Spring Hill Alternate

"Good Ol Boys" Revisited

2009-07-06T22:55:00.002-05:00

"I think I want the 'Good Ole Boys,' back."
- Charlie Schoenbrodt

Leave it to Mr. Schoenbrodt to bring everything back into focus. It is amazing to me that a man with so much knowledge and experience can be so blind to the facts of our recent history. If you have not already, read this article from The Informer and my comments in red.

Enjoy!

Informer Article
Random Thoughts from Experience – The Good Ole Boys
July 1, 2009

All of my life I have heard about the “Good Ole Boy,” especially when talking about politics. I always assumed (you know what that word really means) it was something “bad,” that would result in waste and corruption. However, when I got active in Spring Hill governmental affairs in 2003, I heard it used to describe the Board of Mayor and Aldermen at that time. There were some “older” folks on the board at that time, but also some younger ones and one woman. I became close friends with the Mayor, but he wasn’t even 50 years old. I used to like to describe him as someone who made the Eagle scream before he would spend a quarter. That was before the Treasury Department began minting “State quarters.”

Those “Good Ole Boys” had become public servants in the truest since of the word. They wanted to insure that the best thing was done for Spring Hill. There was a majority leadership that was willing to do what was right and teach the newcomers how to be effective leaders of the community. They debated and even argued sometimes. No one seemed to try to overpower the group. Everyone was open- minded and willing to bend when necessary. The Board amassed a reserve fund of $4.5 million to be used for any City need. This reserve fund was in the form of Certificates of Deposit in different banks in town. There were also restricted reserve funds with substantial totals for water and sewer and an impact fee fund.

The Board members were paid $25 for each of the two meetings they attended each month. There was no other compensation. Although they were eligible for the City’s Medical Insurance plan, NONE of them accepted that perk. The Mayor, also a part time employee of the City, was paid about $8,500 each year.

In 2003, the City of Spring Hill was considered throughout the State, as a model of an efficiently, well run, municipality. Property taxes were less than 25 cents, and growth was on the horizon. Spring Hill had a new, modern, model water treatment plant designed to meet the needs of the expected growth. The waste water treatment plant was built and designed for expansion as growth took place. The big complaint was there was no sit-down restaurants. And, of course, Highway 31 and Duplex Rd. (both roads under total control of the State of Tennessee) were too narrow.

Even with all of this prosperity, I heard the battle cry of Spring Hill newcomers, “Get rid of the Good Ole Boys.” And the process of extrication began.

In April 2005, the frugal Mayor had died of a massive heart attack, and one of the Good Ole Boys who had been masquerading as the one to continue the prosperity, learning at the feet of the master, campaigned with the pledge to continue the City on the same course as before. As soon as he was elected, he announced he was taking the City in a different direction. And he did just that.

Just after the frugal Mayor died, the Board doubled the contribution to be made to Williamson County for the Recreation Center. The original commitment of $2 million became $4 million. Next came approval for police officers to drive their patrol cars home each day. Immediately after the April 2005 election, the Mayor and one of the Aldermen elected medical insurance to be paid for by the Spring Hill taxpayers. Both already had other medical insurance. Next was the move to increase the salaries of the Mayor and Aldermen. The Mayor’s salary went from $8,500 annually to about $11,000. The Aldermen’s salaries increased from $50 to $450 monthly. When a local bank found the cost for hosting a radio show twice each month, too great, the City took over the show. The term “transparent” began to be used to describe the City’s operation. However, it was not until after the end of Fiscal Year 2006-07 that citizens were told that budgeted income had fallen short by about $3 million. The number of Board members receiving medical insurance doubled from 2 to 4 following the April 2007 election. That total is now at five and costs the taxpayers over $65,000 annually. That is more than the annual salaries of all the members of the Board.

So I ask again, what does the term “Good Ole Boys” mean? Based on the history of Spring Hill, they seem to be just that, “Good,“ At least they had our City on stable financial ground. I think I want the “Good Ole Boys,” back.

Gaines to Keynote July 4 Patriotic Celebation

By Charlie Schoenbrodt

Now let's look at some of the facts that must have been overlooked by Mr. Schoenbrodt...

1. The "mayor that would make an eagle scream before spending a quarter" began quietly running massive budget shortfalls at least as early as 2001, creating the budget situation that we are in today and causing the cleansing that has now taken place in the last few years. All of this was brought to light and dealt with by Mr. Schoenbrodt's arch enery...Mayor Leverette.

2. Until Danny Leverette's administration, community involvement was squelched at every turn in Spring Hill. As Mr. Schoenbrodt has mentioned in many previous articles, Mayor Williams would contact each Alderman on a daily basis to shape the information they were receiving about certain issues that were coming before the board, thus guaranteeing certain outcomes if a vote were to be taken. All items that were not acceptable to the administration were not placed on the agenda, killed in work sessions, or taken care of behind closed doors. There was anything but transparency, and everything was micro-managed (in many cases illegally) by the mayor or the City Administrator, Ken York. While this may have allowed for meetings to run seamlessly, it did not allow for open and frank discussion of topics, bringing to bear all sides of an issue in the light of day.

3. Ken York.....what to say about Mr. York. Everything that needs to be said can be read in detail in any number of archived articles on this site, or in the newspaper of your choice. Ken York's influence over the 'Good Ole Boy' BOMA from Mr. Williams through 2006 was amazingly strong. In my opinion, he was the great puppet master of the whole city government until it was brought to light that everything he was doing was extremely damaging to the city and in many cases illegal. Mr. York was working specifically to control the flow of information. If you can control the information that the board receives, you can control their vote and the overall direction of the city. This gatekeeper approach eventually spun beyond his control and people were given enough information to start asking probing questions. Once that happened the "house of cards" could fall. I can recount NUMEROUS times that Mr. York said "yes Mr./Mrs. ___, we have cash on hand to take care of that expense" while he knew that the books were being cooked and monies were being transferred between our various accounts and depleting our surpluses.

It is my opinion that this was being kept from Mayor Leverette, and once it was uncovered, the entire process was opened up to the public. This greatly damaged our City's reputation in the short term, but will repair it in the long term as things are brought forward. All of this was caused by the "Good Ol Boys" and their lack of questioning their "trusted" leaders. It is being healed by the previous and current body of elected officials, but will take time and money to repair. Is this the governing body you wish to bring back in this recession?

4. The "Good Ol Boys" and Re-apportionment. Interestingly, if you read Mr. Schoenbrodt's newletters dating back to the beginning, you will find that he supported re-apportionment but remained quiet. In May of 2004 Schoenbrodt said, “I was disappointed that the Board decided to not redraw the boundaries for Wards. However, it not a concern, to me at this time since the current Board of Mayor and Aldermen is functioning so well."

The process was functioning well if you are an advocate of "behind closed door" deals being made, and majority parties being excluded from the process by keeping your thumb on growing numbers of newcomers coming to the city. In December of 2005, Mr. Schoenbrodt said,"The majority of Spring Hill citizens are like me, in that they have lived here less than ten years. Those who have lived here all of, or at least most of their lives,deserve respect. They should have more of a say in how THEIR City is transformed. Those of us who just moved here should not expect to come in and change things against their wishes. We are still their guest. After we have lived here for twenty-five or more years, then we may have the right to change things to the way we think they should be."

This is absolutely the problem with Schoenbrodt and the "Good Ol Boys." They believed that we (the newcomers) were essential to the development and growth of the city, but we should be kept out of the loop so that things could continue along the path that was chosen by those in charge. It turns out that their fear was correct. All of the misdealing, corruption, and hiding of information has been overturned in the last 2 elections, and we are now having to take on the painful process of rebuilding our reserves and setting our city on a new course to prosperity in an economic downturn. Tough decisions must be made, because they were not made for so many years under the "Good Ol Boys".

5. Since it was mentioned, let's talk about healthcare. I have to call foul on the statement that our elected officials began taking undue advantage of our only in the last few years under Mayor Leverette and now Mayor Dinwiddie. As you can see in the memo included, this was offered to all elected officials at least since 2003. I have not been able to confirm it yet, but have reason to believe that at least one person took advantage of the benefit at that time. Having said all of that, I do not fault them for taking the healthcare if needed. If you want to address costs associated with the healthcare to the city, it can very easily be brough in line with a few very simple actions that do not drastically adjust the coverage, but do curtail much of the cost. Ideas like raising copays to $25 or $35 instead of $10; increasing the deductible to something other than $250; providing for 100% coverage for employees, but requiring for families to pay something to be included like the rest of the marketplace; putting a tiered prescription drug coverage in place instead of covering all name brand drugs for very little to no cost.

These are the items that can easily be tackled and reduce our city's line item much more effectively. Our elected officials should be allowed to take part in the plan if they are not covered elsewhere, but all employees' families should have to pay something to be a part of the program, and should not be encouraged to drop other coverage to join the city books.

6. I am not sure that helping fund the most popular new amenity in the City of Spring Hill (the Rec Center) is an argument that holds much water in regard to the deceit of our new brand of politician. I agree that we were asked to partnership in a much greater way than any previous city had ever been asked to contribute, and that is wrong on the part of Williamson County. Setting that aside, this center provides more to EVERY demographic of our city than anything could have. It has filled a great void in our city allowing activities for our young families and children all the way up to our retirees and senior citizens. I would count this in the column of "Great Achievement" instead of the column of "great waste."

The saddest part about this discussion is that Mr. Schoenbrodt is not the problem. The previous "Good Ol Boys" talked about on this site and in this article were not acting with malice or with the intention to harm the city. They were then and are now interested in only the best for our city. They did not realize that they were pawns and voices for an administration set on hiding true actions and misleading everyone to hide scheme. If there is a problem with the previous elected officials, it was only in their unwillingness to ask tough questions of "friends" and willingness to accept only one source for their information.

Mr. Schoenbrodt is not evil or stupid, just far too hurt and wrapped up in his own mind to see the truth of the past 8 years. On many occasions, I enjoy his company and agree with him on a variety of important issues, it is just a shame to see him continue on his current path of unfounded retribution and destruction. I hope that someday many in this city will wake up and look at the recent actions to reason fact from fiction.

Mayor Dinwiddie on CNN

2009-06-08T00:17:00.000-05:00

June 11th, City Planning and Visioning

2009-06-07T20:21:00.001-05:00

Friends,

Please consider joining me at City Hall on June 11, 2009 from 6:30 to 8:30 for a community workshop. As many of you know, I have been serving on the Maury County Growth & Planning Steering Committee for the past 18 months. This committee has been charged with development and presentation of a comprehensive plan for Maury County, including the cities of Spring Hill, Columbia, & Mt Pleasant. Spring Hill has reached a separate agreement with MacTec (the planning consultants hired by the Committee) to incorporate all of Spring Hill into our portion of the plan. On the 11th, MacTec will be conducting a community visioning workshop to provide opportunity for public input into the growth plan. Attendance at these workshops that have been conducted around Maury County has not been very good. My personal goal is to pack the boardroom at city hall. I'm asking for your help in this goal. Please forward this announcement to any citizen you think would be interested in participating. Thank you in advance!

Sincerely,

Bruce Hull
Alderman, Ward 4
City of Spring Hill

Excellent Videos Featuring Spring Hill Manufacturing

2009-05-22T11:18:00.000-05:00

www.driveamericaforward.org

Election Thoughts

2009-04-10T07:30:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to Michael Dinwiddie, Amy Wurth, Jonathan Duda, Keith Hudson, and Allen Hall. You have worked very hard and should be applauded. Now go take a nap!

What an election! It looks like we had a turnout of 2,350, and considering our previous totals, that is a positive improvement. I expected that the turnout would be higher than past years, and it turned out to be right in line with projections. That is a credit to all of you getting out to the polls and beginning to take an interest in our city. Now we need to carry that type of involvement over to our county elections so that we can truly begin making a great impact on all available levels for our city.

I think this election shows a few things.

Hard work wins elections. Almost everyone in this election worked hard, but the winners (personally and/or with the help of their team) outworked the others.

In the mayoral election, there is no question that Michael Dinwiddie out-worked and out-maneuvered Cindy Jobe and Derek Merrill. The vote ended up being a little closer than I suspected, but ultimately Mr. Dinwiddie outworked Mrs. Jobe's team.

For Mr. Dinwiddie- now the real work begins. Congratulations!

Ward 1 was a 3 dog race just as suspected, but the big dog was Amy Wurth and third dog was in fact, Keith Davis. I still believe that the two hardest workers in this race were the top two (Amy Wurth and Les Cleveland) but the difference was that Mrs. Wurth was working with and leading a motivated team and Les Cleveland did most of the work on his own. It is hard to overcome a TRUE team effort all by yourself. I have a feeling that Mr. Cleveland may still find his way onto this board for a 2 year term filling Mr. Dinwiddie's vacant seat. If so, it will be well deserved.

There are some rumors that I overheard yesterday evening that there is talk of bringing back Brandon McCulloch and appointing him to that seat. If that were to happen it would be a mistake, and send a very wrong message to those that did get involved in this election. In my opinion we have had great participation in this ward from several qualified candidates and venturing outside of those individuals would make absolutely no sense. Wait and see.

Ward 2 ended up being far closer than I anticipated and was really the surprise of the night from everyone I spoke with. Jonathan Duda still won by 21% of the vote, but many expected a much higher differential (probably even Charlie). It is difficult running as the only Alderman seeking re-election against a tide of anger relating to some of the recent financial issues in our city. Luckily for us all, we kept the public servant that has been most involved in creating TRANSPARENCY in our city government, and positive ACTION through all of our various boards and commissions. Thank you Mr. Duda for all of your hard work throughout the last 4 years, and I expect you will give our community even more throughout the next 4 years. This was a well deserved win. Congratulations!

Ward 3 was no real surprise. Keith Hudson and David Williford were the two main candidates in this race and the closer this came to election day, the stronger the wave of support became for Keith Hudson. Watching it unfold on election day at the polling site, it was clear that this would be the outcome today. I hope that Mr. Williford remains involved at City Hall, because I believe he could also be a good asset to the city.

Ward 4 was as advertised. Allen Hall and Jim Cichoracki were seperated by 1 vote at about 8:30 when results were being released last night (before the Williamson County total came in). I think that both candidates worked EXTREMELY hard for this one and Mr. Hall seemed to be put over the top by the Firefighters' endorsement. That endorsement, along with the work of Mr. Hall and his wife, were able to overcome "chick" and his wife. It was definitely a nail biter and the closest Alderman race.

Congratulations to all that won yesterday, and a HUGE thank you to all of you that ran for office and did not win. Your involvement in the community does not go unnoticed, so I hope that you will all stay involved. We need to use this election to bring our community back together and build momentum for future elections. As a city we can be far more powerful if we begin to press our counties, state, and surrounding communities for action. Our most efficient way of making the necessary changes are through the ballot boxes in upcoming elections.

Thank you! Don't be strangers.

Election Results!

2009-04-09T18:58:00.011-05:00

2009-04-09T05:07:00.000-05:00

GO VOTE TODAY!

1,002 People Came out to Early Vote!
48.7% are First Time city voters.

In 2007: 561 Early Voted
In 2005: 401 Early Voted

Election Day is THIS Thursday, April 9th (TODAY)
7am to 7pm

Maury County Residents
Winchester Community Building
Maury Hill Street

Williamson County Residents
Fire Hall # 3 (Campbell Station)
4000 Campbell Station Parkway

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Early Predictions (just for fun):

My Crystal Ball has not changed to much, but let's take a look at what I predict this election day and see what comes true when the votes are tallied.

1. Voter turnout will exceed 2,250. It is still a shame that we cannot get more people out to vote, but I think this could get as high as about 2,500 voters this election.

2. Michael Dinwiddie will be out next Mayor. He will win by 10-15% over Cindy Jobe.

3. In Ward 1, Les will be more. Les Cleveland will win the race when it is all said and done. Amy Wurth will come in 2nd, Rolfson in 3rd, Davis in 4th. The board will appoint one of the 3 mentioned as the appointee to fill Michael Dinwiddie's vacated seat.

4. Jonathan Duda will win Ward 2 re-election with approx. 75% of the vote.

5. Ward 3 will be won by Keith Hudson, followed fairly closely by Williford.

6. Ward 4 will come down to the union vote. If the UAW comes out heavily for Cichoracki, he could squeak it out. I cannot figure this race out. Every time I think Allen Hall will start to pull away, I hear split opinions from the citizens. I have even heard from a few that should be solidly in the Hall camp saying that they voted for "Chick". In the end, Allen Hall wins by a handful of votes.

All of you that have yet to vote, do a quick bit of research using the links and information provided on this site, and go VOTE!

We have many good candidates to choose from in this election, so find those that will best represent your views and push the button!

Mayoral Debate at the UAW

2009-04-07T05:25:00.000-05:00

Thank you to Dustin Dunbar for moderating this event and filming this for all of us to view.
Well, for those of you that were unable to attend the Debate at the UAW Hall last week, thanks to Dustin Dunbar you will have the opportunity to view it here.

Listed below in the fullpost view, you will see that the debate is broken up into 14 pieces so that it could be easily uploaded to youtube and made available to everyone. This debate was moderated and filmed by Dustin Dunbar. Thank you to all the candidates for showing up to help bring additional clarity to our mayoral race.

I will reserve comments until after everyone has had an opportunity to view the debate. Enjoy!

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Part 11

Part 12

Part 13

Part 14

Overall You Tube Directory:

2009 Campaign Finance Disclosure Forms

2009-04-03T11:03:00.006-05:00

Ward 2 Alderman and Candidate Jonathan Duda has posted most of the Campaign Finance Disclosure Forms that were due yesterday on his site http://www.voteduda.org/.

Follow this link to go to the Candidate Campaign Finance Disclosure Forms that were filed yesterday for the Pre-Election Deadline.

All Mayoral Candidates were required to file, as well as any alderman candidate that has spent or received more than $1,000. Judging from all of the signs around town, it appears that some candidates may have missed the deadline...

Tennessean has a brief article here: Jobe leads in campaign funds raised

Full article follows...

Jobe leads in campaign funds raised
By Jill Cecil Wiersma • The Tennessean • April 3, 2009

SPRING HILL — Mayoral candidate Cindy Jobe remains roughly $6,000 ahead of the pack in terms of campaign contributions for the April 9 city election.

Jobe raise $7,307 this reporting period, bringing her total contributions to $17,867 since she announced her candidacy last October. Alderman Michael Dinwiddie raised $11,768 this period, bringing his total to $14,768. Derek Merrill, who had not raised any money in the first reporting period, has since raised $850.
Also by the Thursday deadline, candidates were required to report how much money they had spent since the first reporting period in mid February: Jobe spent $8,847.23, Dinwiddie spent $$7,978.44 and Merrill spent $747.

Candidates in the four aldermen races are only required to submit campaign disclosures if they take in or spend more than $1,000. None of the 15 candidates hit that amount in the first period, but four did this time around, said Todd Baxter, administrator for the Maury County Election Commission, which is overseeing this race for both the Maury County and Williamson County side of the city.

Those candidates came from just two races. In Ward 2, incumbent Jonathan Duda raised $2,371 and spent $857.24 while challenger Charles Schoenbrodt raised $1,923.12 and spent $1,418.17.

In Ward 4, Allen Hall raised $2.710 and spent $2,547.41 while James Cichoraki raised and spent $1,079.78.

Baxter said candidates carrying a balance must submit a quarterly report, which will be due in July.

"Meet and Greet" at Oaklawn

2009-04-01T06:17:00.000-05:00

Oaklawn, located on Denning Lane, was built by Absalom Thompson in 1835. According to the Middle Tennessee Visitors Bureau, Confederate General John Bell Hood established his command post at Oaklawn in 1864.
Here is an article from the advertiser news. Please take this opportunity to visit on of our GREAT historical sites (Oaklawn) and get a chance to meet the candidates running for office in this election. This really should not be missed!

Also, at some point today I will post the video from last night's Mayoral debate moderated by Dustin Dunbar. Remember that name for future elections!

See you tonight!

Open House at Oaklawn for City Election Candidates

From Staff Reports The Advertiser News

Ron Shuff, a Spring Hill property owner, is hosting an open house at the historic Oaklawn plantation from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 1.

He invites all mayoral candidates, alderman candidates and area residents to attend. Light refreshments will be served and Jimmy Campbell, the property manager, will share history and tours of the home.

Oaklawn, located on Denning Lane, was built by Absalom Thompson in 1835. According to the Middle Tennessee Visitors Bureau, Confederate General John Bell Hood established his command post at Oaklawn in 1864.

“We hope all mayoral and alderman candidates can come,” Shuff said. “It’s an opportunity to meet and greet with them and talk to them on a personal level. It’s also an opportunity for people who have not seen Oaklawn to come have a tour.”

Ron Shuff, a Franklin resident, said he believes all Spring Hill property owners should have a keen interest in the city election. Oaklawn is located at 3331 Denning Lane, off Kedron Road.

Tonight: Mayoral Candidate Debate - UPDATED!!

2009-03-31T10:19:00.003-05:00

Mayoral Candidate Michael Dinwiddie has organized a "debate" this evening at the UAW Local 1853 ballroom from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Dustin Dunbar will be moderating the "debate". ~~No word yet on whether Mayoral Candidate Cindy Jobe will be attending.~~ 3/31 4:05PM Update: From the Tennessean: All three mayoral candidates on board for debate tonight in Spring Hill Looks like all three candidates will be there after all...

Mayoral Candidates Spar Over Debates

As the April 9 city Election Day approaches, one mayoral candidate has organized a series of three debates, which the other two candidates may not attend.

Mayoral candidate and Alderman Michael Dinwiddie said he organized the debates to take candidate Cindy Jobe up on a debate offer that she proposed in January. ~~City Mayor Danny Leverette, who has not publicly endorsed any mayoral candidates~~ Dustin Dunbar, has been named as moderator of the first debate scheduled from 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 at the UAW Local 1853 ballroom. Mayoral candidate Derek Merrill agreed to participate, prior to finding out that Jobe is choosing to refrain from all three of the debates...

More info from The Advertiser News: Mayoral Candidates Spar Over Debates

Crystal Ball

2009-03-26T19:14:00.002-05:00

Very quietly, I have been listening to voters, keeping a mental note of trends and who voters are talking about. Saturday morning I decided to take a trip to the polls to see how things are shaping up. When I returned home, I decided to take a look at the ol' crystal ball. The entire picture is certainly not clear yet, but some things are starting to come into focus. Here is what I see right now (for what it is worth).

1. The mayoral race has only 2 horses. I like some of the ideas coming from the Merrill website and in his speach, but there seems to be very little action behind it. Dinwiddie and Jobe vote totals will dwarf Mr. Merrill. Based on the debate this morning on 950 AM and some of the interaction between the 2 candidates, there is no doubt in my mind now that of the 3 candidates, Mr. Dinwiddie is the most prepared to be our next mayor. He is also out working Mrs. Jobe in a big way. Considering where this race started (with Cindy Jobe the clear cut favorite), this is a pretty amazing turn of events. Crystal Ball's guess---Dinwiddie

2. Ward #1 is shaping up to be divided between 3 candidates. Wurth, Cleveland, and Rolfson are active and making an impact. Unless the rest of the pack are about to unveil some kind of huge quiet surprise, I do not see any of them being a huge factor. Crystal Ball's guess---Cleveland 3/31 Update: It would appear from the poll at left and the various emails I have received that either I have severely under-estimated the popularity of an additional candidate (Keith Davis), OR the technical savy of a few people with similar IP Addresses have taken my poll hostage (C'mon folks, if you are going to JUICE a poll, at least place a vote for all wards and the mayor...) Either way, for a Ward that many of us were wondering if there would be ANY candidates in, the race in Ward 1 is shaping up to be somewhat of a dogfight. Crystal Ball's guess remains the same simply because Mr. Cleveland has been knocking on doors all over this city.

3. If Jonathan Duda is defeated in Ward #2 it would truly shock me. I know for a fact that there are quite a few citizens that may be upset with some decision Mr. Duda has made over the past 4 years in his many roles, but when all is quiet in the voting booth, it will be hard to vote against him. There are those that TALK and those that DO. Everyone in the city should be able to agree that Mr. Duda DOES what he says he is going to DO. Our city should be thankful to have him, and he will win handily. Crystal Ball's guess---Duda

4. Ward #3 is without question a 2 man race...David Williford v. Keith Hudson. That is about all that I know. Crystal Ball's guess---Hudson

5. Ward #4 is shaping up to be a nail biter. The issue that I am having is that I am not sure who is running in the Cichoracki camp, Jim or his wife... I expect and appreciate a supportive spouse, but my experience (and from listening at the polls on Saturday), folks tend to be saying the same thing - the most vocal of that pair is by far Diane. Is that what we should come to expect if he were alderman? Having said that, Mr. Hall needs to start talking about himself and not his opponent. If he wants to the the next Alderman of Ward 4, he better be a good closer because this race is starting to slip away from what I am hearing. Crystal Ball's guess---Even.

I will post another poll tomorrow for everyone to vote again to see if you all have a different outcome. I will have some additional information this weekend. Stay tuned...

City Financial Update:

2009-03-21T12:39:00.000-05:00

For those interested in the latest in regard to our city finances, please read the message below from Alderman Rick Graham, Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee for the City of Spring Hill. Thank you for the update Mr. Graham!

Enjoy!

Friends,

It has been a long time since I have communicated to you by email. I wanted to take a minute and update you on our city finances and remind you to vote starting today.

First the finances, today in the Williamson A.M., we have the major headlines, "Spring Hill budget on track." After seven months we actually have a $2.1 million dollar surplus (revenue minus expenses) combined over our five primary budgets. This is great news because the remaining five months we have some annual expenses to pay and with little property taxes revenues remaining; we are on target to achieve budget and maybe have a surplus. We will be watching it very closely for the next five months.

The Budget and Finance Advisory Committee (BFAC) has been meeting once or twice a month since December 2007. The City has made many, many changes to put in place the tools to keep us financially sound and correct the deficiencies from our state audit. As you will see below, the City department heads have spent and cut their department expenses to allow us to achieve this year's budget. We analyze "line by line" all revenues and expenses for the City each month.

