionnaire collected from July 25th through September 3rd received 2,656 total responses
• Questionnaire results showed 643 supporting policy, 289 opposing, 1,724 neutral or requesting clarification
• Support exceeded opposition at all grade levels: elementary 175 support vs 97 oppose, middle school 97 support vs 52 oppose, high school 207 support vs 67 oppose
• Parent concerns focused on communication access for transportation, medical needs, anxiety, emergency situations
• Middle school identified as critical risk zone for bullying, screenshots, rumor spreading, anxiety, and self-image issues
• Multiple board members observed lunch periods at Franklin and Brentwood high schools noting approximately 10% or fewer students using phones briefly
• District explored opening email for parent communication but found no technical solution limiting to only parent email without opening all outside email
• Several local districts checked have open email for high school but not restricted to parents only
• Forsyth County, Georgia implemented bell-to-bell with community campaign called "disconnect to reconnect" including community meetings and website resources
• Concerns raised about enforcement challenges, need for consistent storage method across schools, and implementation timeline for August 2026
• Principals, assistant principals, and teachers reportedly do not support extending restriction to high school lunch period
• Debate centered on whether convenience of 30-40 minute lunch access outweighs benefits of bell-to-bell restriction
• Some board members emphasized most seniors are legal adults making adult decisions outside school
• Discussion included need to clarify storage requirements, enforcement consequences, and communication solutions before final vote

E-bike safety task force

• City of Brentwood meeting on November 13th included elected officials and school board members discussing e-bike concerns
• Increase in e-bike traffic noted in suburban municipalities and students riding to campus
• Task force forming with city leaders, county leaders, and Sheriff's Office to discuss e-bike safety and family education
• Schools developing PSA through media programs with student competition targeting students and parents about safety issues
• Municipalities brainstorming rules and regulations for e-bikes on sidewalks
• All municipalities either attended or communicated regarding e-bike safety discussions

Board norms and superintendent evaluation

• Annual agenda requires board to review and affirm board norms annually
• Board norms are separate from code of ethics, representing commitments board members make to each other
• Superintendent evaluation instrument unchanged from last year to maintain longitudinal history
• Instrument includes state-required demonstrable characteristics counting as 20% and observational goals counting as 80%
• Four district goals approved by board this year plugged into evaluation document
• Board member raised concern about goals being action items rather than SMART goals tied to student outcomes
• Discussion about aligning superintendent goals with LEA plan submitted to state and focusing more on student measurables like ACT scores and AP enrollment
• Board member suggested reviewing in spring between third and fourth quarters to prepare for next year
• First and final reading scheduled for Monday, November 17th to establish evaluation instrument for May assessment

Monday November 17th

School Board Meeting at 6:30 PM in the Auditorium at the Williamson County Administrative Building on the first floor at 1320 West Main Street, Franklin, No Agenda Video

If you want to speak at this meeting:

Please send your name, complete mailing address, topic of comments and any organization you represent to publiccomment@wcs.edu. You may sign up for public comment for the next School Board meeting beginning on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 12 p.m. through Monday, November 17, 2025 at 12 p.m.

After the district receives your email request to speak and the items listed above, you will receive a confirmation email. Please bring that email and a photo ID with you to the meeting.

Williamson County Commission

Monday November 10th

County Commission Agenda Packet Video For list of board members, go here

AI Summary

Action Items

• [ ] Rogers Anderson - Execute earnest money agreement for Columbia Avenue property Work with legal counsel to execute earnest money agreement with the property owner on Columbia Avenue to secure the property while due diligence is conducted. Use funds from existing juvenile justice and jail bond funds up to $300,000.
• [ ] Phoebe Riley - Distribute debt service report to commissioners via email Distribute the required debt service report to all commissioners via email within 45 days of the November 18th bond closing date. Since the commission does not meet in December, provide hard copies in January but email distribution is required to meet the 45-day obligation.
• [ ] Mike Matteson - Schedule and announce SSDS task force meetings At the first SSDS task force meeting, schedule multiple subsequent meetings and make those dates available to commissioners and the public. Provide notice for the first meeting.
• [ ] Gordon - Present one million dollar check from XL Swim Club Coordinate with XL Swim Club to present a one million dollar donation check to the county commission in January 2026 for the natatorium expansion at Bethesda Parks and Recreation Center.
• [ ] Rogers Anderson - Review independent legal counsel engagement in January meeting Revisit the decision to retain Jesse Neal as independent legal counsel at the January County Commission meeting to determine whether to continue the representation. The mayor agreed to this temporary arrangement with a review in January.
• [ ] Jim Cross - Conduct due diligence on Columbia Avenue property for courthouse Perform phase one environmental study, geotechnical study, and zoning study on the Columbia Avenue property being considered for new courthouse construction. Report findings back to the commission. Budget not to exceed $300,000 total, with due diligence estimated at approximately $15,000.
• [ ] Mike Matteson - Provide task force meeting minutes to all commissioners Prepare and provide meeting minutes from each SSDS task force meeting to all county commissioners to keep them informed of discussions and progress.
• [ ] Rogers Anderson - Schedule meeting with commissioners before end of year regarding hospital sale representation Schedule and host a meeting with commissioners before the end of the year to discuss hospital sale representation and allow for open discussion with legal counsel Jesse Neal regarding questions and concerns about the strategic planning process and county commission's role. Commissioner Lisa Hayes requested this meeting.
• [ ] Mike Matteson - Hold at least two public meetings during septic task force term Organize and hold at least two official public meetings during the term of the Subsurface Sewage Disposal System (SSDS) task force to allow for public and commissioner participation. Schedule these meetings to allow input at the beginning and on the recommendations.

