This ordinance by Councilman Tygard would allow “duplexes” to be built as two separate structures on a single lot.
The NNDF membership has voted to oppose to this fundamental change in the definition of “two-family” structures to allow the construction of two detached structures rather than one single structure with two units. This change is contrary to our basic premise of a duplex, which Webster’s dictionary defines as a two-family structure.
We are concerned this change will increase the number of tear-downs in existing neighborhoods.
In effect it allows for a doubling of the number of structures in neighborhoods zoned R and on grandfathered duplex lots in RS districts. In time it is likely that owners will request sub-division of these lots creating a confusing patchwork of sub-standard lots through existing neighborhoods.
The current practice of building duplexes attached by a wall is the result of an “interpretation” of the Code by the Zoning Administrator; it was not as a result of a specific text change request by the Council.
We are not aware of any compelling need for this text change.
There are a number of questions as to how this ordinance will be applied by Codes and Planning:
Will there be curb cuts for each structure?
How will lot subdivision be handled?
How will interior lots be subdivided?
How will this affect lot comparability for other subdivisions?
How will this affect historic districts?
What will neighborhoods housing patterns look like with separate structures?
We believe a better approach would be for the Council to correct what we believe is a “misinterpretation” of the zoning code by requiring all duplexes to have a common interior wall, which was the previous requirement.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Ordinance BL2008-115: “Split” Duplex Bill
This ordinance by Councilman Tygard would allow “duplexes” to be built as two separate structures on a single lot.
The NNDF membership has voted to oppose to this fundamental change in the definition of “two-family” structures to allow the construction of two detached structures rather than one single structure with two units. This change is contrary to our basic premise of a duplex, which Webster’s dictionary defines as a two-family structure.
We are concerned this change will increase the number of tear-downs in existing neighborhoods.
In effect it allows for a doubling of the number of structures in neighborhoods zoned R and on grandfathered duplex lots in RS districts. In time it is likely that owners will request sub-division of these lots creating a confusing patchwork of sub-standard lots through existing neighborhoods.
The current practice of building duplexes attached by a wall is the result of an “interpretation” of the Code by the Zoning Administrator; it was not as a result of a specific text change request by the Council.
We are not aware of any compelling need for this text change.
There are a number of questions as to how this ordinance will be applied by Codes and Planning:
Will there be curb cuts for each structure?
How will lot subdivision be handled?
How will interior lots be subdivided?
How will this affect lot comparability for other subdivisions?
How will this affect historic districts?
What will neighborhoods housing patterns look like with separate structures?
We believe a better approach would be for the Council to correct what we believe is a “misinterpretation” of the zoning code by requiring all duplexes to have a common interior wall, which was the previous requirement.
The NNDF membership has voted to oppose to this fundamental change in the definition of “two-family” structures to allow the construction of two detached structures rather than one single structure with two units. This change is contrary to our basic premise of a duplex, which Webster’s dictionary defines as a two-family structure.
We are concerned this change will increase the number of tear-downs in existing neighborhoods.
In effect it allows for a doubling of the number of structures in neighborhoods zoned R and on grandfathered duplex lots in RS districts. In time it is likely that owners will request sub-division of these lots creating a confusing patchwork of sub-standard lots through existing neighborhoods.
The current practice of building duplexes attached by a wall is the result of an “interpretation” of the Code by the Zoning Administrator; it was not as a result of a specific text change request by the Council.
We are not aware of any compelling need for this text change.
There are a number of questions as to how this ordinance will be applied by Codes and Planning:
Will there be curb cuts for each structure?
How will lot subdivision be handled?
How will interior lots be subdivided?
How will this affect lot comparability for other subdivisions?
How will this affect historic districts?
What will neighborhoods housing patterns look like with separate structures?
We believe a better approach would be for the Council to correct what we believe is a “misinterpretation” of the zoning code by requiring all duplexes to have a common interior wall, which was the previous requirement.
Una Recreation Park….new and improved
The Una Park Plan update meeting was tonight at the Una Church of Christ. If you missed tonight’s meeting, this is what is being planned for the Una Park whose land was donated to Metro Parks.
Children’s playground
1 Picnic Area (I have requested additional picnic area to be installed throughout the park)
2 Football Fields
2 Baseball Fields
2 Multipurpose Fields
A walking trail
A Skate Park
Additional Parking
Questions and comments were on use permitting, per cost development, usage of picnic area, honoring the past with signage and the desire to see more of a variety of recreations. The answer to these questions will be addressed. Quality recreation parks in the southeast are a deficit. The existing Metro Park Master Plan shows clearly that our area is in severe need of quality parks and community centers. Establishing the Una Recreation Park, new, improved and metro-owned is and will be a win-win for our community. Click here to see the proposed Una Master Plan.
I would like to hear from you. You can email me or call me. Your concern is important to me. Last but not least, thank you to the congregation of Una Church of Christ for opening up your doors to the community.
Gratefully,
Vivian
Children’s playground
1 Picnic Area (I have requested additional picnic area to be installed throughout the park)
2 Football Fields
2 Baseball Fields
2 Multipurpose Fields
A walking trail
A Skate Park
Additional Parking
Questions and comments were on use permitting, per cost development, usage of picnic area, honoring the past with signage and the desire to see more of a variety of recreations. The answer to these questions will be addressed. Quality recreation parks in the southeast are a deficit. The existing Metro Park Master Plan shows clearly that our area is in severe need of quality parks and community centers. Establishing the Una Recreation Park, new, improved and metro-owned is and will be a win-win for our community. Click here to see the proposed Una Master Plan.
I would like to hear from you. You can email me or call me. Your concern is important to me. Last but not least, thank you to the congregation of Una Church of Christ for opening up your doors to the community.
Gratefully,
Vivian
Council to defer Predators vote
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 31, 2008
The Metro Council will defer the final vote on a new arena lease for the Nashville Predators after its budget committee decided today that it needed more time to consider the issue.
The committee voted to defer the vote by one meeting. By rule, the full council will do the same when it meets Tuesday night, pushing the vote back to April 15.
The Budget and Finance Committee will hold a called meeting April 8 at 4:30 p.m. so members can ask questions about the deal, which the Predators' new owners have said they need to have a chance to succeed financially. The meeting will be open to the public.
Mayor Karl Dean's administration negotiated the new lease proposal for the city. The Metro Sports Authority approved it March 18.
The Metro Council will defer the final vote on a new arena lease for the Nashville Predators after its budget committee decided today that it needed more time to consider the issue.
The committee voted to defer the vote by one meeting. By rule, the full council will do the same when it meets Tuesday night, pushing the vote back to April 15.
The Budget and Finance Committee will hold a called meeting April 8 at 4:30 p.m. so members can ask questions about the deal, which the Predators' new owners have said they need to have a chance to succeed financially. The meeting will be open to the public.
Mayor Karl Dean's administration negotiated the new lease proposal for the city. The Metro Sports Authority approved it March 18.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Dozens protest ex-con campus
Would-be neighbors fear for kids' safety
By NATALIA MIELCZAREK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 30, 2008
A proposal to build a 30-house campus near Long Hunter State Park for recently released convicts drew so much opposition Saturday that its authors delivered two information sessions instead of one.
At least 250 residents from Davidson, Wilson and Rutherford counties — some visibly angry — packed an office building at the state park Saturday morning to hear from a local Christian ministry about its $10.5 million program to reintegrate men with felony convictions into society.
Those who came expressed deep concerns for their safety and plummeting property values with such a facility nearby. Many questioned its security and asked Men of Valor, the prison ministry, what benefit it would bring to their area.
"There is no benefit," said Mike Marietta, who lives with his wife and a 2-year-old child less than a mile from the proposed development.
"I moved out of the city to get away from the drug users and pushers, and now they're bringing them here. They'll be released to our community, and if they decide they want to participate in the program, everything is great, but what about the ones that don't?"
The nonprofit Men of Valor wants to build a campus with homes, a softball field, a multi-purpose building and a church-like structure on 53 acres off Couchville Pike near the Davidson-Rutherford county line. The compound would serve as a place for convicts to live and receive spiritual guidance.
No sex offenders would be accepted, and all residents would have jobs. The group also said it would let the community use the softball field and called the project a "partnership" with the neighbors.
The plan would roll out in three phases, starting with 10 houses for 40 men, eventually topping at 30 homes with 120 residents.
Two ministry employees would live on the premises and 10 staff members would be on site during regular business hours. The group has invested $40,000 toward buying the property.
"If I'm not going to put a man in my backyard with my 6-year-old daughter and my wife, I'm not going to put them in your backyard," Curt Campbell, programs manager with Men of Valor, told the residents Saturday morning.
Volunteer urges support
After the meeting, he said he understood why people had concerns about his group's plan but said he was hopeful for a positive resolution.
He said the next step is for the ministry officials to get together and decide on course of action in light of Saturday's events.
"This is step one in a long educational process," Campbell said. "Trust takes time. I really believe they'll be able to partner with us to do this."
The property is now zoned residential, for one- and two-family dwellings, so the group may not need to rezone it, depending on the final development plan it presents.
Metro Councilman Robert Duvall, who organized the meeting, asked his constituents at the Saturday meeting to cast informal ballots in support of or opposition to the project. He said he would go with the will of the people. Most said no — except Karla McDonald.
McDonald, who lives in Antioch, said she's volunteered with Men of Valor for four years.
"I've had these men in my house for dinner, and they've worked for me," she said referring to the released convicts. "The program works. They deserve a chance. To me, it's like with race prejudice: You can either be afraid of them or meet them."
By NATALIA MIELCZAREK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 30, 2008
A proposal to build a 30-house campus near Long Hunter State Park for recently released convicts drew so much opposition Saturday that its authors delivered two information sessions instead of one.
At least 250 residents from Davidson, Wilson and Rutherford counties — some visibly angry — packed an office building at the state park Saturday morning to hear from a local Christian ministry about its $10.5 million program to reintegrate men with felony convictions into society.
Those who came expressed deep concerns for their safety and plummeting property values with such a facility nearby. Many questioned its security and asked Men of Valor, the prison ministry, what benefit it would bring to their area.
"There is no benefit," said Mike Marietta, who lives with his wife and a 2-year-old child less than a mile from the proposed development.
"I moved out of the city to get away from the drug users and pushers, and now they're bringing them here. They'll be released to our community, and if they decide they want to participate in the program, everything is great, but what about the ones that don't?"
The nonprofit Men of Valor wants to build a campus with homes, a softball field, a multi-purpose building and a church-like structure on 53 acres off Couchville Pike near the Davidson-Rutherford county line. The compound would serve as a place for convicts to live and receive spiritual guidance.
No sex offenders would be accepted, and all residents would have jobs. The group also said it would let the community use the softball field and called the project a "partnership" with the neighbors.
The plan would roll out in three phases, starting with 10 houses for 40 men, eventually topping at 30 homes with 120 residents.
Two ministry employees would live on the premises and 10 staff members would be on site during regular business hours. The group has invested $40,000 toward buying the property.
"If I'm not going to put a man in my backyard with my 6-year-old daughter and my wife, I'm not going to put them in your backyard," Curt Campbell, programs manager with Men of Valor, told the residents Saturday morning.
Volunteer urges support
After the meeting, he said he understood why people had concerns about his group's plan but said he was hopeful for a positive resolution.
He said the next step is for the ministry officials to get together and decide on course of action in light of Saturday's events.
"This is step one in a long educational process," Campbell said. "Trust takes time. I really believe they'll be able to partner with us to do this."
The property is now zoned residential, for one- and two-family dwellings, so the group may not need to rezone it, depending on the final development plan it presents.
Metro Councilman Robert Duvall, who organized the meeting, asked his constituents at the Saturday meeting to cast informal ballots in support of or opposition to the project. He said he would go with the will of the people. Most said no — except Karla McDonald.
McDonald, who lives in Antioch, said she's volunteered with Men of Valor for four years.
"I've had these men in my house for dinner, and they've worked for me," she said referring to the released convicts. "The program works. They deserve a chance. To me, it's like with race prejudice: You can either be afraid of them or meet them."
Rich areas yield most of mayor's appointees
Council wants to boost Metro boards' diversity
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 30, 2008
No one from East Nashville sits on Metro government's Board of Zoning Appeals, which often hears cases from that part of town.
But Belle Meade, a satellite city that isn't governed by the zoning laws the appeals board enforces, might be represented on the board soon. Mayor Karl Dean has appointed attorney Chris Whitson, a former Metro Council member who donated the maximum amount of money to Dean's campaign last year, pending council confirmation Tuesday.
Councilwoman Megan Barry said Whitson's appointment is part of a larger problem: The residents appointed by the mayor to the city's 56 boards and commissions aren't diverse enough. Many of them come from Nashville's most affluent neighborhoods, while some other ZIP codes have very few representatives.
Barry and other members of the council committee that review mayoral appointments have asked Dean's office to give them advance notice when positions are about to come open.
"You go with who you know," said Barry, who represents the entire county as an at-large council member. "That's why the mayor needs to rely more on the council, so we can help him go with who we know."
Dean declined to be interviewed, but he said in a written statement: "I have met with each of the council members a couple of times since taking office and expressed during those meetings that I'm always willing to hear their suggestions. … (M)y door is open. In terms of the process for appointing members of boards and commissions, we will follow the Charter."
Pattern is familiar
The issue is not new with Dean, who took office in September and has appointed 70 people, including nine the council will consider Tuesday.
Of about 420 Metro board and commission members overall — some of whom are elected by the council or serve by virtue of holding elected offices or other positions — about 30 percent are from just two ZIP codes: 37205 (Belle Meade) and 37215 (Green Hills/Forest Hills).
As of Feb. 29, there were 64 appointees from each of those areas, according to a breakdown by Metro Clerk Marilyn Swing's office.
No other ZIP code has half as many board and commission members as the top two. The No. 3 area, with 26 appointees, is 37212, the Hillsboro Village, Belmont and Vanderbilt area.
At the other end of the spectrum, there are three appointees each from Joelton and Whites Creek and four from the Fesslers Lane area.
Dean's first six months of appointments have followed a similar pattern.
The mayor has appointed 14 people from Belle Meade, including four who were originally appointed by former Mayor Bill Purcell, and nine from Green Hills/Forest Hills, according to data Swing compiled for The Tennessean. Next on Dean's list, with eight appointees, is 37209, which includes Sylvan Park, a West Nashville neighborhood.
Councilman Rip Ryman, who leads the council's Rules, Confirmations and Public Elections Committee, said he'd like to see more diversity.
"It's geared toward Green Hills and the Belle Meade area," said Ryman, who represents Goodlettsville.
"We'd like to see them tell us what vacancies are coming up and give us some opportunities in other parts of town to fill those vacancies," Ryman said. "It's a concern of everybody on the committee."
But Ryman, who worked for former Mayor Richard Fulton more than 20 years ago, said the problem existed back then, too.
"I just don't think it's changed," he said.
While the rules committee has typically rubber-stamped the mayor's nominations, it "needs to take a stronger role" when the mix isn't diverse, Barry said.
Choice is controversial
It's unclear if these tensions will lead the council to reject Dean's appointment of Whitson, a former colleague of some council members. Barry said the choice should have been "more well-thought-out."
"I would want somebody who is actually governed by the laws they would oversee," she said. "It's like appointing someone from another county to sit on one of our boards."
But Whitson, who resigned from the council in 2005 to avoid the appearance of impropriety from his legal work for the Nashville Predators, said he thought he was well-qualified for the seven-member zoning appeals board, even if he lives in a satellite city.
"I find that suggestion a little unusual," he said. "The BZA is a quasi-judicial tribunal charged with following Metro and state laws. As an attorney with some experience in land-use planning, I probably have more experience than some potential nominees."
Whitson, who resigned two years into his first council term, said he's eager to serve Metro again, and he knows many other satellite city residents who feel the same way.
"If you foreclose people in Belle Meade, Forest Hills and Oak Hill, that's a substantial number of citizens," he said.
Whitson donated $1,000 to Dean's general election campaign and another $1,000 to his run-off campaign.
Dean nominated Whitson after hiring Charlie Williams to be assistant director of the Mayor's Office of Economic and Community Development. Williams, who lives in East Nashville, had to step down from the Board of Zoning Appeals to work for the city.
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 30, 2008
No one from East Nashville sits on Metro government's Board of Zoning Appeals, which often hears cases from that part of town.
But Belle Meade, a satellite city that isn't governed by the zoning laws the appeals board enforces, might be represented on the board soon. Mayor Karl Dean has appointed attorney Chris Whitson, a former Metro Council member who donated the maximum amount of money to Dean's campaign last year, pending council confirmation Tuesday.
Councilwoman Megan Barry said Whitson's appointment is part of a larger problem: The residents appointed by the mayor to the city's 56 boards and commissions aren't diverse enough. Many of them come from Nashville's most affluent neighborhoods, while some other ZIP codes have very few representatives.
Barry and other members of the council committee that review mayoral appointments have asked Dean's office to give them advance notice when positions are about to come open.
"You go with who you know," said Barry, who represents the entire county as an at-large council member. "That's why the mayor needs to rely more on the council, so we can help him go with who we know."
Dean declined to be interviewed, but he said in a written statement: "I have met with each of the council members a couple of times since taking office and expressed during those meetings that I'm always willing to hear their suggestions. … (M)y door is open. In terms of the process for appointing members of boards and commissions, we will follow the Charter."
Pattern is familiar
The issue is not new with Dean, who took office in September and has appointed 70 people, including nine the council will consider Tuesday.
Of about 420 Metro board and commission members overall — some of whom are elected by the council or serve by virtue of holding elected offices or other positions — about 30 percent are from just two ZIP codes: 37205 (Belle Meade) and 37215 (Green Hills/Forest Hills).
As of Feb. 29, there were 64 appointees from each of those areas, according to a breakdown by Metro Clerk Marilyn Swing's office.
No other ZIP code has half as many board and commission members as the top two. The No. 3 area, with 26 appointees, is 37212, the Hillsboro Village, Belmont and Vanderbilt area.
At the other end of the spectrum, there are three appointees each from Joelton and Whites Creek and four from the Fesslers Lane area.
Dean's first six months of appointments have followed a similar pattern.
The mayor has appointed 14 people from Belle Meade, including four who were originally appointed by former Mayor Bill Purcell, and nine from Green Hills/Forest Hills, according to data Swing compiled for The Tennessean. Next on Dean's list, with eight appointees, is 37209, which includes Sylvan Park, a West Nashville neighborhood.
Councilman Rip Ryman, who leads the council's Rules, Confirmations and Public Elections Committee, said he'd like to see more diversity.
"It's geared toward Green Hills and the Belle Meade area," said Ryman, who represents Goodlettsville.
"We'd like to see them tell us what vacancies are coming up and give us some opportunities in other parts of town to fill those vacancies," Ryman said. "It's a concern of everybody on the committee."
But Ryman, who worked for former Mayor Richard Fulton more than 20 years ago, said the problem existed back then, too.
"I just don't think it's changed," he said.
While the rules committee has typically rubber-stamped the mayor's nominations, it "needs to take a stronger role" when the mix isn't diverse, Barry said.
Choice is controversial
It's unclear if these tensions will lead the council to reject Dean's appointment of Whitson, a former colleague of some council members. Barry said the choice should have been "more well-thought-out."
"I would want somebody who is actually governed by the laws they would oversee," she said. "It's like appointing someone from another county to sit on one of our boards."
But Whitson, who resigned from the council in 2005 to avoid the appearance of impropriety from his legal work for the Nashville Predators, said he thought he was well-qualified for the seven-member zoning appeals board, even if he lives in a satellite city.
"I find that suggestion a little unusual," he said. "The BZA is a quasi-judicial tribunal charged with following Metro and state laws. As an attorney with some experience in land-use planning, I probably have more experience than some potential nominees."
Whitson, who resigned two years into his first council term, said he's eager to serve Metro again, and he knows many other satellite city residents who feel the same way.
"If you foreclose people in Belle Meade, Forest Hills and Oak Hill, that's a substantial number of citizens," he said.
Whitson donated $1,000 to Dean's general election campaign and another $1,000 to his run-off campaign.
Dean nominated Whitson after hiring Charlie Williams to be assistant director of the Mayor's Office of Economic and Community Development. Williams, who lives in East Nashville, had to step down from the Board of Zoning Appeals to work for the city.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Has NCLB helped your child?
If you're a parent of a child with special needs who attends a public school, do you think the No Child Left Behind law has helped your child achieve more in school?
Do you think students in special education programs should be held to the same academic standards as their counterparts in regular classrooms?
Has No Child Left Behind done more good than hard in special education?
Share your thoughts with education reporter Natalia Mielczarek by calling her at 259-8079 or sending e0mail to nmielczarek@tennessean.com.
Please include day and evening phone numbers.
Do you think students in special education programs should be held to the same academic standards as their counterparts in regular classrooms?
Has No Child Left Behind done more good than hard in special education?
Share your thoughts with education reporter Natalia Mielczarek by calling her at 259-8079 or sending e0mail to nmielczarek@tennessean.com.
Please include day and evening phone numbers.
Council begins review of Preds lease Monday
By Nate Rau, nrau@nashvillecitypaper.com
Metro Council next week will begin reviewing the Sommet Center lease amendment agreement reached by the new Nashville Predators and Mayor Karl Dean.
The Budget and Finance Committee will hold a meeting on Monday at 4 p.m. at the Metro Courthouse to review the lease amendments.
The lease amendments are on the Council agenda for Tuesday night, as well.
The new Predators owners said they needed more favorable lease guidelines in order to keep the team in Nashville.
The Metro Sports Authority voted to approve the lease amendments earlier this month with a 7-1 vote.
Metro Council next week will begin reviewing the Sommet Center lease amendment agreement reached by the new Nashville Predators and Mayor Karl Dean.
The Budget and Finance Committee will hold a meeting on Monday at 4 p.m. at the Metro Courthouse to review the lease amendments.
The lease amendments are on the Council agenda for Tuesday night, as well.
The new Predators owners said they needed more favorable lease guidelines in order to keep the team in Nashville.
The Metro Sports Authority voted to approve the lease amendments earlier this month with a 7-1 vote.
Ordinance Aims To Help Minority Businesses
Mayor Admits Current Situation Is Problem
Reported By Marc Stewart
POSTED: 10:35 am CDT March 28, 2008
UPDATED: 10:53 am CDT March 28, 2008
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Two studies reveal that Nashville's own government has been overlooking minorities when it comes to bidding on city contracts.