SPRING HILL FINANCES- July 08-January 09- 7 Months Actual:

· Over all Revenue 8% Off budget - Over all Expenses 25% Less Than Budget

· Over all we have a surplus of 17% or $2.1 Million

· General Fund Revenue $223k off budget but $1,861,539 more than prior year

· Adequate Facilities Development taxes Revenue off budget by $438k

· Water Sewer Revenue off budget by $506k & $861k less than prior year

· General Fund Expenses 13% less than budget or $854k

· General Fund has a surplus of 29% (Revenues minus Expenses) or $630k

· Adequate Facilities Development Taxes Expenses or 61% less than budget (right on budget with revenue minus expenses)

· Water Sewer Expenses 36% Less than budget or $1,413,996 with a surplus of $907k or 42%

· Property Taxes collected through January (not Feb) is $2.1 million vs. $1.9M budget = $206k ++

· Local Sales Taxes $163k less than budget (catching up due to The Crossings and much more than prior year)

· State Sales Taxes $177k less than budget

· Police Expenses $25k under budget

· Fire Expenses $170k under budget

The BFAC meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 4 pm in the City Hall. It is open to the public and I invite you anytime to witness our very progressive agenda. Jim Smith, City Administrator, Alderman Eliot Mitchell, April Goad, City Recorder, and myself make up this committee. It has been a big learning curve these two years and the learning experience has been valuable in my service these two years and moving forward for the next two years.

We start the budget process for our next fiscal year (July 2009- June 2010) in our April meetings with a new Board of Mayor and Alderman (BOMA). We will have at a minimum three new aldermen and a new mayor of the nine member board after this election. It is very important for Spring Hill that you vote because we have much more work to do for the next few years.

I am asked often who they should vote for in this election. I always tell people I would not tell them how to vote, but I would share with them who I am voting for between today (early voting starts today) and election day April 9th. Remember, you get to vote for four aldermen (even the ones out of your ward) and a mayor.

I am voting for Cindy Jobe for Mayor (www.cindyjobe.com), Alderman Jonathan Duda for Ward 2 (www.voteduda.com), Keith Hudson for Ward 3 (www.keithhudsoncares.com), Les Cleveland for Ward 1 ( lescleve@bellsouth.net), and Allen Hall for Ward 4 (www.HallforAlderman.com). I will not elaborate on the reasoning for my vote choices but please contact me at aldermangraham@gmail.com with any questions, and I will respond as soon as possible. I believe these individuals will be strong additions to our board and assist in achieving great things for Spring Hill.

Early voting is from today, March 20th until April 4th at Evans Park (Winchester Community Center) from 8 am to 4 pm (Monday - Friday) and 8 am to noon (Saturday). Election Day voting on April 9th, is at the above for Maury voters and Fire Station #3 in Campbell Station from 7 am to 7 pm for Williamson voters.

Please contact me anytime. God's blessings to you and Spring Hill

Rick Graham

AldermanGraham@gmail.com

First Endorsement - Jonathan Duda

2009-03-19T07:17:00.000-05:00

“I have been very impressed with the maturity and devotion to responsibility of our youngest Alderman, Jonathan Duda. Not only has he been vocal in meetings but has been eager in seeking out information to bring to the Board in an effort to bring about positive changes. Neither does he seem to be trying to draw attention to himself in his activities.” - Charlie Schoenbrodt

Early Voting Begins this Friday! I will not be voting early this time (for the first time in a long time) because there are still FAR too many unanswered questions. I think that we actually have a lot of very good candidates in this election, but I am not very sure about the top of the ticket quite yet and I am fairly sure I will walk in to the voting booth somewhat mixed in my decision.

At this time, there is only one person that I can publically support. I am sure that it will come as no surprise to many of you that have been paying attention for the last 4 years, but that person is Jonathan Duda.

I am still somewhat saddened that Mr. Duda is not running for mayor, because he is by far the most qualified, intelligent, thoughtful public servant to lead our city right now. I think Southern Exposure Magazine had it right in declaring Jonathan Duda is “One of the four individuals who most exemplified leadership in Williamson County.” As one commenter stated recently, Mr. Duda will not publicly tout his accomplishments on our BOMA, Planning Commission, and Historic Commission, so I will do it here for him.

Lets take a quick look:

• Mr. Duda personally executed his own audit of city finances, and started the state audit. All of this information can be viewed on the city website. We all owe him a debt of gratitude for bringing this to light and bringing about this transparency and the measures that have since resulted. Had it not been for Jonathan Duda, I am not sure if we would even be aware of the situation our city is now in and working out of as we speak.

• He along with Eliot Mitchell were the catalyst on the BOMA for Re-apportionment. This has created tremendous activity and excitement in this election and the previous one, re-shaping OUR representation and involvement for the better.

• Mr. Duda and Mayor Leverette were the two most active and involved members of the BOMA in our fight for a Spring Hill Hospital. I cannot count the number of times Mr. Duda visited other municipalities and county government meetings to plead our case with well prepared facts and figures to urge neutrality or outright support for our cause. This was in my opinion even more important than the petition drive (which he was also an active member).

• Mr. Duda led the charge for the development of a Historic Commission, preserving our historical heritage. He is now Chairman of the Historic Commission. This was a tremendously controversial topic with our previous BOMA.

• Mr. Duda was the driving force behind the need for a comprehensive city plan, and thoroughfare plan. These changes have brought the City of Spring Hill out of the dark ages in terms of our long term planning. This was also an extremely controversial topic with the previous BOMA and City Manager Ken York.

• Mr. Duda was the driving force behind making our city government as transparent as possible though the use of our city website. He personally scanned every resolution and ordinance, as well as other applicable documents dating back years in order for it to be provided on our website for citizens to view. He was also instrumental in posting agendas on the website for citizens to view in advance of a public meeting.

• Mr. Duda was also intimately involved in changes on the Planning Commission that would require INCREASED notification by the developer to nearby citizens that might be affected. This has and will bring about increased community involvement in our city.

Quite frankly, I could talk to each of you for as long as you care to listen about why we should re-elect Jonathan Duda to represent us as Ward 2 Alderman without even mentioning his opponent. I will however close with this quote from one of Charlie’s newsletters…

“I have been very impressed with the maturity and devotion to responsibility of our youngest Alderman, Jonathan Duda. Not only has he been vocal in meetings but has been eager in seeking out information to bring to the Board in an effort to bring about positive changes. Neither does he seem to be trying to draw attention to himself in his activities.” - Charlie Schoenbrodt
I am not sure that I could have said it much better myself.

Please check back later this evening as I will start to discuss the other great races in this city election, including our Mayoral race. It should be interesting!

Candidate Information

2009-03-16T10:30:00.016-05:00

Click on Read the Full Post and then you will be able to select any candidate you wish to view. Be sure to check back often as I will be updating all information throughout the day.

I think it is safe to say that the campaign is now officially in full swing. Questionnaires have been sent out and received in most cases. Doors are being knocked on at a feverish pace. Major organizations are beginning to endorse particular candidates. All candidates have now spoken at the "Restore Financial Stability" meet and greet.

Now, as we approach the beginning of the early voting period this Friday, it is time to start separating the candidates and allow the cream to rise to the top.

I will provide a page for every candidate running for each office. I will try to update it daily with additional information, questionnaires and issue related material. If there is ever something that you would like me to find out, post it or send me an email and I will be happy to track down the information.

Stay tuned throughout the day as I will update the information as I have a few free moments. Now, on to the discussion. Click on any of the candidates listed below and it will take you to their individual page. Enjoy!

Mayor:

Michael Dinwiddie

Cindy Jobe

Derek Merrill

Ward 1 Alderman:

Les Cleveland

Chester Darden

Keith Davis

Matt Kirchner

Daniel Rolfson

Laurie Sterling

Amy Wurth

Ward 2 Alderman:

Jonathan Duda

Charlie Schoenbrodt

Ward 3 Alderman:

Vinny Falcone

Bob Hawkes

Keith Hudson

Brady Knight

Robert Medina

David Williford

Ward 4 Alderman

Jim Cichoracki

Allen Hall

Questionnaire on it's way...

2009-02-24T19:27:00.002-06:00

Okay, the questionnaire is finished for the Mayoral candidates and all Aldermen candidates. It will go into the mail tomorrow, so be on the lookout for some additional information regarding all of our candidates. Next week, we will spend one day on each ward's race and one day covering the mayoral race. From there this discussion may take on a life of it's own.

This election is VERY different than the last one. Some candidates in the last election were extremely overmatched and showed in the results. Thanks to re-apportionment and increased community involvement, we now have a diverse group of candidates in every ward and the outcome of each race could be extremely close.

I truly do not know what I feel about most of the races in the city. The mayoral race could truly take us in some very different directions depending on who pulls it out. I am as interested in finding out about each of the candidates as anyone else in our city.

Alderman Candidates

2009-01-21T20:14:00.003-06:00

Now, let's take an early look at the Alderman candidates from the article posted in "The Advertiser"

-Here We Go...

2009 Spring Hill Aldermen Candidates

There are 17 residents who qualified to run in the Alderman races. Running for the Ward 1 alderman seat are Les Cleveland, Chester Darden, Keith Davis, Matthew Kirchner, Laurie Sterling, Daniel Rolfson and Amy Wurth. Running for the Ward 2 Alderman seat are Jonathan Duda and Charlie Schoenbrodt. Running for the Ward 3 Alderman seat are Vinny Falcone, Bob Hawkes, Keith Hudson, Brady Knight, Robert Medina and David Williford. Running for the Ward 4 Alderman seat are James Cichoracki and Allen Hall.

The alderman pay is $450 per month for 12 months a year. They receive $225 per meeting for two meetings per month.

“They must be present at the meetings to be paid,” said City Finance Director and Interim Administrator Jim Smith, adding the total pay is $5,400 annually, if every meeting is attended.

Smith said if there are three meetings held monthly, such as a special called meeting, additional pay is not compensated.

“They are eligible to receive the same healthcare benefits as city employees, which includes their family, at no expense to the alderman or employee,” Smith said, adding a retirement plan is not included. The Advertiser News asked each alderman candidate why they have decided to run and what they think is the major issue that the city will face in the next four years. The top responses were the city’s finances and infrastructure.

Ward 1

Les Cleveland

7 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Independent Contractor for Educational Publishers

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I really enjoy living in Spring Hill. It’s a great place to live. I think people should be involved in their community. I was previously appointed on the planning commission in Hanover Park, Ill. We had a lot of residential and commercial growth similar to what’s going on in Spring Hill. I used to be an urban planner and would put together transportation and land use studies and I think this would be the type of thing that would help Spring Hill.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The major issue the city is going to face is citizen participation in the development issues within Spring Hill. Development will continue to occur and as it does, you’ll see more citizens involved in the process. This is a great thing for Spring Hill because more citizens’ involvement will lead to better plans and land use within the community.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: What I would do is make sure transportation, parks and the quality of life in the community is prominently featured.

Contact Les Cleveland:

lescleve@bellsouth.net

(615) 330-8639

Chester Darden

2 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Consultant for Tennessee Municipal League Risk Management Pool

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: To be involved and I feel like I can help. Spring Hill is my home too and I have a vested interest for its future. With my background working with municipalities every day across the state, I feel I can use my experiences to also help Spring Hill.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: Finances and infrastructure will be two major issues but there are others, which are bound to occur within a four-year period.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: By being a team player. With previous experience as a chief financial officer for another city and with what I see everyday, you learn what works and what doesn’t.

Contact Chester Darden:

(615) 302-3069

Keith Davis

6 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Senior Project Manager of store planning and development for Genesco Corp.

Q: Why have you decided to run for Alderman?

A: This is my community. This is where I have decided to raise my son, and I want to have a part in how this community continues to grow for the future. It is important to me that we continue to lay the foundation for a bright future in Spring Hill, and that we continue to grow our resources for the sake of our kids and their future.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The obvious answer here is finance, as we are all seeing it every aspect of our lives, and the lives of those who live and work around us. Second to that, I feel like keeping an interest for our youth needs to be a priority as well.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: As to the finances, I feel we will have to do for Spring Hill as we will have to do for our own businesses and households. We will have to budget and manage what money and resources we have available to us so that we are getting the most out of it. We must also make sure that we are pursuing and accepting money from our state government by implementing plans and projects such as sports and recreation and helping our city grow to allow our youth to continue to be healthy and active. We need to make sure we are doing all that we can to provide healthy alternative to TV and video games, and that includes updated and new parks and facilities for all ages.

Contact Keith Davis:

keith_davis1@charter.net

(615) 302-2677

Matt Kirchner

1 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Grocery Manager

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I want to participate in helping the city prosper when it comes to the city’s finances. There’s no reason the city can’t have a budget and stick to it. I’m on a budget on a daily basis with work and with my family.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: I think the major issue is getting the budget under control and not overspending.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: By being a voice for the citizens and communicating with the Board of Mayor and Aldermen and the residents to make smart financial decisions.

Contact Matt Kirchner:

Mattkirchner@live.com

(931) 489-9060

Daniel Rolfson

2 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Operations Manager for a Scaffold Company

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I’m a young father with a young family and we want to be a part of this community for a long time. I think it would be beneficial for some young, fresh faces to be in city hall.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The major issue is going to be the fiscal health of the city. The No. 1 item is every dollar on that budget needs to be looked through line by line. If there’s not enough revenue, then more needs to be raised and/or budget cuts made, but the burden should not fall on the residents or on higher taxes.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: I have been involved in multi-unit operations for over 15 years and I think those experiences would benefit the residents of Spring Hill. My family moved here because we love this city. We need to entice more corporations to come here and market Spring Hill as the place to be.

Contact Daniel Rolfson:

Danrolfson1@charter.net

(615) 268-3117

Laurie Sterling

3 1/2 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Real estate agent and licensed teacher

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I was inspired by Sarah Palin in the last presidential election. I think we need to get more women involved in politics at all levels of government. I have always enjoyed politics and getting involved with me community. I am a people person and I want to be a representative of the people and their desires.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The growth and keeping up with the infrastructure, the roads and transportation system. I feel with our current economics, we need to focus on what we have and getting the infrastructure to match the growth we have already seen. What we need to aim for is a balance between the growth and the historical beauty of Spring Hill.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: I want to get the word out to build up business locally and bring more jobs to Spring Hill. I will first and foremost listen to the people’s concerns. What I run across most is people’s concerns about the infrastructure of the town and safety and good school systems. I with work with the Board of Mayor and Aldermen and bring these issues before them. I will also work with the economic development and planning commissions to achieve these goals to keep the community a highly desirable place to live.

Contact Laurie Sterling:

gobblygoooz@hotmail.com

(615) 513-4958

Amy Wurth

5 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: National Account Manager for a grocery supply chain

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: There are three reasons: the growth of the city and the management of that growth, the overall economic state of the city and our residents and community welfare of our residents, which includes safety, security and recreation. I have previous experience working for Chicago Mayor Richard Daley for five years and I understand what it takes to manage a city and bring those skill sets to Spring Hill.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The economy is going to be the No. 1 issue, not only for the city, but for our residents.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: I will help keep Spring Hill on track by ensuring fiscal responsibility through procurement and purchasing processes as well as ensuring that we can manage the tax revenues recieved and manage the income coming in versus what’s going out.

Contact Amy Wurth:

amymwurth@yahoo.com

(931) 334-5597

Ward 2

Jonathan Duda

Seeking Re-election, served since April 2005

5 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Senior consultant for Renaissance Bank Advisors

Q: Why have you decided to run for re-election alderman?

A: We have made significant progress in putting into place the tools that this city needs to operate in a manner that places its citizens first. I believe that there is much work that still needs to be accomplished. I am committed and prepared to continue to represent the citizens of our city.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The most significant issue for our city is that the impact and effects of our national economic crisis remain to be seen at the local municipal government level. We must find a way to provide essential services to our citizens efficiently and in a way that is fiscally sustainable in this volatile economic environment that we are currently in.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: Simply stated, I am prepared to work together with the entire board to ensure that we are providing services as efficiently as possible. Although we have already begun the process to bring in an outside group to review each of the city’s departments, we as a board must be prepared to prioritize and provide clear direction to staff as to which recommendations as a result of that study will be implemented.

Contact Jonathan Duda:

jonathan.duda@charter.net

(615)714.2287

www.VoteDuda.org

Charlie Schoenbrodt

11 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Retired as a marriage and family therapist, operates Spring Hill Pet Pal, a pet care service.

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: Based on what the founding fathers said, everyone has a responsibility to their own community. I can’t make much of a difference in Washington or Nashville, but I can make a difference in what happens in Spring Hill, which is the foundation for state and federal government. There needs to be better communication between the residents and the Board of Mayor and Alderman.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: Finances and finding a way to not burden the residents with higher taxes but utilize what is coming to the city in a responsible way. Using it for necessities and only meeting the wants and desires when there is an excess of funds. It’s going to be a lean four years. Other issues don’t apply to taxes such as the expansion of the wastewater treatment plant.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: The way I can help is digging into what’s being spent, finding ways to cut what you can without cutting services that could make a real impact on the quality of life in the city. Quality of life doesn’t mean having everything we want, it’s safety and security.

Contact Charlie Schoenbrodt:

penguinwatch@bellsouth.net

(615) 405-2764

Ward 3

Vinny Falcone

7 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Computer operator with 29 years experience in the printing business

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I understand the city is in some trouble financially. I consider myself a problem solver and I want to be involved in solutions for the city.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The first problem I see is making sure there is controlled and organized growth, rather than the sprawl of dropping things where they fall.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: As a hopefully elected official, solutions lie in the people that you represent. The problem is people elect people to solve all the problems, but the elected people need to identify from the citizens what the problems and solutions are and enact on those.

Contact Vinny Falcone:

vote@vinnyforalderman.com

(615) 599-5258

www.vinnyforalderman.com

Bob Hawkes

4 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Vice President of Financial Planning Services at First Tennessee Bank and certified financial planner

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I feel I have a unique perspective because my expertise is in financial planning and I have a very strong financial background. In the last couple of years, my awareness has been raised on certain issues of the city.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The major issues we’re facing today are financial stability and the growth of the city. We moved here from Orlando where we saw unchecked and unplanned growth that changed the community to something undesirable to the citizens. We have to understand that Spring Hill is a commuter community. One of my goals is to look at the growth components to keep people in Spring Hill and build up the existing infrastructure.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: As a planner, I help people look at deficiencies and how to solve the problems for a better future. We need to look at analytics and people. We need to make some good decisions now and take some things, which haven’t been done well, and make them better. My official campaign motto is “Financial stability for the city, heart for the people, not politics.”

Contact Bob Hawkes:

bob@bobforalderman.com

(615) 614-1464

www.bobforalderman.com

Keith Hudson

12 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Manufacturing management for 15 years and chairman of the economic development commission for the city of Spring Hill

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: We moved here because we love Spring Hill and there’s no other place in the world where I would raise my children. However, I want to be a voice for the people and make sure some much-needed change occurs as we continue to grow. As the city embraces current residential growth, we need to ensure commercial growth, which I already have experience in doing.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The city has lost its trust within our local government. For the city to remain effective, it needs to regain the trust of the community.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: We have to prove our-selves to be efficient, be transparent about our agendas and show ourselves accountable by allowing all financial and spending information to be easily accessible to the public and show where tax dollars are being spent. By improving the infrastructure to current streets and building alternative routes from Highway 31 to reduce traffic flow, implement recreational fields for our youth sports

and parks for all age levels. If we pay taxes comparable or more than Brentwood and Franklin, we should expect to have the same recreational facilities and services for our youth.

Contact Keith Hudson:

keithphudson@gmail.com

(615) 668-4344

keithhudson.blogspot.com

Brady Knight

20+ year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Machine Repairman for GM

Q:Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: I haven’t liked the way the city has been going. I went to the Board of Mayor and Alderman and voiced my opinion. I feel if I’m going to complain, I owe it to the community to be a part of the solution and to serve.

Q:What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The city is going to mirror the economy of the nation. The city’s economy is going to shrink and take a hit. One of the things I told the mayor and aldermen is if we can get ideas from the people in the town, we would be so far ahead of so many places.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: We need to actively engage the townspeople to show them that their ideas are needed and wanted and are important. The people would be engaged and we could put their ideas to use.

Contact Brady Knight:

(931) 486-0805

Robert Medina

6 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Parts Support Analyst for GM

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: Because I don’t have an alliance to a particular group and I want to represent the people of the city. I’ve been conducting research on the Tennessee Annotated Code, which is the state law book. I feel comfortable to know what’s expected of an alderman and to ensure the ordinances are in compliance with each other

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: The major issue is going to be the infrastructure and traffic flow that we will incur because of the extensive urban growth boundaries. As we grow and annex more areas into the city, we need to make sure we have adequate response time for the police and fire to service those areas. We need to look at how streets are connected before we annex new areas.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: Through comprehensive research and visiting additional communities at my own expense, and look at the best and worst practices of overlays and what similar things have happened in other cities. We need to have our best knowledge using existing resources available, such as MTAS, to make the best recommendations.

Contact Robert Medina:

Robert1974@bellsouth.net

(615) 586-5079

David Williford

7 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Senior Account executive for Stephens Media, Affiliate Real Estate Broker, apprentice Auctioneer

and children’s entertainer

Q: Why have you decided to run for Alderman?

A: I think this next term is going to be one of the most critical times in the city of Spring Hill with the existing city financial issues. I feel it’s important that the city have aldermen who are not on the board for personal gain and that are there to look for the city’s best interests and be the voice of the people.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: Financial responsibility. We need to save money and be cautious with our spending. The creation of new, good paying jobs to keep residents in the community during the week and maintaining a safe community.

Q: How will you help solve it?

A: I’ll help solve this issue by watching where the spending is going and discontinue going into further debt.

Contact David Williford

williford4alderman@bellsouth.net

(615) 243-3031

www.williford4alderman.com

Ward 4

Jim Cichoracki

16 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: Retired from GM

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: For me, it started with the audit. I was appalled at the $3 million shortfall and the reinstatement of the property taxes. Since I’m retired, I know you have to live within your budget and not on your credit card. The bills come due eventually and you do have to pay them. That’s what sparked my interest and I started attending the meetings.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: I think based on our economy now and the problems with our federal government and the deficit spending going on in federal government, it’s going to flow downhill. In my opinion, the next four years are going to be very critical. We need to not only pay our bills, but create a surplus and a cushion so we don’t have to raise taxes and can continue providing for the needs of the citizens. I believe you need to be very careful in deciding what is a need and what is a want. You need to hold off on the wants until you have the funds to pay in cash and not go into debt.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: I believe that living on a fixed income, I have the ability to keep a hold of my finances; and I want to transfer that skill set to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

Contact Jim Cichoracki:

jfcich@aol.com

(931) 486-1298

Allen Hall

5 year Spring Hill resident

Occupation: IT Consultant

Q: Why have you decided to run for alderman?

A: As I began to think of my motivations, I realized my father and grandfather served the public in some shape or form. I’ve gotten to the point in my life where I want to be involved instead of sitting on the sidelines. There’s a couple ways you can participate in community matters. You can tell someone else what you want done or you can take it upon yourself.

Q: What is the major issue the city will face in the next four years?

A: City finances-every municipality has finance issues. We’re behind the eight ball in so many ways because our situation is unusual. It comes to how the city finances have been managed in the past few years. All of that may be worsened with the recession. Some specific examples include where we stand with housing and construction. You hear there are subdivisions abandoned by developers, homes half-finished and streets left unpaved.

Q: How will you help to solve it?

A: Having experienced some of this personally, I have a well-informed perspective on it. I have some ideas to help correct some of the problems we have now as well as avoid them in the future.

Contact Allen Hall:

allen@hallforalderman.com

(931) 674-0250

www.hallforalderman.com

Let the Games Begin!

2009-01-21T20:04:00.003-06:00

So...It is that time of year and I think it is about time that we get this forum rolling again. Thanks to Re-Apportionment, our city has contested races in every ward and a real choice in the direction for the next 4 years. Starting today, everyone has an even playing field, so let's see where this goes in the coming months.

I will be sending out a questionairre to all the candidates very shortly discussing all possible topics in great detail. Let's start sorting through these 20 candidates!

Let's kick off the discussion with an article from "The Advertiser" to give us all a little background from the Mayoral candidates.

Enjoy!

Candidates Announced for Mayor and Alderman Races

A list of 20 candidates for mayor and alderman in the city’s upcoming election have been announced. The April 9 election will be host to five different races-one for mayor and one alderman in each of the city’s four wards.

Out of five officials, Ward 2 Alderman Jonathan Duda is the only incumbent seeking re-election. Mayor Danny Leverette, Vice Mayor Miles Johnson, Aldermen Domingo Gallardo and Charles Raines all said they would not run for another term because they wanted to spend more time with family.

Vying for mayor are Cindy Jobe Alderman Michael Dinwiddie and Derek Merrill.

Derek Merrill

Derek Merrill says his campaign motto is “Sold on Spring Hill”. Merrill brings 12 years experience in real estate sales and marketing to his mayoral campaign and said he believes that Spring Hill needs to be promoted individually as well as corporately. Merrill has watched the tremendous growth since he moved to the Spring Hill 14 years ago.

“I believe we need to create the heart of Spring Hill,” Merrill says. “We need to create a town center. I agree that the overlay is there now and is headed in the right direction. The future land use map has been approved and growth boundary areas have been established.

“Within those overlays where commercial and industrial has been designed, I’d like to see a creation of town center to become the heart of Spring Hill.”

People have got to get excited and sold on Spring Hill. It’s the best thing we can do for the community, both old and young residetns. Starting with the recognizing Old Town, which is historical Main Street.

Property is set aside and with the historic creation, the historic old town boundaries have been established, three or four blocks on Main Street. Most of what we are dealing with is recreating.

“I’ve been serving in the community for a long time I was a part of the original Merchants of Spring Hill that used to meet around a table at the Old School caf/,

I was also honored to serve on the original Board of Directors for the first Chamber of Commerce in Spring Hill. Additionally, improving the quality of life in our community through the Arts has always been a passion of mine. Throughout the years I have supported and helped to build up the Performing and Visual Arts in our city such as serving on the board for Spring Hill Art Center otherwise known as SHAC.”

Merrill previously owned a restaurant called Gallery Caf/ on Main Street.

He said as a previous business owner, “I have the personal knowledge of the growing pains and pitfalls of owning a business in this city.”

His goals, if elected, are for the city’s finances to be in order.

“I understand that finances are a concern on everybody’s mind and the city must be fiscally responsible,” he said.

Merrill said he believes that building a city is very much like building a custom home.

“To ’Build the City of Our Dreams’ we must know what we want, and do it now while we still have time,” Merrill said. He added that he’s always been a visionary, which he believes is critical for Spring Hill’s future. “We must be willing to look 20 to 50 years from now.”

To contact Derek Merrill, email isellspringhill@realtor.com or call (615) 513-2991.

Cindy Jobe

Cindy Jobe was the first candidate to qualify for the municipal race in October of 2008.