Overview

• Commission hired outside legal counsel Jesse C. Neal at $900/hour on temporary basis through January to represent county in potential hospital sale process (vote: 22-1) Jesse C. Neal bio
• Septic regulation task force established to reduce regulations and review budget, with amendments extending timeline to April 1, 2026 and removing immediate budget cuts (passed 23-0)
• Commission approved spending up to $300,000 in existing bond funds for due diligence on Columbia Avenue property for new courthouse construction (passed 23-0)
• Legislature will be asked to change state law allowing hospital sale proceeds to return to county commission rather than private foundation (passed 17-6, achieving required 2/3 majority)
• Adequate facilities tax on commercial development increased from $0.34 to $1 effective January 1, 2026 and $2 effective April 1, 2026, applying countywide instead of only unincorporated areas
• County approved $3.184M for school bus purchases, netting 2 fewer buses than current fleet

Marine Corps 250th anniversary invocation

• Commissioner Matt Williams delivered invocation honoring 250th anniversary of United States Marine Corps, founded November 10, 1775
• Williams thanked Marines for becoming most feared fighting force in world and protecting nation's streets

Courthouse security and space needs

• Judge Joseph Woody Woodruff noted Triple J Task Force completed 5-volume master plan in 2020 for public safety infrastructure, but courthouse portion got decoupled during pandemic
• Judge Dena Hood raised security concerns, noting 2 incidents of threats requiring law enforcement security assessments since 2022
• Judge David Veal highlighted capacity issues: 2 General Sessions judges with only 1.5 courtrooms, 4 circuit judges with 2 jury trial courtrooms
• County population doubled from approximately 137,000 in 2002 when judicial center construction began to 269,000 as of July last year
• Judge Deanna Johnson urged commission to consider Columbia Avenue property opportunity that arose for potential new courthouse location

Hospital sale concerns and transparency

• Frank Limpus criticized clandestine effort that started in July with strategic planning process, called for full transparent public disclosure
• Phil Mazuk reported hospital exploring options from remaining independent to potential change in ownership, not close to making decision, doesn't expect significant updates until 2026
• Mazuk stated hospital will always follow the law regarding proceeds and emphasized mission to provide world-class healthcare
• Elise Farrell urged commission to demand full transparency, independent legal counsel, and protect equity built up for taxpayers

Septic system complaints and experiences

• Jim Colella described 5-year stop work order on property despite healthy septic system, spent tens of thousands on attorney and engineering fees
• Casey Johnson from SDM staff asked for impartial commissioner to lead task force and include voices from within department
• Dory Bowles from Harpeth Conservancy noted Middle Tennessee soils not uniform, require customization beyond standard Tennessee state regulations
• Jessica Bell shared 4-year ordeal trying to build home: spent over $20,000 on rentals, $75,000 on extended leases, $10,000 on machinery repairs, $150,000 on garage, lost $20,000 in architectural designs
• Dr. Doug York described multiple septic department issues over 48.5 years in county, including required abandonment of new unused septic system in 1980, $25,000 spent on soil scientist and excavation in Oakleaf subdivision, and $60,000 modified low-pressure system requirement

Conservation subdivision zoning amendments Resolution 11-25-9

• Aaron Holmes explained amendments increase minimum lot size from 1/4 acre to 1/2 acre in RD-5 and RP-5 districts
• Required open space strip between lots doubled in size
• Required streetscape in front of conservation subdivision doubled
• Established 100-foot buffer from cemetery to disposal fields and 300-foot setback from cemetery to wastewater treatment system
• Regional Planning Commission voted 7-4-0 against, county commission passed 22-1 No vote was commissioner Sanford

Private airports and heliports zoning Resolution 11-25-10

• Resolution created new accessory use category for landing strips or helipads for private residential and agricultural use
• Setbacks measured colinear for runway to property lines
• Special use designation in listed zoning districts
• Regional Planning Commission voted 7-4-0 against, commission passed 23-0
• Aaron Holmes confirmed county seeing applications increase, with 2 recent requests prompting regulation changes

Telecommunication tower regulations Resolution 11-25-11

• Christy presented amendments significantly increasing notification process to 1,500-foot radius from lease site versus just adjacent property owners previously
• Added signage requirements on property and at nearest crossroads with specific information
• Required additional data showing gap in coverage that can't be addressed by co-location
• Tower companies must provide NEPA study, FCC application, FAA application, and RF study confirming FCC compliance
• Regional Planning Commission voted 7-4-0 against, commission passed 22-1 with 1 abstention from Commissioner Tunnicliffe due to conflict

County historian Rick Warwick recognition

• Mayor Anderson presented proclamation honoring Rick Warwick, county historian since January 2017
• Warwick succeeded Virginia Daniel Bowman who served 1972-2017, following Colonel Campbell Brown who served 1965-1972
• Warwick editor of 29 published journals and over 25 additional published books
• Serves on numerous boards including Tennessee Historical Commission, Williamson County Historical Society, Heritage Foundation, Carter House, and Franklin's Charge

Veterans Day ceremony announcement

• Mayor Anderson announced Veterans Day ceremony at 11:00 AM on November 11th
• Bob Rabner organized Veterans Award Ceremony Benefit Banquet on Friday honoring local veterans including Mayor Rogers Anderson

Bond issue update and privilege tax report

• Phoebe Riley reported county received 15 bids for general obligation bonds, accepting lowest at 3.589%
• County received 8 bids for county district school bonds, accepting low bid of 3.6%
• Closing date set for November 18th
• Phoebe required to provide debt report within 45 days of closing, will email to commissioners before January meeting since no December meeting
• Cool Springs Conference Center generated profit of $105,955 for the month
• September privilege tax collections slightly down at $859,000 total
• Adequate school facilities tax shared with towns based on population (30% off top split)
• Adequate facilities tax only collected on commercial property in unincorporated boundaries at $0.34, generated $66,528.32 in September

SNAP program and GraceWorks partnership

• Alicia Bell reported 3,300 Williamson County residents depend on SNAP to feed families
• GraceWorks prepared plan within 48 hours designed to serve all 3,300 SNAP recipients during federal shutdown
• Organization normally serves 45 families per day, seeing 25% increase during SNAP disruption
• GraceWorks provides food, shelter, and support services approximately 7 minutes from commission meeting location

Fire service challenges and volunteer retention. See power Point Here

• Connor Scott reported 14 stations across county staffed by volunteer departments covering unincorporated areas and Thompson Station
• County employs 11 full-time individuals supporting volunteer service
• Public Safety Task Force convened 2022-2023 to review fire service delivery
• Analysis shows 84% of volunteers from 2018 to current left system over 5 years
• County has approximately 220-225 active volunteers, but many only respond to handful of calls per year
• One volunteer responded to almost 600 calls while many others responded to very few
• Station 20 in Triune opened this year, already handled 341 calls
• Program recognized by state for delivering most training hours for volunteers of any fire training entity across state
• Scott committed to transparent process for task force work