No one is denying the problem, including Nashville Mayor Karl Dean.
The surveys showed it's been happening for years and millions of dollars are at stake.
When Metro Government wants to do a project like a sidewalk, it's supposed to get bids from a variety of contractors.
However, the government admits that wasn't always happening, and in many cases women and blacks were left out of the process.
"Everyone that lives in Metro Government is a representation of our tax dollars. You want to show that representation through the business we provide, and the opportunities we provide, to anybody that wants to do business with Metro Government," said Metro Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite.
The Metro Council is expected to pass what's known as the nondiscrimination ordinance, which will set up a new Metro office and reach out to minority businesses to help them participate in the bidding process.
Council members said the entire city would benefit.
"I hope everybody will be on board in terms of fair practices and looking at the bigger picture of what we can for the economy as a whole. It will improve the economy. There's no way it can hurt. If businesses are allowed in different parts of the neighborhood, those areas that are suppressed, they can employ more people, so it actually spreads and helps crime and things of that nature," said Metro Councilwoman Erica Gilmore.
This ordinance also provides a tracking system, so if there are problems, it's immediately addressed.
The measure has passed its first two readings and is expected to be voted into law in the weeks ahead.
http://www.wsmv.com/video/15731322/
Copyright 2008 by WSMV.com. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Reported By Marc Stewart
POSTED: 10:35 am CDT March 28, 2008
UPDATED: 10:53 am CDT March 28, 2008
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Two studies reveal that Nashville's own government has been overlooking minorities when it comes to bidding on city contracts.
No one is denying the problem, including Nashville Mayor Karl Dean.
The surveys showed it's been happening for years and millions of dollars are at stake.
When Metro Government wants to do a project like a sidewalk, it's supposed to get bids from a variety of contractors.
However, the government admits that wasn't always happening, and in many cases women and blacks were left out of the process.
"Everyone that lives in Metro Government is a representation of our tax dollars. You want to show that representation through the business we provide, and the opportunities we provide, to anybody that wants to do business with Metro Government," said Metro Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite.
The Metro Council is expected to pass what's known as the nondiscrimination ordinance, which will set up a new Metro office and reach out to minority businesses to help them participate in the bidding process.
Council members said the entire city would benefit.
"I hope everybody will be on board in terms of fair practices and looking at the bigger picture of what we can for the economy as a whole. It will improve the economy. There's no way it can hurt. If businesses are allowed in different parts of the neighborhood, those areas that are suppressed, they can employ more people, so it actually spreads and helps crime and things of that nature," said Metro Councilwoman Erica Gilmore.
This ordinance also provides a tracking system, so if there are problems, it's immediately addressed.
The measure has passed its first two readings and is expected to be voted into law in the weeks ahead.
http://www.wsmv.com/video/15731322/
Copyright 2008 by WSMV.com. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Friday, March 28, 2008
A Big Thank You To All of You For Your Help
"Baby", the Beagle has been found and is safe and comfortable on her bed. I would just like to thank everyone for their kind emails, calls, and suggestions. This was a hard time and everyone with their help has brought this situation to a great ending.
A young couple found "Baby" and took her into their house. They tried to feed her and even made a special bed for her. A reward was was offered and they refused to accept it. They would not even let us pay for the food they bought for her...
Thank you all once again for your help and kind thoughts.
Hope you all have a great weekend!
M.Schwartz
Una Park Update Meeting
Una Park Update Meeting,
6:30 pm, Monday, March 31, 2008
Una Church of Christ, 1917 Old Murfreesboro Road
In September 2004, I acquired for District 29, 1.15 million dollars to be used for park facilities. Una Recreational Park was donated to Metro Parks and the 1.15 million was used to improve the donated park. Please attend the Una Park Update meeting to learn about the plan developed that resulted from your community input provided in previous community meetings.
Gratefully,
Vivian Wilhoite
Metro Councilmember, District 29
589-2003
www.vivian-29.blogspot.com
6:30 pm, Monday, March 31, 2008
Una Church of Christ, 1917 Old Murfreesboro Road
In September 2004, I acquired for District 29, 1.15 million dollars to be used for park facilities. Una Recreational Park was donated to Metro Parks and the 1.15 million was used to improve the donated park. Please attend the Una Park Update meeting to learn about the plan developed that resulted from your community input provided in previous community meetings.
Gratefully,
Vivian Wilhoite
Metro Councilmember, District 29
589-2003
www.vivian-29.blogspot.com
Metro's deadline for alarm permits is Tuesday
Davidson County
Nashville residents have until Tuesday to renew annual permits for home burglar and fire alarm systems.
About 40,000 people in the city use such systems; Metro requires they all be registered whether they are self-installed, monitored by an alarm company or directly connected to the police department.
Exemptions include car alarms, smoke detectors and medical alarm systems.
The cost of a permit went up for the first time in 17 years, doubling to $20 for home security systems. Permits for businesses and non-residential properties are $50.
Anyone operating a system with an expired permit can be fined, with court costs, up to $104.50.
Metro began registering alarm systems to get a better handle on alarm calls and to cut down on repeated false calls.
Applications are online at www.nashville.gov/mc.
— CHARLES BOOTH cbooth@tennessean.com
Nashville residents have until Tuesday to renew annual permits for home burglar and fire alarm systems.
About 40,000 people in the city use such systems; Metro requires they all be registered whether they are self-installed, monitored by an alarm company or directly connected to the police department.
Exemptions include car alarms, smoke detectors and medical alarm systems.
The cost of a permit went up for the first time in 17 years, doubling to $20 for home security systems. Permits for businesses and non-residential properties are $50.
Anyone operating a system with an expired permit can be fined, with court costs, up to $104.50.
Metro began registering alarm systems to get a better handle on alarm calls and to cut down on repeated false calls.
Applications are online at www.nashville.gov/mc.
— CHARLES BOOTH cbooth@tennessean.com
Metro may raise rates on water, sewer use
Hikes could be double-digit; stormwater fees possible, tooBy MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 28, 2008
Many Metro water and sewer users could confront double-digit rate increases and new stormwater fees in the next year as the city tries to catch up on years of building and drainage projects.
But Mayor Karl Dean's administration isn't ready to sign off on anything yet. The administration considers the issue "a high priority" but doesn't believe new rates or fees must be in place when the next fiscal year starts July 1, Metro Finance Director Rich Riebeling said Thursday.
The city is being pressed on several fronts to generate new revenue for its water and sewer program, which is required to pay for itself.
Capital projects worth hundreds of millions of dollars need to get done. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is concerned about water quality. And a national firm recently reduced Metro's bond rating for outstanding debt on water and sewer projects and said several years of "double-digit annual rate hikes" might be necessary.
"If we don't do a rate increase, there's no money for capital," Councilwoman Emily Evans said.
The city hasn't changed the water rate for a typical residential meter since 1999, when the rate went down 25 percent. Sewer rates haven't changed since 1995.
To make up some ground, Evans said, water and sewer rate hikes of 18 percent to 20 percent would be in order in 2008-09. She cautioned, however, that such an increase wouldn't necessarily apply to all of Metro's 170,000 residential, commercial and industrial water and sewer customers.
Evans, who represents Belle Meade and West Meade, said Metro Water Services needs to complete $500 million in capital projects, including water main upgrades and new water tanks across the county, in the next five years.
That total doesn't account for stormwater control, which a consultant recently calculated to cost $200 million over eight years. The consultant recommended that the city charge property owners a monthly user fee to generate that money; for most single-family homes, it would be $4.98 a month.
Councilman Mike Jameson, who represents parts of downtown and East Nashville, said he is eager to get a stormwater program on the books so developers will have an incentive to use building materials that absorb rain, reducing runoff.
No conclusions yet
Riebeling and Evans said the city would need to deal with the water and sewer rates and the stormwater fee at the same time, creating a comprehensive approach to Metro Water's revenue needs.
"You can't piecemeal it," Riebeling said.
But Riebeling said the Dean administration still needs to "do our homework" to fully understand Metro Water's financial condition and building needs. He said there was nothing "magic" about implementing the new revenue streams by July 1.
"I don't think we've reached any conclusions yet," he said. Metro Water Services Director Scott Potter "wants to immediately move forward with a plan to the council. I don't think we're quite ready to do that.
"We're going to ultimately propose a program we think is necessary for the city and Metro Water to go forward."
Potter's spokeswoman, Sonia Harvat, did not return a phone call seeking comment but wrote in an e-mail, "A discussion will need to take place at some point in the near future to ensure that Metro Water is adequately funded to meet regulations and provide vital services to our community. In the mean time, we share Mayor Dean's commitment to living within our means and will be identifying areas of cost savings and increased efficiency, as every department has been asked to do."
Evans said some council members feel "a mild sense of urgency that motivates us to get things done sooner rather than later" because they've been hearing from some of their constituents about targeted fees.
Customers who pay their water bills late now must pay a penalty of $10 or 5 percent, whichever is higher.
The late fee used to be 5 percent, which generated little revenue from a $10 water bill. Meanwhile, new restaurant owners have complained about "capacity fees" of tens of thousands of dollars to connect their businesses to the city's water supply.
"We've done all these revenue enhancements," said Councilman Parker Toler, who represents south Davidson County and is a former Metro Water official. "It's gotten out of proportion. That's not the way the utility was intended to operate."
Toler said stormwater is becoming a critical concern for Nashville, and many parts of the water and sewer system need upgrades or replacement parts.
"We are a big, growing city," Toler said. "And at some point these things must be done."
Many Metro water and sewer users could confront double-digit rate increases and new stormwater fees in the next year as the city tries to catch up on years of building and drainage projects.
But Mayor Karl Dean's administration isn't ready to sign off on anything yet. The administration considers the issue "a high priority" but doesn't believe new rates or fees must be in place when the next fiscal year starts July 1, Metro Finance Director Rich Riebeling said Thursday.
The city is being pressed on several fronts to generate new revenue for its water and sewer program, which is required to pay for itself.
Capital projects worth hundreds of millions of dollars need to get done. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is concerned about water quality. And a national firm recently reduced Metro's bond rating for outstanding debt on water and sewer projects and said several years of "double-digit annual rate hikes" might be necessary.
"If we don't do a rate increase, there's no money for capital," Councilwoman Emily Evans said.
The city hasn't changed the water rate for a typical residential meter since 1999, when the rate went down 25 percent. Sewer rates haven't changed since 1995.
To make up some ground, Evans said, water and sewer rate hikes of 18 percent to 20 percent would be in order in 2008-09. She cautioned, however, that such an increase wouldn't necessarily apply to all of Metro's 170,000 residential, commercial and industrial water and sewer customers.
Evans, who represents Belle Meade and West Meade, said Metro Water Services needs to complete $500 million in capital projects, including water main upgrades and new water tanks across the county, in the next five years.
That total doesn't account for stormwater control, which a consultant recently calculated to cost $200 million over eight years. The consultant recommended that the city charge property owners a monthly user fee to generate that money; for most single-family homes, it would be $4.98 a month.
Councilman Mike Jameson, who represents parts of downtown and East Nashville, said he is eager to get a stormwater program on the books so developers will have an incentive to use building materials that absorb rain, reducing runoff.
No conclusions yet
Riebeling and Evans said the city would need to deal with the water and sewer rates and the stormwater fee at the same time, creating a comprehensive approach to Metro Water's revenue needs.
"You can't piecemeal it," Riebeling said.
But Riebeling said the Dean administration still needs to "do our homework" to fully understand Metro Water's financial condition and building needs. He said there was nothing "magic" about implementing the new revenue streams by July 1.
"I don't think we've reached any conclusions yet," he said. Metro Water Services Director Scott Potter "wants to immediately move forward with a plan to the council. I don't think we're quite ready to do that.
"We're going to ultimately propose a program we think is necessary for the city and Metro Water to go forward."
Potter's spokeswoman, Sonia Harvat, did not return a phone call seeking comment but wrote in an e-mail, "A discussion will need to take place at some point in the near future to ensure that Metro Water is adequately funded to meet regulations and provide vital services to our community. In the mean time, we share Mayor Dean's commitment to living within our means and will be identifying areas of cost savings and increased efficiency, as every department has been asked to do."
Evans said some council members feel "a mild sense of urgency that motivates us to get things done sooner rather than later" because they've been hearing from some of their constituents about targeted fees.
Customers who pay their water bills late now must pay a penalty of $10 or 5 percent, whichever is higher.
The late fee used to be 5 percent, which generated little revenue from a $10 water bill. Meanwhile, new restaurant owners have complained about "capacity fees" of tens of thousands of dollars to connect their businesses to the city's water supply.
"We've done all these revenue enhancements," said Councilman Parker Toler, who represents south Davidson County and is a former Metro Water official. "It's gotten out of proportion. That's not the way the utility was intended to operate."
Toler said stormwater is becoming a critical concern for Nashville, and many parts of the water and sewer system need upgrades or replacement parts.
"We are a big, growing city," Toler said. "And at some point these things must be done."
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Pet Alert----Vivian would like you to help find a Beagle
12 YEAR OLD BEAGLE MISSING FROM THE NASHBORO VILLAGE AREA
LAST SEEN IN THE NASHBORO VILLAGE AREA ON 3/26/08.
SHE ANSWERS TO THE NAME OF “BABY”. SHE IS APPROX. 45 POUNDS, TRI-COLORED (BLACK, WHITE, TAN) AND IS WEARING A PURPLE CLOTH CHOKE COLLAR WITH A CURRENT RABIES TAG.
CASH REWARD
IF YOU FIND HER, PLEASE CALL: (615) 414-3217,
(615) 330-1305, OR PETMED (615) 731-8074
PLEASE HELP FIND HER, SHE NEEDS HER MEDICATION !!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Having a Camera on your phone comes in handy
Councillady Vivian Wilhoite tested out her camera phone for a chance to get a picture of a rare bunny, Bumguard Bunny of News Channel 2 at Senator's Harper's 25 Annual Easter Egg hunt.
Fun was being had by all that attended and it was well attended. But when she saw Bunny Mayor Karl Dean dressed up, she wonder would there be carrots in the budget. Humm! No really, everyone had a great time and enjoyed both Bumguard Bunny and Dean Bunny.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
New money for police, schools top budget
Cuts elsewhere will cost 200 Metro jobs
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 25, 2008
Metro Nashville schools would be fully funded and the police force fully staffed, but most departments would lose money and about 200 city employees would be laid off under Mayor Karl Dean’s $1.576 billion budget proposal.
Dean’s plan for 2008-09, unveiled late Tuesday afternoon, would fund Metro government at a slightly higher level than the current fiscal year, which ends June 30.
The budget would not require a property tax increase.
But most areas, from libraries and parks to courts and social services, actually would receive less money.
Dean and his top aides said, however, that they looked to cut and streamline administrative functions before reducing services to residents.
If two departments have been processing the same invoices, just one should do the job, Dean said.
“There are a number of things I wish I could stand up here and include among these points,” the mayor said after mentioning several initiatives in a speech to the Metro Council.
“But I can’t. It’s a tight year.”
The council now will review and probably tweak Dean’s plan, with departmental budget hearings starting next week.
Council members generally praised Dean and Metro Finance Director Rich Riebeling for their first budget since Dean took office in September.
Councilman Ronnie Steine said it was “amazing” that the administration found money for three new ambulances and a truancy center in a difficult year.
But Councilman Jerry Maynard struck a sadder note.
“I can’t celebrate as loudly, knowing 200 families will be impacted,” Maynard said.
Someone in the audience of Metro officials and residents could be heard murmuring, “That’s right.”
Maynard and some other council members also said they were concerned about Dean’s plan to cut the Metro Hospital Authority’s subsidy by 5 percent, or nearly $2.5 million.
The authority runs Nashville General Hospital at Meharry, which primarily serves the city’s poor and indigent population and consistently loses money.
Riebeling said after the presentation that hospital officials are working on increasing revenues and that they can “live with” the funding cut.
“They’re being treated like the rest of government,” he said.
Schools a priority
The news was much better for Metro schools, whose budget would climb from $598 million to $627 million, a 4.8 percent increase covering everything the school district asked for.
Dean said consistently in his campaign for the mayor’s office that public education, public safety and economic development would be his top priorities, and he said the budget plan reflects that order.
“We are at a critical point in our city’s history when it comes to schools,” he said.
“There are improvements we have to make in accordance with federal and state requirements, and the Board of Education and I have been working together to make these improvements happen.”
Dean said his administration would hold the school board accountable for using its funds “to the utmost benefit of our students.”
Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, said $13 million of the additional money would be for “targeted interventions” aiming to raise student achievement.
“Particularly at a time when schools are facing a challenge, the additional investment, coupled with accountability, is right on target,” Hill said.
More police officers
The police and fire departments actually would lose about $1.2 million combined.
But the administration highlighted what the departments would have in 2008-09:
three new ambulances and a full complement of 1,312 sworn police officers for the first time in several years.
A recent audit said that while the fire department’s response times to emergency medical calls remain good, they’ve been going up. It recommended that the city add 2.5 ambulances a year for five years.
The ambulances — and 31 new employees to staff them — would cost more than $2.3 million. With that much money going to emergency medical services, the fire department’s traditional role of firefighting would have less funding.
But Dean said the balance has been shifting from firefighting to emergency medical work. He said he is comfortable that Metro residents will be just as safe from fires with the shift in funds.
Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas, for his part, said full staffing would allow the police department to start planning more.
“This is a good time,” Serpas said, adding that the $500,000 budget reduction would be “really small.”
Truancy center
Bridging the gap between public education and public safety is a proposed $500,000 truancy center, which would be run by Davidson County Juvenile Court.
The center would take teenagers who routinely skip school and work to get them off city streets and back on track educationally.
“This will be a safe place where students and their families can come, separate from the court, to address the reasons why they are missing school,” Dean said.
The goal would be to have the center open in an existing facility by the start of the next school year.
Dean officials said no parks, public golf courses or libraries would be eliminated.
But the library system’s Bookmobile would ride off into the sunset; three branch libraries would lose some hours — bringing them down to the hours offered by the other branches — and the Centennial Sportsplex and Wave Country would be closed Mondays.
“You can see who the winners and losers are,” said Steve Reiter, a community activist who ran unsuccessfully for a council seat last year. “It’s a tough budget, no question about that.”
Metro Public Works would lose about 8 percent of its funding, and Riebeling said every major area of the department could be hit.
A contract with a company that picks up brush from neighborhoods several times a year could be eliminated, with Public Works teaming with Davidson County Sheriff’s Office work crews to do the job instead.
“We’re looking at every option,” Public Works Director Billy Lynch said. “I know we can make it work.”
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 25, 2008
Metro Nashville schools would be fully funded and the police force fully staffed, but most departments would lose money and about 200 city employees would be laid off under Mayor Karl Dean’s $1.576 billion budget proposal.
Dean’s plan for 2008-09, unveiled late Tuesday afternoon, would fund Metro government at a slightly higher level than the current fiscal year, which ends June 30.
The budget would not require a property tax increase.
But most areas, from libraries and parks to courts and social services, actually would receive less money.
Dean and his top aides said, however, that they looked to cut and streamline administrative functions before reducing services to residents.
If two departments have been processing the same invoices, just one should do the job, Dean said.
“There are a number of things I wish I could stand up here and include among these points,” the mayor said after mentioning several initiatives in a speech to the Metro Council.
“But I can’t. It’s a tight year.”
The council now will review and probably tweak Dean’s plan, with departmental budget hearings starting next week.
Council members generally praised Dean and Metro Finance Director Rich Riebeling for their first budget since Dean took office in September.
Councilman Ronnie Steine said it was “amazing” that the administration found money for three new ambulances and a truancy center in a difficult year.
But Councilman Jerry Maynard struck a sadder note.
“I can’t celebrate as loudly, knowing 200 families will be impacted,” Maynard said.
Someone in the audience of Metro officials and residents could be heard murmuring, “That’s right.”
Maynard and some other council members also said they were concerned about Dean’s plan to cut the Metro Hospital Authority’s subsidy by 5 percent, or nearly $2.5 million.
The authority runs Nashville General Hospital at Meharry, which primarily serves the city’s poor and indigent population and consistently loses money.
Riebeling said after the presentation that hospital officials are working on increasing revenues and that they can “live with” the funding cut.
“They’re being treated like the rest of government,” he said.
Schools a priority
The news was much better for Metro schools, whose budget would climb from $598 million to $627 million, a 4.8 percent increase covering everything the school district asked for.
Dean said consistently in his campaign for the mayor’s office that public education, public safety and economic development would be his top priorities, and he said the budget plan reflects that order.
“We are at a critical point in our city’s history when it comes to schools,” he said.
“There are improvements we have to make in accordance with federal and state requirements, and the Board of Education and I have been working together to make these improvements happen.”
Dean said his administration would hold the school board accountable for using its funds “to the utmost benefit of our students.”
Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, said $13 million of the additional money would be for “targeted interventions” aiming to raise student achievement.
“Particularly at a time when schools are facing a challenge, the additional investment, coupled with accountability, is right on target,” Hill said.
More police officers
The police and fire departments actually would lose about $1.2 million combined.
But the administration highlighted what the departments would have in 2008-09:
three new ambulances and a full complement of 1,312 sworn police officers for the first time in several years.
A recent audit said that while the fire department’s response times to emergency medical calls remain good, they’ve been going up. It recommended that the city add 2.5 ambulances a year for five years.
The ambulances — and 31 new employees to staff them — would cost more than $2.3 million. With that much money going to emergency medical services, the fire department’s traditional role of firefighting would have less funding.
But Dean said the balance has been shifting from firefighting to emergency medical work. He said he is comfortable that Metro residents will be just as safe from fires with the shift in funds.
Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas, for his part, said full staffing would allow the police department to start planning more.
“This is a good time,” Serpas said, adding that the $500,000 budget reduction would be “really small.”
Truancy center
Bridging the gap between public education and public safety is a proposed $500,000 truancy center, which would be run by Davidson County Juvenile Court.
The center would take teenagers who routinely skip school and work to get them off city streets and back on track educationally.
“This will be a safe place where students and their families can come, separate from the court, to address the reasons why they are missing school,” Dean said.
The goal would be to have the center open in an existing facility by the start of the next school year.
Dean officials said no parks, public golf courses or libraries would be eliminated.
But the library system’s Bookmobile would ride off into the sunset; three branch libraries would lose some hours — bringing them down to the hours offered by the other branches — and the Centennial Sportsplex and Wave Country would be closed Mondays.