She previously served as the senior government relations specialist for the Tennessee Municipal League(TML) for over 6 years, advocating on behalf of the 341 cities in Tennessee. Her term as Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce ended in December 2008. She was the lead organizer for the Citizens For Spring Hill Hospital, a grassroots community group that gathered over 10,000 signatures in support of the proposed TriStar Hospital.

Jobe is also a consultant with Jobe Neisler Consulting, which specializes in local government and state government relations. She brings more than eight years experience dealing with local government issues.

“To say I’m passionate about Spring Hill is an understatement,” she said. “I have fundamental principles that I’m running on.”

She explained the city’s finances are her No. 1 priority.

“I believe in a pay-as-you go mentality and not spending money we don’t have,” she said, adding that everything is intertwined in a city. “With rooftops, come retail and with retail comes infrastructure. Our rainy day fund has to be replenished so that during times of an economic downturn, the City will not struggle and be forced to cut essential services.”

She added in a recent statement, “Spring Hill can rec-ognize its full potential, but not until we have a consensus builder assuming the role of Mayor who can bring everyone to the table. Ultimately, I believe everyone wants what is best for our City but we all must come together, get past our differences and focus on realistic, long-term strategic goals.”

Contact Cindy Jobe at cindyjobeformayor@cindyjobe.com or call (615) 481-2060.

Michael Dinwiddie

Alderman Mike Dinwiddie says he has big plans for Spring Hill and thinks he is the man to make it happen. Dinwiddie, 37, has lived in Spring Hill for seven years. He has spent the last two of those serving as an alderman. It is this history of service and experience in governing that Dinwiddie said gives him an edge in the mayoral race. Dinwiddie has three major areas of concern he will focus on if elected mayor: the economy, affordable single-family homes and education.

Dinwiddie’s first run for mayor was in 2005. He lost the election but feels he did accomplish something important. It was during this campaign he says he started pushing for a hospital in Spring Hill. The initiative was picked up by others and has made considerable progress according to Dinwiddie. Dinwiddie has an additional list of accomplishments during his time as an alderman.

“I am proud of Movie Night in the park,” says Dinwiddie. “Some people scoffed at the idea but we made it happen and it has been great for the city.”

Another significant accomplishment according to Dinwiddie is the construction of a school in Maury County. Dinwiddie says he initially opposed the construction but later realized the need for a school for families in the outlying parts of the county.

The economy also concerns Dinwiddie.

“We need to protect ourselves from the national and international economy...(as mayor) I will aggressively recruit a company to bring in new jobs,” Dinwiddie said.

Dinwiddie said he wants to use the Mayor’s office to continue to promote smart growth in Spring Hill. To him, that means encouraging the construction of more single family, affordable homes.

“Affordable homes are $200,000 and under,” said Dinwiddie.

While he sees room for apartments and multi-family housing, Dinwiddie feels the city must be very careful about the types of residential construction it approves.

“We’ve got to get back to what made us,” said Dinwiddie. “That’s single-family, affordable homes.”

Dinwiddie also sees room to improve Spring Hill’s educational offerings and said he will push for “more elementary, middle, and high schools”. Dinwiddie also wants to see a secondary education institution take roots in the city. He thinks a vocational school or community college would provide educational opportunities for high school graduates who do not choose pursue a traditional degree.

Contact Michael Dinwiddie at www.dinwiddieformayor.com

Staff Writers Ashley Bone, D F Smith and Cole Wakefield contributed to this report.

Spring Hill Mayoral Race Intensifies

2008-12-22T12:01:00.017-06:00

There are still a few weeks left for prospective candidates to turn in the required petition with 25 signatures from city residents. The deadline is noon Jan. 15 to the Maury County Election Commission...

From The Tennessean

UPDATE: From The Columbia Daily Herald

Spring Hill has two candidates in the race for mayor in the April 9 city elections, but neither is incumbent Mayor Danny Leverette.

Alderman Michael Dinwiddie recently qualified to run in the mayoral race, and Spring Hill Chamber President Cindy Jobe qualified in October. Leverette said he expects to be making a decision this week.

"I give it thought every day," Leverette said. "Yeah, there have been a few bumps in the road. But we have made tremendous strides in the last three and a half years."

Leverette has been at the helm during some key moments in recent city history: He led the charge to eliminate the last 19 cents on the city's property tax rate in August 2005 and was still at the helm in June, when the board reinstated the property tax rate after discovering a nearly $3 million revenue shortfall.

Dinwiddie could not be reached for comment. He is two years into his term in Ward 1. Previously, he ran against Leverette, then an alderman, in 2005 for mayor after Mayor Ray Williams' death.

There are still a few weeks left for prospective candidates to turn in the required petition with 25 signatures from city residents. The deadline is noon Jan. 15 to the Maury County Election Commission, which conducts Spring Hill elections because City Hall is on the Maury County side of the city.

In addition to the mayoral race, one alderman seat will be open in each of the city's four wards. Ward 2 Alderman Jonathan Duda has qualified to run for re-election, and newcomer Brady Knight Jr. has qualified to run in Ward 3.

Three seated aldermen have decided against seeking re-election. Vice Mayor Miles Johnson and Aldermen Domingo Gallardo and Charles Raines are giving up seats in wards 1, 3 and 4, respectively.

Duda said he realizes that it may be difficult to defend his seat, particularly because he is the board's representative on the city Planning Commission, where controversial decisions are made.

"I feel that we've taken great strides. I call it kind of an adolescent phase for the city, going from 7,000 people to 25,000 in such a short time," Duda said. "There's still a lot of work to be done, and I'd be honored to continue serving the city."

All of the Spring Hill seats are four-year terms. Those interested in running for office must be a registered voter and must have lived in the city for at least a year. Candidates in the alderman races must live in the ward they wish to represent. For more information, call the Maury County Election Commission at 931-381-4691.

Michael Dinwiddie

2008-12-01T00:21:00.007-06:00

Mayoral Candidate

Michael Dinwiddie
www.dinwiddieformayor.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire:

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

I have thoroughly enjoyed being an Alderman. It has been a great learning process and can honestly say that it is an absolute necessity for anyone wanting to serve as Mayor. I have always tried my best to represent the will of the people when I vote and I think people recognize and appreciate that. I have had dozens of people request me to run for Mayor based on various issues. At the age of 33, I ran for Mayor in 2005 because I wanted to take part in the City’s growth, but I lacked the experience necessary to be effective so it was a good thing for the City that I was not elected. Serving as an Alderman has made it clear that experience is necessary. I believe that the challenges the City faces demand this experience and it would be an honor serving this community as Mayor.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

The three greatest achievements have happened in the past two years. They are, in my opinion:

a) Discovering, taking responsibility for and correcting the past problems with the City’s finances.

In 2007, a new Board, of which I was a part of, was elected. Very shortly after that election, we were presented with the troubling discovery of the City’s financial situation. We discovered that the City had been improperly transferring funds between accounts to cover expenses. We immediately made the decision to begin correcting things and we proactively and responsibly contacted the State to obtain their guidance. By the time the State finished with their audit, we had already implemented most of their suggested solutions. We hired a Finance Administrator and we formed a Budget and Finance Committee to oversee our budget. Together they review our line-item budget monthly to monitor revenues and expenditures. Today, the Board has more financial oversight and knowledge than it ever had in the past. It is important to recognize that the current Board solved pre-existing problems rather than created them as others running for office would have you believe.

b) Road improvements (Duplex, Miles Johnson)
We recently voted to begin work on Duplex Rd. As everyone knows, this is a dangerous road and has needed widening for a long time. It is a State road which means, like Highway 31, the City has no control over widening the road (or adding traffic lights for that matter) and that can sometimes be frustrating. Most people don’t realize that the current Administration worked with the State and actually helped move the Duplex Rd improvements forward by many years! Creating Miles Johnson Parkway not only helped ease the traffic strains, it proved that the City was listening to the hundreds of residents who spoke out against widening Highway 31 through downtown. There are those running for office who have stated publicly that Highway 31 should be widened through downtown irregardless of the historic buildings. As a member of the Historic Commission, I am happy to see Miles Johnson finished so that we can protect our historic downtown landmarks.

c) Wastewater plant expansion
We have just received authorization from the State to expand the wastewater treatment plant. The plant has been operating at capacity for some time and needs to be expanded. It currently is rated to handle two million gallons per day and, after the expansion, it will be able to handle five million gallons per day. This improves our infrastructure so that, when it comes to sewer, our City can safely double in size. Our residents have been concerned that our infrastructure needs to catch up with our growth. It is this type of forward planning that not only catches up the infrastructure, but safely and adequately prepares us for future growth.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

I think that the past four years, and most certainly the past two, have been very good for the City. “Failures” might be a harsh word. No one is perfect or can be expected to perform flawlessly – especially when our City is dependant on outside forces that we have no control over. We do not live in a static environment where precise results can be reliably predicted. We can only do the best we can with the knowledge we have at the time and use our shortfalls as learning tools so that we can make better decisions for the City in the future.

a) Inter-fund transfers
Since 2007, we have done a great deal to solve many of the issues that we discovered previously existed. There is some misinformation being told to people to make things seem much worse than they really are – things like “the City squandered $12 million” stated on a radio show recently. I would be interested in seeing the proof of this accusation. Were mistakes made in the past? Yes. However, I think our actions in handling those mistakes have proven to be responsible and proactive.

b) Moving forward with Parks and Recreation
One of the biggest deficiencies our City has is a shortage of recreation for our residents. To many, parks and recreation is nothing more than a “want” instead of a “need” and we should ignore them. Some have gone so far as to say we shouldn’t have provided a Recreation Center for our residents! I disagree. Naturally, when it comes to safety, things like police and fire, safe water and sewer take priority over a park. I don’t believe anyone will die from not going to a park. But parks and recreation are a vital part of our community and to its economy. Several years ago, Bridgestone was looking to locate to Middle Tennessee. One of the reasons they did not choose Spring Hill was because we did not have enough recreation for their employees to have a good quality of life. Our City lost hundreds of jobs because we lack recreation. If we want our economy to thrive, then we will need to attract companies that can bring jobs to the area and recreation is one piece of the puzzle that makes our community attractive to those companies. So, from a safety standpoint, this may look like a “want”, but from an economic standpoint, parks and recreation is definitely a “need” and one that we need to focus on more. Once elected, I am confident that two things will happen: a) we will have a movie theater in this City and b) we will have another park for our residents to enjoy. Based on my conversations, neither of these things will entail the City spending enormous amounts of money in the purchase of land.

c) Lack of a competent or effective EDC
Our past EDC has failed the City. While businesses were looking at our City, the EDC was busy discussing how to design a website. What’s worse is that one of the City’s biggest sources of tax revenue, Kroger, left us and moved just across the city limit so that revenues generated from Spring Hill dollars now benefit another city. Our EDC did nothing to keep Kroger in Spring Hill and their only solution was for the Mayor to write a letter after it was too late. General Motors is the City’s largest employer. For several years they have operated at a third of the capacity they could. There is room in that plant to add another 4000 jobs and has been for three years. That alone would benefit our community tremendously. How many times did our EDC approached GM over the past three years to ask how they can help? According to the leadership in the plant – zero. That is completely unacceptable and I intend to have a more effective EDC in place very shortly after my election.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

Absolutely! In 2005, a hospital was one of my campaign platforms. Until that election, no one had mentioned the need for a hospital. I lost that election, but the idea lived on and we are fortunate that others continued to pursue the hospital. Largely through the help of individuals like Michael Glass and Danny Leverette who did much of the legwork, the City was able to get 10,000 people to sign a petition supporting the idea. It is unfortunate when business interests stand in the way of the health care needs of a community, but I believe that ultimately the City of Spring Hill will prevail and we will have the medical facilities that our community deserves. Attaining a hospital is not only important from a health care standpoint, but it will also bring more jobs to the area, which is going to be a priority for protecting our City’s local economy.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

I do believe the Board is adequately compensated especially when we consider the time involved for research and meetings as well as tangible expenses like celphone usage, gas, etc. The current pay is the average rate for surrounding cities in Middle TN. Council members in Brentwood make $950 per month, so we are definitely not on the high end. Since the officials have the option to accept or deny the benefits package, I believe the compensation for the value of the service is indeed adequate.

I also have concerns as to whether or not decreasing the compensation, whether it be through a reduction in pay or benefits, will deter qualified, capable individuals from serving the City.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

I do not have a problem with this. The group benefits are extended to employees and officials and each individual may reject or accept the benefits in accordance with State law.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

We are very fortunate because our City has done well during this economic downturn. Last year we had the highest increase in sales tax revenue of any other city in Williamson or Maury County. Our budget is in the black and we will hopefully be able to start rebuilding our reserve funds. We know that, eventually, the economy will turn around and our City is poised to be one of the first out of the gate when it does. One thing that I would like to focus on is bringing jobs to our City. With General Motors closing plants around the country, we have the perfect opportunity to improve our relationship with the company so that they will consider consolidating into this plant. They could put another 4,000 employees here. Those employees would not only buy some of our housing inventory, but, more importantly, would spend their money locally and increase the City’s sales tax revenues.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

Our Department Heads have done an outstanding job of keeping expenses down and cutting their budgets. The BOMA has also made it a priority to not layoff any of our employees and we have all worked together to make it work. I would rely on the advice and guidance of our Finance Administrator and our Budget and Finance Committee to make recommendations concerning any cuts. I would also like to entertain the idea of having some overlap in services. For instance, police officers could be the eyes for our public works department or public works could help the fire department in painting the hydrants. These types of things would help save the City money by conserving fuel costs and work hours.

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

I voted to re-instate the property tax, which passed almost unanimously. I don’t think anyone on the Board was “in favor” of the decision or wanted to be in the position of having to cast this vote. Hundreds of people were disappointed or angry with us and made their opinions known. Only one resident in this entire City publicly and proudly proclaimed unconditional support for this tax increase on its citizens (The Informer 7/2008). In the end, we were faced with an extreme situation – cut services or re-instate a tax.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

I do not, although I will be quick to add that this will be determined by other factors affecting our economy. We were fortunate to have The Crossings open when it did. As a result of the business generated from that area, Spring Hill’s sales tax revenues increased more than any other city in Maury or Williamson County last year. I believe that once some of our financial obligations have been met, we can be in a position to actually LOWER our taxes – especially if the sales tax base continues to grow.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I have served on the Board of Mayor and Aldermen for two years as the Ward 1 Alderman. This experience is invaluable. Anyone who decides to run for Mayor should be commended because it is admirable to be willing to sacrifice one’s time and energy in service to the public. However, it would be a good idea to learn the process of how things work as an Alderman before trying to step in and run a City. As the only candidate with any experience as an elected official, I believe I am the most qualified person in this race for the position. It would not be beneficial for the City’s residents to have a Mayor that has no experience. During the two years I have been in office, our City has done an outstanding job of correcting past issues in order to ensure that our City is well positioned for future progress.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

I have been to every BOMA meeting and every work session except one. I missed that one because of an outside work conflict that ran late. I have missed only a handful of special called meetings because, being a commercial pilot at the time, I was out of town. I have also attended various meetings held by the Historic Commission, Budget & Finance Committee, Library Board, Home Owners Associations, Maury County Commission and Maury County School Board.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Not as many as I should have. I would say between 12 – 18 work sessions and meetings. One reason for this is that I receive the minutes from these meetings every month and read through them so that I can know what was discussed. The BOMA representative to the Planning Commission, Alderman Duda, also does a good job of keeping the Board informed of Planning Commission discussion when related issues come before us.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

There is an obvious need for us to work together regionally for the betterment of the City. My focus will be on increasing the job growth in town. In the recent past, our EDC has demonstrated a lack of competence or ability to get things done for the economic well-being of our community. I envision an empowered, aggressive EDC that will take the initiative to not only recruit new corporations to the area successfully, but also work with existing companies like GM to assist in their development as well. Our EDC, working regionally, should be one of the City’s most valuable assets. It is not now and I intend to change that.

I would also like to create a couple of other Committees shortly after getting elected. The first committee would an Environmental Conservation Committee. This committee would research and discuss ways that the City could operate in a more environmentally friendly manner. From the use of alternative energies to using recyclable material, we need to be proactive in conserving our environment and utilizing more “green” technologies whenever possible and practical. Another committee that I will form is an Advisory Board to the Mayor, which will act as a round table for discussion concerning various issues and how the City can best benefit. I’ll be the first to say that I don’t have all the answers. The best solutions come from groups of people working together. This Board will comprise a wide array of backgrounds and differences so that we will have a broad spectrum of experience from which to draw.

We have a need for a Trade School in our community. I believe we can accomplish this without spending money on land or buildings. In fact, I believe everything is in place to make this happen from the State level all the way down to the property owner. We just need a Mayor who considers it important and, curiously, I have been the only candidate saying that an education opportunity like this is important.

I believe there is a need for more recreational facilities. If there is one area where we are extremely deficient, it is in recreation. I am the only candidate suggesting the importance of recreation for our families. Others would like to tell you “no” without having to worry about being re-elected (Journal 01/28/09, Williamson Herald 2/19/09). One reason that Bridgestone did not choose Spring Hill several years ago was because of a lack of recreation for their employees. I firmly believe that if I am elected, we will have some land donated for a third park. I envision this park being used as a Nature Center so that our kids can learn about Biology, Ecology and the Environment in a hands-on fashion. It could also serve as a hub for our walking trail system currently being developed. I think the Williamson County Rec Center is extremely valuable and would like to see a large complex on the south side of our City as well. I am also confident that we will have a movie theater operating in our City within my first term in office. I am proud of my involvement with the Movies in the Park program and gaining a theater for our residents is going to be a very high priority of mine.

I am the only candidate with experience. Based on comments made in past interviews, I am the only candidate with at least a base understanding of what we can and can’t do as a City and the process that we have to go through to get things done. Others want to widen Hwy 31 (through downtown, no less) or put up traffic lights on state roads or operate on a “pay as you go” basis or spend millions rebuilding downtown. I realize that these things simply can’t be done (traffic lights would have been installed years ago but the City has no control over Hwy 31) or are idealistic (how many of us paid in full, with cash for our houses). These ideas being mentioned by others are not stupid ideas. I wish things were so easy myself. But they do demonstrate a lack of knowledge and experience which is necessary for the position and I think that serving as Alderman first would be helpful to anyone desiring to serve as Mayor.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

What will you do with impact fees? Nothing. They are dependant upon a Capital Improvements Plan.
If Hwy 31 is widened through downtown, how should we protect our historic buildings? Hwy 31 should not be widened through downtown.
Will you remain in office for the full duration of your term? Yes, God willing. And I would be willing to serve another term if the people wanted me to.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?

I would like to add one commission and that is an Environmental Conservation Committee. While our City is still young, we can implement programs that would allow our City to utilize “green” technologies to conserve the environment and save our citizens money.

-Planning Commission

• Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

Currently, I am satisfied in the structure of the Planning Commission although I do think that we can discuss modifications. One modification would be to expand the Planning Commission to include elected positions. These modifications would require changes to State Law, so it will not be an easy process and ultimately may not be possible. But if there is a way that we can improve a system so that our residents benefit, then I think we should consider it.

• Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission? Currently that appointment is held by Jonathan Duda.

I will have to see who gets elected. This Board has the potential to change drastically and I would need to see who is available to choose from. If anything can be said about Alderman Duda, it’s that he does an incredible amount of research as a Planning Commissioner and his time, dedication and commitment to the City should be commended. Since Alderman Duda is currently running for re-election, it would be premature to assign his seat to someone else. If Alderman Duda were re-elected, he may want to serve in another capacity that will better benefit the needs of the City.

• Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

I do. There are some saying we should lower our impact fees to encourage development, so a brief discussion is necessary. Our Adequate Facilities Tax is tied to our Capital Improvements Plan. The AFT is not a source of revenue that we can raise or lower at will. Impact Fees must be tied to improvements to the infrastructure which are defined in the Capital Improvements Plan. When we raised the Impact Fees a few years ago, there was an associated Capital Improvements Plan amendment outlining why those fees were necessary. If the conditions for the increase have been met, then we can lower the fees. If they have not been met and we lower them, then the City would have a hard time explaining why the increase wasn’t arbitrary in the first place and might end up owing the developers their money back!

I don’t believe tough economies should be fought with Adequate Facilities Taxes. I believe we should actively and aggressively recruit new jobs to the area so that we can focus on protecting the local businesses and our sales tax revenues.

• Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

Yes I do, within reason. From my conversations with developers, they also want to do what is right for the City.

• Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

I personally don’t know that there is a need for them. I generally am not supportive of apartments located next to low density residential that is already in place unless the residents support the proposal. IF I had to determine qualities of the ideal location for an apartment complex, a couple of those qualities would be easy access to the Interstate and not bordering subdivisions that have already been built.

-Economic Development Commission • What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

This should be our number one priority. Our economy serves as the framework upon which all else is built in the City. Therefore, we should take an active interest in the survival of our local businesses and recruiting new businesses to town. Obviously, we cannot run someone’s business for them, but we can work to bring more jobs to the area. Increasing the number of people who live and work locally, will increase the amount of traffic to our local businesses. This will, in turn, increase the sales tax revenues to the City. We should also proactively engage in campaigns to make our residents aware of what happens to their money after they spend it and why it is vital that they spend their money within the City limits of Spring Hill whenever possible.

• How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

Having a Trade School in our City will be a huge asset in recruiting new businesses. Companies would be able to train, re-train or cross-train their employees locally. They would also be able to draw from a pool of trained technicians that are from the local area when they need to expand or hire more employees. Imagine how valuable a school like this would be to GM or to Tri-Star and how valuable those corporations are/will be to our community.

We also need an EDC that works. While Kroger was leaving, the only solution that I am aware of coming out of our EDC at the time was to write a letter after Kroger had already made their decision public. This is an embarrassment to our City. We need an effective EDC that will be proactive and aggressive in working with the Maury Alliance and the Williamson County EDC to attract and retain local businesses.

-Historic Commission • The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

I volunteered to serve on it, so yes I do.

• What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

Preserve and protect our historical identity, to educate others about our history and to eventually serve as a department of tourism

• In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

Ferguson Hall
Oak Lawn
The McKissack House

Note: Rippa Villa and the battlefield are not currently in the City

-Budget and Finance Committee • Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Yes.

• What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Recruiting jobs to the area so that our local businesses can survive and, in turn, the City’s sales tax base can increase.

Cindy Jobe

2008-12-01T00:20:00.005-06:00

Mayoral Candidate-

Cindy Jobe
www.cindyjobe.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Cindy Jobe has not responded in any way to the questionnaire.

Derek Merrill

2008-12-01T00:19:00.010-06:00

Mayoral Candidate

Derek Merrill
www.derekmerrillformayor.com
(615) 513-2991

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1.What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

-I’ve always had a driving desire for our city to reach its full potential - to define our city identity - to discover the heart of Spring Hill - the centering of business, government and community life.

I have met with many of you personally throughout the years about how to get positive changes implemented in our city. I’ve worked for over 14 years to build bridges to create unity in Spring Hill by trying to bring Maury and Williamson counties together for the common good. I believe I represent a bit of the “old”, and a bit of the “new”. I am not originally from this area, but I have come to respect the historic qualities of our town’s farming community and its people.
Our two boys are now men and are starting to move out on their own. I have more time to come up with creative solutions to our city’s challenges ahead.

I must admit to having grave concerns about our city’s finances and waited until many of my questions were answered by our current leadership before getting into this race for Mayor.
I have decided that what I have to offer cannot wait another four years to be implemented, it will be too late, now is my time.

2.What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

1-The formation of the Historic Commission by the current Mayor and Board of Alderman. Throughout my 14 years here in Spring Hill nothing has been more frustrating than to see the lack of proper planning concerning “land use” and “historic preservation.” The desire to work with the land instead of against it has always been an important issue with me personally. I believe, respect for history includes remembering what and WHERE an event took place. When something historically significant is gone, it’s gone for good. I strongly agree with the formation of this commission. In fact, I was a catalyst for it’s formation.

2-The current MOBA successfully approving the Future Land Use Map in October of 2008. The Future Land Use Map is further clarification of the planning and zoning regulations within the Municipal Zoning Ordinance. It is an overlay that designates what zoning will most likely be possible within our urban growth boundaries. Each area of land within the city is color coded to show the different types of future zoning potential throughout our borders.

3-The addition of Longview Recreational Facility, Harvey Park, and “sidewalk requirements” in all subdivisions within city limits. All of these have added to our quality of life here in Spring Hill.

-The approval of the Hospital (Which will bring a host of new jobs and service industry to Spring Hill)

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years?

1-Waiting too long to implement the Historic Commission and the loss of several original historic places as well as the irresponsible approval of strip malls within historic “Old Town.”

2-The reinstatement of Spring Hill City Taxes causing a 3.9 m dollar deficit.

3-Not having enough Master Planning in place to hedge over building on the Williamson County side of Spring Hill. (Which extends back even further than the current Mayor and Board of Alderman)

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

I am in support of the Hospital. My wife Tara and I were happy to work along side my running mates to rally the support needed for the monumental task of getting over 10,000 signatures together.

The bottom line on this issue is that we need this hospital in Spring Hill. We need emergency services within our own city limits and not treated as a “second responder city” from both Maury and Williamson counties.
5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

-With the exponential growth of the city and the necessary oversight the past 10 years, I’ve heard many say that the task of being the Mayor or on the Board of Alderman is “full time work with part time pay.” This is something that could also be looked at by an independent study done by MTAS showing where our city officials fall in comparison to other municipalities. ¬-The Mayoral compensation package could be included in this MTAS study as well. My feelings are that if the city needs a full time Mayor they would need to pay full time wages.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

-I find this to be fair considering how much time is vested on the part of everyone on the MOBA.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

-Our biggest source of increased revenues will continue to be from the commercial sector of the marketplace. We must continue to provide open negotiations with commercial investors looking to open up here in Spring Hill. I have heard for many years and have seen recently a desire for a weekly Farmers Market located within historic “Old Town.” Working in conjunction with the Tennessee Children’s Home “street side market on Main” would be a great. This would help promote locally grown organic produce and give businesses a boost as well. The Franklin Farmers Market leadership is willing to help us as well. This is being done on a smaller scale at Utopia Café on Sundays and should continue to be supported.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

-I would start at the top with the most expensive budget items we have starting with Police, then Fire, then the General Fund, continuing to moving down the list asking ALL departments for cohesive and innovative input without compromising any necessary services. Many of the best suggestions will come from inside each department.
9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

-“Yes” and “No”. Yes, because we must have enough money to fully fund our city services. No, because like everyone else, the new city tax came at a terrible time!