JJJ project status and courthouse planning See Power point here

• Jim Cross reported value engineering reduced budget by $25.6 million to current total of $341 million
• Current budget $3.6 million over allocated bond proceeds but carries $30 million contingency
• Site work removed from individual components and consolidated into one package
• Jail: 320,000 square feet total (230,000 enclosed), accommodates 583 beds
• Juvenile Justice Center: 112,000 square feet, 4 furnished courtrooms plus 2 shelled courtrooms, 32 secure beds, 6 respite beds
• Alternative Learning Center: 24,000 square feet finished space at 300 Beasley facility for 150 students day one, space for 250 ultimate buildout
• Gun range: 6,000 square feet
• Maintenance facility/impound lot: 9,000 square feet (increased from 2,600)
• Jeff Coonan noted jail parking structure tucked underneath building takes advantage of sloping site
• Gun range moved up in construction timeline to avoid working through finished secured jail property later
• Grading permit expected early December, Special Ops building complete, asbestos removal starts week of Thanksgiving

Hospital financial report and strategic planning

• Phil Mazzuca announced new CT scan with cardiac imaging capabilities installed this week, first patient expected December 15th, cardiac studies begin after first of year
• New large bore MRI with cardiac imaging capabilities planned for first patient March 2026
• Terry Fowler reported September EBITDA favorable to budget by 8.6% or $182,000
• Net income favorable to budget by 20% or $82,000 for month, favorable year-to-date by $502,000 or 53%
• September volumes lower versus budget and prior year except physician office visits, GI procedures, cath lab cases
• Deliveries up 7% versus budget and 1% versus prior year
• EBITDA margin 7.4% for month and 7.9% year-to-date
• Operating cash increased $3.094M due to decreased accounts receivable and payroll timing
• Days cash on hand increased by 3 days
• Debt coverage remained at 2.48
• Restricted funds total approximately $68 million: $30.5 million for bond covenants, $38 million funded depreciation

Outside legal counsel rate approval

• Commission approved Jesse Neal at $900/hour rate on temporary basis through January meeting for review Jesse C. Neal
• Neal former in-house lawyer for Community Health Systems, now has specialized practice advising governmental hospitals
• Neal advised counties in Tennessee, California, and Florida on hospital transactions
• Mayor Anderson noted any hospital sale would include reimbursement of counsel fees to county
• Senator Johnson's office committed to carry legislation if resolution passes with 2/3 majority
• Commission discussed whether representation would be to mayor or commission, council clarified Neal represents county as whole including commission
• Vote approved 22-1 with 1 abstention after motion to defer failed and discussion of adequacy of representation Commission Richards abstained

Parks and rec grants and donations

• Gordon announced over $5 million coming from donations
• XL Swim Club donating $1 million for natatorium expansion at Bethesda Parks and Recreation Center, check presentation planned January
• Beth Lathers secured $2.173M LPRF grant in 2024
• Beth Lathers secured $3.458M LPRF grant in 2025
• Commissioner Matt Williams noted grants bringing approximately $9 million to county through Beth's efforts
• Additional grants approved: $95,294.99 from sports leagues and theater programs, $3.524M for College Grove Park and Wilkins Mountain Bike Trails, $13,800 from Tennessee State Museum

Septic regulation task force and budget. Resolutions 11-25-7 & 8

• Task force established to recommend reduction in septic regulations and review department budget
• Current Williamson County regulations: 436 pages versus state's 78 pages
• Average septic system cost in Williamson County: $80,000-$100,000 versus state average of $10,000
• State requires 45-day turnaround for permits, state average just over 1 week, Williamson County sometimes takes 1-2 years
• Amendments extended task force deadline from February 1, 2026 to April 1, 2026
• Budget reduction discussion changed from January 1, 2026 to February 1, 2026
• Task force composition: county mayor or designee, community development director as chair (nominated/approved by commission), 1 county commissioner (Judy Herbert appointed 22-0 with 1 abstention), 1 professional engineer, 1 soil scientist, 1 surveyor, 1 current SDM staff member appointed by director
• Mike Matteson committed to holding at least 2 formal public meetings during task force term with full notice
• Resolution passed 23-0 as amended

Courthouse property acquisition on Columbia Avenue

• Resolution authorized up to $300,000 from existing juvenile justice and jail bond funds for due diligence and earnest money
• Due diligence costs estimated around $15,000 for phase one environmental, geotechnical study, and zoning study
• $300,000 primarily serves as earnest money to hold property, refundable if commission decides not to proceed
• Jeff Coonan from Gresham Smith explained existing courthouse properties difficult to connect, significant circulation space required, limited parking
• Current judicial center built circa 2006-2008, historic courthouse and annex create complicated geometry
• Property large enough to accommodate needed courthouse expansion
• Resolution passed 23-0

Hospital sale proceeds legislation request Resolution 11-25-33

• Resolution requested Tennessee General Assembly enact private act or amend state statute exempting Williamson County from TCA 48-68-2065 limiting use of hospital sale proceeds
• Current state law from 2012 restricts proceeds from going to county general fund, requires use for health purposes
• Taxpayers gave hospital $20 million in 2004
• Hospital borrowed over $250 million through county AAA bonds over last 20 years
• Senator Johnson's office committed to carry legislation if resolution passes with 2/3 majority
• Resolution gives choice between private act (Williamson County only) or change to state law
• Debate centered on whether elected county commission or unelected foundation board should control proceeds
• Current statute requires proceeds used for health purposes, could fund ambulance service ($12 million/year), mental health initiatives, school nurses/trainers
• Resolution passed 17-6, achieving required 2/3 majority No votes were commissioners Herbert,Webb, Guffee, Hester, Tunnicliffe and Steve Smith

Adult detention center and gun range approval. Resolution 11-25-43

• Resolution overruled City of Franklin Planning and Sustainability Department's denial regarding proposed adult detention center and gun range
• Gun range located at rear of current jail property, moved up in construction timeline to avoid working through secured jail area later
• Resolution allows continued work on project
• Passed 21-2 No votes were commissioners Richards and Sturgeon

School bus purchase appropriation 11-25-13

• $3.184M appropriation for school bus purchases
• Net reduction of 2 buses from current fleet
• Includes reduction of 6 general education buses based on maintenance analysis
• Includes increase of 4 special education buses due to increased demand
• Buses retired based on state mileage requirements
• Resolution passed 23-0

Opioid abatement funding distribution. Resolution 11-25-14

$114,679.99 appropriated for Veterans Treatment Court from Tennessee Opioid Abatement Council rollover federal grant funds