“You can see who the winners and losers are,” said Steve Reiter, a community activist who ran unsuccessfully for a council seat last year. “It’s a tough budget, no question about that.”
Metro Public Works would lose about 8 percent of its funding, and Riebeling said every major area of the department could be hit.
A contract with a company that picks up brush from neighborhoods several times a year could be eliminated, with Public Works teaming with Davidson County Sheriff’s Office work crews to do the job instead.
“We’re looking at every option,” Public Works Director Billy Lynch said. “I know we can make it work.”
Wilhoite sets Identity Theft Meeting - Important
Reminder! This announcement was published in our local Herald Beacon on Thursday, March 13, 2008. Please attend.
According to national data, identity theft has increased more than 600% since the year 2000. Concerns about your personal data and access to it by people you do not know is on the rise. Quoting from national data, Council Lady Vivian Wilhoite says, "As the fastest growing form of consumer fraud, personal credit ratings are at risk to identity fraud. Your reputation and credit are on the line, as are the security of your family members and business associates." She states that one of the most eye opening experiences was the December 2007 break-in at the Election Commission resulting in stolen laptop computers that stored voters' information.
The best course is proactive prevention. At 6:30 pm on Thursday March 27, 2008, at the Hamilton United Methodist Church, 3105 Hamilton Church Road, Nashville, Tennessee, Mike Hassell, Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist, will provide a presentation on "How to Not Be a Victim of Identity Theft." Mr. Hassell will provide a wealth of information on ways to protect yourself; sharing with us the most simplest tips to providing tips on nationally known programs.
Please attend this extremely informative presentation given by Mike Hassell, who is not only an identity theft expert but is also a District 29 neighbor and an excellent watch association volunteer. There will be an opportunity to sign-up for the Tennessee Do Not Call List. Please join us!
For more information, please contact Vivian Wilhoite at www.vivian-29.blogspot.com or 589-2003.
According to national data, identity theft has increased more than 600% since the year 2000. Concerns about your personal data and access to it by people you do not know is on the rise. Quoting from national data, Council Lady Vivian Wilhoite says, "As the fastest growing form of consumer fraud, personal credit ratings are at risk to identity fraud. Your reputation and credit are on the line, as are the security of your family members and business associates." She states that one of the most eye opening experiences was the December 2007 break-in at the Election Commission resulting in stolen laptop computers that stored voters' information.
The best course is proactive prevention. At 6:30 pm on Thursday March 27, 2008, at the Hamilton United Methodist Church, 3105 Hamilton Church Road, Nashville, Tennessee, Mike Hassell, Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist, will provide a presentation on "How to Not Be a Victim of Identity Theft." Mr. Hassell will provide a wealth of information on ways to protect yourself; sharing with us the most simplest tips to providing tips on nationally known programs.
Please attend this extremely informative presentation given by Mike Hassell, who is not only an identity theft expert but is also a District 29 neighbor and an excellent watch association volunteer. There will be an opportunity to sign-up for the Tennessee Do Not Call List. Please join us!
For more information, please contact Vivian Wilhoite at www.vivian-29.blogspot.com or 589-2003.
More school funding, more police -- but maybe fewer Metro workers -- under Dean budget
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 25, 2008
Mayor Karl Dean proposed a $1.6 billion budget for Nashville government that would fully fund Metro schools and fully staff the city’s police force.
But some 200 employees would likely be laid off, and most Metro departments would suffer budget cuts under Dean’s proposal, which the Metro Council must now consider.
Dean said his administration focused on streamlining government functions instead of eliminating direct services to citizens.
More information will be supplied as the news comes in.
Mayor Karl Dean proposed a $1.6 billion budget for Nashville government that would fully fund Metro schools and fully staff the city’s police force.
But some 200 employees would likely be laid off, and most Metro departments would suffer budget cuts under Dean’s proposal, which the Metro Council must now consider.
Dean said his administration focused on streamlining government functions instead of eliminating direct services to citizens.
More information will be supplied as the news comes in.
27 Men Charged in South Nashville Prostitution Sting
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 25, 2008
South Precinct detectives charged 27 persons with patronizing prostitution late Friday night and early Saturday during a sting on Murfreesboro Pike near Plus Park Boulevard. The men were issued state misdemeanor citations alleging they agreed to pay a female police operative for sex.
Those charged are:
· Alf Paul Aruna, 42, of Nashville
· Sarwat Esknder, 30, of Antioch
· James Anderson, 40, of Nashville
· Martin Saucedo, 45, of Nashville
· Saul Castro, 26, of Nashville
· Mena Boutrous, 22, of Antioch
· Leonides Hernandez, 25, of Nashville
· Nicnor Bartolon, 26, of Nashville
· Modffer Qtaitat, 18, of Nashville
· Abdirisak Ahmed, 25, of Nashville
· Hussein Yusuf, 21, of Shelbyville
· Miguel Herrera, 21, of Nashville
· Jon Henderson, 22, of Nashville
· Jalil Alshimary, 44, of Nashville
· Nicholas Poe, 28, of Cross Plains
· Bernardo Reyes Madrigal, 21, of Nashville
· Webster Young, 49, of Memphis
· Devon Cornelius, 36, of Columbia
· Ruperto Cruz, 29, of Nashville
· Francisco Garcia Espinoza, 42, of Nashville
· Moses Cruz, 26, of Nashville
· Demetrio Garrido, 18, of Antioch
· Carlos Flores, 37, of Nashville
· Nelson Bolton, 39, of Lavergne
· Luis Miguel Saldierma, 24, of Antioch
· Ahmed Gelle, 27, of Antioch
· Ahmed Ismail, 34, of Nashville
Photographs of the defendants are included in the patronizing prostitution
section of the police department’s Internet site.
March 25, 2008
South Precinct detectives charged 27 persons with patronizing prostitution late Friday night and early Saturday during a sting on Murfreesboro Pike near Plus Park Boulevard. The men were issued state misdemeanor citations alleging they agreed to pay a female police operative for sex.
Those charged are:
· Alf Paul Aruna, 42, of Nashville
· Sarwat Esknder, 30, of Antioch
· James Anderson, 40, of Nashville
· Martin Saucedo, 45, of Nashville
· Saul Castro, 26, of Nashville
· Mena Boutrous, 22, of Antioch
· Leonides Hernandez, 25, of Nashville
· Nicnor Bartolon, 26, of Nashville
· Modffer Qtaitat, 18, of Nashville
· Abdirisak Ahmed, 25, of Nashville
· Hussein Yusuf, 21, of Shelbyville
· Miguel Herrera, 21, of Nashville
· Jon Henderson, 22, of Nashville
· Jalil Alshimary, 44, of Nashville
· Nicholas Poe, 28, of Cross Plains
· Bernardo Reyes Madrigal, 21, of Nashville
· Webster Young, 49, of Memphis
· Devon Cornelius, 36, of Columbia
· Ruperto Cruz, 29, of Nashville
· Francisco Garcia Espinoza, 42, of Nashville
· Moses Cruz, 26, of Nashville
· Demetrio Garrido, 18, of Antioch
· Carlos Flores, 37, of Nashville
· Nelson Bolton, 39, of Lavergne
· Luis Miguel Saldierma, 24, of Antioch
· Ahmed Gelle, 27, of Antioch
· Ahmed Ismail, 34, of Nashville
Photographs of the defendants are included in the patronizing prostitution
section of the police department’s Internet site.
Part 2
Item # 2
Project No. Zone Change 2008Z-023T
Name Digital and LED Signs
Council Bill BL2007-152
Council District Countywide
School District N/A
Requested by Councilmember Charlie Tygard
Staff Reviewer Regen
Staff Recommendation Disapprove.
APPLICANT REQUEST A request to amend the Metro Zoning Code, Section 17.32.050.G and H to allow digital and LED (i.e. electronic) signs in certain areas of Davidson County.
History At the March 13, 2008, meeting the Planning Commission approved a motion to reconsider this item with a Public Hearing at the March 27, 2008, meeting.
ANALYSIS
Existing Law Section 17.32.050.G and H of the Zoning Code regulate signs with graphics, messages, and motion. The two sections contain provisions that appear contradictory and are difficult for the Codes Department to enforce. Currently, scrolling, flashing, and changeable copy signs are generally prohibited in all zoning districts except CS and CL, with one exception. Time/date/ temperature signs are permitted in all non-residential zoning districts provided they remain fixed, static, motionless, and non-flashing for a period of two seconds or more.
Proposed Bill The proposed bill would provide that electronic signs are permitted in all zoning districts, including residentially zoned properties located along a collector or arterial street, as shown on the adopted Major Street Plan. Since the Planning Commission last reviewed this bill on February 28, 2008, the Metro Council adopted an amendment to it on March 4, 2008. The amendment restricts electronic signs in residential districts to religious institutions, community education facilities, cultural centers, and recreation centers.
As written, the bill adds provisions to subsection G to require the display of an electronic sign to remain static for eight seconds and requires a transition between displays of less than two seconds. The bill would also add a prohibition for digital billboards that are less than 2,000 feet apart from one another. Because of the conflicting language in subsections G and H of the current Code, it is unclear whether digital billboards currently are permitted. Under this ordinance, they would be permitted so long as they comply with the amended provisions of subsection G.
Current subsection H is deleted from the Code and replaced with a new section H that would: 1) clarify that video and other animated signs are prohibited in all districts except for the CA zoning district; and 2) permit LED message boards on collector and arterial streets in all residential zone districts.
The term “electronic sign” embraces a couple different technologies seen in Metro that have been recently installed, including digital signs and LED signs. Digital signs have color and animation with a TV picture quality such as the one on West End Avenue at 30th Avenue, North, or the Nova Copy sign along I-40 in downtown Nashville. Unlike digital signs, LED signs are not multi-color. LED signs have red or amber-colored lights and lettering on message boards such as those at a drugstore or businesses which display date, time, and temperature.
Proposed Text This council bill proposes to amend Section 17.32.050.G and H. of the Zoning Code (Prohibited Signs) as follows:
G. Signs with any copy, graphics, or digital displays that change messages by electronic or mechanical means, when where the copy, graphics, or digital display does not remain fixed, static, motionless, and nonflashing for a period of two (2) seconds or more eight (8) seconds, provided that this provision shall not be applicable to any sign located within the CA district with a change time of less than two (2) seconds. Digital display billboards less than two thousand (2,000) feet apart, and digital billboards that are not in compliance with the provisions of section 17.32.150, are also prohibited.
H. billboards in permitted districts, or signs located in ON, OL, OG, OR20, OR40, ORI, MUN, MUL, MUG, SCN, SCC, CN and CL districts with lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color except for time/temperature/date signs. This provision shall also apply to all signs located within one hundred feet of property classified within a residential district.
H.1. Video, continuous scrolling messages, and animation signs, except in the commercial attraction (CA) district.
H.2. LED message boards in residential zoning districts. Notwithstanding the foregoing, LED message boards shall be allowed for community education facilities, cultural centers, recreation centers, and religious institutions located on collector or arterial streets in residential zoning districts
Analysis In the past few years, there have been three council bills to permit electronic signs; two failed to receive Council support and one was adopted (see table below). All three bills were recommended for disapproval by the Metro Planning Commission. While this latest bill does create more restrictive display periods for electronic signs, it still does not provide adequate protection for residential areas in which these signs may be located.
SIGN BILLS
Bill # Sponsor Council Action MPC Action Description
BL2005-648 Dozier Failed 3rd reading 1/17/06 Disapproved
12/8/05 Permit signs with graphics or electronic displays oriented to a four-lane or controlled access highway maintained by the State of Tennessee and located within the urban services district (USD), with a speed limit of forty miles per hour (40 m.p.h.) or less.
BL2006-974 Dozier, Wallace Withdrawn 7/18/06 Disapproved
2/23/06 Permit signs with graphics or electronic displays oriented to a four-lane or controlled access highway maintained by the State of Tennessee and located within the urban services district (USD), with a speed limit of forty miles per hour (40 m.p.h.) or less.
BL2007-1366 Brown Approved Disapproved
2/22/07 To allow signs with lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color within the CL zoning district. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, signs with lights or illuminations that display non-scrolling and non-flashing electronic text shall be permitted within the CL district, provided the text remains static for at least three seconds and the sign is not located within four hundred feet of any residential property with frontage on the same street.
As written, the current bill would allow electronic signs on collector and arterial streets in residential zoning districts. Such electronic signs would be permitted up to eight (8) feet tall, up to 192 square feet of total sign area, up to three (3) electronic signs depending on a property’s street frontage, and with no restriction on the amount of sign area devoted to the changeable copy. Further, the bill provides no standards for illumination, hours of operation, distance from a residential use, and variation in colors and hues.
The Zoning Administrator has indicated that the Codes Department considers electronic signs and billboards to be illegal under the current Metro Code sign provisions because, in application, most such signs violate the provisions of subsection H in the current law, which prohibits signs with “lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color.” This bill proposes to permit digital signs and digital billboards like those recently erected along I-65 near 100 Oaks Mall, I-24 westbound in Hermitage, and elsewhere in Metro. According to the Zoning Administrator, all of these digital signs and billboards are on private property, except Metro’s convention center sign which is on public property. Those signs erected with a valid Metro permit were approved with the explicit statement that such signs were not to be digital. The proposed bill would clarify that digital billboards are allowed so long as the display message remains static or fixed for 8 seconds or more, the transition time between messages is two seconds or less, and digital billboards are spaced a minimum of 2,000 feet apart.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends disapproval of the bill as drafted because electronic signs would be permitted without adequately safeguarding Nashville’s neighborhoods. When the Zoning Code’s sign provisions were adopted by the Metro Council in the early 1990’s, electronic signs did not exist. That said, the Planning Department does not believe the Zoning Code was intended to be interpreted to permit such signs now or in the future. The provisions of Section 17.32.050.G and H are broad enough to encompass this latest sign technology, and they expressly prohibit it.
This is a complex and difficult issue. A draft alternate ordinance is appended to this staff report, below. The draft alternate ordinance also is not recommended for approval by staff, but is presented for the Planning Commission’s consideration. The draft alternate ordinance would amend the Zoning Code to allow electronic signs in residential districts subject to a special exception use, electronic signs by right in various commercial districts, and electronic billboards by right in certain districts.
If the commission recommends the draft alternate ordinance for approval, staff suggests that the recommendation should include a recommendation that two separate council bills be drafted to enable Metro Council to consider the signs in their appropriate zoning context.
1) electronic signs in residential areas; and
2) electronic signs for commercial areas and billboards.
The Planning Commission may also want to look at the proximity of billboards to residential uses. Lastly, staff recommends that if the Metro Council amends the Zoning Code to permit these signs, the current council bill, or any new bill introduced, should include a provision expressly stating that none of these existing electronic and digital signs and billboards, including existing signs and billboards which may be converted to electronic in the future are grandfathered in, and that they must all comply with the applicable provisions of the adopted council bill within thirty (30) days after the bill’s passage.
Draft Alternate Ordinance
1. Modify Section 17.04.060 “Definitions of General Terms” by inserting the following new definition in alphabetical order:
“Community Facility” means a community education, cultural center, recreation center, or religious institution.
2. Modify Section 17.04.060 “Definitions of General Terms” by inserting the following new definitions in alphabetical order under the word “Sign” and after the phrase “These terms regarding signs are referenced”, renumbering the existing terms accordingly.
“Electronic Changeable Copy Sign” means a sign that displays electronic, non-pictorial text information in which each character, graphic, or symbol (“display”) can be changed without altering the face or surface of the sign using an electronic means such as light emitting diode (LED) display, plasma screen, liquid crystal display (LCD), fiber optic or other electronic media or technology. All copy shall be displayed in one color with no hues, and remain fixed or static for at least eight (8) seconds before changing. All copy changes must be accomplished instantaneously without any special effects. At no time shall any sign display area have varying light illumination and/or intensity, blinking, bursting, dissolving, distorting, fading, flashing, oscillating, rotating, shimmering, scrolling, sparkling, streaming, traveling, tracing, twinkling, simulated movement, or convey the illusion of movement.
“Electronic Graphic Display Sign” means the same as “Electronic Changeable Copy Sign” except static images, graphics and/or pictures may be displayed in one or more colors and hues.
“Electronic Video Display Sign” means a sign that changes copy or background using varying light illumination, intensity, or a progression of pictorial or graphic frames in either a continuous or animated presentation to display motion, action, special effects, or pictorial imagery in one or more colors and hues.
“Manual Changeable Copy Sign” means a sign whose copy is or can be changed manually or mechanically in the field by the use of detachable letters, numbers, or symbols.
“Sign Copy” means any words, letters, numbers, figures, characters, symbols, logos, emblem, flag, background, or insignia that are used on a sign display surface area.
3. Modify Section 17.32.090.A by renaming it and amending the language, inserting a new subsection B, and renumbering existing subsection B as C (Signs: On-Premise Signs for Non-Residential Uses in Agricultural and Residential Districts) as follows:
A. Signs. All on-premise signs located in a residential district shall conform to the sign provisions applicable to the ON district, except as provided below in Section 17.32.090.B for a community facility use desiring an electronic changeable copy sign. Ground signs shall be monument signs with a maximum height of eight (8) feet at grade-level measured at the location where the sign will be erected. The minimum street setback shall be fifteen feet; the sign shall not encroach into required side setbacks of the district; and only one such ground sign shall be permitted per street frontage.
B. Electronic Changeable Copy Signs. Following approval of a special exception by the Board of Zoning Appeals community facilities located in residential districts shall be permitted only one ground monument electronic changeable copy sign for the entire facility, regardless of the number and location of principle or accessory uses, parcels, lots, street frontages, abutting or adjacent properties that comprise the overall facility The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height at grade-level measured at the location where the sign will be erected on the property, 48 square feet in total allowable sign area with the changeable copy not exceeding a maximum of twenty-five percent (25%) of that allowable sign area. Wall-mounted electronic changeable copy signs are not permitted. Prior to approval of a special exception, the Board of Zoning Appeals shall ensure the following criteria are met.
i. An applicant has provided sufficient evidence to the board that the proposed changeable copy sign (electronic), meets the following criteria
a. Located on an arterial street as designated on the adopted Major Street Plan and having a minimum of four (4) existing travel lanes at the location of the proposed sign.
b. Located in an area that is predominately non-residential in character.
c. Located no closer than 500 feet from any existing residential use.
ii. The board shall also consider the following in determining the appropriateness of granting a special exception.
a. A recommendation from the Historic Zoning Commission, if the property is located within an historic overlay district.
b. A recommendation from Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency, if the property is located within a redevelopment district.
c. A recommendation from the planning commission as provided in Section 17.40.300. The planning commission shall recommend on the proposed sign’s consistency with the goals, objectives, and standards of the general plan, including any community, neighborhood, or other design plan.
d. The proposed sign’s size, height, location, configuration, materials, structure, illumination, and hours of operation, including proximity to another electronic changeable copy sign(s).
e. Whether the sign will detract from the existing neighborhood character, including the street and pedestrian environment.
iii. Once a special exception is granted the sign shall meet the following conditions:
a. Be illuminated no earlier than 6:00 a.m. on any day and no later than 9:00 p.m. on any day.
b. Once fully illuminated, the sign shall not produce any direct, indirect, or reflected light or glare impacts on adjoining properties, pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorists.
iv. The board may place conditions on a proposed sign needed to ensure the sign does not detract from the existing or planned neighborhood character, including the street and pedestrian environment.
4. Modify Section 17.32.050.G (Prohibited Signs) by deleting the existing text and inserting the following in its place:
G. Electronic video display signs in all zoning districts except the CA district.
5. Modify Section 17.32.050.H (Prohibited Signs) by deleting the existing text and inserting the following in its place:
H. Electronic signs, either changeable copy or graphic display, are prohibited except as follows:
1) Billboards may be electronic, either changeable copy or graphic display signs, provided there is a minimum separation distance of 2,000 feet between the proposed billboard and another electronic billboard (either changeable copy or graphic display signs) subject to districts identified in Section 17.32.150 and the provisions of this title.
2) Signs located on properties in the office, mixed-use, commercial, shopping center, and industrial zoning districts may be electronic, either changeable copy or graphic display, subject to the sign regulations contained in Chapter 17.32 of this title.
3) Community facility uses located in residential zoning districts as provided in Section 17.32.090.
Project No. Zone Change 2008Z-023T
Name Digital and LED Signs
Council Bill BL2007-152
Council District Countywide
School District N/A
Requested by Councilmember Charlie Tygard
Staff Reviewer Regen
Staff Recommendation Disapprove.
APPLICANT REQUEST A request to amend the Metro Zoning Code, Section 17.32.050.G and H to allow digital and LED (i.e. electronic) signs in certain areas of Davidson County.
History At the March 13, 2008, meeting the Planning Commission approved a motion to reconsider this item with a Public Hearing at the March 27, 2008, meeting.
ANALYSIS
Existing Law Section 17.32.050.G and H of the Zoning Code regulate signs with graphics, messages, and motion. The two sections contain provisions that appear contradictory and are difficult for the Codes Department to enforce. Currently, scrolling, flashing, and changeable copy signs are generally prohibited in all zoning districts except CS and CL, with one exception. Time/date/ temperature signs are permitted in all non-residential zoning districts provided they remain fixed, static, motionless, and non-flashing for a period of two seconds or more.
Proposed Bill The proposed bill would provide that electronic signs are permitted in all zoning districts, including residentially zoned properties located along a collector or arterial street, as shown on the adopted Major Street Plan. Since the Planning Commission last reviewed this bill on February 28, 2008, the Metro Council adopted an amendment to it on March 4, 2008. The amendment restricts electronic signs in residential districts to religious institutions, community education facilities, cultural centers, and recreation centers.
As written, the bill adds provisions to subsection G to require the display of an electronic sign to remain static for eight seconds and requires a transition between displays of less than two seconds. The bill would also add a prohibition for digital billboards that are less than 2,000 feet apart from one another. Because of the conflicting language in subsections G and H of the current Code, it is unclear whether digital billboards currently are permitted. Under this ordinance, they would be permitted so long as they comply with the amended provisions of subsection G.
Current subsection H is deleted from the Code and replaced with a new section H that would: 1) clarify that video and other animated signs are prohibited in all districts except for the CA zoning district; and 2) permit LED message boards on collector and arterial streets in all residential zone districts.