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

-No. With the economy as unstable as it is right now we must be careful not to over burden our businesses or the citizens of Spring Hill.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

-Since moving here in 1995, I have been a successful Realtor, Developer and restaurant owner. I served on the Merchants of Spring Hill, the original Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and most recently, concluded four years of service on the Spring Hill Arts Center Board.

I helped formulate the new Visual Arts Guild and was a catalyst for the newly formed Spring Hill Historic Commission.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

-Under five times or so in the last 2 years. Many times prior to this with my own subdivisions and restaurant approvals prior to 2007.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

-Under five times within the last two years. Many times prior to 2007.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I believe we need to discover the Heart of Spring Hill. We have no town square or focal point to call home. We are a city geographically disconnected and fragmented. We have been known as the ‘step child from the north’ and ‘snob hill from the south’. We can change this image, by continuing to work together in our Comprehensive Master Plan design. This plan needs to reflect the long time desire of the people of Spring Hill to be one of the healthiest and “green” environmentally-friendly cities in the country.

If we can blend our rich Civil War history with our agricultural roots and incorporate the Commercial sector into this, we will be headed in the right direction. There is also a need for well thought out thematic designs that reflect our history encouraging “old world” (Historic Reproduction) construction, making a strong statement that recalls where we have come from and proclaims where we are going.

This successful long range plan must include a unified location, involving the voice of the people, for a future Town Center of Spring Hill. Done correctly, this Comprehensive Master Plan would set us apart from other cities in our area and make us a “model city” for other small towns. The heart of Spring Hill can only be discovered in the people, the places, and the business owners who live here.

I believe in the biblical principal that “Without a vision, the people perish.” Proverbs 29:18. Without a strong vision for our future, we will be at the mercy of all incoming development. We do not want to be just another city full of strip malls. We have already made too many of those compromises already! We can do better.

For many years, I have been aware of both the need and demand for a weekly Farmers Market located within historic “Old Town.” Working in conjunction with the Tennessee Children’s Home small “street side market on Main” would be a great. This would help promote locally grown organic produce and give businesses a boost as well. This has been done on a smaller scale at Utopia Café on Sundays and should continue to be supported.

Spring Hill was named for its water sources: “Springs on the Hill.” I would like to see more water features celebrated throughout the city, with waterfalls and fountains in as many places as possible. Encouraging developers to use retention areas with fountains wherever possible within MS4 compliance must be strongly recommended.

A commercial Riverwalk utilizing both McCutcheons and Rutherford Creeks along the existing walking trail noted on the Future Land Use Map from Port Royal and Kedron road is also possible. Done correctly, this could bring in a lot more business interest including the possibility of future convention business, making us more than just a “quaint small town,” but rather a destination city.

I would also love to see an area set aside to host ‘old fashioned outdoor Rodeos’ again with enough parking to give the current 4-H and Rotary Club Horse Shows a bit more space as well. Evans Park is too small, although it’s a wonderful place for families to go. Carriage rides through certain parts of Old Town, The children’s home, Sweet Springs Victorian Village and the Spring Hill Battlefield areas could be done as well.

A Performing Arts Center large enough to have full scale musical and dance presentations, as well as classrooms and a Visual Arts Gallery are in negotiations right now.

Art sculptures and other artistic expressions can capture historic events and memories that forever preserve our rich civil war and southern influence. The many talented artists represented here in Spring Hill could enhance Historic Old Town and elsewhere to forever remind generations to come of the important places and events that make us Spring Hill.

What about a “Dinner Train” from Carters Creek Station in Neapolis to Nashville for a night at the Grand Ole Opry? We could cooperate with both Columbia and Thompsons Station in this effort to mutually increase popularity and overall cost.

Without a “Long Term Vision” none of these things will be possible. Join with me!

15.If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

1) Where is the Heart of Spring Hill? 2) Do you think the citizens of Spring Hill really think we care about them, and why? 3) What do I have planned to help local business owners succeed?

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?

With all honesty, I believe they are just getting started and have a long way to go……but it’s a great start!

-Planning Commission * Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

The current Mayor and Board of Alderman (MBOA) successfully approved what is called the Future Land Use Map in October of 2008.

The Future Land Use Map is further clarification of the planning and zoning regulations within the Municipal Zoning Ordinance. It is an overlay that designates what zoning will most likely be possible within our urban growth boundaries. Each area of land within the city is color coded to show the different types of future zoning potential throughout our borders.

There is an immediate need for the city of Spring Hill to move ahead with a Comprehensive Master Plan. This vital detailed plan can be compared to the “blue prints” of what and where things should be built on that land (based on well thought out vision planning and design) and must include respect and cooperation of individual land owners. NOW is the time to act, to put in place a Comprehensive Master Plan that is determined and deliberate.

The current economic slow down is a blessing in disguise for Spring Hill. We have one chance while the market is taking a bit of a nap…..to solidify our future. We must consider what we want our city to look like in 10, 15, even 20 years from now. We must also be able to give incoming developers a better idea of what is needed within our city’s master plan “up front” before thousands of dollars have been spent on concept drawings only to be later denied because there was insufficient master planning in place to help guide us.

If elected, I would like to spend the first year of my term involving the citizens of Spring Hill in “Vision 20/20”, a program that will produce a consensus of innovative input setting us on course for being one of the best, well thought-out cities in the nation!
I believe that I am the best and most qualified candidate to carry out this Comprehensive Master Plan for the city of Spring Hill. There is still much to be done.

*Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission? Currently that appointment is held by Jonathan Duda.

-I think Jonathan Duda is the man for the job. Jonathan has tried to listen to the voice of the people in our community and try to get things implemented since being on the Board of Alderman. Having him serve on the Planning Commission keeps that balance between what CAN be done opposed to carrying out what SHOULD be done.

*Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

I do believe that we need to hold out on any increases regarding our impact fees to sustain and encourage the commercial investments being made in out city at this present time.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

-I do believe it to be the responsibility of incoming developers to provide infrastructure and road improvements that are necessary within the project they desire to build. However, sometimes it going to be to the advantage of the city to negotiate with representatives in order to accommodate both parties. Keeping in mind that when the projects are completed and the final paving of the roads take place it will then be taken over by the city for any upkeep or future maintenance. Short Term cost is the developers and Long Term cost is usually the city’s responsibility.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

This question was not answered.

-Economic Development Commission * What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

- The (EDC) of the city needs to be committed to serving the local business owners of our town “first” and then assisting incoming businesses. During these trying times it is especially important to bring awareness to city hall of major concerns facing ALL our business men and women.

I would like to introduce The Spring Hill Business Vote, a vehicle allowing local business owners a voice in city hall on economic decisions and ideas concerning their business.

Currently, the majority of our businesses are owned by out-of-town, non-voters. This vehicle would not be implemented to replace the local citizens’ “power of the people” but will instead, enhance connectivity and ultimately improve our community spirit. I believe this will also stimulate innovation and encourage a much higher success rate among our hometown business owners.

I plan on working closely with the Spring Hill Chamber Board and other business-related organizations, which are directly in touch with the pulse and at the heart of our local business conditions. I would like to personally be in regular communication with a representative of the Spring Hill Chamber or other liaisons. This has been a strong desire of mine and often a missing element to many of our past decisions.

As Mayor, I would also work closely with both the Williamson County Chamber and Maury County Alliance. The time for commercial development has finally come to Spring Hill. I look forward to the endless possibilities for this sector of the marketplace.

I would like to launch a statewide, “Why You Should Consider Spring Hill” campaign. One of the best ways to bring in more jobs is to be able to market our innovative and cutting edge Comprehensive Master Plan. When individuals and corporations see our “Clean and Green” approach to the future and the quality of life planned throughout this city, I believe they will want to be a part of it!

As a businessman for over 14 years here in Spring Hill, I have felt first-hand, the joys and sorrows of the real estate market as well as in the restaurant industry.

“I believe larger companies will act as Anchor Corporations within our city’s Comprehensive Master Plan and that Small Business ownership will further define the Heart of our city.”

-Historic Commission *The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

-Throughout my years here in Spring Hill nothing has been more frustrating than to see the lack of proper planning concerning “land use” and “historic preservation.” The desire to work with the land instead of against it has always been an important issue with me personally. I believe, respect for history includes remembering of what and WHERE an event took place. When something historically significant is gone, it’s gone for good. I strongly agree with the formation of this commission. In fact, I was a catalyst for it’s formation. Just to jog your memory…you may remember the “Star Pointer House” formerly in front of the Lowe’s on Highway 31? Well, it had to be moved or it was going to be demolished to make way for a parking lot. I helped in saving this house….it should never have been moved!

It was learned that the National Historic Society cannot do anything about local governmental decisions regarding historically significant properties, even if they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each local municipality must form it’s own Historic Commission to decide how they will handle their own historic preservation. The formation of this commission came out of this situation and I am happy that it has finally been implemented.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

-This commission should be the voice of the people of our town concerning what is considered to be historically significant and help to restore and forever preserve these places. (Including assistance with Historic Restoration) *In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city? -Number one on my list would be “Historic Old Town.” It’s small, but it is all we have that has survived the fires and tornadoes!!! We must make every effort to restore and preserve our newly designated Historic District. -The next site would be the “Spring Hill Battlefield” on Kedron Road across from the hospital and next to “Jefferey’s Grill.” I would love to see horse and buggy rides from Old Town through Tennessee Children’s Home, Sweet Springs Village and the Spring Hill Battlefield areas. -The third site would be the Tennessee Children’s Home and “Furgesson Hall.” Our city comes together every year for the Spring Hill Country Ham Festival and seems to be connecting through this central Hometown location. Alternate third choice: “Rippavilla Plantation” across from the General Motors Manufacturing plant. ( Which is not yet in the city. )

-Budget and Finance Committee Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

I do believe that the current Mayor and board of Alderman have done a pretty good job of making sure that the General public has been made aware of the financial condition we are currently facing. As far as being transparent about the progress we are making; I have reviewed the existing financial recovery plan with Jim Smith our city finance director and I am confident that we are on the right track.

Our city’s $3.9m short fall has been set up on a five-year pay back plan at $800,000 per year. This is paid for from the new city tax and local sales tax revenues. This five-year plan could be shortened if our commercial sector continues to grow and remain healthy.

The Municipal Technical Advisory Service(MTAS ) has offered to assist in the hiring of the new city administrator which I believe is a viable option to insure longevity in this very important position.

Within our city’s long range plans both Waste Water and Water Treatment expansion projects are needed to keep ahead of our infrastructure needs. The cost of the Waste Water expansion project is estimated $15-20 million dollars which will be paid back on a 20-year plan at a cost of $1m per year paid for by existing city water and sewer bills.

It is possible that Spring Hill’s Water Treatment expansion project can be aided by purchasing treated water from Columbia Power and Water until we have built up enough reserves to cover this cost. A past agreement was made with the (CPW) to purchase Treated Water and the agreement was cut short by the completion of our existing water treatment facility. This may be a viable option for us to consider again.

The other financial commitment we have right now is to pay back a $2.5m loan that was taken out for road maintenance and improvement projects throughout the city this past year. This loan will be paid back from the gas and motor fuel tax funds.

I have met with almost all of the Board of Alderman candidates and am confident that any line item adjustments or unnecessary spending will cut from the budget based on a consensus within MBOA members and other departmental head recommendations.

Les Cleveland

2008-12-01T00:18:00.007-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Les Cleveland
lescleve@bellsouth.net
(615) 330-8639

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

There was not one event. I have been a resident for 7 years and I am very interested in what is going on in Spring Hill. I now have the time available to devote to the Board of Mayor and Alderman.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-The opening of new businesses. There are now several places to shop and eat in Spring Hill withought traveling to Cool Springs. The new businesses also provide jobs.

-Citizen involvment. People are now organizing and expressing themselves. These include the Spring Hill Hospital citizen effors, the formation of the historical commission, and zoning change input. When people get involved, better decisions are made.

-Ambulance Contract. This is truly a life and death issue. Response time is better and the contract reflects a needed solution to a city that is located in 2 counties.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-Doing away with the city property tax. There is a need for citizens to pay some taxes to support city cervices. The tax rate was .19 then 0 and now .60. Changing the tax rate has lead to higher taxes and less revenue. Some of the financial problems might have been avoided, if the tax rate would have remained at a moderate level.

-Failure to develop an adequate reserve funds. This is related to number 1. When time were good the city could have put more money in a reserve fund for roads. A road reserve fund might have avoided part or all of the money borrowed for paving roads.

-Instability in the City Administrator position. After Mr. York's resignation, we found out about some of the financial problems. Then a new City Administrator was hired and allowed a few months to move to Spring Hill and then decided not to move and resigned. Now the city is again looking for a City Administrator. This is a very important position since that person is responsible for the day to day running of the city. Thank goodness for Mr. Smith is filling in as the Acting Administrator.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

I support the Hospital coming to our city. As a community of 25,000 and growing we will need the health care facilities. In addition, the hospital and developments related to the hospital will provide jobs.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

I think the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated. In fact, there are numerous cities around the county where aldermen receive significantly less that $450 a month. This may have to be looked at in light of some of the reductions in expenses that are being asked of other departments in Spring Hill.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

I do not feel that alderman should be included in the medical insureance plan free of charge. This is a very generous benefit.

7.In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

I do not believe that we should seek additional income streams. We need to balance the budget with current revenue.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

I think the process for cutting city expenses is the important part of where we cut. If we need to cut the budget, department heads should determine where those cuts should be made. The department heads,with the City Administrator talk to the Finance Committee (composed of Aldermen) and provide rationale for those cuts. Then if any changes need to be made they can be made at this time and ultimately approved by the Board. We have to respect the process and get input from all concerned, including citizens.

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

Yes. Spring Hill needs a city property tax. The tax should not have been eliminated a few years ago. The tax might not be at the level it is today if the tax would not have been eliminated a few years ago.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

No. I do not believe that we need at tax increase.

11. What experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

As a former urban planner, I have worked with numerous citites and regional goverments on tranportation and land use issues. I coordinated a major committee to address environmental issues in a large urban area in Illinois which involved working with the Chamber, major businesses and environmental groups. In addition I prepared the regional list of funded highway projects. I served on a Planning Commission in Illinois in a rapidly growing area which dealt with many of the type of issues that confront Spring Hill. As a 7 year Spring Hill resident I have studied the issues and seen the changes taking place in Spring Hill and I am well suited to help lead of those issues.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

6

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

3

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I believe it is important to respect and work well with the Board of Mayor and Alderman, city employees, and the various commissions and committees. As an example, to find out about the financial issues facing the city, I attended the finance committee meetings and saw the Aldermen, acting Administrator and city department heads discussing budget information and providing citizen response time. It is so easy to criticize the financial decisions made by Aldermen, but I want to provide leadership to work with the Finance Committee, Department Heads, and the Board to make good, well thought out financial decisions. This applies to other committees and commissions as well. The Board needs to examine the committee and commission structure and responsibilities and possibly add citizens and evaluate how the committees and commisssions report to the Board.

I also believe it is important for governments at all levels to be as open and transparent as possible to all Spring Hill residents. I believe that all budget information should be placed on the web and a summary of budget information should be reviewed every month at a Board meeting. Better decisions are made when citizens are involved and have access to as much information as possible.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

What do you think of the job the finance committee is doing? They are doing a good job of reviewing budgets and setting an example of a good procedure to follow in preparing budget information for the Board.

How should the city fund roads? The city should make the Department of Transportation aware of the needs for roads in Spring Hill and make sure a needed projects are placed on the transportation improvement plan. For city roads, the city should pursue developments which are able to provide road improvements as part of the project. A reserve fund for roads should also be a priority.

How would you handle a citizen group that demands that you as alderman oppose a rezoning request before tbefore the Plan Commission has made a decision? I will respond with informing the citizen group about the importance of voicing their concerns initially to the Plan Commission. However, I will not take a stand on the developement until the Plan Commission has made a decision. The Plan Commission is able to pull together detailed information which may address citizen concerns and will provide the alderman with better information.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?

-Planning Commission

* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

I would expand the Commission to include additional citizens.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission? Currently that appointment is held by Jonathan Duda.

I would recommend that Jonathan Duda continue as the Member.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

I do not want to raise any taxes that support the general fund.
* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

Yes.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

Yes, if the buildings are part of a well conceived development and the Board ensures that the development will add amenities such as roads that will make the development an asset to the community. I believe that areas zoned for apartments in the current City Master Land Use Plan is adequate. However, this has to be constantly reviewed. For example, the Board has not approved the plan until Maury County completes their study. This was a good idea. Building locations and zoning concerning aprtments has to be reviewed frequently.

-Economic Development Commission * What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

The city needs to provide the land and infrastructure information and appropriate zoning to attract economic development.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

We should make sure that a parcel of land large enough is zoned for this use and show how the growth in the city will support heavy use of a facility.

-Historic Commission * The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Yes

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

Promote preservation of historic areas and development which enhances the historical nature of these areas.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

Mr. Cleveland did not answer this question.

-Budget and Finance Committee * Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Yes, the budget and finance committee is doing a good job of reviewing the budget line by line.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

With the exception of local sales tax, other revenues are falling rather dramatically. The city will need to bring expenses in line with revenue.

Chester Darden

2008-12-01T00:17:00.004-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Chester Darden
615-302-3069

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Chester Darden has not responded in any way to the questionnaire.

Keith Davis

2008-12-01T00:16:00.005-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Keith Davis
kdavis_504@charter.net

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Keith Davis has responded to the questionnaire.

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

• The fact that Miles Johnson was retiring after many years of service to our community.
• The need for more Parks and recreation facilities to keep our kids off the streets.
• The need to move into a greener and more sustainable community for the future.
• The need to help find an alternative means of funding instead of just relying on appropriated funding.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

• The growth in residential development in most corners of the City. – This has helped our city to continue to grow in population, which brings more tax revenue in for the city to operate, and it allows us to diversify our community as well.
• The growth of Retail and business development has given the citizens of Spring Hill the option to keep their dollars spent in the community instead of going to Franklin or Columbia.
• The addition of Harvey Park to give our kids and families somewhere to go to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Spring Hill – There needs to be more places like this. Our kids and families need to be spending time together outside, away from the computers, TVs, and video games.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

• The only failure I see at this point is the financial situation our city is in due to poor management and lack of resourceful knowledge. – The fact that the property tax has come back to the city at a larger number, simply states it should have never been eliminated in the first place. Before that was done, I don’t believe I had one Alderman or the Mayor come to my door step, my mail box, or my phone to ask me what I thought was the right thing to do. We hear from the elected officials during the election phase, and never again unless we go to them for a town meeting. That has to change.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

• I do, and simply because I have a son, and the thought of it taking me 20 to 30 minutes to get him urgent care if God forbid anything would happen, I could never forgive myself. We need to continue to grow Spring Hill so that we can rely on our community to care of and support one another.

4. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

• You should hold this office or the office of Mayor because you care about the community, and nothing more.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

• You should hold this office or the office of Mayor because you care about the community, and nothing more….

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

• One of my biggest platforms is to challenge the city to find a Grant Writer to go after State and Federal funding that other cities are getting for all types of projects simply because they have found, reviewed, and filed the paperwork needed. There is money out there for Recycling programs, park and recreations, energy efficient programs, tree planting programs, community litter programs, fire and safety, neighborhood watch, safe zones for kids and on and on. We cannot continue to rely on a budget. The state constitution mandates that we have a balanced budget, but that does not mean that the budget is always followed.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

• This is a question for the current administration. Once in office, I can become more familiar with where and how the money is appropriated. It would be reckless for me or anyone else to comment on this without knowing ALL the facts.

8. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

• I was never asked if I was in favor of removing it…….. Look, we had a great deal with the previous property tax, and it should have never gone away. Again, the citizens should have had more of an opportunity to voice their opinions then, and ask their questions then. Now we are paying the price with an inflated property tax to make sure for a poor decision, and one that was made without the voice of the City being heard.

9. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

No, there are other means of adding funding for projects. The city needs a Grant writer.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?
• I have been in executive management for many years. My jobs have always brought me to the top by leading and motivating those around me to be bigger and better than they could ever imagine. I have also been coaching in the Youth Football League for three years, and that coupled with my past football experience has enabled me to teach and lead young boys in a game of football by instilling in them faith, honor, and integrity in all that they do. I believe we must all take stock in our self worth, and decide if we are doing all we can for our family and community. I am not a politician, nor do I think I have all the answers. I have and use the ability to listen to people, and make sure I have most if not all of the facts before I make a determination. When I have to make tough calls, I want to know that I will be able to sleep at night knowing I made the best call possible based on the information available to me.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

• Less than six.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

• None

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

• I am a leader. Bottom line, I get things done. I am a believer that you are only as strong as your weakest person, therefore you must make sure that your team is ready from top to bottom. Life is never fair, and we have to make sure we are held accountable for our actions, good or bad. I still believe in hard work and dedication is how you make something for yourself. That is the backbone of our country, and it seems we have lost that along the way. Too many people want to be given a hand out instead of a hand up, and it starts in our community. We have to challenge ourselves to find new and better ways to do things. We cannot continue to fall into the shadows of “how it was done in the past”. We have to have clear precise leadership to bring us to the front, and have people in other communities take notice. Spring Hill is a great place to live and to raise a family, but we have to have leadership that is dedicated to keeping our great citizens here to shop, rest, and play.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them? I will actually attempt to get those questions answered.

• This is not a debate. Everyone has had a chance to read or listen to one another. The only question I have is how committed are you if you are elected? I am a strong believer that our elected officials owe the voters more than what we have ever received. Meaning, once in office, we have to make sure we are out in our community asking the opinions of the voters on the very same issues they have elected us to represent them on. As stated before, in my six years here, I have never had a Mayor or Alderman ask me what I thought about any issue that they had to vote on…. To me, that is unacceptable, and it has to change. I am sure some do it, but this should be a standard practice. We expect the city to come to us at board meeting, but yet we do not mind going to the citizens when we are looking for votes!

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?
-Planning Commission
* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

I would need to have more details in order to answer.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission?

I feel Jonathan does a fine job, and I look forward to working with him.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

Need more information in order to respond appropriately.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

To a degree, but the State controls so much of what can and cannot be done. There needs to be more information shared in order to make this a fair assessment.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

I believe we already have apartment buildings in Spring Hill. I do not see a need for morhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gife. We need to promote home buying and continue to build that revenue.

-Economic Development Commission
* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

Promote. Promote. Promote. We have to make sure people know who we are and what we stand for. There is no short fall of people wanting to move to Spring Hill. I think within 5 years we will be looking at 45,0000 plus in our great city. We have to continue to promote our city for future residents and businesses alike.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

Promote. Promote. Promote! Same as above. There was a time when Spring Hill was known as the “Home of Saturn”, and we no longer have that. We need to do a better job of promoting our city.

I stated this in another questionnaire: A city the size of Spring Hill must maximize its economic development opportunities. I would like to see the City examine the potential use of incentive programs such as Tax Increment Financing (TIF) or Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) as a means of promoting the appropriate projects.

I would also like to see an increase in the support given to the Economic Development Commission so that it can continue to pursue new opportunities.

-Historic Commission
The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Sure I do. The history of our great city is well known, and we need to continue to preserve it.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

They preserve and document any and all historical findings concerning our city.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

I will get with the historical committee, and get back to you.  -

-Budget and Finance Committee
* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Pleased would not be the correct wording. I feel better today than I did 6 months ago. There is still much to be done to bridge the gap that has been created though. That starts with us getting out into the community more often, and getting people updated more than we have ever before. Information is vital, and it is the foundation that can either withstand any test, or crumble your world to the core. It all depends on how you decide to approach it.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Sustaining in these more difficult times is something we all have look at as a huge challenge for the coming year. From our own homes and finances, to our city, state, and country. We are at a time in our lives where how we handle this adversity is defining who we really are as a generation. We have to look this thing in the eye and beat it back down. We cannot allow the voice of the media to tell us when to spend or not spend, when to build or not build, or when to save and not save. We have to be good stewards of what we have, and stop relying on others to “make it okay”. We have to be responsible for our actions, good and bad. That is why we must move forward with getting a Grant Writer on staff to allow us opportunities—not to be strapped to a government budget, and not to rely on the city’s budget for our every need and want. Growth will continue in Spring Hill, and with the right leadership the revenues will increase with that, but we have to be smart in how we manage that revenue going forward.

Matt Kirchner

2008-12-01T00:15:00.003-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Matt Kirchner
mattkirchner@live.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Matt Kirchner has not responded to the questionnaire.

Daniel Rolfson

2008-12-01T00:14:00.004-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Daniel Rolfson
Danrolfson1@charter.net
(615) 268-3117

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

Prayer and many discussions with my wife on the best way we believe our family could help our city.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

(1) Economic development (the crossing center). The additional tax base and jobs from this project will last for many years. (2) Building of new schools. With the rapid growth of our city it is crucial to keep up school construction. (3) Lowering the property tax for home owners. This could be great for marketing our city to new home owners and it's always helpful to keep taxes as low as possible for families.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

(1) Raising the property taxes for home owners. I believe raising taxes should always be a last resort. (2) The budget issues of last year. Government should set the standard for fiscal efficiency and responsibility. (3) Getting behind on infrastructure. Roads, middle school for the Maury County side, should be further ahead as they are and can slow down many aspects of a growing city if not corrected.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?
Answer: YES! Any city of this size should have a local hospital (even if small) for safety of our citizens. Also, the added tax base and jobs would be a huge help and boost to our city.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

Yes they are adequately compensated. I consider this opportunity as a chance to give back and serve...not to earn a wage.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

I have to pay for insurance for my family where I work. I believe it could be the same for any elected officials.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

Focus on continuing economic development. Marketing our city as the place for businesses to call home I believe is the key. This should be done without infringing in our green spaces or our home owners/developments. Also, we must look at every city expense to ensure it is necessary for our cities infrastructure and safety. After that, we may have to "tighten the belt". Our family recently had a 40% reduction in my pay due to our companies downsizing. We had to trim many aspects of our budget and look for extra short term incoming streams to keep our budget going.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

As an operations manager for decades I have managed and had to make these tough and crucial evaluations in good fiscal times and down turns. First, we must look at any/all opportunities to increase efficiency or reduce expenses in each and every department. This can be done by a top to bottom evaluation and training for all city departments. Second, we must look at payroll to look for opportunities to reduce expenses. This should be done annually regardless of any budget shortfall. We are talking about our citizens money not ours...we are stewards of it and should never be careless with any expenditures in the budget. I have done this consistently over the past decade and believe I have the experience and fresh ideas to help the city in this area.

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

NO!