• Additional resolution dispersed Opioid Settlement Funds according to task force recommendations
• Opioid Abatement Task Force voted 9-4-0, Public Health 4-4-0 against, Budget Committee 5-4-0 against
• Resolution passed 23-0

Committee meeting agenda publication requirements 11-25-6

• Resolution amended rules requiring committee meeting agendas published on county website 48 hours before meetings
• Resolutions must be submitted to mayor's office 3 days before specific committee meeting
• Agendas posted to website 2 days before meeting
• Language changed from "resolutions filed" to "resolutions submitted" to mayor's office for clarity
• Resolutions submitted after deadline may be considered by committee
• Rules Committee voted 6-4-0 against as amended
• Resolution passed 21-1 with 1 abstention No vote was commissioner Hester and abstention was commissioner Herbert

Broad-based tax relief income adjustment 11-25-32

• Resolution modified Williamson County broad-based tax relief program by increasing eligible income requirements
• Previous automatic increase of 3.3% annually hasn't kept pace with Consumer Price Index and cost of living
• New calculation recalibrated income thresholds and established automatic adjustment matching Social Security annual increase instead of fixed 3.3%
• Provides 90 days notice versus 6 months to prevent rush of applications
• Tax Committee 4-4-0 against, Budget Committee 5-4-0 against
• Resolution passed 23-0

Adequate facilities tax increase to $2 per square foot 11-25-39

• Tax increased from $0.34/square foot to $1/square foot effective January 1, 2026 and $2/square foot effective April 1, 2026
• Applied countywide including incorporated areas, not just unincorporated
• Study showed if $2 rate existed 2009-2019, county would have collected $27.5 million
• 10-year projection estimates approximately $12 million in revenue
• Tishler Bise study evaluated increase, showed $2 fee represents 0.57% of typical $350/square foot development costs
• Grady Tabor confirmed Tractor Supply CEO Greg Sanford said $2 fee would not have prevented headquarters construction in Brentwood in 2014
• Neighboring counties (Rutherford, Davidson, Maury) charge $1.50/square foot
• Funds initially designated exclusively for ambulances and fire apparatus, amended to allow any capital projects under private act
• Resolution includes provision allowing commission to change allocation distribution by majority vote at any time
• Tax Study Committee 4-4-0 against as amended, Budget Committee 4-4-1 against as amended, Education Impact Fee Task Force 5-4-0 against as amended
• Final vote 19-3 after lengthy debate and multiple amendments No votes were commissioners Webb, Clifford and Sanford

We had a total of 36 resolutions, if my math is correct, and the vast majority were passed unanimously. Packet

Thursday November 13th

County Planning Commission Agenda Packet Video

AI Summary

Overview

• Planning Commission denied both the Owen Valley wastewater treatment facility site plan and the Owen Valley subdivision concept plan for 72 lots on 374 acres
• Staff reversed from recommending approval to recommending denial, citing woefully inadequate research on the Allison Chapel Cemetery, church, and school historic site
• Staff found the developer's archaeological work contradicted by public evidence and inadequate to protect graves and historic resources on the property
• Community members, AME Church representatives, Heritage Foundation, and Hatcher family descendants testified against the project, emphasizing the need to preserve the African-American historic site
• Commission approved preliminary plats for Meadowside phases 1 and 2 (total 95 lots), Villages of Triune West (312 lots) and East (122 lots), and several other subdivisions
• Vineyard Valley sidewalk variance approved, giving developer 60 days to obtain final homeowner signature or return for reapproval

Owen Valley wastewater treatment facility denial

• Staff changed recommendation from approval to denial after receiving additional documentation about historic resources on the 374-acre property off Owen Hill Road
• Public provided evidence contradicting developer's reports showing graves, church foundations, school artifacts including desks and stovepipes dating to the 1800s
• Staff found developer's efforts to locate graves and vestiges of church and school woefully inadequate and could result in potential damage to historic resources
• Developer requested deferral to January 2026, but staff recommended February 2026 as earliest feasible date to complete required research
• Staff outlined required additional work: groundwater study of seasonal water table and flow gradient, full archaeological survey, historic designation research, and title search of cemetery parcel
• Developer stated drip dispersal zones are over 200 feet from cemetery and treatment facility would be 600 feet away on 10 to 30 foot lower elevation
• Developer confirmed no other suitable soils identified on site for alternative wastewater system location through grid staking
• Commissioner Crohan moved to deny based on insufficient information on cemetery sites and incomplete application
• Planning Commission voted to deny, with 6 in favor and 1 opposed

Owen Valley subdivision concept plan denial

• Staff recommended denial of 72-lot conservation subdivision on same 374-acre site for same reasons as wastewater facility
• Staff noted concept plan cannot be approved without an approved wastewater treatment facility site plan
• Planning Commission conducted 30-minute public hearing with 19 speakers registered
• Reverend Boyce Wilkins Jr. from AME Church requested prohibition of development to prevent grave desecration and history erasure
• Heritage Foundation CEO Barry Beasley stated protecting the sacred burial ground is a moral responsibility and legal obligation, not optional
• Dr. Marquinta Harvey representing Hatcher family noted their 122 years of farming on Owen Hill Road and called recent developer report stating no historic resources found "deeply troubling" and "inaccurate"
• Graham Perry, Historic Cemetery Preservation Specialist at Tennessee Historical Commission, explained African-American cemeteries are generally larger than they appear and recommended further archaeological survey
• Multiple speakers noted leach field risks to graves, with Dory Bowles from Harpeth Conservancy citing 2024 TDEC review showing 25% of decentralized sewer systems statewide having major problems
• Residents raised concerns about RD5 zoning density, arguing conservation subdivision designation is being used as loophole
• Commissioner Clifford stated this was first staff report recommending denial he'd seen in 4 years on Planning Commission
• Planning Commission voted to deny based on lack of adequate wastewater facility and incomplete application

Allison Chapel cemetery and historic site preservation

• Site contains Allison Chapel AME Church, school, and cemetery serving African-American community during segregation era
• School served as educational center, house of worship, health care facility with visiting doctors and nurses, and war bond fundraising location during World War II
• Community members documented visible graves with markers from 1800s, school foundation remains, stovepipe, desk, and other artifacts
• Ground penetrating radar found additional graves on north side of property beyond developer's identified boundary
• Tennessee Historical Commission specialist explained cemetery law in Tennessee is gray and currently being reviewed for legislative recommendations
• Leach field placement near cemetery would violate TCA 39-17-311 covering desecration if leachate reached graves
• Attorney Jason Holleman suggested developer could elect Section 13.09B option to carve out minimum 5-acre preservation tract for nonprofit ownership
• AME Church indicated willingness to serve as steward for preserved historic site
• Heritage Foundation and African American Heritage Society both provided strong support for maximum preservation standards
• Hatcher family descendants, including 6th generation farmer representatives, attended and spoke about family connection to site dating back over 100 years