The term “electronic sign” embraces a couple different technologies seen in Metro that have been recently installed, including digital signs and LED signs. Digital signs have color and animation with a TV picture quality such as the one on West End Avenue at 30th Avenue, North, or the Nova Copy sign along I-40 in downtown Nashville. Unlike digital signs, LED signs are not multi-color. LED signs have red or amber-colored lights and lettering on message boards such as those at a drugstore or businesses which display date, time, and temperature.
Proposed Text This council bill proposes to amend Section 17.32.050.G and H. of the Zoning Code (Prohibited Signs) as follows:
G. Signs with any copy, graphics, or digital displays that change messages by electronic or mechanical means, when where the copy, graphics, or digital display does not remain fixed, static, motionless, and nonflashing for a period of two (2) seconds or more eight (8) seconds, provided that this provision shall not be applicable to any sign located within the CA district with a change time of less than two (2) seconds. Digital display billboards less than two thousand (2,000) feet apart, and digital billboards that are not in compliance with the provisions of section 17.32.150, are also prohibited.
H. billboards in permitted districts, or signs located in ON, OL, OG, OR20, OR40, ORI, MUN, MUL, MUG, SCN, SCC, CN and CL districts with lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color except for time/temperature/date signs. This provision shall also apply to all signs located within one hundred feet of property classified within a residential district.
H.1. Video, continuous scrolling messages, and animation signs, except in the commercial attraction (CA) district.
H.2. LED message boards in residential zoning districts. Notwithstanding the foregoing, LED message boards shall be allowed for community education facilities, cultural centers, recreation centers, and religious institutions located on collector or arterial streets in residential zoning districts
Analysis In the past few years, there have been three council bills to permit electronic signs; two failed to receive Council support and one was adopted (see table below). All three bills were recommended for disapproval by the Metro Planning Commission. While this latest bill does create more restrictive display periods for electronic signs, it still does not provide adequate protection for residential areas in which these signs may be located.
SIGN BILLS
Bill # Sponsor Council Action MPC Action Description
BL2005-648 Dozier Failed 3rd reading 1/17/06 Disapproved
12/8/05 Permit signs with graphics or electronic displays oriented to a four-lane or controlled access highway maintained by the State of Tennessee and located within the urban services district (USD), with a speed limit of forty miles per hour (40 m.p.h.) or less.
BL2006-974 Dozier, Wallace Withdrawn 7/18/06 Disapproved
2/23/06 Permit signs with graphics or electronic displays oriented to a four-lane or controlled access highway maintained by the State of Tennessee and located within the urban services district (USD), with a speed limit of forty miles per hour (40 m.p.h.) or less.
BL2007-1366 Brown Approved Disapproved
2/22/07 To allow signs with lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color within the CL zoning district. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, signs with lights or illuminations that display non-scrolling and non-flashing electronic text shall be permitted within the CL district, provided the text remains static for at least three seconds and the sign is not located within four hundred feet of any residential property with frontage on the same street.
As written, the current bill would allow electronic signs on collector and arterial streets in residential zoning districts. Such electronic signs would be permitted up to eight (8) feet tall, up to 192 square feet of total sign area, up to three (3) electronic signs depending on a property’s street frontage, and with no restriction on the amount of sign area devoted to the changeable copy. Further, the bill provides no standards for illumination, hours of operation, distance from a residential use, and variation in colors and hues.
The Zoning Administrator has indicated that the Codes Department considers electronic signs and billboards to be illegal under the current Metro Code sign provisions because, in application, most such signs violate the provisions of subsection H in the current law, which prohibits signs with “lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color.” This bill proposes to permit digital signs and digital billboards like those recently erected along I-65 near 100 Oaks Mall, I-24 westbound in Hermitage, and elsewhere in Metro. According to the Zoning Administrator, all of these digital signs and billboards are on private property, except Metro’s convention center sign which is on public property. Those signs erected with a valid Metro permit were approved with the explicit statement that such signs were not to be digital. The proposed bill would clarify that digital billboards are allowed so long as the display message remains static or fixed for 8 seconds or more, the transition time between messages is two seconds or less, and digital billboards are spaced a minimum of 2,000 feet apart.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends disapproval of the bill as drafted because electronic signs would be permitted without adequately safeguarding Nashville’s neighborhoods. When the Zoning Code’s sign provisions were adopted by the Metro Council in the early 1990’s, electronic signs did not exist. That said, the Planning Department does not believe the Zoning Code was intended to be interpreted to permit such signs now or in the future. The provisions of Section 17.32.050.G and H are broad enough to encompass this latest sign technology, and they expressly prohibit it.
This is a complex and difficult issue. A draft alternate ordinance is appended to this staff report, below. The draft alternate ordinance also is not recommended for approval by staff, but is presented for the Planning Commission’s consideration. The draft alternate ordinance would amend the Zoning Code to allow electronic signs in residential districts subject to a special exception use, electronic signs by right in various commercial districts, and electronic billboards by right in certain districts.
If the commission recommends the draft alternate ordinance for approval, staff suggests that the recommendation should include a recommendation that two separate council bills be drafted to enable Metro Council to consider the signs in their appropriate zoning context.
1) electronic signs in residential areas; and
2) electronic signs for commercial areas and billboards.
The Planning Commission may also want to look at the proximity of billboards to residential uses. Lastly, staff recommends that if the Metro Council amends the Zoning Code to permit these signs, the current council bill, or any new bill introduced, should include a provision expressly stating that none of these existing electronic and digital signs and billboards, including existing signs and billboards which may be converted to electronic in the future are grandfathered in, and that they must all comply with the applicable provisions of the adopted council bill within thirty (30) days after the bill’s passage.
Draft Alternate Ordinance
1. Modify Section 17.04.060 “Definitions of General Terms” by inserting the following new definition in alphabetical order:
“Community Facility” means a community education, cultural center, recreation center, or religious institution.
2. Modify Section 17.04.060 “Definitions of General Terms” by inserting the following new definitions in alphabetical order under the word “Sign” and after the phrase “These terms regarding signs are referenced”, renumbering the existing terms accordingly.
“Electronic Changeable Copy Sign” means a sign that displays electronic, non-pictorial text information in which each character, graphic, or symbol (“display”) can be changed without altering the face or surface of the sign using an electronic means such as light emitting diode (LED) display, plasma screen, liquid crystal display (LCD), fiber optic or other electronic media or technology. All copy shall be displayed in one color with no hues, and remain fixed or static for at least eight (8) seconds before changing. All copy changes must be accomplished instantaneously without any special effects. At no time shall any sign display area have varying light illumination and/or intensity, blinking, bursting, dissolving, distorting, fading, flashing, oscillating, rotating, shimmering, scrolling, sparkling, streaming, traveling, tracing, twinkling, simulated movement, or convey the illusion of movement.
“Electronic Graphic Display Sign” means the same as “Electronic Changeable Copy Sign” except static images, graphics and/or pictures may be displayed in one or more colors and hues.
“Electronic Video Display Sign” means a sign that changes copy or background using varying light illumination, intensity, or a progression of pictorial or graphic frames in either a continuous or animated presentation to display motion, action, special effects, or pictorial imagery in one or more colors and hues.
“Manual Changeable Copy Sign” means a sign whose copy is or can be changed manually or mechanically in the field by the use of detachable letters, numbers, or symbols.
“Sign Copy” means any words, letters, numbers, figures, characters, symbols, logos, emblem, flag, background, or insignia that are used on a sign display surface area.
3. Modify Section 17.32.090.A by renaming it and amending the language, inserting a new subsection B, and renumbering existing subsection B as C (Signs: On-Premise Signs for Non-Residential Uses in Agricultural and Residential Districts) as follows:
A. Signs. All on-premise signs located in a residential district shall conform to the sign provisions applicable to the ON district, except as provided below in Section 17.32.090.B for a community facility use desiring an electronic changeable copy sign. Ground signs shall be monument signs with a maximum height of eight (8) feet at grade-level measured at the location where the sign will be erected. The minimum street setback shall be fifteen feet; the sign shall not encroach into required side setbacks of the district; and only one such ground sign shall be permitted per street frontage.
B. Electronic Changeable Copy Signs. Following approval of a special exception by the Board of Zoning Appeals community facilities located in residential districts shall be permitted only one ground monument electronic changeable copy sign for the entire facility, regardless of the number and location of principle or accessory uses, parcels, lots, street frontages, abutting or adjacent properties that comprise the overall facility The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height at grade-level measured at the location where the sign will be erected on the property, 48 square feet in total allowable sign area with the changeable copy not exceeding a maximum of twenty-five percent (25%) of that allowable sign area. Wall-mounted electronic changeable copy signs are not permitted. Prior to approval of a special exception, the Board of Zoning Appeals shall ensure the following criteria are met.
i. An applicant has provided sufficient evidence to the board that the proposed changeable copy sign (electronic), meets the following criteria
a. Located on an arterial street as designated on the adopted Major Street Plan and having a minimum of four (4) existing travel lanes at the location of the proposed sign.
b. Located in an area that is predominately non-residential in character.
c. Located no closer than 500 feet from any existing residential use.
ii. The board shall also consider the following in determining the appropriateness of granting a special exception.
a. A recommendation from the Historic Zoning Commission, if the property is located within an historic overlay district.
b. A recommendation from Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency, if the property is located within a redevelopment district.
c. A recommendation from the planning commission as provided in Section 17.40.300. The planning commission shall recommend on the proposed sign’s consistency with the goals, objectives, and standards of the general plan, including any community, neighborhood, or other design plan.
d. The proposed sign’s size, height, location, configuration, materials, structure, illumination, and hours of operation, including proximity to another electronic changeable copy sign(s).
e. Whether the sign will detract from the existing neighborhood character, including the street and pedestrian environment.
iii. Once a special exception is granted the sign shall meet the following conditions:
a. Be illuminated no earlier than 6:00 a.m. on any day and no later than 9:00 p.m. on any day.
b. Once fully illuminated, the sign shall not produce any direct, indirect, or reflected light or glare impacts on adjoining properties, pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorists.
iv. The board may place conditions on a proposed sign needed to ensure the sign does not detract from the existing or planned neighborhood character, including the street and pedestrian environment.
4. Modify Section 17.32.050.G (Prohibited Signs) by deleting the existing text and inserting the following in its place:
G. Electronic video display signs in all zoning districts except the CA district.
5. Modify Section 17.32.050.H (Prohibited Signs) by deleting the existing text and inserting the following in its place:
H. Electronic signs, either changeable copy or graphic display, are prohibited except as follows:
1) Billboards may be electronic, either changeable copy or graphic display signs, provided there is a minimum separation distance of 2,000 feet between the proposed billboard and another electronic billboard (either changeable copy or graphic display signs) subject to districts identified in Section 17.32.150 and the provisions of this title.
2) Signs located on properties in the office, mixed-use, commercial, shopping center, and industrial zoning districts may be electronic, either changeable copy or graphic display, subject to the sign regulations contained in Chapter 17.32 of this title.
3) Community facility uses located in residential zoning districts as provided in Section 17.32.090.
Charlie Tygard's newest version of the LED and Digital Sign bill will be heard before the Metro Planning Commission on Thursday, March 27th at 4:00 pm
Charlie Tygard's newest version of the LED and Digital Sign bill will be heard before the Metro Planning Commission on Thursday, March 27th at 4:00 pm. The bill has some minor changes, but will still greatly impact residential areas. The bill does more than that, this bill seems to allow digital billboards where they were not allowed before even though they presently exist there seemingly contrary to the present code.
It is important to note that the language of this bill supports a statement made by a high level member of the Metro Planning Department to a council member to whom I was speaking after the Metro Council's Planning Committee meeting on Monday, March 17th at the courthouse. The statement made was that in all likelihood that some of these type signs already in existence were probably illegal under the present code.
Language supporting this statement is found in the Planning Staff's report of this bill and reads as follows....
As written, the bill adds provisions to subsection G to require the display of an electronic sign to remain static for eight seconds and requires a transition between displays of less than two seconds. The bill would also add a prohibition for digital billboards that are less than 2,000 feet apart from one another. Because of the conflicting language in subsections G and H of the current Code, it is unclear whether digital billboards currently are permitted. Under this ordinance, they would be permitted so long as they comply with the amended provisions of subsection G.
The notes continue...
The Zoning Administrator has indicated that the Codes Department considers electronic signs and billboards to be illegal under the current Metro Code sign provisions because, in application, most such signs violate the provisions of subsection H in the current law, which prohibits signs with “lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color.” This bill proposes to permit digital signs and digital billboards like those recently erected along I-65 near 100 Oaks Mall, I-24 westbound in Hermitage, and elsewhere in Metro. According to the Zoning Administrator, all of these digital signs and billboards are on private property, excep t Metro’s convention center sign which is on public property. Those signs erected with a valid Metro permit were approved with the explicit statement that such signs were not to be digital. The proposed bill would clarify that digital billboards are allowed so long as the display message remains static or fixed for 8 seconds or more, the transition time between messages is two seconds or less, and digital billboards are spaced a minimum of 2,000 feet apart.
The revision of this bill seems to create a law that would allow signs to be legal that may presently be illegal. The question is, if this bill is defeated will existing signs be allowed to stay in place in violation of the law? Why were these sign allowed to be put up if the present zoning code did not allow them? Whose job was it to approve or disapprove these signs that seem to be illegal?
Ironically (or not), the Planning Commission's agenda that is normally posted on the web at least by Friday before the following Thursday meeting is not posted at this time (Saturday, 11 am). A copy provide to me by Metro Planning is attached. Will other neighbors will be kept in the dark until sometime Monday? How can democracy take place when the stakeholders are unaware of the details of the proceedings? First the original bill is placed on the consent agenda and the public is not allowed to give input, now the agenda will be released late with little time to notify citizens. Is this the best job our city can do to practice democracy?
It is important that neighbors become aware of this new bill and attend this meeting. It is equally important that we insist that the leaders of our city always make the best possible effort to allow our citizens the opportunity to take part in democracy. Allowing our citizens appropriate time for notification in order to have their voices heard would be a good start.
Neighbors are urged to send a letter to the commissioners as well as attend the meeting Thursday, March 27th at 4pm in order to make an impact to their decision. A vote of disapproval from the Planning Commissioners will require more votes from the Metro Council in order to approve the bill.
Please send your letters to the commissioners (as attachments) and emails stating that you will be in attendance to speak regarding the bill to Jennifer.Regen@nashville.gov. She is the Planning Department's staff reviewer of the bill. She will make sure that every commissioner has a copy. The staff's recommendation is to disapprove.
The Donelson-Hermitage Neighborhood Association will be sponsoring a community meeting regarding LED and Digital signs in Monday, March 31st at 7pm at the Hermitage Police Precinct on James Kay Lane in Hermitage. Please join us.
Apathy in our society is our own worst enemy. If we are to support and protect democracy, we must be willing to take part in the process. Please take the time to pass this forward to all neighbors that you know and ask them to make their voices heard.
Susan Floyd
President
Donelson-Hermitage Neighborhood Association
DHNApresident@yahoo.com
It is important to note that the language of this bill supports a statement made by a high level member of the Metro Planning Department to a council member to whom I was speaking after the Metro Council's Planning Committee meeting on Monday, March 17th at the courthouse. The statement made was that in all likelihood that some of these type signs already in existence were probably illegal under the present code.
Language supporting this statement is found in the Planning Staff's report of this bill and reads as follows....
As written, the bill adds provisions to subsection G to require the display of an electronic sign to remain static for eight seconds and requires a transition between displays of less than two seconds. The bill would also add a prohibition for digital billboards that are less than 2,000 feet apart from one another. Because of the conflicting language in subsections G and H of the current Code, it is unclear whether digital billboards currently are permitted. Under this ordinance, they would be permitted so long as they comply with the amended provisions of subsection G.
The notes continue...
The Zoning Administrator has indicated that the Codes Department considers electronic signs and billboards to be illegal under the current Metro Code sign provisions because, in application, most such signs violate the provisions of subsection H in the current law, which prohibits signs with “lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker or vary in intensity or color.” This bill proposes to permit digital signs and digital billboards like those recently erected along I-65 near 100 Oaks Mall, I-24 westbound in Hermitage, and elsewhere in Metro. According to the Zoning Administrator, all of these digital signs and billboards are on private property, excep t Metro’s convention center sign which is on public property. Those signs erected with a valid Metro permit were approved with the explicit statement that such signs were not to be digital. The proposed bill would clarify that digital billboards are allowed so long as the display message remains static or fixed for 8 seconds or more, the transition time between messages is two seconds or less, and digital billboards are spaced a minimum of 2,000 feet apart.
The revision of this bill seems to create a law that would allow signs to be legal that may presently be illegal. The question is, if this bill is defeated will existing signs be allowed to stay in place in violation of the law? Why were these sign allowed to be put up if the present zoning code did not allow them? Whose job was it to approve or disapprove these signs that seem to be illegal?
Ironically (or not), the Planning Commission's agenda that is normally posted on the web at least by Friday before the following Thursday meeting is not posted at this time (Saturday, 11 am). A copy provide to me by Metro Planning is attached. Will other neighbors will be kept in the dark until sometime Monday? How can democracy take place when the stakeholders are unaware of the details of the proceedings? First the original bill is placed on the consent agenda and the public is not allowed to give input, now the agenda will be released late with little time to notify citizens. Is this the best job our city can do to practice democracy?
It is important that neighbors become aware of this new bill and attend this meeting. It is equally important that we insist that the leaders of our city always make the best possible effort to allow our citizens the opportunity to take part in democracy. Allowing our citizens appropriate time for notification in order to have their voices heard would be a good start.
Neighbors are urged to send a letter to the commissioners as well as attend the meeting Thursday, March 27th at 4pm in order to make an impact to their decision. A vote of disapproval from the Planning Commissioners will require more votes from the Metro Council in order to approve the bill.
Please send your letters to the commissioners (as attachments) and emails stating that you will be in attendance to speak regarding the bill to Jennifer.Regen@nashville.gov. She is the Planning Department's staff reviewer of the bill. She will make sure that every commissioner has a copy. The staff's recommendation is to disapprove.
The Donelson-Hermitage Neighborhood Association will be sponsoring a community meeting regarding LED and Digital signs in Monday, March 31st at 7pm at the Hermitage Police Precinct on James Kay Lane in Hermitage. Please join us.
Apathy in our society is our own worst enemy. If we are to support and protect democracy, we must be willing to take part in the process. Please take the time to pass this forward to all neighbors that you know and ask them to make their voices heard.
Susan Floyd
President
Donelson-Hermitage Neighborhood Association
DHNApresident@yahoo.com
Monday, March 24, 2008
Reading program attracts special guests at Lakeview, Una schools
Metro Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite and Nashville Sounds Mascot “Ozzie” read to students at Lakeview and Una elementary schools.
COURTESY OF MINDY SCHWARTZ
By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer • March 24, 2008
Metro Councilwoman Vivian Wilhoite and Nashville Sounds Mascot "Ozzie" were recently spotted at Lakeview and Una elementary schools.
They were there to read to students and to emphasize the importance of reading.
"I was amazed (at) the joy and happiness it brought to the students' faces," said Mindy Schwartz, who helps Wilhoite with her blog, www.vivian-29.blogspot.com, and was there for the occasion.
"The Sounds offer a great opportunity to go to the schools to read to the students, and it seems most people are not aware of this program," she said. "This experience captured me to the point that I will be going to volunteer … to take part in … programs for these children."
Contact Suzanne Normand Blackwood by telephone at 259-8268 or by e-mail at sblackwood@tennessean.com.
Police arrest 85 in weekend operation
By CHARLES BOOTH (Tennessean) • March 24, 2008
Metro Police officers made 85 arrests over the weekend as part of the Operation Safer Street gang enforcement initiative.
The arrests included 85 misdemeanors, 24 felonies and nine outstanding warrants. The operation also led to the seizure of 38 grams of marijuana, 10.6 grams of cocaine and 120 various pills.
The initiative took place throughout the city, with patrol officers, Specialized Investigations Division detectives and canine units.
Metro Police officers made 85 arrests over the weekend as part of the Operation Safer Street gang enforcement initiative.
The arrests included 85 misdemeanors, 24 felonies and nine outstanding warrants. The operation also led to the seizure of 38 grams of marijuana, 10.6 grams of cocaine and 120 various pills.
The initiative took place throughout the city, with patrol officers, Specialized Investigations Division detectives and canine units.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Dropouts would be ineligible for driver license until 21
ASSOCIATED PRESS • March 19, 2008
NASHVILLE — People who don't have high school diplomas or GEDs wouldn't be able to get driver licenses until the age of 21 under a proposal advancing in the Legislature.
The measure sponsored by Rep. Joe Towns Jr., a Memphis Democrat, passed the House Education Committee on Wednesday.
Present law requires suspension of a driver license for any student under age 18 who quits school. The suspension holds until the individual turns 18.
Towns' bill would extend the suspension to age 21.
NASHVILLE — People who don't have high school diplomas or GEDs wouldn't be able to get driver licenses until the age of 21 under a proposal advancing in the Legislature.
The measure sponsored by Rep. Joe Towns Jr., a Memphis Democrat, passed the House Education Committee on Wednesday.
Present law requires suspension of a driver license for any student under age 18 who quits school. The suspension holds until the individual turns 18.
Towns' bill would extend the suspension to age 21.
Mother discovers line of toys helps with autistic kids
Antioch resident now sells Discovery Toys after learning about benefits for her sons at Bill Wilkerson Center
By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 19, 2008
ANTIOCH — Antioch resident Andrea Adams had a feeling something was not normal with her older son, Sean, long before he was diagnosed with autism.
"I had seen some signs," she said. But she said her son's pediatrician kept saying that he would "grow out of it."
Adams, a local consultant for Discovery Toys, finally took Sean to a different pediatrician, who suggested she have him screened for autism. Sean, 10, was diagnosed with autism at age 4; most children are diagnosed before age 3.
As a result of Sean's diagnosis, Adams was well aware of the signs of autism when her younger son, Jared, began showing them.
Although a May 2004 report by the Institute of Medicine discredited any link between autism and the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) and other thimerosol-containing vaccines, Jared's parents believe his autism is related to a vaccination he received when he was 18 months old. Adams said he had good eye contact, verbal skills and play skills until receiving the shot.