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

NO. We must look at bringing in new revenue through economic development first and decreasing expenses or increasing efficiency next. The last resort should be tax increases.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I have been the vice president of operations for the last two companies I have worked for in the past 6 years. I have made decisions and managed expansions of new branches, managed and led the operations department staff, managed and created the budgets, implemented policies and procedures, and coordinated and led the training of the operational staff of the companies.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Not as many as I had hoped to attend. Until recently, I had a working schedule that made it very difficult to attend many on Monday evenings. Fortunately, my new schedule has allowed me and will allow me to be fully committed to these meetings. I have always read the minutes and kept up through the city website.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Unfortunately none.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

Over the last 6 years I have worked for a company that owned many franchised ice cream stores and for a company that is in the rental business in commercial construction. In both of these industries I have had the opportunity to coordinate the expansion, planning, and implementation of new stores or branches. This requires critical thinking, forecasting, research, and evaluating trends that would affect the future expansion or growth. I have many ideas and qualities in this area and look forward to listening and working with other leaders in this crucial an necessary commission.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

What is you definition of integrity? What or who do you look to when making tough or unpopular decisions? What are the 3 main purposes or priorities of our city government?

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?
-Planning Commission

- Having a more comprehensive vision (short term and projecting out 10+ years) of creating a city center. Planning for the future heart/downtown of Spring Hill.

* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

I don't have enough knowledge or interaction with the commission at this time to answer this question either way.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission? Currently that appointment is held by Jonathan Duda.

At this point, I couldn't say due to the pending election. I would recommend someone that has a heart for vision and looking for continued growth of our city.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

I would need to research this further before answering.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

For a decision as important as this, I don't think it would be wise to pre-judge all situations for developments and infrastructure improvements. I would address each situation as they arise. Generally, I believe that if a development is created for the purpose and benefit of only certain individuals (such as a residential development) I believe it may be wise for the developer to pay for infrastructure improvements. If the developing is created for the benefit of the public (like a commercial or retail development) it may wise for the city to be responsible for the infrastructure improvements. Again, I would need to address each situation as there are many issues and circumstances that affect decisions on where the responsibility lies for improvements.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

As this time, I don't believe it is a need. In the future, it may be a need and if so, possibly near the future home of the hospital as the new jobs and citizens working at the hospital may need that adequate and affordable housing.

-Economic Development Commission * What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

Marketing and attracting them to our city. Ensuring the new businesses would enhance our city with there services and/or attracting great jobs.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

Creatively marketing to business developers and educational institutions. This can be done by Internet marketing, inexpensive gorilla marketing (in conjunction with our leaders and the Chamber of Commerce), and our city could host our own economic development fair (similar to a recruiting or job fair). Once these businesses see what our city has to offer, I am confident they would want to set up shop in Spring Hill. These are just a few ideas to get off the ground.

-Historic Commission * The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Yes.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

To keep the historical integrity and landmarks for future generations.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

Spring Hill Battlefield, Rippavilla Plantation, Grace Episcopal Church

-Budget and Finance Committee * Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

No.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Lower tax revenue from the Williamson County side and lowered tax revenue from slower residential home growth.

Laurie Sterling

2008-12-01T00:13:00.004-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Laurie Sterling
laurie.sterling@live.com
(615) 513-4958

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

Without a doubt, the recent presidential election confirmed to me how important it is for people to be involved in their local government. It is amazing to me that people will vote for someone or some legislation that they have not bothered to research completely.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

Number one would have to be my wonderful family and I moving here!!! More seriously though, the growth has been amazing. All of the single family homes that have been built help to keep Spring Hill a family friendly city. Bringing major retailers to our city is an added convenience and job creator. The new businesses help to keep sales tax dollars in our town and not diverted to Franklin or Columbia. The recreation center has given families and community a healthy place to go to connect.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

One of our greatest achievements has also, unfortunately, been one of our greatest failures. That is the infrastructure falling behind the growth. Homes were being built so quickly that roads were not able to accommodate traffic. Certain roads, like Duplex need widening and that work is just beginning. We still need more traffic lights at dangerous intersections. I know that many citizens are concerned with the way the city’s finances were not properly accounted for. This obviously needs to change. The people deserve full accountability from their elected officials. While supporting growth, it saddens me to see much of our farms being sold to build homes. I think we tend to forget that the rural aspect of our town is part of its charm. I want to see some of the open space that we have left preserved either with parks, nature preserves, or community gardens.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

I think a hospital will be a wonderful addition to our city. It will provide many jobs, but more importantly, it will give our residents peace of mind that emergency health care is close by.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

I think that the compensation should be commensurate with hours put into the positions. On paper, it looks like the aldermen attend a couple of meetings per month and therefore, their current compensation is adequate. I haven’t served as an alderman yet, but judging by even a campaign, I’ve put many hours into preparation. If the board decides that the mayor or alderman should be turned into full time positions and the money is there for that, then we should reconsider compensation at that time.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

Based on my former answer, it all depends on the amount of time one puts into the job. If one puts in full time work, I don’t see a problem with receiving full time benefits.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

We need to work with UAW to keep our current GM plant open and operating. We need to work with state officials to ensure that those jobs stay here. The hospital will bring more families and jobs into our community. I would encourage people to spend their money in our town, to eat at our local restaurants and shop at our local stores. This will build sales tax revenue.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

I would have to work with the budget and finance committee and look at each expenditure, then break down each one to find more affordable alternatives.
9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

I am in favor of the people having more of an input on that issue. I would like to see the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights, which was passed in 2003 be brought back and upheld by city officials.
10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

I hope we don’t have to increase taxes. If we do, however, it should be a decision supported by a majority of the city’s voters.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I am a licensed teacher in the states of Tennessee and California. As a first grade teacher, I successfully managed my class as their chief executive officer. To be a successful teacher, one must be able to multi-task and understand each students’ needs, all while being accountable to the administration and parents. In California, I taught in a low performing school district which allowed me to work in a Title One school. This enabled me to understand the role that government can have in our educational system, for better or worse. My teaching experience gives me unique insight into our educational system. I will bring that experience into my position as alderman if I am elected. Working as a realtor has given me the opportunity to talk to the people of Spring Hill and understand what concerns they have about the community.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Fewer than I will if I am elected. If elected, I will attend all of them.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Same as above.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I am a very opinionated person that some may call passionate. I fight for what I believe in and I believe in people. I am very outgoing and people know me wherever I go. People feel comfortable around me and I do my best to convey to them that I care. I love politics and keep up with what’s happening, not just on a local level, but on the national and international level.

Most importantly, I love the City of Spring Hill. That may sound like a cliché but it’s true. I see a town with incredible people and incredible potential. I see a town rich in history and community. I plan to represent this town with honor and dignity. I won’t sell our town to the highest bidder. I will do what’s best for the town and its people.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

Why were some of you not forthcoming in your involvement with the ReFS, especially with regard to the event at Longview? My answer: As a candidate in this election, I found it perplexing that others were not transparent with regard to their affiliations with this and associated groups (i.e. fixspringhillnow.com, gorillainthecorner, etc,.) While I have agreed to speak at the Longview forum, I feel that I have been put into somewhat of an uncomfortable position of having to offer a disclaimer. I think that the candidates who are affiliated with any of these groups or any sponsors of this event, need to come forward and disclose their affiliations. I don’t think we should be running our city’s elections with any type of anonymity. At the very least, this situation has caused confusion and voters (and candidates) need clarity.

What are your political affiliations? My answer: I don’t belong to any PAC’s or any of the above mentioned groups.

Are there any conflicts of interests or perceived conflicts of interests that may interfere with your representation of the people? My answer: Some may think that my real estate background might cause me to be more sympathetic to builders, etc,. I assure you, I will always put my community’s needs before my own.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions? -Planning Commission * Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

When plans are made for building projects, I would hope that the aesthetics of the city are preserved, especially regarding the natural beauty of our town. It is important that the planning commission work closely with the historical commission to ensure preservation of our historical monuments.

· Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission? Currently that appointment is held by Jonathan Duda.

I have heard Alderman Duda speak at meetings and I am very impressed with his knowledge of the city. He is very detailed and doesn’t seem to let anything slip through the cracks. I support Jonathan Duda for Alderman and for the board.

· Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

That could be something looked into in the future. We may have to consider a proposal to raise it if things worsen economically.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

If their developments directly affect roads and infrastructure they should be at least partially responsible for those needed improvements.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

We currently have some near Port Royal and there are current proposals to build more. I am not opposed to building some apartments, as long as infrastructure supports them. I would have to look at the city’s master plan to give you a more detailed answer of where they should be. I like the idea of keeping our city focused on single family residences, but a few more apartment buildings would undoubtedly provide for a growing need, especially in these tough economic times.

Economic Development Commission What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

The city plays an important role in economic development. We need to work to bring commerce into our city and keep it here. Our citizens can help in this role by patronizing our local businesses.

*How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

Once we rebuild our reserves, I would love to see a community college in Spring Hill. As far as attracting businesses, we can start at home by taking care of our local fire and police departments. We need to set an example by taking care of our own first and then others will be more confident about bringing their businesses to Spring Hill.

* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Definitely. We need to preserve our historical monuments and civil war battlefield. Our history is part of the integrity of our town. We need to have ample buffer zones around historical sites and build accordingly. I am not opposed to possibly opening some of them up as tourist sites in the future.

· What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

As stated above, the role of the Historic Commission should be to preserve the integrity of these sites.

· In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

The Civil War Battlefield is on the list of endangered battlefields. The Civil War is an important part of our city’s history. Rippavilla is a very important part of our history. Part of the land around Rippavilla is currently under consideration for building and rezoning. I think that the planning commission should work closely with the historic commission to maintain the beauty and character of Rippavilla should they proceed with building plans. White House and other historical homes need to be preserved.

-Budget and Finance Committee * Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

I am pleased that the city’s financial problems are being addressed. It would have been great if it happened sooner, but we have to work with what we have.

What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Obviously, this slow economy will be our biggest challenge. Building has slowed almost to a halt and maybe that will present a good opportunity to re-evaluate the infrastructure. People’s homes are going into foreclosure and that’s not good for any of us. I am a fiscal conservative and I don’t think raising taxes in a recession is ever a good idea. We will have to work together to come up with solutions. If that means holding off on improvements to roads than so be it. We will have to look closely at the budget and see where we can cut back. If we work together as a community, we can get through these tough times.

Amy Wurth

2008-12-01T00:12:00.004-06:00

Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Amy Wurth
amywurth@yahoo.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

There are many reasons why I chose to run for Ward 1 Alderman in Spring Hill, none of which are specific to any one event but rather a set of standards that I feel need to be upheld by each elected official representing the people of Spring Hill, TN. My number one goal as an Alderman will be to:

Serve the citizens of Spring Hill by protecting individual’s rights and provide solutions to citizen(s) concerns in a way that meets the expectations of the people of Spring Hill and the City’s goals and criteria.

In the past 4 years we have seen many changes in our great city by way of vast growth in the development of new homes to new retail and restaurant choices; city finance restructuring and improved recreational amenities. We have experienced from 2000 to 2007 a population burst of 167% which clearly indicates that Spring Hill is on the right track of attracting individuals and families to call Spring Hill their home.

In order to preserve the current state of affairs and to be prepared for the dynamic changes of our global economic climate the new Board of Alderman will need to: prioritize all city spending, evaluate and ensure resources/equipment are readily available to our city departments and attract additional corporations to call Spring Hill their home.

I am committed to upholding the extremely high expectations I have personally placed upon myself to serve the people of Spring Hill by always being honest, loyal and diligent in the advancement of our great city.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years?

I believe there have been many great achievements accomplished in the past 4 years carried through by all who have worked to make Spring Hill one of the greatest cities in Tennessee. There have been many successful achievements throughout the past 4 years for our city but below I have named the 3 achievements I believe have had the most positive impact on the well being of our community:

-The growth of new businesses in Spring Hill.
Why? – The retail and restaurant growth has not only created convenience and additional shopping and dining choices to our citizens but it has created more jobs and additional sales tax revenue to our city.

-The decision to have the State of Tennessee conduct a record keeping audit that identified unethical use of department funds, misuse of adequate facility tax, no purchasing policy, poor city management recording keeping just to mention a few of the state’s findings.
Why? -The achievement was not only to have the state audit conducted to show deficiencies in our government policies but when the administration fixed and created new policies for each of the 16 outlined performance failures noted in the investigative State report.

-The enhancement of our parks and recreation amenities offered to the citizens of Spring Hill.
Why? – Our parks and recreational facility has provided a low cost outlet of fun and activity for children and adults throughout our community.

4. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

There have been many challenges that the current administration has been faced in the past 4 years. Many of the challenges were due to lack of communication and clarity to the public and poor decision making.

-Misappropriation of the Water and Sewer funds to the General Fund. The State Law violation of the transfer of $4,057,287 from water and sewer funds to general government accounts.
Why? – This is clearly a violation of state law and was not approved by the Board of Mayor and Alderman. The clear lack of oversight from the Finance Committee and the Board of Mayor and Alderman during the time of the loans is clearly a failure that will cost the citizens of Spring Hill for years to come.

-Termination of City Property Tax. Terminating our City Property Tax was a poor decision on behalf of our administration.
Why? – The Property Tax revenue is critical to sustaining and funding of City projects such as roadway improvements, city payroll etc. The City found out quickly without the source of revenue our deficit grew very quickly which made the decision to terminate a .19 cent per every $1000,00 in a mortgage a very poor long term decision for our city.

-Communication to Citizens. I believe the City has had challenges of communicating planning initiatives to citizens.
Why? – I feel that it is an Alderman’s duty to keep citizens informed of changes to our city that directly impacts their lives. Success for a city cannot be achieved if the citizens of the city are displeased.

5. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

I do support bringing a hospital to Spring Hill.
Why? – As we continue to discuss infrastructure needs for Spring Hill, a hospital is necessary and vital for the 23K individuals whom live in Spring Hill. As we continue to evaluate and proactively seek services that are essential for a city the size of Spring Hill a hospital has become an important need to those who seek emergency and inpatient services.

6. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

I feel that we need to provide compensation for the Alderman for the work they are providing to the City. As the new members of the Board of Alderman take office, the entire boards needs to continue to review and evaluate all spends and the 2008/2009 budget which includes payroll costs for all City employees and elected officials to ensure payroll costs are in line with overall City revenue.

7. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

I also feel as referenced above that as the new administration continues to evaluate the 2008/2009 budget the City Medical Insurance Plan that is offered to all City employees and elected officials needs to be evaluated to overall spending and total revenue.

8. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

A municipality’s sources of revenue in the State of Tennessee are generated through various types of city taxes. The City of Spring Hill will continue to benefit from local sales taxes generated from our retailers and restaurants. The Board of Mayor and Alderman need to effectively market our city to employers to relocate their business to Spring Hill, TN. By bringing in new corporations to employ the citizens of Spring Hill there will be an increase in sales tax revenue given that more individuals will stay in Spring Hill to work and spend money at our local businesses throughout the work week.

A second and perhaps the largest source of revenue for any particular city is that of property taxes. Since re-implementing the City Property Tax in 2008 the city will have a steady flow of revenue coming into our city finance stream.

Lastly, as Spring Hill continues to experience growth in this economic downturn through urban development projects and construction the city will continue to see a revenue flow through building permits which last year equated in a revenue stream of $954, 5000.

9. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

As a City of Spring Hill Alderman, I will work to immediately look at ways to cut our city expenses in a proactive way to elevate any wasteful spending. I believe that an evaluation of all city contracts from development, phone, and consultants should be reviewed to ensure that we are receiving the most competitive pricing for the goods or services being provided to our city.

10. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

City Property Tax is one of the most important forms of revenue for a city. Due to the termination of the property tax it caused the tax payer 3x the original tax due to local assessment and appraisal of personal property throughout our growing city. In short, I was in favor of re-instating the city property tax but felt it was unfortunate increase for homeowners given that a new appraisal of all property had to be completed in order to determine the new property tax or certified tax rate.

11. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

I do not believe in committing to any such gesture without all the necessary information to make a critical decision like tax increases. Once I have had the opportunity to sit down with the board to ask my specific budget questions and review additional detail of the budget then I will assess the financial needs of our city.

12. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to work for a large municipality (City of Chicago), planning consulting firm as well as manage multi-million dollar customer accounts. While working for the City of Chicago I was able to gain experience in understanding city/state revenue sources- tax laws, fiscal budget analysis, city department responsibilities, infrastructure needs, contracts and procurement policies and marketing and communication outreach programs.

I have also had the privilege to gain experience in preparing Master Development Plans, Environmental Assessments and Financial Feasibility Studies as a consultant to City Departments. Being able to understand a land use and development plan I believe will help me provide additional insight and ideas to our board as we continue to work to create a City Master Development Plan.

Lastly, I currently work with key executives where I manage national accounts by providing excellent customer service, communication, budget analysis, process analysis and transportation analysis of their supply chain and logistics.

I am looking forward to being able to provide my skills sets to the Board of Mayor and Alderman with an individual that understands city planning, municipality budgets, city procurement processes, and overall municipality operation management.

13. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

I have attended 8 Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings and have viewed 12 additional meetings via on-line.

14. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

I have been able to attend 1 Planning Commission meeting and have viewed 12 additional meetings on-line.

15. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I believe one of the most important qualities that I will bring to the Board of Mayor and Alderman will be my dedication and commitment to provide citizens an Alderman who will listen to all of their concerns, be honest and communicate on their behalf to the governing body. I will also provide clear communication to our citizens on planning processes, city vision and clear explanations of issues facing our city. My core principals as an individual is to always be honest, loyal and hard working which I believe are what we all seek in any elected official.

I am prepared to present and seek council from my colleagues on many new initiatives. I specifically would like to present my experience and ideas on the development of a 15 year City Master Development Plan. I also would like to share my ideas on the development of a city record management keeping process.

As an Alderman, I will actively share my ideas regarding the city finances, planning, procurement, and specific departmental enhancements with the Board of Alderman and Mayor and our citizens throughout my 4 year term as Alderman of Ward 1.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?
-Planning Commission
* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

The planning commission is an important governing body of our city. I will work with the entire Board of Alderman in assessing any changes if needed for the planning commission.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission?

Upon conclusion of the Board of Alderman election and each Alderman nominee for Wards 1-4 have been elected the evaluation of appointing the Alderman Representative to the planning commission will be decided. I will provide recommendations for this position once the official Board of Alderman have taken office.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

I do believe that the Board of Mayor and Alderman need to review the current Impact Fees and Adequate Facilities tax. In order to facilitate a change in the current tax rate, the Board of Mayor and Alderman will need to evaluate the current rate of development and construction activity within our city to ensure that a change in the current Adequate Facilities tax will have a positive impact to our city’s revenue stream.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

I believe that the City needs to work with the developers for all roads and infrastructure improvements needed associated with a development. The City can assist with road improvements by utilizing revenue received by the State of Tennessee through the State Street Aid tax revenue as well as working with the developer on overall road and infrastructure needs.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

I do believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in Spring Hill however the R5 (Residential High Density) zoning needs to be carefully planned out with input from our citizens.

-Economic Development Commission
* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

To work with the Economic Develop Commission on brining new businesses to relocate to Spring Hill.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

Our city has a beautiful story to tell based on growth, amenities, parks and recreation, new affordable homes for sale, excellent K-12 schools and a safe community. All of the aforementioned reasons is why our city has experienced 167% growth since 2000 and is a story that we need to continue to tell.

-Historic Commission
* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Yes, I believe this is a very important commission that we as a City must retain in order to preserve the rich history of our great town of Spring Hill.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

To preserve and showcase the important historical events, people and antiques of our great city.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

There are many historical sites within our city that are all significant to the rich history of our town. Below are certainly important historical sites within our city:
1. Rippavilla Plantation
2. The Spring Hill Civil War Battlefield
3. The Spring Hill Cemetery

-Budget and Finance Committee
* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

The City of Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Alderman have had many challenges in understanding specific State Mandated laws when managing our city’s finances. I commend the current administration for implementing corrective actions to poor decisions made under the current Mayor and administration prior. The goal will be to continue to seek guidance and research all finance laws mandated to all municipalities to ensure mistakes made in the past are never repeated.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Due to the current economic downturn, the city will see decreased revenue through building permits, impact fees and adequate facilities taxes and depending on the duration of the current recession sales tax could decline over time. It will be very important to pursue additional business to relocate to Spring Hill by marketing our desirable city so additional jobs will be created, homes will be sold and sales tax revenue will continue to thrive.

Jonathan Duda

2008-12-01T00:10:00.004-06:00

Ward 2 Alderman Candidate

Jonathan Duda
City of Spring Hill Alderman - Ward 2
City of Spring Hill Planning Commissioner
Chairman, City of Spring Hill Historic Commission
jonathan.duda@charter.net
http://voteduda.org/

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

Four years ago, I ran for Alderman with the promise that I would work hard to make our city an even better place to live. I want to continue to be a positive influence on making Spring Hill a better place to live, which is why I decided to run for re-election

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

* Redistricting of the city voting wards - Ensures fair elections with increased participation in all Wards

* Significant progress in addressing financial issues - The current financial condition of our city is now on a solid foundation with effective tools for proper oversight now in place

* Developing significant Planning Tools that promote managed and smart growth - In 2005, our community did not have a Thoroughfare Plan and we did not have a Master Land Use Plan. In short, our city was lacking the basic tools that are the basis for Smart and Managed Growth. We now have these tools in place and have begun the process to complete a Comprehensive Plan for our city.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

* Eliminating property taxes in 2005 without a corresponding reduction in budgeted General Fund expenditures - When we were told that we would have a "surplus" in 2005, the board did take action according to the Taxpayer Bill of Rights to return that "surplus" to the residents in the form of a decrease in the property tax rate. This resulted in the elimination of our property taxes, however the board did not make a corresponding reduction in budgeted General Fund expenditures. Additionally, TABOR effectively "froze" any additional increases to the General Fund Reserves as these funds were obligated by TABOR to be "be returned to the Taxpayers in the next fiscal year by means of a property tax rate reduction" (Reference Source is Resolution 03-24, Taxpayer Bill of Rights).

* Not working effectively with Maury County Schools on the new Middle School site selection - Current location on Cleburne Rd will inject an artificial stimulus for growth in an area of our city that lacks the infrastructure (more specifically, roads) to support it. There are approximately 755 lots approved within 2 miles of the Cleburne Site. Comparatively, there are approximately 7,000 lots approved within 2 miles of the site(s) that were proposed as an alternative.

* Failure to communicate effectively with residents - City Hall must be more effective in communicating how we are working for its citizens and restore confidence from our citizens.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

Absolutely. According to the HSDA, the TN State agency that has twice issued a Certificate of Need for Spring Hill Hospital, "no matter whose population projections are accepted, the evidence establishes that there will be a sufficient population in Spring Hill between the years 2010 and 2014 to support a 56 bed hospital."

Spring Hill Hospital would be a substantial economic development stimulus by providing direct and ancillary professional services job opportunities right here in our own community.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

Yes. Although some would say that elected officials should be willing to serve without any form of compensation, I did support raising the compensation of the board in order to attract qualified candidates to run for office.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

I believe that this should be the individual choice of each alderman. Although I have chosen to not currently take this coverage, I do think that it is appropriate. I believe that a change to this policy should most appropriately be addressed with the Insurable Interest laws of the State of Tennessee which currently provides for this coverage.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

We should consider revisiting the following Municipal Revenue sources to ensure that they are adequate:

Public Utility Property Taxes (T.C.A. 67-5-801)

Payments in Lieu of Taxes from Utilities (T.C.A. 7-52-301, 7-34-115, 7-39-401, 7-53-305)

Room Occupancy Taxes (T.C.A. 67-4-1401)

Finally, we should review the various permitting fees and site review fees to ensure that our professional services that participate in reviewing these plans are congruent.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

I am proud of the fact that our department heads currently operate efficiently with funds that are available. Should we need to further reduce expenses, I would involve the department heads for their suggestion and strongly consider that recommendation as they are in the best position to identify what the essential services of their departments are.

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

Yes.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

No.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

Ward 2 Alderman since April 2005. Served on the Planning Commission since 2005 and as Chairman of the Historic Commission since its formation in 2007. In October 2006, I was recognized as one of four Individuals Who Exemplified Leadership in Williamson County by Southern Exposure Magazine.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

In 2 years, all but 1 Voting Meeting

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

In 2 years, all but 1 Voting Meeting

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I believe that my ability and record of working diligently to research and learn about each and every issue before making a decision speaks for itself. I am committed to working with the entire board, which is essential to being effective as an alderman.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

* Currently, there is a request before the city to provide financial assistance for a play, "Scathe, A Civil War Incident in Spring Hill, Tennessee". Would you consider this request as a "want", or a "need" and would you support it? My Answer: Yes I would support it at some level because I do believe that unique cultural experiences in a community are a need.

* Do you believe that growth should occur on the East Side of the city along the Port Royal corridor or the West Side of the city along the Beechcroft Road corridor? My Answer: Growth should be concentrated on the East Side where convenient access to Saturn Parkway, Interstate 65, and a 3 lane road (Derryberry Lane) that the city invested in currently does exist. We should learn from the mistakes of Duplex Road by having specific plans to improve Beechcroft Road in place before approving of additional development along the Beechcroft Road corridor.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?

-Planning Commission

* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

I would support possibly increasing the number of members to 7.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission?

I am interested in continuing to serve the city in this capacity. However, I believe that it is premature to make this recommendation as we do not yet know who the members of the Board of Mayor and Aldermen would be.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

Actually, I would consider reducing it. Even as I write this, MTEMC is implementing a substantial fee schedule increase for new development that will most definitely place an additional burden on development in our community. Reducing our current Adequate Facilities tax may be warranted.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

Yes

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

Yes. I believe that we are exposed as a community and under pressure to provide more of these types of developments because we have a higher concentration of medium density single family units approved then most communities.

It is critical that we maintain diversity in housing options in Spring Hill. Diverse housing options accommodate citizens with various skills and lifestyles, and provides a way for people to remain in our city longer.

I believe that apartment developments should be located near our major collector or arterial roads and in the vicinity of commercial districts that are compatible with the densities and intensities of Apartment buildings.

-Economic Development Commission

* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

It is imperative that we communicate effectively and participate fully with both the Williamson County Office of Economic Development and Maury Alliance. Each of these organizations are responsible for their respective counties. I believe that we would be most effective if our Economic Development Commission were to act as a "Bridge" between these two organizations.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

By identifying the community features that these organizations are looking for in a community and effectively communicating the strengths of Spring Hill that make our city stand above others.