Vineyard Valley sidewalk and right-of-way variance

• Developer needs to reduce road right-of-way width from 40 feet to 38 feet to avoid cutting existing 48-inch sidewalks down to 36 inches
• Variance granted by county requires 100% homeowner approval via signed plat
• HOA President Tom Schenkenberger reported 67 out of 68 homeowners signed, with one family refusing despite developer and community outreach
• County Commissioner Judy Harber explained developer didn't allow enough land for road footage initially, creating conflict between sidewalk and irrigation systems
• Eddie Hood confirmed county okay with variance as long as all homeowners sign due to lawsuit risk
• Planning Commission approved revised final plats for Vineyard Valley sections 1, 2, and 3 with standard 60-day validity period
• If developer doesn't obtain final signature within 60 days, must return for plat reapproval
• Approval means no construction required and sidewalks remain at current 48-inch width outside adjusted right-of-way

Meadowside subdivision phases 1 and 2

• Phase 1 preliminary plat approved for 55 lots on 69.88 acres off Patterson Road with 32.84 acres open space
• Phase 2 preliminary plat approved for 40 lots on 30.72 acres with 21 acres open space
• Both phases include public roads and non-traditional wastewater treatment system
• Water provided by Nolensville College Grove Utility District
• Trail system revised from originally pointing east toward adjacent property to now oriented south with easement to Patterson Road
• Developer Michael Netelli explained trail alignment matches Triune Master Plan Greenway routing, which showed trail potentially crossing neighboring properties
• Staff clarified Triune Special Area Plan showed potential trail routing never intended to be precise, and developer constructing trail plus public access easement satisfies ordinance requirements
• Public access easement extends to Patterson Road for potential future trail connectivity if grant funding secured through county Greenway Plan
• Planning Commission approved both phases with standard conditions

Villages of Triune West and East preliminary plats

• Villages of Triune West revised preliminary plat approved for 312 lots on 156.94 acres off Murfreesboro Road
• Lot breakdown: 98 conservation subdivision single-family lots and 214 townhome multifamily lots
• Special use granted in May for 83 townhome lots in TCA 2 district, adding to original 133 townhome lots approved in TCA 3 and TCA 4 districts
• Includes approximately 59 acres open space with combination of public and private roadways
• Villages of Triune East revised preliminary plat approved for 122 lots on 63.78 acres
• East side includes 58 conservation subdivision single-family lots and 64 townhome lots with approximately 91 acres open space
• Both developments served by Triune Sewer Facility with water from utility districts
• Extensive offsite roadway improvements required and reviewed by TDOT and Williamson County, must be constructed before first final plat submittal
• Public road network includes connection from Highway 96 south to Horton Highway
• Planning Commission approved both plats with standard conditions

Sunset Hills and other large lot subdivisions

• Sunset Hills preliminary plat approved for 1 lot on 60.78 acres off Molly Hollow Road
• Board of Zoning Appeals granted variance in January 2025 reducing access easement width from 50 feet to 40 feet
• Building envelopes separated by 200 feet with fire apparatus standards applied
• Makina large lot easement subdivision final plat approved for 4 lots on 23.99 acres off Bethesda Duplex Road
• Construction Consulting of Tennessee LLC final plat approved for 4 lots on 82.55 acres off Buchanan Lane
• Vista Creek revised final plat approved adding 1 lot for total of 17 lots on 137.56 acres off Old Hillsboro Road
• All large lot subdivisions use individual on-site wells and septic systems approved by Department of Sewage Disposal Management
• Planning Commission approved all large lot subdivision plats with standard conditions

Terra Vista drainage and erosion bond update

• Developer representative Brent Thaneey reported geotech firm completed 75% of field work with one spot remaining, reports expected next week
• Still waiting on Notice of Coverage (NOC) from TDEC after providing additional information requested 1.5 to 2 weeks ago
• Two construction bids obtained and ready to proceed with remaining site work once NOC received
• Plans include reconfiguring gravel access road to wastewater facility in S-pattern and regrading to prevent gravel runoff onto street
• Developer will change stone from current 1 to 3 inch to crusher run base stone that will become more stable over time
• HOA representative Ari Spangler thanked commissioners for requiring monthly updates and noted 98 homeowners support calling bond if work not completed within 6 months
• Outstanding work includes crumbling curbs, dead landscaping, improperly graded steep slopes, and dangerous gravel road where runoff creates hazards for children
• Developer cannot disturb more than 1 acre for road repairs until NOC received from state
• Staff suggested developer take proactive steps to remedy ongoing runoff issues during rainy season while waiting for approval
• Developer committed to having work completed by next month's meeting if weather permits

Tuesday November 18th

Property Committee will meet at 5:30 pm in the Executive Conference Room of the Williamson County Administrative Complex at 1320 W. main, Franklin Agenda Video Committee members: Barb Sturgeon (C), Ricky Jones (VC), Brian Clifford, Jennifer Mason, Matt Williams Agenda Jesse C. Neal bio

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

Board of Mayor and Aldermen

Tuesday November 11th

BOMA Work Session Agenda Video

AI Summary

Overview

• Franklin is on track for over $800 million in permitted construction value for the second consecutive year—year-to-date total reached $649.3 million through September 30th
• Planning Commission recommended restricting new vape shops to heavy industrial zoning only with 500-foot buffers from schools, residential, and daycares—11 existing shops would be grandfathered in
• Board had contentious debate about floodplain substantial improvement cumulative timeframe—staff recommends keeping 5-year standard while some aldermen pushed for 1-year to enable routine maintenance and reduce blight
• TDOT partnership emerged for Mack Hatcher and Royal Oaks intersection improvements—city's estimated $700,000 portion includes double left turn lanes and additional capacity, with construction potentially next summer
• Pattonville Road improvement options range from $5.8 million to $12.5 million with public-private partnership proposal where developers donate right-of-way and handle utility relocation