Both Sean and Jared, 8, receive speech therapy at the Bill Wilkerson Center at Vanderbilt. They also receive speech therapy and occupational therapy at school. Also, some schools provide ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, if needed in cases more severe than Sean's and Jared's.
But Adams said the waiting period to see an autism specialist is very long. Many parents may be at a loss as to what they can do for their autistic children while they wait besides changing their diets.
This is where Discovery Toys can be helpful, she said.
"It's frustrating; you just feel helpless," she said about the feeling she had when she first found out. "It's like having a 2-year-old forever, but a 2-year-old who thinks they can do everything."
And, said Adams, "there's no known cause; there's no known cure."
Adams said she first saw Discovery Toys at the Bill Wilkerson Center. But she was officially introduced to them when she met a consultant who had a booth with a sign that said, "Discovery Toys Works with Autism Speaks." It was then she discovered there was a whole market out there.
Firm also works to create toys to help with autism
Discovery Toys are designed to be educational and safe. The company promises that all of its products meet or exceed standards set by the U.S. and Canadian governments regarding safety. All toys are tested for flammability, hazardous materials and toxic elements, including lead, by an independent laboratory prior to shipment from domestic and foreign manufacturers.
The company also regularly monitors the labor practices, raw materials and manufacturing processes used by its vendors as an extra measure for quality and safety.
Adams said Discovery Toys has collaborated with the Princeton Child Development Institute to offer a line of toys specifically designed for children with autism. The toys are designed to develop independent play; promote sustained engagement; build skills for cooperative play; create opportunities for children to talk about their play experiences; reward accomplishment with completion activities; and encourage pretend play.
Mary Shelton, a professor of psychology at Tennessee State University, said some of the toys' features would likely offer specific benefits for children with autism. For example, "to promote cooperative play would be addressing one of the weaknesses involved in autism." Also, "impaired ability to engage in imaginative play is one of the diagnostic symptoms of autism," she said.
However, Shelton added, other features may not yield any more benefits for children with autism than they would other children. Already, she said, children with autism tend to be "overly engaged in solitary play or objects."
Shelton said "kids with autism cover a wide range."
"Autistic spectrum disorders can range from really smart, focused, well-liked kids who have social difficulties to kids who are severely impaired."
So generalizing about what toys would work well for children with autism is like saying, "Would this toy appeal to a boy?"
Adams said she encourages parents to find the toys that fit their child's circumstances, regardless of age. With children who have autism, their "developmental age" doesn't necessarily correspond to their "chronological age," she said.
She spreads autism awareness while selling toys
A couple of toys Adams said her boys like are the Castle Marbleworks and the Magic Talkin' Kitchen Crew.
Castle Marbleworks allows the child to place a ball at the top of a ramp so that it travels down the winding ramp.
"He likes this one," said Adams, as Jared experimented with the Magic Talkin' Kitchen. "It talks, which helps with his speech."
Adams, also a part-time preschool teacher at Hamilton United Methodist, uses some of the toys there. She has booths at conferences, church festivals and other special events. Products may be ordered during home parties or by appointment.
"I can help families and spread autism awareness all at the same time," she said.
Contact Suzanne Normand Blackwood by telephone at 259-8268 or by e-mail at sblackwood@tennessean.com.
By SUZANNE NORMAND BLACKWOOD • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 19, 2008
ANTIOCH — Antioch resident Andrea Adams had a feeling something was not normal with her older son, Sean, long before he was diagnosed with autism.
"I had seen some signs," she said. But she said her son's pediatrician kept saying that he would "grow out of it."
Adams, a local consultant for Discovery Toys, finally took Sean to a different pediatrician, who suggested she have him screened for autism. Sean, 10, was diagnosed with autism at age 4; most children are diagnosed before age 3.
As a result of Sean's diagnosis, Adams was well aware of the signs of autism when her younger son, Jared, began showing them.
Although a May 2004 report by the Institute of Medicine discredited any link between autism and the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) and other thimerosol-containing vaccines, Jared's parents believe his autism is related to a vaccination he received when he was 18 months old. Adams said he had good eye contact, verbal skills and play skills until receiving the shot.
Both Sean and Jared, 8, receive speech therapy at the Bill Wilkerson Center at Vanderbilt. They also receive speech therapy and occupational therapy at school. Also, some schools provide ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, if needed in cases more severe than Sean's and Jared's.
But Adams said the waiting period to see an autism specialist is very long. Many parents may be at a loss as to what they can do for their autistic children while they wait besides changing their diets.
This is where Discovery Toys can be helpful, she said.
"It's frustrating; you just feel helpless," she said about the feeling she had when she first found out. "It's like having a 2-year-old forever, but a 2-year-old who thinks they can do everything."
And, said Adams, "there's no known cause; there's no known cure."
Adams said she first saw Discovery Toys at the Bill Wilkerson Center. But she was officially introduced to them when she met a consultant who had a booth with a sign that said, "Discovery Toys Works with Autism Speaks." It was then she discovered there was a whole market out there.
Firm also works to create toys to help with autism
Discovery Toys are designed to be educational and safe. The company promises that all of its products meet or exceed standards set by the U.S. and Canadian governments regarding safety. All toys are tested for flammability, hazardous materials and toxic elements, including lead, by an independent laboratory prior to shipment from domestic and foreign manufacturers.
The company also regularly monitors the labor practices, raw materials and manufacturing processes used by its vendors as an extra measure for quality and safety.
Adams said Discovery Toys has collaborated with the Princeton Child Development Institute to offer a line of toys specifically designed for children with autism. The toys are designed to develop independent play; promote sustained engagement; build skills for cooperative play; create opportunities for children to talk about their play experiences; reward accomplishment with completion activities; and encourage pretend play.
Mary Shelton, a professor of psychology at Tennessee State University, said some of the toys' features would likely offer specific benefits for children with autism. For example, "to promote cooperative play would be addressing one of the weaknesses involved in autism." Also, "impaired ability to engage in imaginative play is one of the diagnostic symptoms of autism," she said.
However, Shelton added, other features may not yield any more benefits for children with autism than they would other children. Already, she said, children with autism tend to be "overly engaged in solitary play or objects."
Shelton said "kids with autism cover a wide range."
"Autistic spectrum disorders can range from really smart, focused, well-liked kids who have social difficulties to kids who are severely impaired."
So generalizing about what toys would work well for children with autism is like saying, "Would this toy appeal to a boy?"
Adams said she encourages parents to find the toys that fit their child's circumstances, regardless of age. With children who have autism, their "developmental age" doesn't necessarily correspond to their "chronological age," she said.
She spreads autism awareness while selling toys
A couple of toys Adams said her boys like are the Castle Marbleworks and the Magic Talkin' Kitchen Crew.
Castle Marbleworks allows the child to place a ball at the top of a ramp so that it travels down the winding ramp.
"He likes this one," said Adams, as Jared experimented with the Magic Talkin' Kitchen. "It talks, which helps with his speech."
Adams, also a part-time preschool teacher at Hamilton United Methodist, uses some of the toys there. She has booths at conferences, church festivals and other special events. Products may be ordered during home parties or by appointment.
"I can help families and spread autism awareness all at the same time," she said.
Contact Suzanne Normand Blackwood by telephone at 259-8268 or by e-mail at sblackwood@tennessean.com.
Churches, schools may be allowed to light up their signs
Proposal would ease residential zoning restrictions on electronic signs; some people are upset
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 18, 2008
A proposal to let Nashville churches and schools put up electronic signs in residential areas is upsetting some residents, who fear the steady glare of bright lights piercing their leafy streets.
A Metro Council bill would allow "community education facilities, cultural centers, recreation centers and religious institutions" in residential areas to post light-emitting diode, or LED, signs on main thoroughfares and the "collector" streets that feed vehicles into those main roads.
The council has indefinitely deferred its final vote on the matter, but the issue continues to create a buzz.
LED signs are often seen at chain drugstores, banks and auto dealerships. They use amber or red lights to display messages, which can rotate every few seconds.
Keith Newcomb, a financial planner who lives in the Hillwood area of West Nashville, said the signs would be bad for neighborhoods.
"There is no place for commercial-style LED signage deep in the heart of a residential neighborhood, on any kind of street," Newcomb said. "It's a quality-of-life issue."
But Councilman Charlie Tygard, who introduced the proposal, said the signs would not be intrusive. They wouldn't be allowed to use flashing lights, scrolling messages or animation.
Tygard said he was inspired by the plight of Harpeth Heights Baptist Church on Highway 100. The church wants to advertise its divorce classes, Boy Scout troop meetings and other events along a Bellevue stretch dominated by large signs for grocery stores, a Walgreens and a YMCA.
But Harpeth Heights' request for a zoning variance was denied by Metro's Board of Zoning Appeals because the church couldn't show a hardship necessitating the sign, the councilman said.
Resident e-mails pour in
The church lot is zoned residential, but "for all practical purposes, it's on a commercial piece of property," said Tygard, who represented Bellevue before he was elected countywide last year.
Councilwoman Emily Evans, who represents Belle Meade and West Meade, said she's received more constituent e-mails about the proposal than she's received about almost any other issue this year. She said she wouldn't be surprised if the bill were amended before it comes back up for a vote.
Streets that dump traffic onto a main road can be "bucolic" along other stretches, Evans said. She said residents who bought their houses for the peace and quiet of those areas don't want to see electronic signs amid the trees and lawns.
"Those heavily trafficked streets can also be very residential," she said.
The list of affected roads runs about 290 pages, council attorneys said in their bill analysis. Newcomb said about 7,600 streets are on the list.
Tygard said he's working to find "common ground" with the bill's critics. Compromises could include a time of night when the LED signs would have to be shut off and a requirement that only amber lights be used, he said.
Contact Michael Cass at 259-8838 or mcass@tennessean.com.
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 18, 2008
A proposal to let Nashville churches and schools put up electronic signs in residential areas is upsetting some residents, who fear the steady glare of bright lights piercing their leafy streets.
A Metro Council bill would allow "community education facilities, cultural centers, recreation centers and religious institutions" in residential areas to post light-emitting diode, or LED, signs on main thoroughfares and the "collector" streets that feed vehicles into those main roads.
The council has indefinitely deferred its final vote on the matter, but the issue continues to create a buzz.
LED signs are often seen at chain drugstores, banks and auto dealerships. They use amber or red lights to display messages, which can rotate every few seconds.
Keith Newcomb, a financial planner who lives in the Hillwood area of West Nashville, said the signs would be bad for neighborhoods.
"There is no place for commercial-style LED signage deep in the heart of a residential neighborhood, on any kind of street," Newcomb said. "It's a quality-of-life issue."
But Councilman Charlie Tygard, who introduced the proposal, said the signs would not be intrusive. They wouldn't be allowed to use flashing lights, scrolling messages or animation.
Tygard said he was inspired by the plight of Harpeth Heights Baptist Church on Highway 100. The church wants to advertise its divorce classes, Boy Scout troop meetings and other events along a Bellevue stretch dominated by large signs for grocery stores, a Walgreens and a YMCA.
But Harpeth Heights' request for a zoning variance was denied by Metro's Board of Zoning Appeals because the church couldn't show a hardship necessitating the sign, the councilman said.
Resident e-mails pour in
The church lot is zoned residential, but "for all practical purposes, it's on a commercial piece of property," said Tygard, who represented Bellevue before he was elected countywide last year.
Councilwoman Emily Evans, who represents Belle Meade and West Meade, said she's received more constituent e-mails about the proposal than she's received about almost any other issue this year. She said she wouldn't be surprised if the bill were amended before it comes back up for a vote.
Streets that dump traffic onto a main road can be "bucolic" along other stretches, Evans said. She said residents who bought their houses for the peace and quiet of those areas don't want to see electronic signs amid the trees and lawns.
"Those heavily trafficked streets can also be very residential," she said.
The list of affected roads runs about 290 pages, council attorneys said in their bill analysis. Newcomb said about 7,600 streets are on the list.
Tygard said he's working to find "common ground" with the bill's critics. Compromises could include a time of night when the LED signs would have to be shut off and a requirement that only amber lights be used, he said.
Contact Michael Cass at 259-8838 or mcass@tennessean.com.
Predators owner plans to max out city funds
Proposal would cap city's liability at arena at $3.8 million
By COLBY SLEDGE • Staff Writer • March 19, 2008
The Nashville Predators' new owners expect to ask the city to pay the team $3.8 million every year, even when the team doesn't lose that much money, the owners' leader said.
Under the agreement, which was approved by the Metro Sports Authority on Tuesday, the Predators would cap the city's liability for operating losses at the downtown Sommet Center at about $3.8 million — the same funding provided in 2006 — plus up to 5 percent a year in adjustments.
But even if those losses dip below the threshold, the owners expect to spend at least that much, said David Freeman, lead owner of the Preds group. Freeman said those funds primarily would be used to bring in big-ticket events, like the NCAA Women's Final Four basketball tournament, that he argued would bring in more tourism dollars for the city.
"We're not worried about taking risks anymore," said Freeman, CEO of 36 Venture Capital. "We're going to take some risks."
If the arena loses less than $3.8 million, the difference could also be spent on capital expenses such as improvements to the building itself, according to Larry Thrailkill, Metro's attorney in the negotiations with the pro hockey team's owners.
Freeman stopped short of saying the money would be spent solely on bringing events to the arena.
"If we do something that enhances the arena and that brings in more events, then that's a terrific expenditure," Freeman said.
Freeman expected to have about 150 days of events from July 2007 to the end of June this year. That would be 30 days more than the previous fiscal year, Freeman said.
The sports authority approved the agreement, 7-1, after deferring the vote earlier this month, frustrating some Predators officials. After Tuesday's vote, the phrase "one down, one to go" could be heard among several members of the audience.
The decision will now go to the Metro Council, which is expected to vote on the agreement April 1.
"I don't totally feel we got the best deal, but we may have gotten a better deal than we had, and I think we should go ahead and work with these folks," said sports authority member Arnett Bodenhamer.
The dissenting voter, Steve North, said he thought the new lease might leave the city paying for more than it expects.
"Anytime you have a complex agreement, there are always unintended consequences," North said.
Freeman's statements brought mixed reactions from Metro Council members, who now must look at the agreement before possibly turning it over to Mayor Karl Dean, who helped negotiate the proposal.
"I think a selling point for council members was if we can figure out a way to cap the amount of losses," said Councilman Erik Cole of East Nashville, chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee.
Councilman Michael Craddock of Madison, who is also on the committee, said he was disappointed the group had already planned to spend the funds.
"I guess it is, unfortunately, to be expected," Craddock said. "You give someone a line of credit or allotment, and they're going to spend it."
A simple majority of the council's 40 voting members will be required to pass the agreement, which would be made retroactive to the current budget year.
The city would likely pay about $4.5 million this year in incentive fees and other changes to the lease, including rent reductions and an increased cut of advertising revenues for the Predators, Thrailkill said.
The city will be able to pay for that through various funds, Metro Finance Manager Bob Lackey said, including hotel/motel tax revenues.
Contact Colby Sledge at 259-8229 or ccsledge@tennessean.com.
By COLBY SLEDGE • Staff Writer • March 19, 2008
The Nashville Predators' new owners expect to ask the city to pay the team $3.8 million every year, even when the team doesn't lose that much money, the owners' leader said.
Under the agreement, which was approved by the Metro Sports Authority on Tuesday, the Predators would cap the city's liability for operating losses at the downtown Sommet Center at about $3.8 million — the same funding provided in 2006 — plus up to 5 percent a year in adjustments.
But even if those losses dip below the threshold, the owners expect to spend at least that much, said David Freeman, lead owner of the Preds group. Freeman said those funds primarily would be used to bring in big-ticket events, like the NCAA Women's Final Four basketball tournament, that he argued would bring in more tourism dollars for the city.
"We're not worried about taking risks anymore," said Freeman, CEO of 36 Venture Capital. "We're going to take some risks."
If the arena loses less than $3.8 million, the difference could also be spent on capital expenses such as improvements to the building itself, according to Larry Thrailkill, Metro's attorney in the negotiations with the pro hockey team's owners.
Freeman stopped short of saying the money would be spent solely on bringing events to the arena.
"If we do something that enhances the arena and that brings in more events, then that's a terrific expenditure," Freeman said.
Freeman expected to have about 150 days of events from July 2007 to the end of June this year. That would be 30 days more than the previous fiscal year, Freeman said.
The sports authority approved the agreement, 7-1, after deferring the vote earlier this month, frustrating some Predators officials. After Tuesday's vote, the phrase "one down, one to go" could be heard among several members of the audience.
The decision will now go to the Metro Council, which is expected to vote on the agreement April 1.
"I don't totally feel we got the best deal, but we may have gotten a better deal than we had, and I think we should go ahead and work with these folks," said sports authority member Arnett Bodenhamer.
The dissenting voter, Steve North, said he thought the new lease might leave the city paying for more than it expects.
"Anytime you have a complex agreement, there are always unintended consequences," North said.
Freeman's statements brought mixed reactions from Metro Council members, who now must look at the agreement before possibly turning it over to Mayor Karl Dean, who helped negotiate the proposal.
"I think a selling point for council members was if we can figure out a way to cap the amount of losses," said Councilman Erik Cole of East Nashville, chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee.
Councilman Michael Craddock of Madison, who is also on the committee, said he was disappointed the group had already planned to spend the funds.
"I guess it is, unfortunately, to be expected," Craddock said. "You give someone a line of credit or allotment, and they're going to spend it."
A simple majority of the council's 40 voting members will be required to pass the agreement, which would be made retroactive to the current budget year.
The city would likely pay about $4.5 million this year in incentive fees and other changes to the lease, including rent reductions and an increased cut of advertising revenues for the Predators, Thrailkill said.
The city will be able to pay for that through various funds, Metro Finance Manager Bob Lackey said, including hotel/motel tax revenues.
Contact Colby Sledge at 259-8229 or ccsledge@tennessean.com.
The Tennessee Lottery made a series of missteps and oversights after a software glitch began generating faulty winning numbers last year, and players bought about $2 million worth of unwinnable tickets before the error was found, according to a state audit.
The sweeping audit from state Comptroller John G. Morgan reviewed the entire episode between July 28 and Aug. 20, when a programming glitch caused no duplicate digits to appear in winning Cash 3 and Cash 4 numbers.
"A combination of unexpected and unlikely events unfolded" that eventually "resulted in the integrity and competence of all parties being called into question in the ensuing publicity," according to the audit.
The report found no fraud associated with the episode. It also praised the lottery for its swift response once the glitch was identified, saying that executives and staff "engaged in good-faith efforts to disclose the programming error and to exhibit complete transparency."
Lottery President Rebecca Hargrove said the lottery had implemented all of the comptroller's recommendations, "and then some."
"I am confident that the system that we have in place is completely random and fair," she said.
But some players are still suspicious. Al Palmer, a Henry County retiree, used to play Cash 3 and Cash 4, but stopped last year when the lottery gave up using ping-pong balls to draw winning numbers and instead began using computer software — software that ultimately proved to be faulty.
"There's nothing that would make me play the Tennessee lottery again," he said. If he did play again, he said he'd sooner cross into Kentucky and play its lottery.
$2M in tickets unwinnable
In all, players bought about $2 million in tickets that could not win because they contained duplicate digits, the comptroller said.
After the programming error was found and fixed, the lottery temporarily increased Cash 3's top cash payout from $500 to $599 and Cash 4 from $5,000 to $6,000. The lottery also paid $762,507 in refunds and $549,259 in increased prizes.
The episodes began as soon as the lottery switched on July 28 from the mechanical ball system to a computerized system for generating random winning numbers in the Cash 3 and Cash 4 games.
The problem stemmed from a mistyped letter in the computer application for the live draw. Because coding included a "u" for "unique" — instead of "r," for "repeating" — the machine was incapable of drawing repeating digits as winning combinations, such as 9-6-9 or 2-2-0-6.
The company that tested the equipment, Gaming Laboratories International, checked a test-draw mechanism before the software went live, but did not test the flawed live draw program; the company claims its contract did not require it.
As a result, the problem was not found. "I think the paperwork's pretty clear," said GLI's general counsel, Kevin Mullally. "They have a certification letter that doesn't ever mention the part of the software that has the error."
Smartplay, a New Jersey-based company that developed the automated draw system, had opportunities to identify the programming error the first day the computers went into use, "and they did not do so," according to the audit.
In days leading up to the system going live, Smartplay officials were present to install software and observe the first day of live draws, missing a chance to catch the non-repeated numbers. It is "uncontested" that Smartplay could have identified the problem, the audit said.
A man who answered the phone at Smartplay Tuesday said, "we don't make comments to the press," before hanging up. The man refused to give his name.
Glitch fixed in 10 minutes
Lottery officials, who received the numbers by text message, also did not notice the lack of repeat digits, according to the audit. The lottery received its first e-mail about the potential problem on Aug. 1, a second two days later, and six more in following days. Lottery executives knew about the e-mails, but continued to believe the drawings were anomalies, the audit said.
After 12 days, Chief Financial Officer Andy Davis reviewed data showing 70 draws without duplicate numbers for both Cash 3 and Cash 4. Had test draws been included, it would have shown that not a single one of 232 draws contained a duplicate number.
Another lottery officer agreed to contact the vendor, but thought he was supposed to contact GLI, rather than Smartplay, which the audit called a "critical misperception."
After consulting with GLI, the lottery conducted draws using a test system separate from the live system. Results with duplicate digits appeared, and "the decision was made to stay the course and to continue to monitor the draws."
But e-mails continued to pour in, and "deeply concerned" lottery officials decided on Aug. 19 to contact Smartplay. A lottery official talked to Tom Markert, Smartplay's executive vice president, on Aug. 20. He ran one test, which immediately revealed the problem; Markert estimated that the entire process took less than 10 minutes, according to the audit.
Contact Theo Emery at 726-4889 or temery@tennessean.com.
The sweeping audit from state Comptroller John G. Morgan reviewed the entire episode between July 28 and Aug. 20, when a programming glitch caused no duplicate digits to appear in winning Cash 3 and Cash 4 numbers.
"A combination of unexpected and unlikely events unfolded" that eventually "resulted in the integrity and competence of all parties being called into question in the ensuing publicity," according to the audit.
The report found no fraud associated with the episode. It also praised the lottery for its swift response once the glitch was identified, saying that executives and staff "engaged in good-faith efforts to disclose the programming error and to exhibit complete transparency."
Lottery President Rebecca Hargrove said the lottery had implemented all of the comptroller's recommendations, "and then some."