-Historic Commission

* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

As the alderman who championed the creation of a Historic Commission, I very much agree with how we did create a Historic Commission for Spring Hill.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

To promote the preservation and protection of our historic assets and to ensure that new development that occurs within the vicinity of these sites compliments and enhances these community assets.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

Fergusson Hall (Tennessee Children's Home)

Oaklawn Mansion

Spring Hill Battlefield

I would most definitely include Rippavilla on this list, but I have not included it as it is not within the city limits.

-Budget and Finance Committee

* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Absolutely.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Implementing a realistic 5-Year Capital Improvements Plan. If we can continue to meet our obligations and provide essential services to the community on a sustainable budget, our city will be well positioned to provide capital improvements, especially when substantial income from growth does return.

Jonathan Duda
City of Spring Hill Alderman - Ward 2
City of Spring Hill Planning Commissioner
Chairman, City of Spring Hill Historic Commission

jonathan.duda@charter.net

Charlie Schoenbrodt

2008-12-01T00:09:00.008-06:00

Ward 2 Alderman Candidate

Charlie Schoenbrodt
peguinwatch@bellsouth.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Charlie Schoenbrodt has not responded in any way to the questionnaire.

Vinny Falcone

2008-12-01T00:09:00.002-06:00

Ward 3 Alderman Candidate

Vinny Falcone

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Vinny Falcone has not responded in any way to the questionnaire. I have heard that Vinny is no longer in this race, but I continue to see signs in our community, so I am not sure of his status at this time.

Bob Hawkes

2008-12-01T00:08:00.002-06:00

Ward 3 Alderman Candidate

Bob Hawkes

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Bob Hawkes is no longer in the race for Alderman of Ward 3.

Keith Hudson

2008-12-01T00:07:00.005-06:00

Ward 3 Alderman Candidate

Keith Hudson
www.keithhudsoncares.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

Keith Hudson has finished his questionnaire and it is posted below. Enjoy!

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

My desire to serve and bring new ideas to the table. I want to be an official that will provide a true voice for the citizens of Spring Hill. An elected official that will be approachable and open to all needs. So often times people become elected and transform into a recluse, and could care less about hearing the needs of the community. I want to change that. I volunteer my time as Chairman for the Economic Development Commission because I have a vested interest in this city and I will do whatever it takes to help make this city successful.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-The Crossings- this added much needed revenue from sales tax to the city. It also gives the community a reason to stay home and shop, rather than drive to Franklin or Brentwood. It was well planned and although it is retail and restaurants, it is very appealing to the eye.

-The hiring of Jim Smith- This gave the city an experienced leader in the area of finance. Obviously this was lacking prior to Jim's hiring. It was a smart move by our current administration, but it makes me wonder how much financial planning was done prior to eliminating the property taxes.

-Attaining the Certificate of Need for the Hospital- This was a great achievement because it brought the community closer together for the attainment of a common goal. I remember how happy everyone was after the first initial ruling. I can still remember Mayor Leverette saying, "It's a good day for the City of Spring Hill.", and it was.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-Eliminating the property tax - I don't recall anyone complaining about the 19 cent property tax to begin with. The City eliminated property tax without a clear and concise plan as to how to replenish that portion of revenue.

-Poor financial planning and budgeting decisions for the city.

-Reinstatement of the property tax at 3 times the previous rate. This was a devastating blow to the citizens of Spring Hill. We knew the taxes would have to be returned for the sake of the city. But we weren't expecting to pay 3 times the previous rate.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

Yes, I support the current HCA hospital coming to the city. The new hospital will bring much needed jobs to the city. Positions will be needed for the hospital, and also for supporting medical services. It also has the potential to increase positive traffic flow into the city, thus generating additional sales tax revenue.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

Yes.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

I have no problem with the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the medical insurance plan free of charge. In my opinion, I don't think candidates seek local office for financial gain. I hope they seek local office for their will to serve the community.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

The city has increased property taxes, which should give some relief. However, the city still has to repay the money that was borrowed from the local water and sewer department. The City will also benefit from the Sales Tax revenue that is being generated from the businesses at the Crossing.

Affordable housing will also play a significant role with the generation of additonal revenue. I believe the housing market will make a positive turn, and it be beneficial for the City of Spring Hill.

I would also like to see the City hire a part time or temporary Grant Writer and Researcher to help the city locate funds that are available from the State or Federal Government. This person will pay for themselves ten fold.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

This question doesn't give facts or circumstances to make the appropriate decision. However, I would be completely against any reduction of staffing for the city. Especially our public safety officials. The city has contracts with outside services. In extreme circumstances, we could possibly look at the expense of outside contractors. For example, would it be cost effective (long term) for our Fire Fighters to perform the same tasks as Rural Metro?

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

Yes, but not at the present rate. As I stated earlier, we should have never eliminated it to begin with.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

No

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I have over 15 years of Operations Management experience. This includes the position of Plant Manager for a manufacturing facility that staffs over 300 employees and p/l responsibility for a budget of $25 mil. I have sat on boards for St Columba Interfaith Schools, and also Musemax Entertainment.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

7

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

2

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I bring to the table the desire and will to serve my community. My passion to serve my city has already been proven through my years of community involvement. I have volunteered my time in the City of Spring Hill for over six years. I give time to the city, because I have vested interest in this community, and I will do whatever it takes to help make this city successful.

I currently volunteer my time as Chairman for the Economic Development Commission. I presently sit on committees for the Kiwanis Club and the Rotary, to raise money to benefit the children of our community. I have also spent the past year as a board member and coach for the Spring Hill Youth Football Association. The list could continue, but the point that I'm trying to make is that I have a genuine desire to enhance my community. I also have the ability to orchestrate and effectively communicate with people to get things done.

One of the ideas that I would bring to the table is the position of a Grant Writer and Researcher to the city. This person would be responsible for researching and finding all grants that are applicable to the city. These grants could easily include: parks and recreation, uniforms and equipment for our safety officials, workforce development, sidewalks, and improvements for infrastructure through water and sewer.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?
-Planning Commission
* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

No, I don't think there should be any drastic changes to the commission. However, I think there have been some instances where the commission could have done a better job with communicating to citizens that would be affected by their suggestions. I'm sure that problem has been taken care of.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission?

Johnathan Duda is doing a great job. He is passionate and committed to what he does.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

I believe tough times will change soon, and when it does the City of Spring Hill will need to be ready. Affordable housing in the city will be beneficial for the developers as well as the city.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

Yes, I do believe that incoming developments should be responsible for roads that are affiliated with their developments. I also believe that when these developers are generous with services such as the donation of land for schools, then the city should reach out in courtesy to assist (within reason) for the benefit of the community.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

I don't think the apartments that we currently have in our city are completely occupied. However, with any growing city, there will be apartments. We as a city have to plan where we want them to be placed.

-Economic Development Commission
* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

The city should set aside funding (if available) to actively market the City of Spring Hill. Research will be needed to determine what attracts businesses to cities in these tough times. It is easy to say jobs are needed in Spring Hill. But the research, marketing and time needed to actively achieve this task wont be cheap.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

The EDC is currently working with neighboring colleges in an effort to create inexpensive alternatives for marketability of the city. Community colleges tend to follow areas where jobs may need work force development. We have to show there is a need by asking the colleges to have satellite courses here in Spring Hill for adult continuous learning.

-Historic Commission
* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Yes, I think it is needed to help preserve the rich history of Spring Hill.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

In my opinion, the role of the Historic Commission is to identify Historic landmarks and property, and assist in the process of registration. In other words, to protect the historical land marks of the city.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

The Childrens Home
Rippavilla
Oaklawn

-Budget and Finance Committee
* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Yes, I have been very pleased with the city administration's transparency in dealing with our financial problems. It will be important to the citizens of Spring Hill for this effort to continue.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

The city will have to make some tough decisions in the next year to determine its priorities from a spending perspective. The revenue may not be available to cover everything that is needed. Money that was borrowed from our water department, still has to be repaid. Creative thinking will play a huge part in how the city can generate additional revenue.

It will take a strong core group of leaders with the ability to be creative, and think outside of the box.

--
In Him,

Keith Hudson

"Champions aren't made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them: A desire, a dream, a vision. The will must be stronger than the skill".

- Muhammad Ali -

Brady Knight

2008-12-01T00:06:00.004-06:00

Ward 3 Alderman Candidate

Brady Knight
931-486-0805

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Brady Knight has not responded in any way to the questionnaire.

Robert Medina

2008-12-01T00:05:00.003-06:00

Ward 3 Alderman Candidate

Robert Medina
robert1974@bellsouth.net

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

At this time, Robert Medina has not responded to the questionnaire.

David Williford

2008-12-01T00:04:00.005-06:00

Ward 3 Alderman Candidate

David Williford
williford4alderman@bellsouth.net

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

Improprieties shown in the Audit.

Ken York's severance ($20,000)

Hiring and termination of Ken Weaver.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-Increased number of schools.
-Bringing in the "big box" stores at the Crossings.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-Eliminating city property taxes; then having to revive them at a much higher rate.
-Failure to plan city's growth adequately.
-Hiring a City Manager who has had so many positions over the years, without taking that into account.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

I support a hospital coming to our city. By the time the hosital is completed, there will be very much a need, considering even minimum population growth. A hospital will bring with it many other Physicians, clinics, specialty offices, etc. These are all high income positions, which will create a higher economy throughout the city.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

Yes.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

Never heard of any city providing paid medical insurance for part-time elected officials; but with the minimum pay provided, I do not have a problem providing group insurance options to them. As far as providing paid "family" medical insurance, it's just not right.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

Increased "court costs" in our city court. Charge for "junk" pick-up. Charge (fines) for unnecessary fire and police calls. Create a license for people to have yard sales, garage sales. (Allow only a limited number per year, per residence). If Fire apparatus makes appearances at birthday parties, charge a fee.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

Evaluate every department individually, to see that we are working within our "needs".

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

I was against eliminating the property tax. Our property tax was very low to begin with. Every city has to have taxes to operate and maintain the different departments. As much as I dislike taxes, we had to re-instate a tax to survive.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

No. We need to determine the difference between our "wants" and our "needs". For now, we must set our "wants" aside, and operate on a budget. Tax increase to the individual is a last resort.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I have served as Assistant Chief of Police in two cities. I have owned my own business. I am currently a Realtor. I am in daily conversations with other business owners in my position of sales "business to business".

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Approx. 20.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Less than 10.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

I come from a different perspective than any other candidate, or even past aldermen. Through the years, I have been involve with several different professions, both vocations and avocations. This combination of experience allows me to bring more

I have 15 years experience in a Law Enforcement / Public Safety background, allowing me to understand the issues involved with both the Police Department and Fire Department. I understand both the budgetary issues, as well as personnel issues, training, and officer retention.

I have been a Realtor for several years, allowing me to have a better education and understanding than most in regard to housing issues, development, residential commercial properties, planning of communities, and the community.

My wife and I managed apartment communities for years, and understand the issues of "high density" housing developments, the issues that go with them.

I work daily in "business to business" sales. I talk daily with the local business owners about their issues, their complaints about city government, and what they would change about the operations of city government.

I have been a children's entertainer. I have been married to the same person, Linda, for 38 years. I have two children and four grandchildren. I understand that children are our future. I understand that it is imperative that we protect and nurture them, as well as do all we can to protect the family unit. I understand the importance of parks and green space. I understand that if teens are not provided some type of recreational opportunities, they will "make" their own recreation, some of which is not in the best interest of them nor the community.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

N/A

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?
-Planning Commission
* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

Key change would be in developing more long-range planning.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission?

Rick Graham.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

It is adequate only if we are able to maintain our spending within our budget.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

I think that the development of properties is totally the expense of the developer. I understand that increasing those costs increase the housing prices, but since Spring Hill's average housing prices are lower than most areas of Middle Tennessee, it can increase slightly.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

There is a need for apartment buildings in all cities. There are a lot of people who just "aren't ready" for home ownership for a multitude of reasons. Whether we need more at this time is another issue. As we currently have a high vacancy rate, we apparently have plenty at this time.

Apartment buildings should only be developed now in areas where the traffic can bear the significant increase. But until Spring Hill's infra-structure is significantly increased, I am opposed to the addition to high density housing of any kind.

Currently, we have heavy traffic issues which causes significant back-ups on Hwy 31 particularly. We are 2 Firefighters short of full staff; and we are 2 Police Officers short of full staff. The infrastructure is lacking at this time.

-Economic Development Commission
* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

It is imperative that the city become the driving force in economic development.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

I feel that there should be a joint effort with the Economic Development Commission, The Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce, and the BOMA to attract and recruit businesses.

We need to create a better relationship with State government, so as to create alliances there to bring higher education to Spring Hill.

We need to work closely with GM and the UAW, in attempts to bring in their product providers to this area.

-Historic Commission
* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

I think that Spring Hill is a city filled with history. Yes.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

It is important that the Historic Commission work with individuals and groups to preserve the history of Spring Hill, keeping those areas in great shape, so as to attract visitor to our area, as well as for our enjoyment. Parks and Battlefields. Historic home preservation. Historic church preservation.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

-The Battlefield on Kedron.

-The Episcopal Church on Hwy 31.

-Denning Lane.

-Rippavilla, although not in our city.

-Budget and Finance Committee
* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

I am pleased to see progress in that area. I have yet to see total transparency.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

-National economy in general.

-Stabilizing the growth and sustainability of small business.

-Developing the infrastructure (roads, fire, police).

-Maintaining our current "lifestyle", without tax increases.

Jim Cichoracki

2008-12-01T00:03:00.004-06:00

Ward 4 Alderman Candidate

Jim Cichoracki
www.jimchick.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

The reinstatement of the property tax and the borrowing of 2.5 million dollars for road resurfacing. These two events caused me to start attending the BOMA meetings and eventually inspired me seek office.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

The overall aesthetics in the development of our community. Tastefully done brick fast food restaurants for example. The convenience and variety of shopping and dining choices in our city. The implementation of regulations requiring amenities like sidewalks in neighborhoods. The forward planning to construct walking trails throughout the city. It's these kinds of decisions that create the hometown feel and pride in our community that makes Spring Hill such a desirable place to reside.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

Eliminating the property tax completely instead of incrementally. Mismanagement of the budget. Borrowing too much against future income.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

I absolutely support the Hospital. We have grown as a city and not only need and deserve to have a hospital to service our citizens but it serves as a double blessing by bringing good paying jobs to our community. Having a hospital also is an inducement for manufacturing to relocate to Spring Hill which would provide even more jobs for our citizens.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

From what I know about the job, I have to believe that the compensation is adequate. I believe that serving on the board of Mayor and Aldermen comes more from of a sense of duty to the community than for financial reasons.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

This is a difficult question. I have never before heard of part time employees receiving free medical insurance. At this time our elected officials are part time employees and as such I feel, that at best, this benefit should be available only to the elected official and at a reasonable cost.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

Unfortunately, the only income I can see is from the sales taxes generated by supporting our local businesses. Our city, like its residents is going to have to tighten its belt. I realize that many sacrifices have already been made and as a private citizen I applaud the sacrifices that various city departments have already made.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

Without specific knowledge of the resources available and the current actual needs of the city it is impossible to say.

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

This is tough, at first I didn't realize the state of our city's finances so I felt that it was wrong. I also felt that doing away with the property taxes in the first place was a mistake. I personally felt that it should have been reduced two or three cents at a time as had been done in the past. A city needs to have a dedicated source of income in order to operate properly. I am not opposed to a property tax as long as it is reasonable and well managed. I whole heartedly approve of freezing the property tax for our senior citizens.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

Not being privy to the actual state of our cities finances I am unable to answer this question intelligently. I do realize we are in a lot of debt and do not know the full extent of our finances, but raising taxes should be a last resort. It is my sincere hope that it would not be necessary to further burden our citizens.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I have been in business twice, once as a farmer and again as the owner operator of an over the road tractor trailer(semi). Both of these businesses required extensive planing, budgeting, hard work and devotion to details. I also have the life experience of surviving the recessions of the seventies and eighties. During these difficult times being the parent of four growing children you have to learn to economize. Those were difficult times and required much planning.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

Sixteen BOMA meetings. I began attending the BOMA meetings last July and only missed one due to the prediction of freezing rain.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

My best guess is 5 or 6 Planning Commission meetings.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

First of all I am wise, discerning, honest, and dedicated. I firmly believe that representing the citizens of Spring Hill is my first and foremost responsibility as an elected official. More importantly I know how to live within a budget and realize that it is not prudent to go into debt beyond your ability to repay. And, since I am retired, I have the time and commitment to devote to serving our community.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them? I will actually attempt to get those questions answered.

I feel this survey will provide plenty of insight into all of the candidates.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?
-Planning Commission

I believe the Planning Commission has stepped up to the challenge and is on the road to providing Spring Hill with the plans to develop our city into an ascetically appealing well planned community.

* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

No, I would only encourage them to keep up the forward planning and provide the board with acceptable 5,10, 15 and 20 year long range plans. Obviously the long range plans would be less detailed but would provide us with a clear direction for Spring Hill.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission? Currently that appointment is held by Jonathan Duda.

Mr. Duda has done an admirable job and in my opinion if he were reelected would be my choice for the job. Should Mr. Duda not be reelected I believe his opponent Mr. Schoenbrodt, who is not only experienced but well qualified, would be an excellent choice.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

Personally, I feel that it is on the low side and an increase should be considered. Every development should be required to shoulder its fair share of the infrastructure cost.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

Absolutely, in fact I can remember driving down Duplex road in the early 2,000's and remarking to my wife that the city should require adequate easements of the developers so that one day the road could be widened. At the very least they should have been responsible for deceleration lanes making entrance into their developments more convenient. In fact I had thought that eventually this road would require four lanes to handle the increase in traffic from all of the development.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

Absolutely, but in a way that enhances our city not detracts from it. There are four apartment complexes that immediately come to mind that in my opinion are excellent examples of good planning. The Villages in Town Center and the three on Port Royal road. I do not believe that they should be intermingled with subdivisions but be separate entities. I believe it is the responsibility of the Planning Commission to do due diligence in providing acceptable zoning to accommodate apartment complexes. They have currently designated nine areas as high density residential.

-Economic Development Commission

* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

We need to promote our local workforce as well as our industrial corridor along the Saturn Parkway. If we can provide local jobs for our citizens it will also encourage small businesses to locate here.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

By providing and promoting those amenities that would attract them. I.e. a large available local workforce, parks, ball fields, shopping, affordable housing, close proximity to major highways and an ascetically pleasing community. And hopefully, a hospital in the not to distant future. What more could you ask for? Spring Hill, a little slice of heaven.

-Historic Commission

* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Yes

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

To identify historic sites and recommend viable plans to protect them.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

Rippavilla, Ferguson Hall and Oaklawn, as well as the battlefield on Kedron road. Oops, I guess that's four.

-Budget and Finance Committee

* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Somewhat.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

Keeping the city solvent while paying down the huge debt load we have incured.

Allen Hall

2008-12-01T00:02:00.004-06:00

Ward 4 Alderman Candidate

Allen Hall
www.hallforalderman.com

Meet the candidates on video at the following link:
http://www.tennessean.com/section/special0469
Thank you to the Tennessean for taking this initiative for our community.

Spring Hill Alternate Questionnaire

1. What specific event(s) sparked your interest to run for this position, at this time?

The property tax issue got my attention. During its debate I contacted and probably talked to every alderman. Based on some of my questions one of them suggested I might consider serving as an alderman myself. I took a look at my own life and realized that both my father and grandfather had served the local community in some type of government capacity for decades and that it was time for me to do the same.

2. What are the 3 greatest achievements in our city during the past 4 years? Why?

-The changes in the way the city is being run; its sense of direction, planning, and administration; and the increased transparency that has been part of those changes.

-Business and economic development of the City. Residents have more options and fewer reasons to spend their hard earned dollar elsewhere.

-The hospital and the obvious impact it will have on our local economy, the well being of our citizens, and the city’s image.

3. What are the 3 greatest failures of our city during the past 4 years? Why?

There are several “failures” most all of them related to finance and administration that could have been avoided with proper oversight during the first half or so, of the previous 4 years, and in several years prior. Examples would include the illegal transfer of moneys between funds; the city’s accounting methods and a failure to ratify budgets to name three. But I think it hyperbole to categorize these as “great failures” because within the last year our city has made significant progress in correcting the deficiencies that lead to those failures.

4. Do you support the current HCA hospital coming to our city? Why or why not?

Absolutely, the hospital directly impacts the well being our citizen and is quintessential example of how both economic development and the safety and security of our community can be realized in one major project.

5. Do you believe that the Mayor and Aldermen are adequately compensated? If not, what should the compensation package be?

Those serving on the BOMA certainly don’t pursue the job for the money. The work required for the office and other posts, city commissions for example, require a level of commitment that few if any cities could afford to adequately compensate.

6. What are your feelings regarding the eligibility of elected officials to be included in the City of Spring Hill’s medical insurance plan free of charge?

As discussed in question #5, it would be nearly impossible for the City to adequately compensate BOMA members for their time. This is true for rest of the City’s employees as well. Offering the opportunity to participate in the City’s medical insurance plan is (or can be) a significant portion of their compensation. Thankfully, my family has insurance coverage via other means, but that may not be true for others. It’s easy to imagine a scenario where a city employee might have to resign their post or office to take another job to ensure that their family is protected. In that way the city’s health insurance not only protects its employees, but also protects the city’s investment in their employees.

7. In this economic downturn, where do you see additional income streams being generated to keep city services at our current level?

Property tax in my opinion is one of the fairest methods to fund city services. Ideally as more of our residents spend their dollars locally the dependence on property tax will lessen and other taxes such as sales and business tax will become more reliable.

8. If we need to begin cutting city expenses, where would you plan to trim the budget?

This would depend on how much trimming would have to be done, making it very difficult to discuss hypothetically. In principle, I would look at operational efficiency and deferring non-essential projects; however, we must be very prudent in how we define “non-essential”. Infrastructure funding including safety and security are investments that may cost us more, if we don’t do them.

9. Were you in favor of re-instating our city property tax?

Unfortunately, the property tax should have never been eliminated. There is a reason 90% or more of the cities in Tennessee have some type of property tax. Property tax is one of the fairest and most dependable methods to fund city services.

10. Do you see an immediate need for a tax increase? If so, to what rate?

No. We need to evaluate the effectiveness of the reinstated property tax during the remaining fiscal year.

11. What executive experience do you have that allows you to be qualified to lead our city?

I have been a business owner for 10 years, and more importantly as a consultant who is in the business of finding solutions. Additionally, I have prior experience working with government that affords me some insight into dealing with government agencies.

12. How many Board of Mayor and Alderman meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

At least the last 7 or 8 in person and others over the past few years, one of those being before my wife and I moved to Spring Hill.

13. How many Planning Commission meetings have you attended in the past 2 years?

I attended my first Planning Commission meeting this week after a zoning issue in my ward was brought to my attention by concerned citizens; however, I don’t feel it is always appropriate to attend commission meetings as the commission itself exists to vet the issues, before they come to the board. To inject a “political influence” makes their job that much more difficult and their recommendations less objective.

14. What specific qualities and ideas do you bring to the table that make you most qualified for this position (feel free to elaborate in at least a paragraph or two)?

My campaign mantra Proactive, Persistent, Accountable probably best answers this question. They are certainly qualities but Proactive and Accountable are also ideas in how we should run the city. For instance, had the city been more proactive in planning city growth and managing its finances the growing pains we have experienced in the last ten to twenty years would not have been as severe. Accountable simply means a tangible and measured approach to decision making so we can objectively evaluate the success or failure of our policies.

15. If you were going to ask 3 questions that all of your opponent(s) would have to answer, what would those questions be, and how would you answer them?

At this time I don’t have any questions. This may change after the ReFS forum and hear more from my opponent.

16. What are your feelings regarding our current city commissions?

-Planning Commission
* Are you interested in drastically changing any aspects of the commission?

No, in general I’m not one to shake things up without good cause and this would apply to all the commissions.

* Who would you recommend and support as the representative from Board of Mayor and Alderman to the Planning Commission?

As previously stated I’m not inclined to recommend any drastic or immediate changes.

* Do you feel that our current Adequate Facilities tax is in fact adequate considering the tough economic times ahead?

That’s an interesting question since AFT or “impact fees” as some call it are only supposed to be used for capital improvements. In “tough economic times” it may actually be prudent to lower AFT in an effort to stimulate development; also the capitol improvements required might actually cost less because the economic state.

* Do you believe that incoming developments should be responsible for road and infrastructure improvements associated with their development?

I’m assuming your referring to specific improvements above and/or beyond those that would typically be funded by AFT. In principle this sounds reasonable, but it seems to me it would depend on where, and in some case, when those improvements would need to be made and additionally how much responsibility is the development’s versus the city’s.

* Do you believe that there is a need for apartment buildings in our city? If so, where would you suggest that they be located?

Via planning and zoning the city has a critical role in establishing a balance that is optimum for all its citizens. I think many if not most folks that call Spring Hill home would like to live here most of their life. This means housing options that they can afford at every stage of their life.

-Economic Development Commission
* What do you believe is the city’s role in economic development?

It depends on the economic climate and state of development in the city. Currently we could benefit from another major project like the hospital. So in times such as these the city needs to actively pursue businesses and organizations that are interested in expanding or relocating and we should always be examining what we can do to facilitate the success small business in and around our community. The current revaluation of our sign ordinance is an example of the role the city must play.

* How would you recommend that we attract and recruit businesses and institutions that provide additional services (such as a community college)?

I think the key to getting desirable economic development is having a professional image. This starts with ensuring that we are prudent in spending city funds in a manner that will maintain and improve quality of life. Beyond those we need to actively pursue parties that have an interest into coming to Spring Hill. The hospital is a quintessential example of how both economic development and the safety and security of our community can be realized in one major project.

-Historic Commission
* The establishment of a Historic Commission was hotly debated in our city. Do you agree with the creation of the Historic Commission?

Historic commissions and districts are always hot topic, but in a dynamic community such as ours they are necessary to ensure that some of our history is responsibly preserved. The challenge is finding a balance with the rights of individual property owners.

* What do you feel is the role of a Historic Commission in our city?

To protect the city’s heritage as reflected in its land use and structures.

* In your opinion, what are the 3 most significant historical sites in our city?

Clearly the Battlefield and Ripavilla are the most well known, but at least one other site is just as significant, and that is the Tennessee Children’s Home. The site is not only important historically, as the former Branham and Hughes Military Academy, but also presently with the outstanding service the Home has provided to this community for over 100 years. To those lives touched, the Tennessee Children’s Home is nothing short of an extraordinary blessing.