Q3 2025 development activity report

• Franklin issued 246 building permits, 1,350 trade permits, and 112 fire permits in Q3
• Q3 construction value totaled $121 million ($53 million residential, $67 million non-residential)
• Year-to-date through September 30th, the city issued 823 building permits, 4,075 trade permits, and 320 fire permits
• Year-to-date construction value reached $649.3 million—nearly identical to last year's pace and on track to clear $800 million for the second consecutive year
• Impact fees collected year-to-date: $1.9 million in permit fees, $4.3 million in road impact fees, $2.9 million in sewer impact fees, and $1.5 million in facilities tax
• Water impact fees collected only $979,000 year-to-date due to Franklin not serving the entire community water
• Housing units permitted year-to-date: 204 single family homes, 30 townhomes, and 211 multifamily units
• All 211 multifamily units are in West Haven's active adult community now under construction
• Townhome permits at 30 units are unusually low, but more projects with townhomes are coming online in next couple years
• Mayor noted this marks the first time Franklin will have two consecutive years both clearing $800 million in permitted development despite impact fee increases
• Road impact fees showed $621,000 collected in Q3 under new rates that went into effect July 1st, 2024 with 5% escalation for grandfathered projects and phase-in over 5 years
• Alderman Barnhill questioned impact of new rates versus old rates on collections, staff will need to analyze timing and project entitlement dates

Development customer survey updates

• Mini customer satisfaction surveys have been live for about a year at different points in development process
• Surveys received 10 responses so far with every single rating at 5 stars
• One respondent commented: "I really appreciate the time that staff takes to answer calls or call back right away. Everyone is really helpful and patient with any questions I have. Please tell staff great job."
• Development Services Advisory Commission had their last meeting of 2025 and is discussing topics for next year
• Staff received preliminary feedback on development maps design concept from commission and will present at future Joint Conceptual Workshop
• Annual development report will include additional data to provide more comprehensive picture of development in Franklin

Liquor license applications

• Three liquor license applications presented: Bam Franklin LLC, Franklin Bottle Shop, and Whiskey Wonderland
• Ryan Mercurio appeared on behalf of Franklin Bottle Shop LLC to answer questions

Annexation study for Hill View Lane property

• Resolution initiates study for potential annexation of 79.89 acres south of Hill View Lane, west of Columbia Pike
• Property is contiguous to city limits and labeled Development Reserve in Envision Franklin due to lack of infrastructure and no road network
• Owner indicated no plans to develop beyond 2 houses—any larger development would require Envision Franklin plan amendment
• Property is in SW1 basin and defined as long-term annexation capability area
• Property is adjacent to Harlan PUD but applicant indicated it won't be part of that development
• Owner already owns significant contiguous property and wants to bring it all into city limits
• Rob Dodson raised concerns about timing, noting owner has held property for over a decade and suddenly wants to pay city taxes on unserviceable property with Boyle's name on annexation documents
• Staff clarified this is not connected to Harlan project expansion
• Public hearing set for December 9th, 2025

West Franklin Park PUD parking standards

• Revised development plan for subdivision modification to parking standards for property at 6100-6700 Tower Circle north of McEwen Drive, east of I-65
• No changes to residential or non-residential entitlements already approved
• Project was vested under previous ordinance with higher parking standards
• Applicant requested modification to apply current parking standards while keeping rest of project vested under previous rules
• Development includes parking structures that are entirely wrapped
• Planning Commission recommended approval

Annual zoning ordinance update overview

• Ordinance 2025-25 includes overlay districts, signage, uses, streetlights, performance agreements, floodplain regulations, state law changes, and zoning map amendments
• Board removed 54-acre city-owned property near Mack Hatcher and Franklin Road from Historic Preservation Overlay District at first reading, triggering Planning Commission review
• Planning Commission amended Columbia Avenue Overlay District Sub-area 1 to allow 3 stories with 10-foot stepback on third floor for west side of Columbia Avenue at HG Hill property to match Envision Franklin plan amendment from September
• Planning Commission recommended regulations for vape shops after Joint Conceptual Workshop discussion
• Planning Commission requested Board reconsider floodplain substantial improvement cumulative timeframe change

Vape shop regulations

• Staff presented research showing recent increase in vape shops opening near schools, residential neighborhoods, and daycares across Tennessee and the US
• Communities are hearing public concerns about negative influence on adolescents, public health impacts, and community character from bright signage and lighting
• Vape shops currently permitted anywhere retail is permitted, including downtown district and neighborhood commercial zones
• Staff found 11 existing vape shop locations operating in Franklin around downtown area, near I-65 on Murfreesboro Road, and in Cool Springs on Mallory Lane
• Planning Commission passed amendments to define vape shops and regulate them like adult-oriented businesses
• Proposed definition: store that receives at least 50% of gross sales from OR devotes at least 25% of floor area to vaping, e-cigarette, nicotine, and cannabidiol products
• Vape shops would only be permitted in heavy industrial zoning district under proposed regulations
• Proposed 500-foot buffer from civic/institutional uses, residential dwellings, daycares, and other existing vape shops
• Current vape shops would be grandfathered and can continue operating unless discontinued for 30 months
• Products include CBD, THC products below legal marijuana limit (Delta 6, Delta 8), and kratom
• TABC will take over regulation of hemp-related products starting January 1st, 2026 with new permitting scheme—every employee who sells products will need permit
• Draft TABC rules include same requirements as liquor permits: no sales to under 21, products must be behind counter, available for testing
• Alderman Blanton raised concerns that signage is already regulated, questioned comprehensiveness, noted products available in convenience stores, and suggested definition needs work specific to Franklin
• Vice Mayor asked how 25% floor area calculation was determined—staff said peer communities found it eliminated confusion versus 50% threshold
• Alderman Berger questioned if vape shops can carry cannabis—staff clarified they can sell CBD and THC products under 0.3% legal limit
• Alderman Baggett strongly supported restrictions, citing West Main Street location that has generated police calls and infiltrated residential area