"I am confident that the system that we have in place is completely random and fair," she said.
But some players are still suspicious. Al Palmer, a Henry County retiree, used to play Cash 3 and Cash 4, but stopped last year when the lottery gave up using ping-pong balls to draw winning numbers and instead began using computer software — software that ultimately proved to be faulty.
"There's nothing that would make me play the Tennessee lottery again," he said. If he did play again, he said he'd sooner cross into Kentucky and play its lottery.
$2M in tickets unwinnable
In all, players bought about $2 million in tickets that could not win because they contained duplicate digits, the comptroller said.
After the programming error was found and fixed, the lottery temporarily increased Cash 3's top cash payout from $500 to $599 and Cash 4 from $5,000 to $6,000. The lottery also paid $762,507 in refunds and $549,259 in increased prizes.
The episodes began as soon as the lottery switched on July 28 from the mechanical ball system to a computerized system for generating random winning numbers in the Cash 3 and Cash 4 games.
The problem stemmed from a mistyped letter in the computer application for the live draw. Because coding included a "u" for "unique" — instead of "r," for "repeating" — the machine was incapable of drawing repeating digits as winning combinations, such as 9-6-9 or 2-2-0-6.
The company that tested the equipment, Gaming Laboratories International, checked a test-draw mechanism before the software went live, but did not test the flawed live draw program; the company claims its contract did not require it.
As a result, the problem was not found. "I think the paperwork's pretty clear," said GLI's general counsel, Kevin Mullally. "They have a certification letter that doesn't ever mention the part of the software that has the error."
Smartplay, a New Jersey-based company that developed the automated draw system, had opportunities to identify the programming error the first day the computers went into use, "and they did not do so," according to the audit.
In days leading up to the system going live, Smartplay officials were present to install software and observe the first day of live draws, missing a chance to catch the non-repeated numbers. It is "uncontested" that Smartplay could have identified the problem, the audit said.
A man who answered the phone at Smartplay Tuesday said, "we don't make comments to the press," before hanging up. The man refused to give his name.
Glitch fixed in 10 minutes
Lottery officials, who received the numbers by text message, also did not notice the lack of repeat digits, according to the audit. The lottery received its first e-mail about the potential problem on Aug. 1, a second two days later, and six more in following days. Lottery executives knew about the e-mails, but continued to believe the drawings were anomalies, the audit said.
After 12 days, Chief Financial Officer Andy Davis reviewed data showing 70 draws without duplicate numbers for both Cash 3 and Cash 4. Had test draws been included, it would have shown that not a single one of 232 draws contained a duplicate number.
Another lottery officer agreed to contact the vendor, but thought he was supposed to contact GLI, rather than Smartplay, which the audit called a "critical misperception."
After consulting with GLI, the lottery conducted draws using a test system separate from the live system. Results with duplicate digits appeared, and "the decision was made to stay the course and to continue to monitor the draws."
But e-mails continued to pour in, and "deeply concerned" lottery officials decided on Aug. 19 to contact Smartplay. A lottery official talked to Tom Markert, Smartplay's executive vice president, on Aug. 20. He ran one test, which immediately revealed the problem; Markert estimated that the entire process took less than 10 minutes, according to the audit.
Contact Theo Emery at 726-4889 or temery@tennessean.com.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Harding Place extension project gets under way???
Proposal from decades ago will link roadway at Donelson Pike to I-40By PAM SHERBORNE | For Davidson A.M. • March 14, 2008
Neighbors being affected by a phase of the Harding Place extension project are concerned about two main issues: traffic and blasting.
But concerns and questions over the entire extension project will most likely grow as the project grows. The plans to link Harding Place at Donelson Pike to I-40, east of Nashville, have been on the board for many years. It may be many more before it is completed.
"I think this project was actually planned in the '70s, or maybe even earlier, in the '60s," said Metro Councilman Vivian Wilhoite, who represents District 29, where the phase is starting up. "But now there has been some movement in my area. The state has purchased some homes and torn them down."
This movement is in preparation for one phase that will consist of the construction of a segment from Couchville Pike to Murfreesboro Road, closing off Old Murfreesboro Road as it runs into Murfreesboro Road.
Priest Lake residents concerned about traffic
According to one neighbor, Mike Hassell, who is co-president of the Priest Lake Neighborhood Watch, there is a problem with that plan.
"Right now, people traveling out of Smith Springs Road toward Murfreesboro Road will first go to the intersection of Smith Springs and Old Murfreesboro Road," Hassell said. "There is a stop sign there. You can take a right onto Old Murfreesboro Road, and that takes you to Murfreesboro Road."
Closing off Old Murfreesboro Road, he said, will require all the traffic to go straight at that intersection, staying on Smith Springs Road to Murfreesboro Road.
"Currently, that traffic light at Murfreesboro Road is a no-turn on red," he said. "With that, we'll never get out onto Murfreesboro Road."
But a Metro Public Works representative has met with some of the concerned residents during a neighborhood meeting last week.
"They say they can solve that problem," Wilhoite said, "by providing a designated right lane for traffic to turn onto Murfreesboro Road. That lane won't stop at the light, but will be a flow-through lane."
Although Hassell feels that could address that problem, he said, "Now, how are we going to get home? We will all be turning left onto Smith Springs."
Blasting also a big issue for neighbors
Neighbors are concerned about the inevitable blasting."
My question is who is going to pay for the pre-blasting survey prior to the blasting and how far will this survey extend," Hassell said. "I don't expect it to just go out 10 homes or so. We are all on rock out here."
A definitive answer to that question may come when part of the project is under way.
According to Shannon Ashford, public information officer for the state Department of Commerce and Insurance, which oversees blasting regulations in Tennessee, a pre-blast survey is required by regulations if the blast exceeds the limits of the Standard Table of Distance and the property is within 300 feet of the blast site.
"The blasting company would pay for the survey," Ashford said. "They will also need to get a permit to store the explosives from Metro and would need to have a Tennessee licensed blasting firm, handlers, and blasters."
Section to Couchville Pike funded for 2008
The Harding Place extension project was developed by the Nashville-area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), a federally-designated transportation planning agency responsible for identifying transportation needs and then developing them.
The project is being funded by federal and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) money, with an 80/20 percent split, federal and state, respectively.
The timetable for the entire project is undetermined. Julie Oaks, public information officer for TDOT, said because of TDOT's financial situation, competition for state and federal construction funding is fierce. But Michael Skipper, director of the Nashville area MPO, said funding for the segment from Murfreesboro Road to Couchville Pike is in the program for 2008.
"Of course, it may not be completed in 2008, but the money is there for that segment," Skipper said.
Those fees include: $370,000 for preliminary engineering, $1.2 million for relocation of utilities and $8.5 million for construction. That brings the total to slightly more than $10 million. All these fees have the 80/20 split, federal/state.
Oaks said environmental and technical studies are under way.
"In a few months, when TDOT has the preliminary information from these studies, we will schedule a public meeting to present the information and request public input," Oaks said. "We will be coordinating with Metro Public Works, the Metro Nashville Airport Authority and the Federal Highway Administration."
Neighbors being affected by a phase of the Harding Place extension project are concerned about two main issues: traffic and blasting.
But concerns and questions over the entire extension project will most likely grow as the project grows. The plans to link Harding Place at Donelson Pike to I-40, east of Nashville, have been on the board for many years. It may be many more before it is completed.
"I think this project was actually planned in the '70s, or maybe even earlier, in the '60s," said Metro Councilman Vivian Wilhoite, who represents District 29, where the phase is starting up. "But now there has been some movement in my area. The state has purchased some homes and torn them down."
This movement is in preparation for one phase that will consist of the construction of a segment from Couchville Pike to Murfreesboro Road, closing off Old Murfreesboro Road as it runs into Murfreesboro Road.
Priest Lake residents concerned about traffic
According to one neighbor, Mike Hassell, who is co-president of the Priest Lake Neighborhood Watch, there is a problem with that plan.
"Right now, people traveling out of Smith Springs Road toward Murfreesboro Road will first go to the intersection of Smith Springs and Old Murfreesboro Road," Hassell said. "There is a stop sign there. You can take a right onto Old Murfreesboro Road, and that takes you to Murfreesboro Road."
Closing off Old Murfreesboro Road, he said, will require all the traffic to go straight at that intersection, staying on Smith Springs Road to Murfreesboro Road.
"Currently, that traffic light at Murfreesboro Road is a no-turn on red," he said. "With that, we'll never get out onto Murfreesboro Road."
But a Metro Public Works representative has met with some of the concerned residents during a neighborhood meeting last week.
"They say they can solve that problem," Wilhoite said, "by providing a designated right lane for traffic to turn onto Murfreesboro Road. That lane won't stop at the light, but will be a flow-through lane."
Although Hassell feels that could address that problem, he said, "Now, how are we going to get home? We will all be turning left onto Smith Springs."
Blasting also a big issue for neighbors
Neighbors are concerned about the inevitable blasting."
My question is who is going to pay for the pre-blasting survey prior to the blasting and how far will this survey extend," Hassell said. "I don't expect it to just go out 10 homes or so. We are all on rock out here."
A definitive answer to that question may come when part of the project is under way.
According to Shannon Ashford, public information officer for the state Department of Commerce and Insurance, which oversees blasting regulations in Tennessee, a pre-blast survey is required by regulations if the blast exceeds the limits of the Standard Table of Distance and the property is within 300 feet of the blast site.
"The blasting company would pay for the survey," Ashford said. "They will also need to get a permit to store the explosives from Metro and would need to have a Tennessee licensed blasting firm, handlers, and blasters."
Section to Couchville Pike funded for 2008
The Harding Place extension project was developed by the Nashville-area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), a federally-designated transportation planning agency responsible for identifying transportation needs and then developing them.
The project is being funded by federal and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) money, with an 80/20 percent split, federal and state, respectively.
The timetable for the entire project is undetermined. Julie Oaks, public information officer for TDOT, said because of TDOT's financial situation, competition for state and federal construction funding is fierce. But Michael Skipper, director of the Nashville area MPO, said funding for the segment from Murfreesboro Road to Couchville Pike is in the program for 2008.
"Of course, it may not be completed in 2008, but the money is there for that segment," Skipper said.
Those fees include: $370,000 for preliminary engineering, $1.2 million for relocation of utilities and $8.5 million for construction. That brings the total to slightly more than $10 million. All these fees have the 80/20 split, federal/state.
Oaks said environmental and technical studies are under way.
"In a few months, when TDOT has the preliminary information from these studies, we will schedule a public meeting to present the information and request public input," Oaks said. "We will be coordinating with Metro Public Works, the Metro Nashville Airport Authority and the Federal Highway Administration."
UConn finishes No. 1 in AP women's poll --Vivian Just for You!
By DOUG FEINBERG
AP Sports Writer
Connecticut entered the women's NCAA tournament at No. 1 on Monday - the seventh time UConn finished with the top ranking but the first time since 2003.
The Huskies, which began the season at No. 2, led the final Associated Press poll with 49 of 50 first-place votes from a national media panel. North Carolina drew the other first-place vote.
Connecticut was ranked first in 12 of the final 13 weeks with the only blemish coming when the Huskies lost at Rutgers. The Huskies won the Big East tournament on Tuesday knocking off No. 23 Louisville 65-59.
Posted by: You know who! :)
AP Sports Writer
Connecticut entered the women's NCAA tournament at No. 1 on Monday - the seventh time UConn finished with the top ranking but the first time since 2003.
The Huskies, which began the season at No. 2, led the final Associated Press poll with 49 of 50 first-place votes from a national media panel. North Carolina drew the other first-place vote.
Connecticut was ranked first in 12 of the final 13 weeks with the only blemish coming when the Huskies lost at Rutgers. The Huskies won the Big East tournament on Tuesday knocking off No. 23 Louisville 65-59.
Posted by: You know who! :)
Tennessee gets No. 1 seed in NCAA tourney
By BETH RUCKER
Associated Press Writer
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- After being a top seed in the NCAA tournament 19 times, Tennessee coach Pat Summitt likes to see something new.
As in new opponents, not a new seed.
The third-ranked Lady Vols (30-2) drew the No. 1 seed of the Oklahoma City Regional on Monday and will face No. 15 seed Oral Roberts in West Lafayette, Ind., on Sunday.
"I know nothing about Oral Roberts," Summitt said. "I guess I'll be up for a little while."
The defending national champion Lady Vols continued their tradition of gathering at Summitt's house for dinner and to watch the bracket announcement together.
The players clapped when Tennessee was announced, but seemed curious about their first opponent.
"Where is Oral Roberts, coach?" senior guard Alexis Hornbuckle asked after seeing the regional lineup.
It's in Tulsa, by the way.
Many teams in the Oklahoma City Regional are new to Summitt, or at least the current roster of Lady Vols.
They've never played No. 8 seed Utah, one of their potential second round matchups should they advance past their first game - which they've always done. They've faced No. 2 seed Texas A&M only once, in 1997.
The Lady Vols also have a chance to face ninth-seeded Purdue, a team they haven't played in over a decade, on the Boilermakers' home court.
"I was a little surprised that we're going to be in West Lafayette, but they support women's basketball in great fashion there," Summitt said.
Summitt said she was also surprised Tennessee's regional didn't include Rutgers, the team the Lady Vols beat in the 2007 national championship and again this season in a game with a last-second clock controversy.
Tennessee would only face Rutgers in the tournament if both teams again reach the national championship game in Tampa.
Another team the Lady Vols would only face in the national championship game is Connecticut, a team Tennessee didn't face this season for the first time in 13 years.
Summitt ended the series with Tennessee's biggest rival, even though the Huskies had a signed contract to keep playing through next season. She's declined to say why she made that decision.
Summitt acknowledged that a potential national championship between Tennessee and Connecticut would receive a lot of hype, because every game between the two does.
But it's not something she or the players are thinking about.
"We're just focusing on one game at a time. That's what we've done in years previous, and I think that's helped us be successful in the NCAA tournament," All-American Candace Parker said.
© 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.
Associated Press Writer
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- After being a top seed in the NCAA tournament 19 times, Tennessee coach Pat Summitt likes to see something new.
As in new opponents, not a new seed.
The third-ranked Lady Vols (30-2) drew the No. 1 seed of the Oklahoma City Regional on Monday and will face No. 15 seed Oral Roberts in West Lafayette, Ind., on Sunday.
"I know nothing about Oral Roberts," Summitt said. "I guess I'll be up for a little while."
The defending national champion Lady Vols continued their tradition of gathering at Summitt's house for dinner and to watch the bracket announcement together.
The players clapped when Tennessee was announced, but seemed curious about their first opponent.
"Where is Oral Roberts, coach?" senior guard Alexis Hornbuckle asked after seeing the regional lineup.
It's in Tulsa, by the way.
Many teams in the Oklahoma City Regional are new to Summitt, or at least the current roster of Lady Vols.
They've never played No. 8 seed Utah, one of their potential second round matchups should they advance past their first game - which they've always done. They've faced No. 2 seed Texas A&M only once, in 1997.
The Lady Vols also have a chance to face ninth-seeded Purdue, a team they haven't played in over a decade, on the Boilermakers' home court.
"I was a little surprised that we're going to be in West Lafayette, but they support women's basketball in great fashion there," Summitt said.
Summitt said she was also surprised Tennessee's regional didn't include Rutgers, the team the Lady Vols beat in the 2007 national championship and again this season in a game with a last-second clock controversy.
Tennessee would only face Rutgers in the tournament if both teams again reach the national championship game in Tampa.
Another team the Lady Vols would only face in the national championship game is Connecticut, a team Tennessee didn't face this season for the first time in 13 years.
Summitt ended the series with Tennessee's biggest rival, even though the Huskies had a signed contract to keep playing through next season. She's declined to say why she made that decision.
Summitt acknowledged that a potential national championship between Tennessee and Connecticut would receive a lot of hype, because every game between the two does.
But it's not something she or the players are thinking about.
"We're just focusing on one game at a time. That's what we've done in years previous, and I think that's helped us be successful in the NCAA tournament," All-American Candace Parker said.
© 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Learn more about our Privacy Policy.
Bill puts deadline on record requests
Officials would have 4 days to respond
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer • March 16, 2008
A proposal advancing in the state legislature would make some key changes to the Tennessee Public Records Law, including a deadline of four business days for government officials to respond to records requests.
There is no deadline now.
Under the proposal, the government worker who is the "custodian" of the record would have to provide the records, deny the request in writing — and explain the decision or say how much time would be "reasonably necessary to produce such record or information."
Failing to respond would be considered a denial, which would allow the person seeking the records to appeal the decision in court.
Fewer than a dozen other states have response deadlines of four days or less, according to data compiled by The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.
"It will compare well," said Frank Gibson, executive director of the Tennessee Coalition for Open Government.
The bill, which is moving through the state Senate, would create an advisory committee to look at some issues the legislation doesn't get to, such as access to electronic records.
The legislation also leaves open meetings to the side for now. A legislative study committee had considered a proposal that would have allowed just under a quorum of members of a public body, such as the 40-member Metro Council, to meet in private. In the Metro Council's case, that would have allowed 26 members to meet behind closed doors.
"We felt the recommendations would have weakened the law," said Gibson, a former government editor at The Tennessean.
As the legislation stands, "half a loaf is better than no loaf at all," Gibson said of the progress it would generate.
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer • March 16, 2008
A proposal advancing in the state legislature would make some key changes to the Tennessee Public Records Law, including a deadline of four business days for government officials to respond to records requests.
There is no deadline now.
Under the proposal, the government worker who is the "custodian" of the record would have to provide the records, deny the request in writing — and explain the decision or say how much time would be "reasonably necessary to produce such record or information."
Failing to respond would be considered a denial, which would allow the person seeking the records to appeal the decision in court.
Fewer than a dozen other states have response deadlines of four days or less, according to data compiled by The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.
"It will compare well," said Frank Gibson, executive director of the Tennessee Coalition for Open Government.
The bill, which is moving through the state Senate, would create an advisory committee to look at some issues the legislation doesn't get to, such as access to electronic records.
The legislation also leaves open meetings to the side for now. A legislative study committee had considered a proposal that would have allowed just under a quorum of members of a public body, such as the 40-member Metro Council, to meet in private. In the Metro Council's case, that would have allowed 26 members to meet behind closed doors.
"We felt the recommendations would have weakened the law," said Gibson, a former government editor at The Tennessean.
As the legislation stands, "half a loaf is better than no loaf at all," Gibson said of the progress it would generate.
Tennessee Web site lets patients track doctors' dealings
By CLAUDIA PINTO • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 17, 2008
Doctors are brought before the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners for abuses, such as showing up drunk on the job or botching a surgery. But there's an easy way to check up on your physician.
By going to the Tennessee Department of Health's Web site, people can find out if the board has taken action against a doctor, why and what the outcome was. They also can find other practical information to help them choose a doctor, such as where they attended school, which hospitals they can practice in and whether they have a criminal record.
"It gives the consumer a way to make informed decisions," said Rosemarie Otto, the executive director of the Board of Medical Examiners.
Here's how to access the information: Go to http://health.state.tn.us/ click on licensing and then on licensing verification and type in the name of a physician.
Shelley Walker, a spokeswoman for the state's department of health, said the link got 6.8 million hits in 2007 — making it one of the most popular in all of state government.
"People are concerned about who is delivering their health care," Otto said.
Of some relief: Otto said fewer than 1 percent of Tennessee doctors ever come before the board.
In addition to doctors, the site has information on health professionals in nearly 70 fields, including psychologists, veterinarians, dentists and message therapists.
"If people have questions about their physician, they are entitled to get as much information as they can," Otto said.
Doctors are brought before the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners for abuses, such as showing up drunk on the job or botching a surgery. But there's an easy way to check up on your physician.
By going to the Tennessee Department of Health's Web site, people can find out if the board has taken action against a doctor, why and what the outcome was. They also can find other practical information to help them choose a doctor, such as where they attended school, which hospitals they can practice in and whether they have a criminal record.
"It gives the consumer a way to make informed decisions," said Rosemarie Otto, the executive director of the Board of Medical Examiners.
Here's how to access the information: Go to http://health.state.tn.us/ click on licensing and then on licensing verification and type in the name of a physician.
Shelley Walker, a spokeswoman for the state's department of health, said the link got 6.8 million hits in 2007 — making it one of the most popular in all of state government.
"People are concerned about who is delivering their health care," Otto said.
Of some relief: Otto said fewer than 1 percent of Tennessee doctors ever come before the board.
In addition to doctors, the site has information on health professionals in nearly 70 fields, including psychologists, veterinarians, dentists and message therapists.
"If people have questions about their physician, they are entitled to get as much information as they can," Otto said.
Police Search For Suspects In Two Overnight Robberies
Posted: March 17, 2008 06:47 AM CST Channel 5 News
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Two robberies happened overnight, and one victim ended up being shot.
Police said two people sitting in a truck outside the Hickory Highlands apartments in Antioch where approached by two black men who demanded money.
The victims, realizing the suspects were armed, tried to drive off, but the driver was shot.
Police caught up with victim as he drove himself to the hospital.
Investigators said they will interview the passenger for possible leads.
In a separate robbery overnight a hotel clerk was robbed at gunpoint. The incident happened at the Ramada Inn in Dickson on Highway 46.
Police said two gunmen walked into the lobby just before midnight. They pointed a shotgun at the desk clerk and demanded money.
The men left with a disclosed amount of cash.
Monday morning, police do not have any suspects.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Two robberies happened overnight, and one victim ended up being shot.
Police said two people sitting in a truck outside the Hickory Highlands apartments in Antioch where approached by two black men who demanded money.
The victims, realizing the suspects were armed, tried to drive off, but the driver was shot.
Police caught up with victim as he drove himself to the hospital.
Investigators said they will interview the passenger for possible leads.
In a separate robbery overnight a hotel clerk was robbed at gunpoint. The incident happened at the Ramada Inn in Dickson on Highway 46.
Police said two gunmen walked into the lobby just before midnight. They pointed a shotgun at the desk clerk and demanded money.
The men left with a disclosed amount of cash.
Monday morning, police do not have any suspects.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Davidson County: Groups to advocate for funding schools
Several Nashville non-profits have formed one group to help raise awareness and encourage people to advocate for funding public education.
Dubbed "Friends of Metro Schools," the umbrella organization includes Stand for Children, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Interdenominational Ministerial Fellowship and other partners.