-Budget and Finance Committee
* Have you been pleased with the progress made during the past year to bring transparency to our city’s financial problems?

Yes, and continued efforts towards transparency are evident in newly proposed ordinances such as 09-11 and 09-12 regarding records management and an open records policy.

* What do you feel is the most important challenge our city will face in the next year from a financial point of view?

A looming recession and a depressed housing market. We need to insure that we are prepared to be at the leading edge of a recovery for both. So the challenge over the next few years is not simply to remaining financially stable, but to do so while we improve our city’s services and infrastructure so we can reap the benefits of that recovery as soon as it starts to occur.

Maury County Joint Comprehensive Plan Survey

2008-09-27T13:43:00.001-05:00

Here's a great chance to tell us YOUR ideas on how YOU would like to see our community grow...

Click HERE to participate in a quick survey for the Maury County Joint Comprehensive Plan.

Name That School...

2008-09-22T14:24:00.001-05:00

Williamson County Schools is building a new middle school in the Spring Hill/Thompson’s Station area to alleviate crowding at Heritage Middle School. The school, which will be located at Buckner Lane, is scheduled to open in August of 2010. While zoning has not been established, some students who attend elementary school at Chapman’s Retreat, Longview and Bethesda elementary schools will most likely attend the new school.

Under School Board policy 3.210 , community input on the school name will be gathered and shared with a committee which will then present three to five names to the School Board which will make the final selection. If you would like to submit a name suggestion, please complete the form at the following link.

Investigative Audit Report

2008-09-10T19:53:00.003-05:00

This has been hidden from our community for at least 7 years. Without the cooperation of the Mayor, current city staff, current BOMA...this problem might well be ongoing.
The City of Spring Hill has now posted the audit report.

Spring Hill Audit Report

There are a few things VERY clear.

1. Ken York was allowed to stay at the helm far too long! If I have one major complaint with Mayor Leverette about this situation, this would have to top the list. Ken York and the prior administration were secretly setting this house of cards up, and I wish that City Hall would have been cleaned much sooner. Mr. York's opinion was considered gospel by far too many at City Hall (especially the majority on the previous BOMA) and this is the biggest reason that we now find ourselves in the hole we are in today.

2. This has been hidden from our community for at least 7 years. Without the cooperation of the Mayor, current city staff, current BOMA, and investigation by Mr. Duda and Mr. Underwood, this problem might well be ongoing.

3. Some in this city need to re-read the investigation report with open eyes because they obviously have no idea what is going on in the real world.

Take a look at the link above...

I have a clift notes version coming out very soon.

Enjoy!

Worth coming out of hiding for...The return of Ceja Kingsley

2008-06-27T18:11:00.009-05:00

Cindy Williams (CPA12345) says:
During the administration of Mayor Williams the city lived ~~within its means~~ [in deficits that nobody knew about].....Mr. Schoenbrodt, I congratulate you for having the courage to tell [your version of the] truth about Spring Hill....our city leaders could easily carry out the promise of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights by ~~holding a city wide voting referendum in Nov~~ [breaking state law, just like they did when they tried to change the Mayor term from 4 years to 2 years. Because under Mayor Williams, that's how we rolled.].
From the Tennessean 'Your Voices' segment on Readers share their ideas to trim government budgets:

CPA12345 wrote:
Simply put......government should provide for citizens only what they cannot provide for themselves(streets, water, sewer, police protection). Anything else provided today by governments is purely wants(not needs) of elected leaders over the years when city or county revenues exceeded expectations. Governments must live within their means and instead of spending hours and hours at meetings discussing the raising of our tax rates, elected officials must cut out "all" of the services that citizens can and should provide for themselves. Our continually "growing" of government is not only bad business for government, but also harms private sector businesses who provide the same services.

Cindy Williams
~~Spring Hill~~ [Brentwood], Tn

Sounds pretty good. What else has Cindy Williams (aka CPA12345, aka Ceja Kingsley) said on the Tennessean website about Spring Hill??

See below to see her tee off on:
Mayor Leverette (of course), The current board, Citizens for Spring Hill Hospital, Jill Wiersma, Alderman Duda and...Vice Mayor Johnson

At the same time, she praises:
Mayor Williams, Charlie Schoenbrodt and Susan Zemek

I guess it is still pretty easy to keep tabs on Spring Hill politics from that Brentwood address. Some people in this city will just never run out of venom.

I have a question for Ms. Williams/Colette/Kingsley/CPA12345, or anybody else (feel free to chime in Charlie) who can answer:
Who's signature is that on the FORGED budget ORDINANCE and who doctored the agendas and meeting minutes to make it look like the board passed the FORGED budget ORDINANCE when the deficits REALLY began?

On 5/29/2008, she wrote:

CPA12345 wrote:

After reading the article written by Jill Wiersma I feel compelled to ask the sources of the monetary amounts listed. At one point Ms. Wiersma states according to Alderman Duda, however no certified reliable source is listed as a provider of the financial data. It is my understanding that yearly city audit financial data by local licensed CPAs, state audit financial data, Alderman Duda data and city manager Ken York financial data all contain substantially different general fund amounts. Which data is represented in this article (average of the above, data that favors present administration, toss of a coin to pick data, etc.?) and why isn't a data source listed?

On 6/11/2008, she wrote:

CPA12345 wrote:

Replying to Lucywhahappened:

What delusion is this guy living in? There was never a much of a surplus after the investigations into the accounting at city hall. Ray Williams made tax cuts that started the problems in the first place.

Lucy .......where have you been for the past ten years? Ray Williams put Spring Hill on the map by lowering city taxes a only couple of cents per year which strengthened and empowered the economics of Spring Hill. Everytime a government raises taxes, even by one cent, they hurt the economics of the area they govern.....do your research and you will be able to confirm. During the administration of Mayor Williams the city lived within its means.....you know.....what most of us folks have to do to in order to survive. Mr. Schoenbrodt, I congratulate you for having the courage to tell the truth about the Spring Hill.

On 6/12/2008, she wrote:

CPA12345 wrote:

Yes,, Lucy...... it is a shame that our city leaders decided to spend, spend and spend in the past three years. City employees have noted in the past few years that no elected officials ever looked or inquired into the city finances; yet continued to spend without any knowledge of city revenues available. Maybe each elected official should be required to take a course from Dave Ramsey (Financial Peace) to learn the basics of money management.

On 6/12/2008, she wrote:

CPA12345 wrote:

Susan Zemek is right! The signs/banners representing HCA reflect a private for-profit hospital....what is the difference in Ms. Zemek's signs/banners endorsing a private for-profit bi-annual consignment sale which donates profits to charities. When the city attorney states he will look into the matter.....it means lets stall for time until we can find some opinion somewhere that will get the city out of playing favorites. Continue your fight, Susan!!!

On 6/17/2008, she wrote:

CPA12345 wrote:

Spring Hill just threw away their claim to fame last night. The Taxpayer Bill of Rights made nationwide history, was a resolution that promised to the citizens of Spring Hill that taxes would not be raised without a public referendum. For the mayor to state it was illegal is irresponsible and incorrect. The resolution was unenforceable per law, however the resolution was much like a bible for governments to adhere to and live by. It is a sad day in Spring Hill!!!!

and also....

As a Spring Hill citizen I find it ironic that the Mayor has deemed two resolutions "illegal" that were approved by a prior board. First the two year mayoral term was declared "illegal" by the Mayor after city tax dollars were spent to get an "opinion" to state such and now another "opinion" declares the taxpayer bill of rights "illegal".....how convenient!!!
Does this mean that all the resolutions passed by our city board can be so easily tossed out just by getting an "opinion". The Taxpayer Bill of Rights was a promise to the citizens of Spring Hill that their taxes would not be raised unless approved by "citizens' approving a city-wide referendum. Can't help but wonder why our city leaders didn't do the right thing and put the city property rate increase up for vote in November? Were they afraid that the majority of Spring Hill citizens would vote "no"?
The citizens of Spring Hill need to demand that city leaders stick to their promise and hold a city-wide voting referendum to allow the citizens to determine if we need a property tax increase!!!!

On 6/19/2008, she wrote:

CPA12345 wrote:

Why aren't our city leaders doing the right thing and keeping their promise made when the Tax Payer Bill of Rights was approved by city officials Danny Leverette and Miles Johnson five years ago? Instead city leaders have opted to refer to an "opinion" by MTAS (club for city governments) stating the promise of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights is "illegal" or unenforceable. Simply put, our city leaders could easily carry out the promise of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights by holding a city wide voting referendum in Nov. (during the presidential election....no extra cost to citizens) and allow the citizens to determine if a tax increase is really needed or not. Citizens, demand that your city leaders do the right thing......YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!

Wow! I am glad I am not on her bad side. Oh wait, maybe I am. I have a feeling that her distain for me will only increase as the months move along.

I am by no means in favor of higher taxes...in fact, it appalls me that financial shortfalls have been hidden and covered up for the last 8 years. I am furious that "good 'ol boys" from the previous regime continue to throw mud at those trying to shed light on our city's past indescressions. I am furious that previous elected officials LIED and twisted facts in order to mislead the public. The very reason that we are now having to RE-ISTITUTE this property tax at an increased rate is to pay back the money that previous city officials were hiding.

Let's start talking politics again. There is more deception flying around right now than at any time since I have lived in this city. I am sick of it!

Opportunity

2008-04-09T12:47:00.003-05:00

Instead of throwing all of the stones, I will get to sit in the dunk tank for a change.
As many of you know, there is now a "gorilla" on the planning commission. The mayor has given me the opportunity to serve the city in this capacity and instead of throwing all of the stones, I will get to sit in the dunk tank for a change. I am extremely honored by the invitation and will do everything in my power to be an integral piece in holding our city to a higher standard.

Because of this appointment, there are going to be a few things changing a little bit. This forum will still be used for personal opinions on the happening of our city. I will write many of them, some of the other "gorillas" will write more, and I invite you to write as well. Those items that you would like to convey in a post format can be emailed to me at Gorilla_In_The_Corner@yahoo.com and I would be happy to post them as topics for discussion. Most importantly, the views and opinions expressed on this website are personal in nature and do not reflect the official view of The City of Spring Hill.

Much more to come. Enjoy!

-Michael Glass

At least it isn't Anonymous

2008-03-11T11:59:00.005-05:00

All that I can say about this is...at least it is not anonymous. Some people just can't get over themselves. You would think a person with this much experience with attorneys (especially those in the family) would understand the legal system a little bit better than this. You would also think that Mr. Schoenbrodt and Mr. Dinwiddie, and all of the Shannon Glenn residents would understand the LEGAL implications to the actions taken by removing this item as a PUD and filing a lawsuit against the city. I would think that it is now VERY clear that the city CANNOT take a stand specifically against "The Shoppes at Belshire" even if they wanted to. You want to see lawsuits...then you would see lawsuits.

You have tied the city's hands on this one!

Do you want to see how hatred and dissension are fueled? Read through this email and then ask me how much credibility the Informer and it's main author have...

.So, we are stuck with the scoundrel till we get a Mayor with a majority of aldermen who have the backbone to take such action.

---
Subject: Re: Monday Night Government

Kathy,

Although I am not a blood member of the Irish Clan, I feel like I am an adopted child. I am going to pitch my opinion as an answer to your questions.

Megan, Susan, Patrick and Jerrold did an excellent job of stirring the pot tonight (last night now) at the two meetings at City Hall. Rob kept his mouth shut, well not really. It was obvious from the expression on his face several times, what he was thinking. As for what you can do to let people know about the lack of representation by our elected officials, talk to anyone you know from another subdivision.

Talk to people in Franklin, Columbia, Brentwood, Nashville and anywhere else, about what is going on in Spring Hill. The word will filter back. You can also write letters to the editor of the Williamson AM, Columbia Daily Herald, The Advertiser, The Williamson Herald, and the INFORMER. Get other residents of Spring Hill to sign them with you. There is power in numbers. Even if just the INFORMER publishes them (I am sure that Melissa will), it will get out. My articles are responded to often, but some people probably believe that you can't trust what it in the newspaper. They are more likely to believe what a resident takes the time to write and send in. The pen IS mightier than the sword. When you write, use the names of the Mayor and Aldermen. Elected officials can not sue anyone for what they say about them. My son is an attorney and said that is one of the first things they teach in Law School. Besides, what you say will be the truth anyway.

One of the sad things about our City's Charter, is that there is no provision for recall. Ray Williams and I talked about that on several occasions and, had I been elected mayor in 2005, would have pressed for a change to the charter to include such a procedure. So, we are stuck with the scoundrel till we get a Mayor with a majority of aldermen who have the backbone to take such action. This group would never enact such legislation. They know what would happen. Megan told them tonight what is going to happen. In 2009 we have to have honest, devoted, conscientious candidates from all four wards and someone to start to overcome the destruction of our current mayor. We can't wait till 2009 to start preparing for that. Within the next few weeks, there will be a new website in Spring Hill that does not allow postings by that powerful creature, "anonymous" or people who use cutesy names like "lovespringhill" or "gorillaintheicebox."; sp; They will have to take responsibility for what they say. It will have information about how to register to vote, when and where to vote, voting records of the mayor and aldermen, names and addresses of elected officials from the President to our aldermen. We are going to need a lot of help with this project, but will be careful about who we let get any control of it.

The most important thing is to NOT GIVE UP. Stay angry about this and keep looking for and finding ways to fight back. Complacency is our worst enemy. When Danny and the other incompitents went into office, there was about $6 million in the Spring Hill coffers. Now we are not sure how much is left, but it is certainly no more than about $2.5 million. There is only $1,049.890 left in CDs. Last month's financial report did not disclose how
much was left in the checking accounts and savings accounts. The end of December, it was only $1,994,750. Income was down in January and February and I do not think expenses was down any. We still had to pay the staff, pay the electric bill, and put gasoline in the police cars and other City vehicles.

Tonight, the new City Administrator, Mr. Ken Weaver said that the State Comptroller's audit will be completed in about two weeks. Spring Hill may start being managed by the State after that.

I know I sound like Chicken Little screaming "The sky is falling, the sky is falling." But just remember paranoia is not really paranoia unless what you believe is NOT true.

Keep it stirred,

Charlie Schoenbrodt

Slam Dunk (7-1)

2008-02-27T13:55:00.001-06:00

For those of you interested, around noon today the HSDA overturned a previous court ruling 7-1 in favor of the Spring Hill Hospital. They are now in the process of writing their decision (and systematically tearing apart Williamson Medical and Maury Regional). Williamson and Maury could appeal this one more time to the Supreme Court (which they might) so now is the time to start writing your representatives and tell them to put this to an end.

By the way...hold on to those wallets because both of our counties are going to be spending a bundle on ALL of these legal proceedings. Remember, loser pays ALL. Seeing that room full of attorneys, and knowing how many rooms full of attorneys there have been in this fight, it is going to be AWFULLY expensive! What a great way to spend OUR money.

I will be back later when this all shakes out some more.

WMC and MRH Never Cease to Amaze Me

2008-02-23T15:35:00.002-06:00

The process in this case worked exactly the way it was designed to work and SHH's suggestion that the de novo hearing was a 'reversal' should be disregarded....There is nothing orderly about allowing one of the world's largest health care corporations to construct a multi-million dollar losing facility in a community already fully served by two nearby public hospitals.
In anticipation of the HSDA hearing for Spring Hill Hospital on Wednesday, February 27, 2008, I present to you these snippets from official filings and responses by Spring Hill Hospital, Williamson Medical Center and Maury Regional Hospital.

Initial Filings:
Spring Hill Hospital Petition for Review
WMC and MRH Response to Petition for Review
State of Tennessee Response to Petition for Review

Filings after HSDA ruled in November that it would review the case:
WMC and MRH Brief
Spring Hill Hospital's Reply Brief

WMC and MRH Response to Petition for Review:

"The initial vote of the Agency after it considers a CON application serves only to allocate the burden of proof for the parties in the contested case."

"The process in this case worked exactly the way it was designed to work and SHH's suggestion that the de novo hearing was a 'reversal' should be disregarded."

"The Agency should not set a precedent for reviewing contested cases simply because the losing party is dissatisfied with the result of the hearing."

Then, after the agency agreed to review the contested case despite WMC and MRH's assertion that it should not, WMC and MRH's takes a different approach to wooing the HSDA.

From WMC and MRH's Brief:

"In the overwhelming majority of cases, the initial decision-making process works so well that no contested case review is requested."

"Likewise, the trial refuted HCA's claim that the idea for SHH arose from a plea by city officials for someone to serve the community's unrnet health care needs."

Proof that WMC and MRH do have their head in the sand...

"At the July 2006 Agency meeting, HCA and its supporters referred many times to the 'fever pitch' and 'staggering pace' of population growth in Spring Hill, growth that was 'extraordinary' and showed 'no signs of slowing down.' (Hr'g Tr. 4.) The basis for all these overheated claims was Luke's report."

"Without Luke's projected 'staggering' population growth, there simply is no need for a new hospital in Spring Hill."

WMC and MRH marketing 101...

"HCA supporters asserted that 'convenient access' was an important reason to approve the project. Several members of the public who spoke in favor of the application suggested that a new hospital was needed for this reason."

"Of course, responsible health planning cannot be based solely on anecdotes of lay witnesses. If asked, almost any citizen would support a new health care facility being built nearby."

"It is apparent that the minimal improvement in convenience of access that SHH might represent is not a material factor."

"There is nothing orderly about allowing one of the world's largest health care corporations to construct a multi-million dollar losing facility in a community already fully served by two nearby public hospitals."

In stark contrast to WMC and MRH's response is the State's Response:

"Counsel for the State supports the request for HSDA review of the Initial Order of the Administrative Judge because it would not be unreasonable for a Tribunal with a broad mix of expertise on healthcare, business, and public policy to review the evidence presented before the Administrative Judge and conclude that the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in the Initial Order are materially contradicted by proof in the record. This is especially true given the unique factual issues resulting from the rapid growth experienced by the Spring Hill area, and the difficulties presented by simply applying the Guidelines for Growth to such a unique situation."

Spring Hill Hospital's Response:

"WMC and MRH devote most of their brief to tactics designed to distract from the real issues, as is evident in their efforts to pillory the character of HCA and its witnesses with strident and accusatory language."

Oh, in case you were wondering, there just might be a need for convenient access to health care in Southern Williamson County after all (Emphasis Added)...

"Establishing services at Tollgate increases access to health care within the areas we are committed to serving," says Rodger Klein, chief operating officer at Williamson Medical Center and member of the Williamson-Saint Thomas Community Health Board of Directors. "This location at the intersection of I-840 and Columbia Pike in southern Williamson County will be convenient and helpful for a large population."

Williamson-Saint Thomas Community Health LLC

to anchor
Tollgate Village Medical Pavilion

Healthcare developer announces anchor tenant

for upscale, community-based development south of Nashville

Franklin, Tenn. - Healthcare real estate developer First Colony Healthcare announced today
their anchor tenant for the 45,000 square foot medical office building in Thompson's Station, Tenn., at the Tollgate Village development. The newly
formed joint venture between Saint Thomas Health Services and Williamson Medical Center will utilize 30,000 square feet of the building as a new
center for medical services for southern Williamson County.

Tollgate Village Medical Pavilion is the first expansion location for Williamson-Saint Thomas Community Health LLC, a joint venture that allows the
two institutions to work together to provide a broad range of healthcare services in Williamson County.

"We are very excited to be working with Saint Thomas and Williamson Medical on this project," said Dennis Norvet, President of First Colony
Healthcare.

"Thompson's Station is a vibrant area with a growing population and solid demographics for healthcare. With the completion of I-840, Tollgate
Village Medical Pavilion is well situated for the residents of all of southern Williamson County."

Located 30 minutes south of Nashville in Williamson County, Tollgate Village is a 360-acre community designed to provide a small-town feel with
luxury homes, condominiums, and nearby retail shops, restaurants and parks.

"Establishing services at Tollgate increases access to health care within the areas we are committed to serving," says Rodger Klein, chief operating
officer at Williamson Medical Center and member of the Williamson-Saint Thomas Community Health Board of Directors. "This location at the
intersection
of I-840 and Columbia Pike in southern Williamson County will be convenient and helpful for a large population."

The Tollgate Village Medical Pavilion will begin construction in March and is slated for completion in late 2008. Adjacent to the medical
office building will be approximately 21,000 square feet of retail in 3 buildings fronting Tollgate Boulevard.

"The partnership between Saint Thomas Health Services and Williamson Medical Center continues to grow and expand," says Wes Littrell, STHS Chief
Strategy Officer and President of Saint Thomas Health Services Affiliates. "Our combined presence in the new Tollgate Center represents our mutual
commitment to providing greater access to excellent healthcare to people in the neighborhoods and communities where they live and work. Our
affiliation with Williamson Medical Center represents a true sense of collaboration that benefits the physicians and patients of Williamson
County."

About First Colony Healthcare, LLC

First Colony Healthcare, LLC is a full service healthcare real estate
and development company that focuses on the development of high-end
medical facilities ranging from medical office buildings to specialty
hospitals. Unique to First Colony Healthcare is a competitive, flexible
approach that allows the company to respond quickly to market changes
and offer expanded development opportunities. Its parent company,
33-year-old First Colony Corporation specializes in development, sales,
leasing, management and acquisitions for Class A office, medical,
mixed- and multiple-use properties. For more information, please visit >www.firstcolonyhealthcare.com.

About Saint Thomas Health Services

Saint Thomas Hospital is a member of Saint Thomas Health Services, a
faith-based ministry with more than 8,000 associates serving Middle
Tennessee. Saint Thomas Health Services' regional health system
consists of four hospitals - Baptist and Saint Thomas in Nashville,
Middle Tennessee Medical Center in Murfreesboro and Hickman Community
Hospital in Centerville - and a comprehensive network of affiliated
joint ventures in diagnostics, cardiac services and ambulatory surgery
as well as medical practices, the Center for Spinal Surgery, clinics
and rehabilitation facilities. STHS is a member of Ascension Health, a
Catholic organization that is the largest not-for-profit health system
in the United States. For more information, visit www.sths.com.

About Williamson Medical Center

Williamson Medical Center is a 185-bed hospital, fully accredited by
The Joint Commission, that provides comprehensive inpatient and
outpatient care including emergency services. WMC's medical staff
includes more than 500 board-certified physicians in 36 specialties.
The community-focused hospital offers a wide range of wellness
services, screenings and classes. For more information about Williamson
Medical Center, visit >www.williamsonmedicalcenter.orgcolor="#333300" face="georgia,palatino" size="2">.

Tollgate Village | Thompson's Station, Tennessee

Show your support!

2008-02-19T12:50:00.003-06:00

HSDA Hearing on Spring Hill Hospital

Wednesday, February 27th at 8:30 a.m.
The Sommet Center
501 Broadway
Meeting Rooms D-G
Nashville, TN
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
FOR THE SPRING HILL HOSPITAL

 In 2006, the Health Services Development Agency (HSDA) granted TriStar Health Systems the right to build a Hospital in Spring Hill by approving a Certificate of Need (CON) to build a 56 bed hospital off of Kedron Road and Saturn Parkway.

 Prior to the CON’s approval, the Citizens for Spring Hill Hospital (CFSHH), a voluntary, community driven grassroots group, procured 10,250 signatures from Maury and Williamson County residents in support of the proposed Spring Hill Hospital in 2006.

 Williamson Medical Center and Maury Regional Hospital have actively opposed the Spring Hill Hospital and have spent over $1 million collectively to overturn and appeal the decision.

 The appeals process continues to unfold. The CFSHH encourages supporters to attend the upcoming HSDA hearing this month to show your support for TriStar/HCA as they bring the issue back before the Agency. Details of the hearing are as follows:

Wednesday, February 27th at 8:30 a.m.

The Sommet Center
501 Broadway
Meeting Rooms D-G
Nashville, TN

Parking is available on Fourth & Sixth Avenues and Demonbreun Street. The meeting rooms are on the lower level of the Sommet Center. Seating is limited to 150 people. Spring Hill residents are encouraged to arrive early to procure a seat.

Congratulations to Mrs. Colette!

2008-02-19T12:42:00.001-06:00

Cheers to a happy new marraige, and good luck on your move out of Spring Hill.

Shannon Glen

2007-10-16T09:33:00.001-05:00

To all Shannon Glen residents:

I am more on your side than you think, but with your unwillingness to negotiate, you are about to get exactly what you do not want. Here is what is going to happen now:

Your item was pulled off the table because it will not show up again as you see it now. It will never come before the BOMA again, because it will never be a PUD again. The city has the MOST room to negotiate during the PUD process and if it comes before you as a straight zoning (which it will next) it will only come before the Planning Commission. At that level, it meets the zoning requirements and the developer has been known to provide whatever is needed (which is a very good thing for you all) to enhance the project thus getting it approved.

From now on, as long as it meets the zoning requirement, it will be approved. Whatever advice you were given is just plain wrong and in the end it will be to your detriment (if you are against a road and development next to your property). I would be more than happy to fill you in on any of the procedural process from here on out, but unless you get on the stick pretty fast, your moment to negotiate is ending VERY quickly.

Call me a pawn, or a plant, or bought off, or whatever else you like. If you know me at all you know that is just flat incorrect. I was (and still am) after you getting the ability to find a "happy medium" with this development, but your tactics have made that impossible.

Feel free to let me know if I can help, but if I were you I would drop the "all or nothing" approach because you are going to get stuck with nothing.

Be thankful that in the end it is Mr. Gordon's group that is developing this property, because if it were a handful of others you would all be very unhappy in a few months.

Administrative Law Judge Revokes Approval of Spring Hill Hospital

2007-10-15T10:39:00.000-05:00

From the Tennessean:

State denies HCA hospital in Spring Hill
Administrative law judge revokes approval of the controversial project

By: KATHRIN CHAVEZ
Staff Writer

A state administrative law judge has ruled that HCA cannot build a 56-bed hospital in Spring Hill.

The ruling came in the wake of an appeal by Williamson Medical Center and Maury Regional Hospital against the state Health Services and Development Agency’s approval of HCA’s certificate of need application for the hospital.

Administrative Judge Leonard Pogue wrote in his ruling that the Williamson and Maury hospitals had made "significant capital investments to serve the needs of their service areas, which include Spring Hill."

"The CON process does not guarantee freedom from any competition, but it does require that new facilities be approved only if there is a genuine need … Authorizing construction of a new hospital in Spring Hill before there is a sufficient population to support the need for such a facility would have a severe impact on both MRH and WMC … The proposed (hospital) will not contribute to the orderly development of adequate and effective health care facilities or services in the community."