Floodplain substantial improvement timeframe

• Staff recommended keeping 5-year cumulative timeframe for substantial improvement and damage calculations
• Alternative proposed: change to 1-year cumulative timeframe
• Substantial improvement and damage is triggered when improvements and/or damage meets or exceeds 50% of structure's value
• Structure value obtained from county property assessor plus 15% or through independent appraisal—does not include land value
• When 50% threshold is hit, entire structure must be brought into compliance: residential elevated minimum 3 feet above base flood elevation, non-residential flood proofed minimum 1 foot above
• City previously had 10-year cumulative, reduced to 5 years in 2020
• CRS rating won't change regardless of 1-year or 5-year choice—will lose points either way but not enough to change ranking
• State plans to update model ordinance within next 2 years and indicated they'll make state model 5-year cumulative
• Alderman Baggett strongly advocated for 1-year cumulative, arguing not one single house has been raised because of this rule in 20 years
• Baggett noted Ewingville homeowners face $450,000 cost to raise 1,800 square foot house, causing people to not report improvements
• Properties on Fifth Avenue and Bridge Street are stuck and blighted because owners can't afford to trigger substantial improvement requirements
• Baggett emphasized this is the sixth meeting discussing this topic since February 25th, including April 2025, August 28th, September 9th, and September 23rd
• Baggett argued 1-year timeframe aligns with NFIP code and would allow routine maintenance like roofing, painting, refinishing floors without counting against 50% threshold
• Baggett suggested adding requirements like elevating HVAC units when replaced to actually achieve flood safety improvements
• Alderman Peterson supported keeping 5-year to align with expected state standard
• Staff clarified one house was raised due to fire damage triggering substantial damage, then owner did additional renovation work
• Shanna noted goals are promoting safer structures, reducing flood risk, controlling long-term costs, ensuring fair enforcement, maintaining NFIP participation, and encouraging resilient rebuilding
• Alderman Caesar noted larger number of entitled projects haven't pulled permits or completed, wants to monitor starts to completion
• Staff emphasized substantial improvement rules are crucial for gaining compliance and having safer structures in floodplain

TDOT partnership for Mack Hatcher and Royal Oaks intersection

• TDOT Region 3 Director approached city 2-3 weeks ago about temporary solution at Mack Hatcher and Royal Oaks intersection to add capacity and buy time
• TDOT will widen Mack Hatcher to add at least 2 southbound lanes and potentially 2 northbound lanes across bridge
• TDOT will fold their work into upcoming resurfacing project
• City's portion includes side street improvements on Royal Oaks Court and South Royal Oaks estimated at $700,000 construction cost
• Design can be covered within annual operating budget with construction funded through CIP
• Proposed improvements: westbound double left turn lane to southbound on South Royal Oaks, and 2 right turn lanes on Royal Oaks Court
• Right-of-way acquisition required from YMCA property
• City's Royal Oaks improvements will remain when Southeast Mack Hatcher widening happens in 2032
• TDOT's Mack Hatcher improvements may not last beyond 2032 widening project
• Southbound lanes will extend nearly to bridge before rock bluff zone
• Staff will also attempt to extend turn lanes at Lewisburg Pike intersection during resurfacing to allow more vehicle queuing
• Timeline: potentially next summer for construction
• Vice Mayor noted residents currently experience 30-40 minute travel times on average between Lewisburg and Highway 96 during peak times
• Alderman Brown questioned why this intersection versus others—Mayor noted city has "nagged at them a pretty good bit"
• Alderman Berger noted city has been requesting this for over 10 years and TDOT previously said no due to rock wall concerns
• Alderman Caesar expressed concern about downstream capacity at Mack Hatcher and Lewisburg intersection where queuing will still occur

Paytonville Road improvement options

• Project emerged from Erickson Senior Living traffic impact study requirements
• Current plan has Erickson improving their side, Reams Fleming improving their side, then city improving Goose Creek separately
• Chapter 2 Investment, Erickson Senior Living, and Boyle Reams Fleming proposed partnership to deliver entire project together instead of piecemeal
• Option 1: $5.8 million—what Erickson is required to do today
• Option 2: $10.75 million—expanded scope that doesn't touch Goose Creek Bypass
• Option 3: $12.5 million—full build including Goose Creek Bypass intersection and goes around the bend
• Partnership proposal: developers donate necessary right-of-way and get recapture/reimbursement when development happens so city doesn't front money
• Developers would be responsible for all utility relocation including water line, gas line, overhead electric, city water line, and Millcroft water line
• $8 million included in CIP financial model for this project
• Staff seeking approval to move forward with full design and will bring partnership details back when ready for construction
• Alderman Brown asked about impact on Hillsboro and Franklin Road/Knob Hill projects—staff confirmed Hillsboro contract was signed day after CIP approval
• Alderman Blanton noted road ends at Pratt Lane where development already happened, so improvements create bottleneck there
• Vice Mayor requested engineering analysis showing traffic flow impact for each of the 3 options to make best decision
• Alderman Caesar emphasized need to see how much road impact fee dollars from area development can fund this versus dipping into general fund

Lockwood Glen site completion

• Resolution authorizes contract with Graco Constructors for Echelon Lockwood Glen site improvements and infrastructure completion grading
• Franklin Municipal Planning Commission called all remaining sureties for Lockwood Glen subdivision
• Sureties will cover drainage improvements developer hasn't completed within subdivision
• Additional improvements needed on Robinson Lake beyond subdivision work
• Sureties should cover all required improvements
• HOA president and board members are in full support

Creekside Master Plan endorsement

• Resolution endorses Creekside Master Plan supporting preservation, interpretation, and connectivity of Thomas Chute House and surrounding property
• Received 9-0 approval at Joint Conceptual Workshop on September 25th

Recreation software implementation

• Contract with Vermont Systems for recreation software to manage program registrations and facility reservations
• System will allow community members to register and book through online access
• Payment processing and reporting features vetted through finance and IT teams
• Will automate and streamline point of sale and calendar management
• Parks manages 8 pavilions plus Bicentennial Park, Harlandsdale, Eastern Flank, athletic fields, and tennis courts
• Recorded 307 facility reservations last fiscal year
• One-time implementation cost plus $9,700 annual recurring fee
• Alderman Burger suggested tracking utilization rates before and after implementation to measure if online scheduling increases community use of facilities

SRF loan assistance for wastewater projects

• Contract with LDA Engineering for state revolving fund loan assistance
• City approved for $17.5 million SRF loan for design of south wastewater plant (Pearl Park clean water facility)
• Contract includes $70,000 fee with $10,000 portion for assistance applying for collection system piping replacement funding to address Hobos issues
• LDA Engineering previously worked with city on $100 million loans for Quality H Road wastewater plant expansion and upgrade
• Tremendous help getting documents submitted correctly and disbursements issued