The groups united this week to raise community awareness about funding issues using e-mail alerts about legislation that affects school funding. The hope is an educated community will take action by writing local and state lawmakers, said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Chamber of Commerce.
Hill said the group won't weigh in on policy issues, such as standard school attire or year-round school. The focus will be on getting dollars for Metro Schools, he said.
For more information, parents can log on to www.stand.org/friendsofmetroschools or e-mail friends@stand.org.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
Dubbed "Friends of Metro Schools," the umbrella organization includes Stand for Children, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Interdenominational Ministerial Fellowship and other partners.
The groups united this week to raise community awareness about funding issues using e-mail alerts about legislation that affects school funding. The hope is an educated community will take action by writing local and state lawmakers, said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Chamber of Commerce.
Hill said the group won't weigh in on policy issues, such as standard school attire or year-round school. The focus will be on getting dollars for Metro Schools, he said.
For more information, parents can log on to www.stand.org/friendsofmetroschools or e-mail friends@stand.org.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
Special-ed monitors for buses planned
Dean urges action; 2 lawsuits allege sex abuse
By JAIME SARRIO • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 15, 2008
Metro school officials want to add monitors to every special-education bus after reports of sexual abuse, but they're unclear where to get $4.85 million to pay for the workers.
At the mayor's urging, interim schools Director Chris Henson on Friday released a plan to improve safety on all buses. The plan includes additional training for drivers, cameras on every bus and more monitors for the district's 217 special-education buses. The district currently has 15 monitor positions.
"There's not an easy answer, and it is something that every district is trying to address," Henson said. "Obviously, adding additional adults on the bus would make a difference, but we believe that better training and better communication makes a difference as well. And that's not something that has cost implications."
Henson said the district has started implementing improvement plans.
The call to action comes after two parents filed separate lawsuits against the district, claiming their special-needs children were sexually abused on buses. Last month, a 14-year-old Rutherford County girl alleged an 18-year-old boy raped her on a regular bus. He's charged in the crime.
According to school officials, staffing bus monitors is a challenge. The position pays $24,000 annually, and monitors work a split shift. The district is trying to fill five positions.
Metro runs 589 buses daily and transports 45,000 students.
By JAIME SARRIO • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 15, 2008
Metro school officials want to add monitors to every special-education bus after reports of sexual abuse, but they're unclear where to get $4.85 million to pay for the workers.
At the mayor's urging, interim schools Director Chris Henson on Friday released a plan to improve safety on all buses. The plan includes additional training for drivers, cameras on every bus and more monitors for the district's 217 special-education buses. The district currently has 15 monitor positions.
"There's not an easy answer, and it is something that every district is trying to address," Henson said. "Obviously, adding additional adults on the bus would make a difference, but we believe that better training and better communication makes a difference as well. And that's not something that has cost implications."
Henson said the district has started implementing improvement plans.
The call to action comes after two parents filed separate lawsuits against the district, claiming their special-needs children were sexually abused on buses. Last month, a 14-year-old Rutherford County girl alleged an 18-year-old boy raped her on a regular bus. He's charged in the crime.
According to school officials, staffing bus monitors is a challenge. The position pays $24,000 annually, and monitors work a split shift. The district is trying to fill five positions.
Metro runs 589 buses daily and transports 45,000 students.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Law enforcement officials unanimously reject proposal
Chris Echegaray • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 14, 2008
There's not one law enforcement official who agrees with the Sen. Doug Jackson's proposal.
Tennessee’s Public Safety Coalition, consisting of police chiefs, sheriffs, and district attorneys general from across the state, this week sent a letter to Speaker Jimmy Naifeh and members of the House of Representatives urging them to reject legislation that would allow handgun permit holders to carry firearms into bars and restaurants that sell alcohol.
The letter was simple enough: guns and alcohol don’t mix, and that passage of the legislation will not be good for Tennesseans or our visitors.
Signing the letter on behalf of the Public Safety Coalition were Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas, Nashville District Attorney Torry Johnson, Knoxville District Attorney Randy Nichols, Shelby County Sheriff Mark Luttrell, Shelby County District Attorney Bill Gibbons, Memphis Police Director Larry Godwin, Montgomery County Sheriff Norman Lewis, and District Attorney Mike Dunavant, who represents the 25th Judicial District. The Chiefs of Police in Knoxville and Chattanooga concur with the Public Safety Coalition’s stand.
There's not one law enforcement official who agrees with the Sen. Doug Jackson's proposal.
Tennessee’s Public Safety Coalition, consisting of police chiefs, sheriffs, and district attorneys general from across the state, this week sent a letter to Speaker Jimmy Naifeh and members of the House of Representatives urging them to reject legislation that would allow handgun permit holders to carry firearms into bars and restaurants that sell alcohol.
The letter was simple enough: guns and alcohol don’t mix, and that passage of the legislation will not be good for Tennesseans or our visitors.
Signing the letter on behalf of the Public Safety Coalition were Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas, Nashville District Attorney Torry Johnson, Knoxville District Attorney Randy Nichols, Shelby County Sheriff Mark Luttrell, Shelby County District Attorney Bill Gibbons, Memphis Police Director Larry Godwin, Montgomery County Sheriff Norman Lewis, and District Attorney Mike Dunavant, who represents the 25th Judicial District. The Chiefs of Police in Knoxville and Chattanooga concur with the Public Safety Coalition’s stand.
For All the Sports Fans---No. 4 Tennessee beats South Carolina
Tennessean 12/14/2008
ATLANTA — Tennessee is still alive for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. It sure wasn't easy.
Chris Lofton hit a 3-pointer with 11.4 seconds remaining and the fourth-ranked Volunteers survived South Carolina's bid for a huge upset, sending Dave Odom into retirement with an 89-87 victory over the Gamecocks in the quarterfinals of the Southeastern Conference tournament Friday.
Tennessee (29-3) already claimed its first SEC championship in 41 years and hopes to lock up a top seed by winning the league tournament. South Carolina (14-18) made it tough in Odom's final game; he announced in January he would step down at the end of the season.
Wayne Chism led the Volunteers with 23 points, helping them dominate on the inside. Lofton was held to 10 points on 4-of-12 shooting, but the senior guard came through when it counted.
After Dominique Archie scored off a brilliant pass from Devan Downey, putting South Carolina ahead 87-86 with 21 seconds remaining, Tennessee hustled the ball upcourt and called timeout to set up a play. While the Volunteers had been doing most of their damage in the lane, they set up a screen for Lofton at the top of the key.
His open look hit nothing but net, just his second 3-pointer in 10 attempts on the day.
Downey came up short on a 3-pointer that could have won it for South Carolina, but the Gamecocks got a final chance when the rebound went out of bounds off a Tennessee player with 1.1 seconds left. Evaldas Baniulis inbounded to Archie, but the pass was low and got stuck between his legs while he was being tightly guarded by Tyler Smith.
The horn sounded without Archie even getting off a shot.
The 65-year-old Odom, who coached at South Carolina for seven years after a successful 12-year stint at Wake Forest, walked off the court slowly with his head down. He finished with a disappointing record of 128-104 with the Gamecocks, taking the school to only one NCAA tournament.
Downey scored 26 points and Zam Fredrick had 24 for the Gamecocks, who certainly can't be accused of giving up as they were after a humiliating 89-56 loss to Tennessee in their regular-season finale last weekend. South Carolina knocked off LSU in the opening round and came within a shot of upsetting the powerful Vols.
But Tennessee moves on to face the winner of the Vanderbilt-Arkansas game in Saturday's semifinals.
The Vols, who spent one week at No. 1 for the first time in school history and lead the RPI standings, picked up their SEC championship trophy before the game while the school band played "Rocky Top."
They certainly had no reason to fear the Gamecocks, having beaten them by nine games in the SEC East standings and winning their two regular-season meetings by an average margin of 28.5 points.
It looked like another rout when Tennessee scored the first nine points and raced out to a 19-8 lead. But South Carolina wouldn't go away, chipping away at the deficit and actually pulling ahead in the final minute of the first half before Tennessee went to the locker room with a 41-40 lead.
The second half was close all the way, with six ties and eight lead changes.
The Gamecocks were outscored 52-38 in the lane but showed they could run with the talented Vols, especially during one up-and-down stretch where the teams combined for five baskets in 35 seconds. It could have gone either way in the final minute.
Archie dunked an offensive rebound with 43 seconds left to put South Carolina up 85-84. Tennessee worked it inside to Smith, who went up strong, made the basket and was fouled by Archie with 39 seconds to go. Smith missed the free throw, South Carolina took over and worked it down for Archie's go-ahead basket.
But Lofton made sure Tennessee reached the semifinals of the conference tournament for the first time since 1991 and avoided coach Bruce Pearl's third straight one-and-done appearance.
ATLANTA — Tennessee is still alive for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. It sure wasn't easy.
Chris Lofton hit a 3-pointer with 11.4 seconds remaining and the fourth-ranked Volunteers survived South Carolina's bid for a huge upset, sending Dave Odom into retirement with an 89-87 victory over the Gamecocks in the quarterfinals of the Southeastern Conference tournament Friday.
Tennessee (29-3) already claimed its first SEC championship in 41 years and hopes to lock up a top seed by winning the league tournament. South Carolina (14-18) made it tough in Odom's final game; he announced in January he would step down at the end of the season.
Wayne Chism led the Volunteers with 23 points, helping them dominate on the inside. Lofton was held to 10 points on 4-of-12 shooting, but the senior guard came through when it counted.
After Dominique Archie scored off a brilliant pass from Devan Downey, putting South Carolina ahead 87-86 with 21 seconds remaining, Tennessee hustled the ball upcourt and called timeout to set up a play. While the Volunteers had been doing most of their damage in the lane, they set up a screen for Lofton at the top of the key.
His open look hit nothing but net, just his second 3-pointer in 10 attempts on the day.
Downey came up short on a 3-pointer that could have won it for South Carolina, but the Gamecocks got a final chance when the rebound went out of bounds off a Tennessee player with 1.1 seconds left. Evaldas Baniulis inbounded to Archie, but the pass was low and got stuck between his legs while he was being tightly guarded by Tyler Smith.
The horn sounded without Archie even getting off a shot.
The 65-year-old Odom, who coached at South Carolina for seven years after a successful 12-year stint at Wake Forest, walked off the court slowly with his head down. He finished with a disappointing record of 128-104 with the Gamecocks, taking the school to only one NCAA tournament.
Downey scored 26 points and Zam Fredrick had 24 for the Gamecocks, who certainly can't be accused of giving up as they were after a humiliating 89-56 loss to Tennessee in their regular-season finale last weekend. South Carolina knocked off LSU in the opening round and came within a shot of upsetting the powerful Vols.
But Tennessee moves on to face the winner of the Vanderbilt-Arkansas game in Saturday's semifinals.
The Vols, who spent one week at No. 1 for the first time in school history and lead the RPI standings, picked up their SEC championship trophy before the game while the school band played "Rocky Top."
They certainly had no reason to fear the Gamecocks, having beaten them by nine games in the SEC East standings and winning their two regular-season meetings by an average margin of 28.5 points.
It looked like another rout when Tennessee scored the first nine points and raced out to a 19-8 lead. But South Carolina wouldn't go away, chipping away at the deficit and actually pulling ahead in the final minute of the first half before Tennessee went to the locker room with a 41-40 lead.
The second half was close all the way, with six ties and eight lead changes.
The Gamecocks were outscored 52-38 in the lane but showed they could run with the talented Vols, especially during one up-and-down stretch where the teams combined for five baskets in 35 seconds. It could have gone either way in the final minute.
Archie dunked an offensive rebound with 43 seconds left to put South Carolina up 85-84. Tennessee worked it inside to Smith, who went up strong, made the basket and was fouled by Archie with 39 seconds to go. Smith missed the free throw, South Carolina took over and worked it down for Archie's go-ahead basket.
But Lofton made sure Tennessee reached the semifinals of the conference tournament for the first time since 1991 and avoided coach Bruce Pearl's third straight one-and-done appearance.
Non-profits join to push for school funds
Davidson County
Several Nashville non-profits are joining to help raise awareness and encourage people to advocate for more money for public schools.
Friends of Metro Schools debuted Thursday at Dan Mills Elementary. It includes Stand for Children, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Interdenominational Ministerial Fellowship and other partners.
The groups are uniting to raise community awareness about funding issues through e-mail alerts about legislation that affects school funding. The hope is an educated community will take action by writing local and state lawmakers, said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Chamber of Commerce.
Hill said the group won't weight in on policy issues, such as standard school attire or year-round school. The focus will be getting dollars for Metro schools, he said.
For more information, parents can log on to www.stand.org/friendsofmetroschools or e-mail friends@stand.org.
Metro school officials are asking for $613.7 million in next year's budget to continue services to students, and an extra $13 million to add new programs and personnel to help the district meet state requirements for the first time in four years.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
Several Nashville non-profits are joining to help raise awareness and encourage people to advocate for more money for public schools.
Friends of Metro Schools debuted Thursday at Dan Mills Elementary. It includes Stand for Children, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Interdenominational Ministerial Fellowship and other partners.
The groups are uniting to raise community awareness about funding issues through e-mail alerts about legislation that affects school funding. The hope is an educated community will take action by writing local and state lawmakers, said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Chamber of Commerce.
Hill said the group won't weight in on policy issues, such as standard school attire or year-round school. The focus will be getting dollars for Metro schools, he said.
For more information, parents can log on to www.stand.org/friendsofmetroschools or e-mail friends@stand.org.
Metro school officials are asking for $613.7 million in next year's budget to continue services to students, and an extra $13 million to add new programs and personnel to help the district meet state requirements for the first time in four years.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
Police search for gunman
By RACHEL STULTS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 13, 2008
Police have identified and are searching for the gunman believed to have shot and killed a 21-year-old man Wednesday night.
Travis Taylor, 20, of Cannon Street, faces charges of criminal homicide and attempted criminal homicide in the death of Stephen Dejuan Johnson, who was shot in the head as the car in which he was riding was fired at while traveling on University Court, police said.
Hermitage Precinct detectives say that Johnson and three friends were riding through University Court when multiple shots were fired at the rear of their car.
Officer Cassandra Del Bosco heard the shots and saw a car with a shattered rear window pull onto Lafayette Street from First Avenue South. Del Bosco pulled the car over and found Johnson dead in the back seat.
Police are investigating whether the shooting is linked to a recent altercation at a local nightclub.
Anyone who has seen Travis Taylor should contact Hermitage Precinct detectives at 862-6993 or Crime Stoppers at 742-7463.
At the time of the shooting, Taylor was free on a $1,000 bond after a domestic assault arrest on Feb. 22. He also has convictions for cocaine possession, trespassing and evading arrest.
Police have identified and are searching for the gunman believed to have shot and killed a 21-year-old man Wednesday night.
Travis Taylor, 20, of Cannon Street, faces charges of criminal homicide and attempted criminal homicide in the death of Stephen Dejuan Johnson, who was shot in the head as the car in which he was riding was fired at while traveling on University Court, police said.
Hermitage Precinct detectives say that Johnson and three friends were riding through University Court when multiple shots were fired at the rear of their car.
Officer Cassandra Del Bosco heard the shots and saw a car with a shattered rear window pull onto Lafayette Street from First Avenue South. Del Bosco pulled the car over and found Johnson dead in the back seat.
Police are investigating whether the shooting is linked to a recent altercation at a local nightclub.
Anyone who has seen Travis Taylor should contact Hermitage Precinct detectives at 862-6993 or Crime Stoppers at 742-7463.
At the time of the shooting, Taylor was free on a $1,000 bond after a domestic assault arrest on Feb. 22. He also has convictions for cocaine possession, trespassing and evading arrest.
Suspect in armed robbery sought; 2 caught
Two juvenile suspects were caught and a third suspect got away after the robbery of a man and an attempted robbery of a restaurant, police said.
Sgt. Chris West of the South Precinct gave this account of the events that occurred Thursday night: Shortly before midnight, three suspects who had two weapons tried unsuccessfully to rob the Wingstop restaurant in Antioch. They were not able to get inside the door. Soon after that, a couple of miles or so away on Crossings Boulevard, a man was robbed of his wallet.
On Bell Road police got behind a gold car matching the description of the suspects' car in both incidents, and three men bailed out and ran away. Two of the suspects were caught. The third suspect was not apprehended in a search that involved the canine unit. The suspect was last seen at the Willow Pointe apartment complex off Bell Road. Police do not have a detailed description of him.
No one was injured in the incidents.
— LEIGH RAY (Tennessean)
Sgt. Chris West of the South Precinct gave this account of the events that occurred Thursday night: Shortly before midnight, three suspects who had two weapons tried unsuccessfully to rob the Wingstop restaurant in Antioch. They were not able to get inside the door. Soon after that, a couple of miles or so away on Crossings Boulevard, a man was robbed of his wallet.
On Bell Road police got behind a gold car matching the description of the suspects' car in both incidents, and three men bailed out and ran away. Two of the suspects were caught. The third suspect was not apprehended in a search that involved the canine unit. The suspect was last seen at the Willow Pointe apartment complex off Bell Road. Police do not have a detailed description of him.
No one was injured in the incidents.
— LEIGH RAY (Tennessean)
Thursday, March 13, 2008
"Metro Firefighters Disciplined After Late Night Tour"
An investigation into conduct at a Metro fire station has led to discipline against five people.
Captain Michael Crume will be demoted to firefighter.
Also, firefighters Jeffrey Warbritton, Norman Crawford, Richard Brantley and John Carpenter will be suspended without pay for two weeks.
News 2 first broke this story last month, after allegations surfaced that several women had been taken back to fire station number 2, and offered beer and shown pornography.
An internal investigation did not prove either happened.
Metro fire has since changed the department's tour policy, and banned premium cable channels at fire stations.
...
To See Video: CLICK HERE
... Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Captain Michael Crume will be demoted to firefighter.
Also, firefighters Jeffrey Warbritton, Norman Crawford, Richard Brantley and John Carpenter will be suspended without pay for two weeks.
News 2 first broke this story last month, after allegations surfaced that several women had been taken back to fire station number 2, and offered beer and shown pornography.
An internal investigation did not prove either happened.
Metro fire has since changed the department's tour policy, and banned premium cable channels at fire stations.
...
To See Video: CLICK HERE
... Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
"Shooting Investigation Turns Into Homicide"
An investigation into a shooting Wednesday night near Murfreesboro Road has now turned into a homicide.
Police say the victim in that shooting died at Vanderbilt Medical Center.
They say the shooting happened around 6:45 p.m. Wednesday at 43 University Court, which is just south of downtown.
Authorities say an officer was called to University Court around 6:45 p.m. Wednesday.
Shots were fired after police left the area.
The officer returned to the scene and noticed a blue car driving down the road, riddled with bullets.
The officer then stopped the car at 1st Avenue South and Lafayette Street. ...
Police say there were several people in the car, but only one person was shot.
The victim was taken to Vanderbilt Medical Center, where he later died at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.
His identity has not been released.
To See the video: CLICK HERE
If you have any information, call Crime Stoppers at 74-CRIME.
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Police say the victim in that shooting died at Vanderbilt Medical Center.
They say the shooting happened around 6:45 p.m. Wednesday at 43 University Court, which is just south of downtown.
Authorities say an officer was called to University Court around 6:45 p.m. Wednesday.
Shots were fired after police left the area.
The officer returned to the scene and noticed a blue car driving down the road, riddled with bullets.
The officer then stopped the car at 1st Avenue South and Lafayette Street. ...
Police say there were several people in the car, but only one person was shot.
The victim was taken to Vanderbilt Medical Center, where he later died at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.
His identity has not been released.
To See the video: CLICK HERE
If you have any information, call Crime Stoppers at 74-CRIME.
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Nashville needs to deal with loitering kids, mayor says
By Jaime Sarrio • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 13, 2008
Local leaders say Nashville needs a truancy/loitering center to deal with the school attendance problem, and Mayor Karl Dean is all for it.
Almost 100 school leaders, non-profit workers, police and juvenile court officials and aides from the Mayor’s Office gathered today at the downtown library for Dean’s Summit on Truancy. One of the ideas that spouted from the event was to create a new center to improve school attendance and deal with early offenders.
Dean said he’s been concerned about Nashville’s school absentee rate since his days as a public offender. High absentee rates are often linked to juvenile crime and an increased drop out rate.
But the mayor wouldn’t say whether he will dedicate funds create a center, only that his budget would reflect his priorities, public education and public safety.
Local leaders say Nashville needs a truancy/loitering center to deal with the school attendance problem, and Mayor Karl Dean is all for it.
Almost 100 school leaders, non-profit workers, police and juvenile court officials and aides from the Mayor’s Office gathered today at the downtown library for Dean’s Summit on Truancy. One of the ideas that spouted from the event was to create a new center to improve school attendance and deal with early offenders.
Dean said he’s been concerned about Nashville’s school absentee rate since his days as a public offender. High absentee rates are often linked to juvenile crime and an increased drop out rate.
But the mayor wouldn’t say whether he will dedicate funds create a center, only that his budget would reflect his priorities, public education and public safety.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
"Metro Water Proposes Storm Water User Fee"
The storm water division of Metro Water Services has run out of funds for past, present and future projects and might soon turn to every Davidson County property owner to make up the difference.
When it rains in the 3,000 block of Dickerson Pike, parking lots flood, water rushes down the culverts and garbage floats on currents of dirty water.
Metro Water Services does not receive tax money and is fully funded waters services revenue.
When storm water issues occur, and they often, all over Davidson County, the department does not have the money to fix it.
Sonia Harvat represents Metro Water Services.
She said, “We...
... don't have a dedicated funding source or a stable funding source so currently we have about $84 million worth of projects to be done and we have zero dollars to do that with."
Harvat said the complaints about Dickerson Pike and other problems areas around the city are four years old.
The city has even drawn up plans to fix, they just can’t fund them.
According to Harvat, the storm water budget is zero, why on February 1, the water department asked the Metro City Council to consider assessing every Davidson County property owner a storm water user fee.
If passed, every property owner will pay, on average, $4.98 cents a month, every month.
The $4.98 cents a month will ensure Metro Water Services continues to make sure subdivisions are designed and developed properly and make sure that homes are not build in flood planes.
Paying more money to the water dept, especially if you don't have flooding issues could be a tough sell.
If adopted, however, the fee would affect every Davidson County property owner, even if Metro Water Services is not your water provider.