Williamson Medical Center argued the proposed HCA hospital would drive up health care costs by duplicating services and technology already available at WMC and would harm the Williamson hospital’s ability to serve patients siphoning away an estimated $19 million during its first five years alone, said hospital
spokeswoman Laura Bustetter.

Williamson Medical Center recently completed an $83 million expansion, which included 59 new patient beds, a new surgery center, tripling the size of the emergency department and more physician office space.

I'll have more information once we get a copy of the judge's order...

Update: Click Here to downloand the Initial Judge's Order.

Special Meeting Called for Budget Issues

2007-09-19T21:32:00.001-05:00

Notice
Of
Special Call Meeting

There will be a Special Call Meeting of the Spring Hill Board of Mayor and Aldermen on Tuesday, September 25, 2007, at 7:00 P.M. in the Courtroom at City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss Ordinance 07-37, the amended budget, actual revenues and expenditures for fiscal year 2006-2007. Ordinance 07-23, Fiscal Year 2007-2008 will also be discussed. The public is invited to attend.

"Impact" fees?

2007-08-30T11:58:00.000-05:00

What is the correct action by the City of Spring Hill right now, considering the caliber of decisions being made for us in Columbia?
E
veryone keeps asking about this Maury County school site, so let's look at it a little bit more. I feel like we are beating the dead horse again, but it is very important, so let's look at solutions to the problem instead of continuing to show how bad a decision it is by the county (because really, when was the last time those governmental bodies down south made a good decision?) So, here is the million dollar question...

What is the correct action by the City of Spring Hill right now, considering the caliber of decisions being made for us in Columbia?

First lets take a look at a recent article about the subject.

Board Tables Middle School Decision
By DAN COPP
Staff Writer

In the latest chapter of the ongoing saga of a proposed middle school in Spring Hill, the Board of Mayor and Aldermen deferred a resolution authorizing the waiver of about $300,000 in building and permit fees for a site on Cleburne Road.

Several aldermen felt it prudent to hold off any building fee deductions until the Maury County Commission voted to fund the School Board's preferred site for a middle school on Cleburne Road.

However, several aldermen have objected to the Cleburn site. On Aug. 8, city officials voted to knock off more than $300,000 in fees associated with property on Jim Warren Road. In a political tug-of-war, the Maury County School Board voted to support Cleburn Road as the target location for a new middle school, fearing the Jim Warren site could cost $400,000 more.

Although he didn't agree with the School Board's decision, Vice Mayor Miles Johnson said the city should support the new middle school for the children's sake.

“There are road problems with this facility,” Johnson said. “We're not in any shape to build roads, and nobody has stepped up to build them. But the School Board has chosen (Celburn Road). Since the city has supported all the schools in the past regardless of where they were, we should support it. No one on this board likes that spot, but if we're going to support one school, we need to support all schools. The children deserve a school here in Spring Hill.”

Ward 2 Alderman Eliot Mitchell echoed Johnson's sentiments but recommended the board defer their vote to deduct any building fees until the Maury County Commission took a stance on the issue.

“I want to point out eight years ago that this board was predominately made up of Maury County citizens, and Williamson County Schools snubbed this board and built a school predominately for Spring Hill children in Thompson's Station as opposed to using property in Spring Hill,” Mitchell noted. “The city spent six figures of tax dollars installing a stop light in front of that school and agreed to run a sewer line to that school even though it was outside of city limits.

“They could have shown Williamson County the stupidity of their decision, but instead looked above and beyond the arrogance by saying it was all about providing a school for the kids, regardless of where it's at,” he continued. “I believe, since the Maury County Commission hasn't voted to fund the school yet, we would be wise to hold off our vote until they had their vote.” Mitchell said city leaders shouldn't squabble with the school board because children could end up paying the price.

“We need to continue as a board to maintain the relationship we've had with these school boards and be a partner to them instead of getting into this tit-for-tat contest to show who's got the most authority or arrogance,” the alderman said before making a motion to defer the item. “I'm telling you right now, if we charge that school board $300,000 to build that school (on Cleburn Road), that $300,000 will come out of the school's budget and will ultimately take away the kids' baseball fields, football fields and more. It's all about building schools for the community, and we should be glad we're arguing where to put the school instead of arguing to put a school in.”

County Road Superintendent Van Boshers estimated it would cost more than $3.5 million to make improvements to roads surrounding the Cleburne site.

Ward 3 Alderman Rick Graham, who voted in favor of deferring the resolution Monday, said on numerous occasions he would deny any building fee waivers for a school on Cleburn Road, which he considers unsuitable for such a facility.

“I'm not going to neglect my duties because of the School Board's poor choices and political influences,” Graham said.

Maury County Mayor Jim Bailey said the Spring Hill middle school issue could surface on the September agenda.

Commissioners brought to light another potential school site at the Honey Farm south of Neapolois, which would cost about $2 million, according Ward 4 Alderman Charles Raines, who owns the property. The Jim Warren site costs about $1.2 million, and the Cleburn property was donated to the Maury County School Board by Chapter 2 Investments in March.

Ward 4 Alderman Bruce Hull feared that any delays to support the proposed middle school could jeopardize its very existence.

“If this school doesn't happen, I personally don't think we'll have a middle school at all,” Hull said. “I don't support deferring this issue because I don't think the county commission isn't going to fund this project. Several commissioners have stated their position on it. Unless we get behind this project, they're definitely not going to fund it. We need to waive these fees and make a show of support of it and let the county commission know if they fund it, we'll do what we can to meet our responsibilities.”

After being seconded by Ward 1 Alderman Michael Dinwiddie, Mitchell's motion to defer the issue passed by a 7-2 with Hull and Raines dissenting.

“A lot of people are carrying their kids many miles to go to school,” Raines said. “I don't think there's a parent who lives on the Maury County side of Spring Hill that wouldn't want a school somewhere in the city.”

Staff Writer Dan Copp can be reached at dcopp@c-dh.net.

Now, here are some points to consider before deciding your course of action.

* The Cleburn Rd. Site is "technically" inside the city of Spring Hill, although it is on a county owned road, and is harder to reach from most points in Spring Hill than ANY of the other choices INCLUDING the Honey Farm in Neapolis (which is that Columbia site that everyone keeps holding over our heads).

* The road is not being improved by the developer or the County to ANY degree. That cost will be entirely laid at the city's feet to protect those traveling to the site (which would be all children in Maury County). The city will have to improve the road sooner rather than later.

* That road improvement cost will be approx. $3.5 Million. (and it will be placed ahead of other more pressing road improvements in Spring Hill.

* Utilities are on site, but not connected. Connection would involve all of that land from GM that Ken York was trying to condemn. Considerable cost and time still left to finish that project.

* The Jim Warren site is least expensive (especially when the Spring Hill Education Foundation weighs in), more centrally located to the population AND the growth in Maury County, will have all new roads provided at the cost of the developer, could be located near additional recreational facilities (like a future YMCA), and would fit into the Comprehensive Plan that has been laid out by the city and planning commission.

* Have any of you driven from Depot all the way south down Cleburn Rd and Petty Lane to I-31? Go drive it.

Now, what would you do?

Here are the options that have been presented so far:

1.) Decline outright the waiving of impact fees in order to persuade the school board to reconsider, as well as help pay for less than 10% of the impact.

2.) Stay the course. Let the county do what they are going to do. Waive the fees for the school. Gripe about it every time we drive down that road and wonder why we created another Duplex Rd.

3.) Do everything possible to get the school "inside our city limit" and take the road over. Spend the $3.5 million plus to fix the road when we need to and then charge the developers that come into the area to repay our "road consruction shortfall".

4.) Place your idea here...

If you have good ideas (or even bad ones, but good attempts) I will edit this post and add them in. So, for now I will leave this door open to see what you all have to say.

Oh...and one more thing. College football starts TODAY!!!

Boosterism

2007-08-20T12:21:00.000-05:00

From MRH and WMC's Proposed Findings of Facts in the Appeal Against a Spring Hill Hospital:
Construction of a new hospital in Spring Hill is viewed by many as an important amenity for a growing town and a boost to the local economy. Such civic pride and boosterism, while certainly admirable and understandable, cannot substitute for the statutory criteria.
From the pages of Wikipedia:

Boosterism
the act of "boosting," or promoting, one's town, city, or organization, with the goal of improving public perception of it. Boosting can be as simple as "talking up" the entity at a party or as elaborate as establishing a visitors' bureau. ...The term has, in general, a negative connotation.

That folks, is how our friends from WMC and MRH have chosen to dismiss the support of over 10,000 signatures in support of a Spring Hill Hospital.

Friday marked the day that all parties involved in the appeal for Spring Hill Hospital were to have submitted their Proposed Findings of Facts to the general administrative law Judge Pogue, who is now tasked with reviewing the evidence and issuing an order within the next 90 days.

If you are interested in reading each of the parties' Proposed Findings of Facts, you may download them here:
State of Tennessee / HSDA
HCA / TriStar - Spring Hill Hospital
Maury Regional Hospital and Williamson Medical Center

Some highlights are included in the full post (I know, some of you are going to say that I am just cherry picking, but I couldn't resist...)

State of Tennessee / HSDA

1. Petitioners (MRH and WMC) have the burden of proving, by a preponderance of the evidence, that this hospital is not needed, not economically feasible, or would not contribute to the orderly development of healthcare.

2. This tribunal has determined that the Petitioners (MRH and WMC) in this matter have failed to satisfy their burden of proof by establishing that one of the three statutory criteria in T.C.A. §68-11-1609(b) have not been satisfied on this record. Therefore, as a matter of law, the HSDA’s granting of the CON, # CN0604-028A, to SHH should not be reversed.

Maury Regional Hospital and Williamson Medical Center

1. Spring Hill is a Maury County municipality.

2. The majority of Spring Hill residents live in Williamson County.

3. In this contested case, evidence has been presented showing that there is strong
support for SHH among several residents of the Spring Hill area. Construction of a new hospital in Spring Hill is viewed by many as an important amenity for a growing town and a boost to the local economy. Such civic pride and boosterism, while certainly admirable and understandable, cannot substitute for the statutory criteria. The tribunal is charged with deciding this matter according to the criteria adopted by the Legislature. Community support and enthusiasm or economic development may not be considered in determining whether a CON should be granted.

4. The Court heard extensive testimony about Luke’s population projections from
Petitioners’ experts. As discussed below, the expert testimony demonstrated that Luke’s population projections are not reasonable, and in fact are implausible on their face.

5. Swanson provided the Court with a credible and reliable projection of Spring
Hill’s future population, which he summarized in a detailed and thoroughly-documented report. This analysis projects a future population of Spring Hill which is substantially lower than that submitted by Luke.

6. In sum, the evidence demonstrated that SHH’s population projections were
unreasonably high and project a level of population growth for Spring Hill that is unlikely to be sustained...If Swanson’s “high” population projections are substituted for those of Luke, then SHH is not needed.

HCA / TriStar - Spring Hill Hospital

1. MRH and WMC are competitors, and for several years each has explored the possibility of providing additional medical services in Spring Hill.

2. Spring Hill straddles the county line, and WMC and MRH have been wary of extending too far into Spring Hill.

3. Management at WMC believes that impatient services in Williamson County should be provided at WMC's campus in Franklin.

4. The growth between 2005 and 2007 exceeds even Dr. Luke's projections.

5. Dr. Swanson's "low" scenario has absolutely no credibility. That scenario is based on the Claritas estimates. ...Claritas estimated that the City of Spring Hill would have only 12,633 residents in 2005. The US Census Bureau now estimates the 2005 population of the City at 17,148.

6. Dr. Luke's projections are actually below the rate of growth in Spring Hill between 2005 and 2007. Dr. Swanson's would be even lower than that (Dr. Swansons's "high" scenario projects approximately 20,000 people in the city limits in 2010.)

7. The population growth in Maury and Williamson Counties, will more than offset the financial impact casued by those patients who choose to go to SHH rather than to MRH and WMC.

8. Pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated Section 68-11-1610(i), "all costs of the contested case proceeding, including the administrative law judge's costs and deposition costs such as expert witness fees, shall be assessed against the losing party in the contested case."

What would you do???

2007-08-15T20:20:00.000-05:00

Consider this a nice cool splash of water to wake you up a bit.
Okay...now that my life has slowed down a little bit, and I have given the new aldermen time to settle in, it is time to get this thing churning again. There is a lot going on in this city again, and it would be an absolute shame if we did not all still stay involved and do our part. That last statement includes me, so let's take control of our community now that we can.

So far, I have mixed reviews on the new aldermen. Despite any criticism that you hear from me today or in the future, we are in a much better place today than this time last year. Even so, one alderman in particular could use a little slap on the hand.

So...here we go again!

Before we talk about some issues with our newly elected body, lets cover 2 topics really quickly.

1.) Ken York's resignation

Ken is a very nice man personally, and an incredible ally IF he is on your side, but his time has finally come. If you read this Mr. York, I have enjoyed all that I have learned from you and enjoy your retirement.

I find it funny how the "Good 'ol Boys" were LIVID about having him in power and out to have his head on a stake a few months ago and NOW they are depressed to see him go. I guess you never can tell who's side he is on. Very well played (on all sides) for a long time Mr. York. You are truly amazing (I am not sure if that is good or not quite frankly).

2.) Maury County School Board

First off let me say that as a whole, this board is an absolute WASTE. I have been to a couple of meetings in the past, and other than maybe one member on any given night, you could fit their common sense in a thimble. It continues to amaze me how a group of people this influenced by "conflict of interests" can even keep a straight face as they berate members of our community, spread lies, and completely disregard facts while making up their own. I will cover their LIES at length tomorrow, but for now here is a question.

If you were a sitting alderman, would you cave to their pressure and give them relief from impact fees on the most IMPACTFUL development in the city (which will cost the city MILLIONS to make right)?

OR

If you were a sitting alderman, would you stand firm and risk having a school be placed outside of our city limits (Neapolis)?

I know what I would do!

Now, for the slap on the wrist...

Michael Dinwiddie - I like you. You make a nice gumbo. You are a good guy to sit down and have a drink with (or lunch). You seem to be a good father. I assume you are a good pilot considering some of the clients that you have. I TRULY believe that your heart is in the right place, and in time you could be a very good alderman. Having said all of that...

You overplay your hand more than any human being that I have EVER met! You have been on two sides of more issues in the first few months than I ever could have imagined. You need to learn (and I thought you had) that gossip flies around this city in all directions and MOST of the time it is better to bite your tongue than say something that will be spread. Count to 5 before you speak and take a deep breath while you think about the consequences of your statement before you make it. And please don't discuss city business with those DOING business with the city. It is one thing to bring a topic to the floor for a citizen, it is another thing to jeopardize the city and cost us cash by promising things and "overplaying your hand" with that citizen or developer.

I will site example if you like, but consider this a nice cool splash of water to wake you up a bit.

Talk to you tomorrow. The Gorilla is back and not very happy.

Bombshell...

2007-08-15T11:17:00.000-05:00

York’s 30-day notice would put his retirement date at Sept. 14, but with his accrued vacation time, his last day will actually be Aug. 31, Leverette said.

Spring Hill City Administrator Announces Retirement
By JILL CECIL WIERSMA
The Tennessean, Staff Writer

SPRING HILL - City Administrator Ken York gave notice Monday that he is retiring, Mayor Danny Leverette announced at the end of last night’s work session.

"It kind of comes as a surprise," Leverette said.

York’s 30-day notice would put his retirement date at Sept. 14, but with his accrued vacation time, his last day will actually be Aug. 31, Leverette said.

To make it official, the board will vote Monday to accept his retirement.

"We won’t make him draft his own resolution, I’ll be glad to draft it myself," said City Attorney Tim Underwood.

Leverette asked board members how they would feel about giving York three months of his salary, roughly $20,000, in appreciation of his work for the city in the last eight and a half years. He said the position will be advertised immediately and that he hopes to fill it by the end of this year or early next year. If that’s the case, Leverette said the three month’s salary won’t affect the budget.

"I hate to even think about voting on a resolution to get rid of him," Vice Mayor Miles Johnson said. "That’s the least I think we can do to show our appreciation. We hate to lose him."

I'll have more time to comment later...

Ice Cream Time

2007-06-28T20:43:00.001-05:00

Jones’s Middle Tennessee operations will serve as test stores and model franchises for the company, Jones said.

Dippin’ Dots moves could mean jobs for Nashville
By Amy Griffith - The Nashville City Paper
June 28, 2007

These sweet confections planned for sale at new Dippin’ Dots test stores spell good news for ice cream fans. And if the company’s presence in Nashville continues to grow, the Dots could be delicious news for Nashville’s business community as well.

Dippin’ Dots is headquartered in Paducah, Ky., but Curt Jones, the company’s founder and chairman as well as inventor of the Dots, has lived in Brentwood for six years. The company’s president, Tom Leonard, relocated to the Nashville area in the past year.

“There is a chance that certain operations of our business may move to Nashville someday,” Jones said.

Spring Hill Economic Developmnet Committee, are you listening???

He said there are no certain plans for Middle Tennessee other than development of the test stores. Company spokesman Terry Reeves said Dippin’ Dots already has a "substantial investment" in Paducah, primarily in the form of a 70,000-square-foot manufacturing facility.

"I think it’s a very safe statement to make that we’re going to continue to manufacture in Paducah for the long haul," Reeves said.

Reeves described Dippin’ Dots as "a $50 million company" in terms of wholesale products — sale of Dots to franchises — and does not include retail sales at individual store locations. Dippin’ Dots employs about 225, mostly in Paducah.

The new Dippin’ Dots stores in Middle Tennessee will technically be franchises owned by Jones. They will be the first stores he has personally operated since he and his wife, Kay, first started selling Dippin’ Dots 20 years ago.

"He’s an official Dippin’ Dots franchisee," Terry said.

The first store, located at a Kroger plaza on Nolensville Pike in Brentwood, opened with no advertising or publicity earlier this month and celebrates its grand opening Friday and Saturday. A location in Spring Hill, near Campbell’s Station, is planned for opening in July. A location will likely open in Lebanon soon, company leaders said, and several other stores may follow in the next 14 months.

Jones’s Middle Tennessee operations will serve as test stores and model franchises for the company, Jones said. Product offerings and marketing techniques will be experimented with for possible application at other locations. The first test store opened is one of Dippin’ Dots’ largest, at more than 1,200 square feet. Company leaders describe the store as an extension of Dippin’ Dots research and development.

"We can really experiment with new products," Jones said. "We’re hoping that it becomes a family destination."

Products to be tested include Fridgets, clusters of dots held together with chocolate. Other products include Dot-ed milkshakes, Dot sundaes, waffle-Dot cones and waffle-Dot sundaes. Dots and cream — Dots blended into regular ice cream — will likely debut this year. The store will also experiment with a party and meeting room concept, as well as party packages.

The store has obtained exclusive rights for ice cream sales in the Kroger center, including the portion of the area that has not been completed.

Despite the lack of advertising and "soft opening" strategy, store manager Amber Cruse said the Brentwood franchise is already in the company’s top 10 ranking in terms of sales.

"We’re going to have a full-scale ice cream store," said Walter England of Brentwood, general manager of Jones’s Middle Tennessee franchises. "We're very fortunate to have the inventor in town."

Jones — a scientist by training — invented Dippin’ Dots when he and his wife, Kay, and their daughter were living in a suburb of Lexington. At the time, Jones was working in a biotechnology lab. Jones and his wife moved to Nashville in 2001 because liked the size of Nashville, and its accessibility to Paducah, Jones said.

Now, Jones also owns a Nashville-based entertainment and music publishing company, Amylase, with offices on 17th Avenue. Amylase manages recording artist Gary Nichols and has produced several films.

Dippin' Dots has offered franchising operations since 2000, and now has approximately 300 stores in the system, including two company-owned stores. Franchises include everything from mall kiosks to full stores. The latter have become more popular in the last few years, and offer a venue for sale of products including floats and cakes. Jones’s franchises aren’t the first Dippin’ Dots locations in the Nashville area.

The newly opened Dippin’ Dots test store is located at 6688 Nolensville Pike in Brentwood.

Spring Break

2007-06-19T11:15:00.001-05:00

Even though there have not been posts for the last month, I have still been paying attention. Thanks for hanging around.
Howdy everyone. For those that do not know, I have personally had a fairly involved last month or two with a new baby and some hospital issues, but this site will be back up and humming in the next day or two. Even though there have not been posts for the last month, I have still been paying attention. Thanks for hanging around.

This little "spring break" has allowed the newly elected aldermen to get their feet wet without much negative discussion. I am sure that will probably change in a few hours because there are a few things happening that leave me scratching my head. Much more to come this afternoon.

DuBois and Ketron announce movement on I-65 construction

2007-05-11T08:56:00.001-05:00

DuBois and Ketron announce movement on I-65 construction

NASHVILLE – Representative Tom DuBois (R-Columbia) and Senator Bill Ketron (R-Murfreesboro) announced this week that two vital steps are moving forward on the much-needed improvements being made to widen Interstate 65 between the Goose Creek Interchange and S.R. 840.

“These improvements have been needed for quite some time now, particularly for Maury County residents commuting to Williamson and Davidson Counties everyday,” said DuBois. “Senator Ketron and I are pleased to announce that the Tennessee Department of Transportation will begin this work soon.”

“I am very excited to see the beginning of progress of the widening of I-65 in southern Williamson County. Traffic is at the crisis point and it is important we get started on a solution as soon as possible,” added Senator Ketron (R-Murfreesboro).

The first two vital steps in the four-step process, according to DuBois, will be funded and undertaken this fiscal year. First will be the engineering and design to widen Interstate 65 and the Goose Creek overpass interchange. Senator Bill Ketron noted that this first step will be followed by environmental studies to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

The final two steps will be the purchase of a right-of-way and the actual building. DuBois stressed his wish that these two steps move as quickly as possible before this traffic problem became worse. “This is a unique situation due to the tremendous growth we are experiencing in Southern Middle Tennessee, and I am pleased that TDOT also sees the importance of the project,” he said.

Both of the aforementioned State Legislators will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting at Heritage Elementary School this Thursday, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. All area residents are invited and welcome to share their views on this roadway and any other issues.

Please be there!

2007-05-10T07:58:00.001-05:00

Please be there!

Not As Bad As I Thought

2007-05-07T08:45:00.001-05:00

This is looking a little better every day. Frankly, I don't blame Mr. Gordon any more on this one. I do not trust the Maury County School Board any farther than I can throw them (especially with SSOE's contract being extended). It is nice to see that my initial reaction on Thursday is not exactly correct.

Now, I would much prefer land donation in the future, but I guess with the current state of affairs in Maury County that is just not possible.

Anyway, read it for yourself.

Foundation might help purchase property for new middle school

By SKYLER SWISHER/Staff Writer

The Spring Hill Education Foundation might be able to contribute enough money to cover the costs of acquiring property for a new middle school that would be closer to the city’s fastest-growing area, Mayor Danny Leverette said.

“That is part of the reason I created the Spring Hill Education Foundation was to help with schools in Spring Hill whether with technology or school books or the acquisition of land,” he said.

Local real-estate attorney Huntly Gordon, who represents Arrowhead Land Co., said his clients are offering to sell a 30-acre parcel on Jim Warren Road near Marvin Wright Elementary to the school system.

The land will cost $1.2 million, but Gordon said the school system might be able to tap into the foundation to pay for the acquisition.

Gordon said he prefers the school system receive a cash donation because of how the board treated two of his clients, developers Taylor Golden and Cyril Evers.

The School Board was overly critical and condescending of property on Port Royal Road Evers was willing to donate for a school, he said.

“We are not going to ever donate land to the Maury County Board of Education simply because of the way it has been handled historically or in the recent past,” Gordon said. “We are willing to work with the city with cash donations to ensure funds are available to purchase whatever land that the city feels is appropriate to build future schools.”

Gordon said he would be willing to commit in writing to developers funding the construction of a 60-foot-wide road and providing utilities to the school.

The site will be easily accessible, allow students from nearby neighborhoods to walk and bike to school and provide easy access to a YMCA for after-school care, he said.

“I think you are going to have annual transportation costs associated with the Cleburne Road site that you won’t have with another site on the east side of the city,” Gordon said.

The Spring Hill Education Foundation was organized in April to benefit Spring Hill students and the schools they attend. Golden and Evers have donated $400,000 a piece to the foundation.

Leverette, along with Chairman of the Spring Hill Economic Development Commission Matthew White, will serve as the foundation’s board of directors. A third member is expected to be announced in the near future.

“We’re in the organizational phase right now,” White said. “The paperwork has been filed with the Secretary of State and will take several months before the foundation is made official and accepted as a nonprofit by the Internal Revenue Service.”

The School Board already has a deed for property on Cleburne Road behind the General Motors Spring Hill Manufacturing Facility, but that site has faced criticism for its remoteness and the narrow roads that service the area.

“There’s a lot of commissioners who probably won’t be happy with the site that they picked,” said Maury County Commissioner Bob Farmer, who represents the Spring Hill area. “I think between Spring Hill and Maury County, since we all seem to be in agreement of where the school doesn’t need to go, that maybe we can come up with something.”

The Maury County Commission has yet to approve funds for the school. It is expected to cost $26.4 million.

Director of Schools Eddie Hickman said he thinks the School Board is committed to the Cleburne site but will consider all other sites for future schools. Construction needs to begin as soon as possible, he said.

“It’s a better site,” Hickman said. “It is free land. There are utilities.”

Hickman said the roads could be better, but the infrastructure is sufficient to accommodate the school with an expected capacity of 1,000.

“That road is better than the roads around Culleoka School and other schools in our district,” he said.

School officials want to open the middle school by the beginning of the 2009 school year.

Disappointed And A Little Bit Confused

2007-05-03T13:56:00.001-05:00

Well, there is something VERY interesting that I intend to get to the bottom of, and if I find what I think I am going to, I am not very happy. We will see, but I do not ever want to hear "Woe is me" from a couple of people ever again!

If this article is 100% truthful, which I am checking into, I am fairly disappointed and a little bit confused at what is now being said. A couple of weeks ago, the offer was very different so some games are being played.
School site comes with a catch

Now, even with the cost being mentioned in the article, the new site is MUCH better than Cleburne Road, but I am a little bit upset about what I am hearing. With schools, these type of games should not be played. Everything that is now being said is 180 degrees from what I heard from the same people a few weeks ago. The School Board could now be entirely justified in building that school out on Cleburne Road if these games are going to be played at City Hall and by these developers. Again, we will see very soon if this is true.

MUCH more to come, but for now that is all.