BOMA Meeting Agenda Video

AI Summary

Overview

• Patrick Baggett elected as Vice Mayor following swearing in of four ward aldermen (Berger, Brown, Potts, Baggett) for new terms
• Harland PUD development proposal—242 dwelling units, 30,000+ square feet non-residential space, 80 hotel keys—deferred to March 24th, 2026 after residents raised traffic and access concerns
• Annual zoning ordinance updates approved with three key amendments: floodplain cumulative damage timeframe reduced from 5 years to 1 year, HG Hill property development now requires BOMA approval for 3 stories with 10-foot step back, vape shop regulations modified
• Hotel/motel tax ordinance withdrawn due to conflict with existing private act

Veterans Day recognition

• Mayor asked veterans in audience to stand and lead Pledge of Allegiance
• Mayor highlighted downtown parade and community's patriotic spirit celebrating veterans

Fire Prevention Week contest winners

• Jamie Melton and Chief Johnson announced winners of Helmet Shield Design Contest focused on lithium-ion battery safety
• First place winners selected for grades K-8, each receiving $50 Visa gift cards
• Grand prize winner Sloan Morris (third grade) received $100 Visa gift card and plaque
• Sloan's artwork featured on Sparky the Fire Dog's helmet displayed at Fire Station 8 in Westaven throughout the year
• Atmos Energy sponsored the contest, represented by Christina Christianson

Election certification and oath of office

• City Clerk Eric Stuckey read certified election results from October 28th municipal election into record
• Election results by ward:
  • Ward 1: Bev Berger unopposed with 293 votes
  • Ward 2: Matt Brown 1,052 votes, Aaron Watkins 405 votes, BK Muvalah 52 votes
  • Ward 3: Jason Potts unopposed with 500 votes
  • Ward 4: Patrick Baggett 1,365 votes, Rodney Taylor 629 votes
• All four aldermen sworn in by judges with families present

Vice mayor election and committee appointments

• Mayor thanked Jason Potts for service as Vice Mayor
• Jason Potts nominated Patrick Baggett for Vice Mayor
• Baggett elected Vice Mayor unanimously (8-0)
• Finance Committee appointments: Aldermen Barnhill, Peterson, Brown, Caesar
• Capital Projects Committee appointments: Aldermen Baggett, Potts, Berger, Blanton
• Franklin Beer Board appointments: Aldermen Barnhill, Caesar, Potts

Harland PUD development deferral

• Greg Gamble requested deferral of all Harland PUD items to March 24th, 2026 to allow Ingram property annexation to proceed first
• Ingram 80-acre annexation would enable contiguous annexation of Harland farm, eliminating need for interlocal agreement with county
• Public concerns raised by Shadow Green residents:
  • Jay Palm questioned why Shadow Green Drive considered for construction access instead of Century Court via Chimeric Road
  • Penny Cromwell (Army veteran) highlighted 133% commute increase from 12 minutes in 2021 to 28 minutes currently
  • Cromwell noted Franklin population grew from 62,487 in 2010 to 91,250 currently, projected 128,889 by 2040
  • Residents concerned about traffic congestion, road damage, noise pollution, safety impacts on 9 curves/turns in Shadow Green
• Ken Knopp raised concerns about need for Mack Hatcher completion before adding development
• All four related items deferred unanimously to March 24th, 2026: plan of services, annexation, zoning, development plan
• Road impact fee offset agreement for $4,547,999 also deferred to March 24th, 2026
• Parkland and PACT fee agreement deferred to December 9th meeting

Hotel/motel tax ordinance withdrawal

• Attorney Shawna Billingsley explained state law change on hotel/motel tax collection for stays over 30 days conflicts with city's private act
• State law allows stopping collection after 30 days, but city's private act requires refunding all taxes after 30 days
• Private act supersedes new state law, so ordinance would be void unless private act repealed first
• Board unanimously withdrew ordinance to avoid touching private act

Annual zoning ordinance updates and amendments

• Kelly presented annual zoning ordinance update covering sign regulations, use classifications, performance bonds, street lights, FEMA compliance, state law changes
• Sign chapter changes: added halo illumination, allowed canopy signs above face, allowed irregular-shaped hanging projecting arm signs, created flag exemptions for residential districts up to 90 days per year, added minimum setback for flag poles
• Added wrecker service as permitted use in light industrial district
• Allowed performance bonds as surety option for development improvements
• Added city street light preferences for residential streets to reduce light pollution
• Board of Zoning Appeals and FEMA letter of map revision process updates per state law

Floodplain cumulative damage timeframe

• Kim and Brian Laster from 424 Murfreesboro Road testified about 1870 Reconstruction Era home in fringe flood overlay
• Brian Laster explained $450,000 cost to raise 1,500 square foot house out of floodplain
• Lasters concerned 5-year cumulative improvement rule creates greater risk than flood damage itself
• Example: roof replacement year 1, bathroom remodel year 2, tree damage year 3 could exceed 50% threshold requiring $450,000 house raising
• Alderman Baggett moved to amend ordinance changing cumulative timeframe from 5 years back to 1 year
• Amendment passed 7-1 (Alderman Peterson voted no, citing different circumstances for most floodplain properties)

HG Hill property development plan requirements

• Vice Mayor Baggett proposed amendment requiring BOMA development plan approval for HG Hill property on west side of Columbia Avenue
• Amendment allows up to 3 stories when third story stepped back at least 10 feet from lower stories
• Baggett explained amendment responds to constituent feedback during campaign wanting public input on development
• Alderman Berger supported amendment for additional oversight on critical gateway property
• Alderman Barnhill questioned whether amendment steps into Planning Commission responsibilities
• Vice Mayor clarified zoning ordinance is BOMA's document and Planning Commission already provided recommendation
• Amendment passed 6-2 (Aldermen Barnhill and Peterson voted no)

Oxford Glen Drive annexation plan of services

• Joey presented plan of services for 4.08 acres east of Oxford Glen Drive and north of Clovercroft Road
• Property contiguous to city limits, within urban growth boundary, in mixed residential design concept per Envision Franklin
• Property in Watson Creek drainage basin, identified as short-term capability area
• Located in Millcroft utility district, requires approximately 3,000 feet sewer extension unless adjacent Novara development extends sewer first
• Alderman Berger clarified family may add one or two homes on their 4 acres, not for development
• Resolution approved unanimously

For all meetings last week and next week, go here

Election Commission

No meetings this week or next

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. W 2:3hen 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)

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves" (Philippians 2:3)

Blessings,

Bill

pettyandassociates@gmail.com

Community resources

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

• Grassroots Citizens of Williamson County 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.

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