Harvat said some 800 cities around the country and many more in Tennessee, including Franklin, Chattanooga and Memphis, already have a storm water user fee.
Have a comment? Think something is Messed Up? Visit www.thatismessedup.com .
To watch the video CLICK HERE:
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
When it rains in the 3,000 block of Dickerson Pike, parking lots flood, water rushes down the culverts and garbage floats on currents of dirty water.
Metro Water Services does not receive tax money and is fully funded waters services revenue.
When storm water issues occur, and they often, all over Davidson County, the department does not have the money to fix it.
Sonia Harvat represents Metro Water Services.
She said, “We...
... don't have a dedicated funding source or a stable funding source so currently we have about $84 million worth of projects to be done and we have zero dollars to do that with."
Harvat said the complaints about Dickerson Pike and other problems areas around the city are four years old.
The city has even drawn up plans to fix, they just can’t fund them.
According to Harvat, the storm water budget is zero, why on February 1, the water department asked the Metro City Council to consider assessing every Davidson County property owner a storm water user fee.
If passed, every property owner will pay, on average, $4.98 cents a month, every month.
The $4.98 cents a month will ensure Metro Water Services continues to make sure subdivisions are designed and developed properly and make sure that homes are not build in flood planes.
Paying more money to the water dept, especially if you don't have flooding issues could be a tough sell.
If adopted, however, the fee would affect every Davidson County property owner, even if Metro Water Services is not your water provider.
Harvat said some 800 cities around the country and many more in Tennessee, including Franklin, Chattanooga and Memphis, already have a storm water user fee.
Have a comment? Think something is Messed Up? Visit www.thatismessedup.com .
To watch the video CLICK HERE:
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Police, Community: Guns, Bars Don't Mix"
Police and members of the Nashville community are speaking out against a bill that would allow permitted gun carriers to take their guns into places that serve alcohol.
Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas said House bill 410, which would allow Tennesseans to take their guns into places that sell alcohol, just doesn't make any sense.
He is one of several chiefs, district attorneys, and sheriffs from around the state who signed their names to a strongly worded letter on behalf of the Tennessee Public Safety Coalition.
The letter was sent to the state’s Speaker of the House.
The letter repeats the familiar statement,...
... "Firearms and alcohol do not mix” and says, in part, “It makes absolutely no sense to us to allow persons to carry guns into establishments where alcohol related fights are most likely to occur.”
The letter state the passage of the legislation will "not be good for Tennesseans or our visitors."
”…If all of us think it's not a good idea, I think that should carry some weight with the legislator,” said Chief Serpas.
Employees at the Wildhorse Saloon downtown hope so.
Others believe the legislation will simply make legal what people are doing anyway.
“I think that people that want to carry their guns in a bar are carrying them anyway,” said bar customer JD Stewart.
House bill 410 doesn't just apply to bars, but restaurants that serve alcohol.
The House of Representatives will vote on this issue in the next couple of weeks.
The bill has already passed in the Senate and its sponsor, Senator Doug Jackson, said the Tennessee Public Safety Coalition’s letter is misleading.
He said, “What they fail to point out is that the bill does not allow anyone with a handgun carry permit that's carrying their gun to consume any alcohol. They can't consume a single drop.”
Jackson also points out that more than 30 states have similar laws.
To watch the video CLICK HERE:
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas said House bill 410, which would allow Tennesseans to take their guns into places that sell alcohol, just doesn't make any sense.
He is one of several chiefs, district attorneys, and sheriffs from around the state who signed their names to a strongly worded letter on behalf of the Tennessee Public Safety Coalition.
The letter was sent to the state’s Speaker of the House.
The letter repeats the familiar statement,...
... "Firearms and alcohol do not mix” and says, in part, “It makes absolutely no sense to us to allow persons to carry guns into establishments where alcohol related fights are most likely to occur.”
The letter state the passage of the legislation will "not be good for Tennesseans or our visitors."
”…If all of us think it's not a good idea, I think that should carry some weight with the legislator,” said Chief Serpas.
Employees at the Wildhorse Saloon downtown hope so.
Others believe the legislation will simply make legal what people are doing anyway.
“I think that people that want to carry their guns in a bar are carrying them anyway,” said bar customer JD Stewart.
House bill 410 doesn't just apply to bars, but restaurants that serve alcohol.
The House of Representatives will vote on this issue in the next couple of weeks.
The bill has already passed in the Senate and its sponsor, Senator Doug Jackson, said the Tennessee Public Safety Coalition’s letter is misleading.
He said, “What they fail to point out is that the bill does not allow anyone with a handgun carry permit that's carrying their gun to consume any alcohol. They can't consume a single drop.”
Jackson also points out that more than 30 states have similar laws.
To watch the video CLICK HERE:
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Metro school board moves director search deadline
Davidson County
The Metro school board Tuesday voted to extend the application window for companies that want to help the district find a new director of schools.
The deadline for applications was Tuesday, but the board extended the window to March 28 in hopes of getting more firms to choose from. Six firms submitted applications, four national and two local, by the old deadline.
Board members didn't want to deter any firms from applying because of the one-week application window. Members also voted to soften the July 1 goal to sign a contract with a new director of schools.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
The Metro school board Tuesday voted to extend the application window for companies that want to help the district find a new director of schools.
The deadline for applications was Tuesday, but the board extended the window to March 28 in hopes of getting more firms to choose from. Six firms submitted applications, four national and two local, by the old deadline.
Board members didn't want to deter any firms from applying because of the one-week application window. Members also voted to soften the July 1 goal to sign a contract with a new director of schools.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
Bus ridership continues surge
Convenience and savings attract riders
By ANNE PAINE • Staff Writer (Tennessean)• March 12, 2008
Bus ridership in Nashville has jumped 45 percent in six years, and it is projected to keep growing.
The change comes amid rising gas prices and traffic congestion, expanding public transit offerings and concerns about global warming.
New converts like Marlene Alvarez are finding riding a Metro Transit Authority bus addictive — for the service and the money savings.
"I thought I would use this as a backup if the weather was crummy — snowy and icy," Alvarez said, standing at an MTA stop beside Legislative Plaza downtown.
Instead, she has been taking the bus "at least four days a week" since January, she said.
The trend in the popularity of mass transit is seen nationally, too, with public transportation use up 35 percent since 1995, according to the American Public Transportation Association.
Passenger trips nationally hit 10.3 billion last year, the highest level in 50 years. Nashville's MTA, which reached 10 million trips in 1979 before falling off, is projected to reach more than 9.4 million in this fiscal year.
New buses and services that include payment, on any bus, with credit and debit cards are helping, said Patricia Harris-Morehead, MTA spokeswoman.
Other innovations include a $4 one-day pass that allows a rider to get on and off buses; new, easier-to-read system maps with tourist destinations and malls; a more frequent airport-downtown shuttle and better staff training, she said.
Transit center is next
The next step is for a $53.6 million transit center, built with 80 percent federal funding, with climate control, restrooms and shops to open at 400 Charlotte Ave., around October.
One key has been a partnership in which employers, including the state and Vanderbilt and Belmont universities, pay for bus passes for their employees to and from work.
Growing groups of workers can be found after work at bus stops downtown and around the schools. Belmont also provides the freebie to its students.
Alvarez waited Tuesday afternoon for the Bellevue-bound bus with Regina Ranish. Both work for the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration.
"It's about a $100 a month saving in gas," said Ranish, who began riding the bus about a week ago. "It was a no-brainer. How much easier could it be?"
Alvarez said she liked "being a little bit more environmentally conscious."
Benefits add up
The air benefits more than a little, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which promotes mass transit to curb global warming.
A commuter leaving his car at home just two days a week reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 1,600 pounds per year.
The only complaint from Ranish and a few other riders Tuesday was about crowded buses that leave some standing.
Jerry Wester, who works for the state Department of Human Services, however, said he can live with it on his bus ride to and from Rutherford County.
"I don't mind standing up because of the money saved," he said with a laugh.
By ANNE PAINE • Staff Writer (Tennessean)• March 12, 2008
Bus ridership in Nashville has jumped 45 percent in six years, and it is projected to keep growing.
The change comes amid rising gas prices and traffic congestion, expanding public transit offerings and concerns about global warming.
New converts like Marlene Alvarez are finding riding a Metro Transit Authority bus addictive — for the service and the money savings.
"I thought I would use this as a backup if the weather was crummy — snowy and icy," Alvarez said, standing at an MTA stop beside Legislative Plaza downtown.
Instead, she has been taking the bus "at least four days a week" since January, she said.
The trend in the popularity of mass transit is seen nationally, too, with public transportation use up 35 percent since 1995, according to the American Public Transportation Association.
Passenger trips nationally hit 10.3 billion last year, the highest level in 50 years. Nashville's MTA, which reached 10 million trips in 1979 before falling off, is projected to reach more than 9.4 million in this fiscal year.
New buses and services that include payment, on any bus, with credit and debit cards are helping, said Patricia Harris-Morehead, MTA spokeswoman.
Other innovations include a $4 one-day pass that allows a rider to get on and off buses; new, easier-to-read system maps with tourist destinations and malls; a more frequent airport-downtown shuttle and better staff training, she said.
Transit center is next
The next step is for a $53.6 million transit center, built with 80 percent federal funding, with climate control, restrooms and shops to open at 400 Charlotte Ave., around October.
One key has been a partnership in which employers, including the state and Vanderbilt and Belmont universities, pay for bus passes for their employees to and from work.
Growing groups of workers can be found after work at bus stops downtown and around the schools. Belmont also provides the freebie to its students.
Alvarez waited Tuesday afternoon for the Bellevue-bound bus with Regina Ranish. Both work for the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration.
"It's about a $100 a month saving in gas," said Ranish, who began riding the bus about a week ago. "It was a no-brainer. How much easier could it be?"
Alvarez said she liked "being a little bit more environmentally conscious."
Benefits add up
The air benefits more than a little, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which promotes mass transit to curb global warming.
A commuter leaving his car at home just two days a week reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 1,600 pounds per year.
The only complaint from Ranish and a few other riders Tuesday was about crowded buses that leave some standing.
Jerry Wester, who works for the state Department of Human Services, however, said he can live with it on his bus ride to and from Rutherford County.
"I don't mind standing up because of the money saved," he said with a laugh.
Metro hands Dozier $90,000 job
Fair board hires him without search
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (tennessean)• March 12, 2008
Without conducting a national search or even advertising the position, the board that oversees the Tennessee State Fair gave the $90,000-a-year executive director's job to a man with plenty of political ties but no experience running fairs.
The fair's board of commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Buck Dozier, the former Metro council member, fire chief and mayoral candidate. Despite its name, the fair is part of Metro Nashville government.
Donna Crawford, a south Nashville resident who in January wrote to city officials urging them to look nationally for a professional fair manager, said she was "just really shocked" by the fair board's choice.
"I would think they would want the best person there to generate revenues," Crawford said. "I'm very concerned that they didn't take the idea of a national search."
Dozier, 64, had gone back to his job at a Madison mortgage company after running for mayor last year.
James Weaver, an attorney who is chairman of the five-person fair board, said Dozier is a good fit for the job and won't face the same learning curve as someone moving to Nashville would.
Weaver praised Dozier's communication skills, ability to run a small government operation and passion for the job. He said Dozier proved while serving on the Metro Council — which Weaver frequently lobbies on behalf of clients — that he was "more than willing to roll up his sleeves" and tackle complex problems.
And after running for mayor just seven months ago, Dozier is well known.
"We could have maybe found that person in Oregon, but we found him right here in Nashville," Weaver said. "And that made more sense."
Consultants hired by the fair board are studying the best long-term use of the 117-acre fairgrounds, which hosts the state fair and a flea market and rents its facilities to other groups for events. The consultants could recommend moving the fair to another Davidson County site and opening the fairgrounds property up for redevelopment a few miles south of downtown.
With that uncertain future in the background, fair board members decided to look locally before they spent months searching nationally. As they asked various Metro department heads and elected officials to recommend good candidates, Dozier's name came up often, Weaver said.
Janel Lacy, a spokeswoman for Mayor Karl Dean, said Dean was asked whether he thought his former rival for the mayor's office "would be a good fit," and he agreed.
"Karl has said repeatedly that he thinks Buck is a solid guy and he was a good councilman and he knows Nashville, loves Nashville and would have a role to play in government," Lacy said.
Lacy said Deputy Mayor Greg Hinote interviewed Dozier for the job on Feb. 20. But Weaver said he wasn't aware of that, and no one in Dean's administration pressured him to pick Dozier.
"He's absolutely the right guy at the right time," Weaver said.
Dozier begins today
The Tennessee State Fair has been known for a history of political cronyism. Then-Mayor Phil Bredesen gradually cleaned house in the mid-1990s, replacing every board member as their terms expired. "If there was a board that was a repository of good-ol'-boy politics, that was it," Bredesen said in 1998.
Dozier was a Metro councilman from 1987 to 1992 and 2003-07. He also was Nashville's fire chief from 1994 to 2000, serving under one mayor, Bredesen, before clashing with the next one, Bill Purcell, and resigning.
Fair board member Katy Varney supported Dean in the mayor's race and said she doesn't know Dozier well. But she said the people she called to ask about him said consistently "that this is a man who is as honest as the day is long and completely trustworthy."
Dozier, who starts work today, will face the task of making the annual fair and the fairgrounds more relevant as surrounding counties such as Wilson and Williamson put on popular fairs. The Nashville native said he will oversee 17 full-time employees and a $4 million annual budget.
"We're all kind of looking with some excitement to what we can do there," Dozier said. "Times have changed, and we want to make sure we're on the cutting edge."
Jim Tucker, CEO of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions in Springfield, Mo., said the fair board's decision to keep its search close to home was not unusual. In fact, the association often advises fair leaders to do that because there's a shortage of qualified executives around the country, he said. The Georgia National Fair, which says it hosted more than 443,000 people in 11 days last fall, has been looking for a new director for four months, Tucker said.
"It's really hard to find folks right now," he said. "A big part of running a fair is to have someone who knows the community."
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (tennessean)• March 12, 2008
Without conducting a national search or even advertising the position, the board that oversees the Tennessee State Fair gave the $90,000-a-year executive director's job to a man with plenty of political ties but no experience running fairs.
The fair's board of commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to hire Buck Dozier, the former Metro council member, fire chief and mayoral candidate. Despite its name, the fair is part of Metro Nashville government.
Donna Crawford, a south Nashville resident who in January wrote to city officials urging them to look nationally for a professional fair manager, said she was "just really shocked" by the fair board's choice.
"I would think they would want the best person there to generate revenues," Crawford said. "I'm very concerned that they didn't take the idea of a national search."
Dozier, 64, had gone back to his job at a Madison mortgage company after running for mayor last year.
James Weaver, an attorney who is chairman of the five-person fair board, said Dozier is a good fit for the job and won't face the same learning curve as someone moving to Nashville would.
Weaver praised Dozier's communication skills, ability to run a small government operation and passion for the job. He said Dozier proved while serving on the Metro Council — which Weaver frequently lobbies on behalf of clients — that he was "more than willing to roll up his sleeves" and tackle complex problems.
And after running for mayor just seven months ago, Dozier is well known.
"We could have maybe found that person in Oregon, but we found him right here in Nashville," Weaver said. "And that made more sense."
Consultants hired by the fair board are studying the best long-term use of the 117-acre fairgrounds, which hosts the state fair and a flea market and rents its facilities to other groups for events. The consultants could recommend moving the fair to another Davidson County site and opening the fairgrounds property up for redevelopment a few miles south of downtown.
With that uncertain future in the background, fair board members decided to look locally before they spent months searching nationally. As they asked various Metro department heads and elected officials to recommend good candidates, Dozier's name came up often, Weaver said.
Janel Lacy, a spokeswoman for Mayor Karl Dean, said Dean was asked whether he thought his former rival for the mayor's office "would be a good fit," and he agreed.
"Karl has said repeatedly that he thinks Buck is a solid guy and he was a good councilman and he knows Nashville, loves Nashville and would have a role to play in government," Lacy said.
Lacy said Deputy Mayor Greg Hinote interviewed Dozier for the job on Feb. 20. But Weaver said he wasn't aware of that, and no one in Dean's administration pressured him to pick Dozier.
"He's absolutely the right guy at the right time," Weaver said.
Dozier begins today
The Tennessee State Fair has been known for a history of political cronyism. Then-Mayor Phil Bredesen gradually cleaned house in the mid-1990s, replacing every board member as their terms expired. "If there was a board that was a repository of good-ol'-boy politics, that was it," Bredesen said in 1998.
Dozier was a Metro councilman from 1987 to 1992 and 2003-07. He also was Nashville's fire chief from 1994 to 2000, serving under one mayor, Bredesen, before clashing with the next one, Bill Purcell, and resigning.
Fair board member Katy Varney supported Dean in the mayor's race and said she doesn't know Dozier well. But she said the people she called to ask about him said consistently "that this is a man who is as honest as the day is long and completely trustworthy."
Dozier, who starts work today, will face the task of making the annual fair and the fairgrounds more relevant as surrounding counties such as Wilson and Williamson put on popular fairs. The Nashville native said he will oversee 17 full-time employees and a $4 million annual budget.
"We're all kind of looking with some excitement to what we can do there," Dozier said. "Times have changed, and we want to make sure we're on the cutting edge."
Jim Tucker, CEO of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions in Springfield, Mo., said the fair board's decision to keep its search close to home was not unusual. In fact, the association often advises fair leaders to do that because there's a shortage of qualified executives around the country, he said. The Georgia National Fair, which says it hosted more than 443,000 people in 11 days last fall, has been looking for a new director for four months, Tucker said.
"It's really hard to find folks right now," he said. "A big part of running a fair is to have someone who knows the community."
Ten apply for Davidson County judgeship
Bar favors council member Jameson
By CHRIS ECHEGARAY • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 12, 2008
Ten candidates are vying for a seat on the Davidson County Circuit Court when Judge Walter Kurtz retires March 21.
A recent poll shows Metro Councilman Michael Jameson is a favored candidate among the Nashville Bar Association.
Twenty-four percent of the 1,083 bar members taking the poll "highly recommended'' Jameson.
"I'm humbled by that," Jameson said. "I don't think there's a person who graduates law school that thinks about being a judge someday."
Jameson, 44, a Nashville native, has been on the council for five years. Jameson specializes in civil litigation. He's a Vanderbilt University graduate and got his law degree from the University of Tennessee in 1990.
If Jameson is selected, he would have to give up his seat on the council. Several residents have expressed interest in the seat, including Kenny Byrd, David Griswold, former Metro Councilman Jeff Ockerman and Peter Westerholm, a councilman at large candidate.
Other bar association favorites, according to the poll, include Mary Ashley Nichols, special master of Davidson County Circuit Court, and lawyer Joseph Binkley Jr.
Binkley, with 20 percent, and Nichols, with 19 percent, were second and third, respectively, as the "highly recommended'' candidates, according to the bar association's judicial evaluation poll.
Other candidates are Katherine Dent "Kitty'' Boyte, an attorney with Howard, Tate, Sowell, Wilson & Boyte; Jefre Scot Goldtrap, a Joelton attorney; Amy Adams Gowen, an attorney with Hardeman & Montgomery; Marian LeRoy Kohl, a judicial clerk/special master in Judge Hamilton Gayden's office; Cynthia M. Odle, a Nashville attorney; Russell T. Perkins, an attorney in the state attorney general's office' and Sarah Stein, an attorney with Mitch Grissim & Associates in Nashville.
Interviews are today
The 10 candidates will appear before the Judicial Selection Commission at 8:30 a.m. today at the Nashville Airport Marriott, 600 Marriott Drive. There will be a period for public comments and then the selection panel will interview each candidate privately.
After the commission picks the top three candidates, their names are forwarded to the governor, who makes the appointment.
Binkley, 63, has practiced criminal defense, personal injury and divorce law in Middle Tennessee his entire career. Besides a good learned legal opinion from a judge, litigators want something else, Binkley said.
Courtesy and patience are what litigants want from a judge, he said.
"I know what it's like to be a trial attorney, and I will not forget that if I become a judge,'' he said.
Nichols, 51, was appointed to special master in 1998. Nichols, a former reporter at the now-defunct Nashville Banner, said there are many qualified candidates in front of the selection commission.
"There are many candidates who are not as well known as we are but must be recognized," she said.
By CHRIS ECHEGARAY • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 12, 2008
Ten candidates are vying for a seat on the Davidson County Circuit Court when Judge Walter Kurtz retires March 21.
A recent poll shows Metro Councilman Michael Jameson is a favored candidate among the Nashville Bar Association.
Twenty-four percent of the 1,083 bar members taking the poll "highly recommended'' Jameson.
"I'm humbled by that," Jameson said. "I don't think there's a person who graduates law school that thinks about being a judge someday."
Jameson, 44, a Nashville native, has been on the council for five years. Jameson specializes in civil litigation. He's a Vanderbilt University graduate and got his law degree from the University of Tennessee in 1990.
If Jameson is selected, he would have to give up his seat on the council. Several residents have expressed interest in the seat, including Kenny Byrd, David Griswold, former Metro Councilman Jeff Ockerman and Peter Westerholm, a councilman at large candidate.
Other bar association favorites, according to the poll, include Mary Ashley Nichols, special master of Davidson County Circuit Court, and lawyer Joseph Binkley Jr.
Binkley, with 20 percent, and Nichols, with 19 percent, were second and third, respectively, as the "highly recommended'' candidates, according to the bar association's judicial evaluation poll.
Other candidates are Katherine Dent "Kitty'' Boyte, an attorney with Howard, Tate, Sowell, Wilson & Boyte; Jefre Scot Goldtrap, a Joelton attorney; Amy Adams Gowen, an attorney with Hardeman & Montgomery; Marian LeRoy Kohl, a judicial clerk/special master in Judge Hamilton Gayden's office; Cynthia M. Odle, a Nashville attorney; Russell T. Perkins, an attorney in the state attorney general's office' and Sarah Stein, an attorney with Mitch Grissim & Associates in Nashville.
Interviews are today
The 10 candidates will appear before the Judicial Selection Commission at 8:30 a.m. today at the Nashville Airport Marriott, 600 Marriott Drive. There will be a period for public comments and then the selection panel will interview each candidate privately.
After the commission picks the top three candidates, their names are forwarded to the governor, who makes the appointment.
Binkley, 63, has practiced criminal defense, personal injury and divorce law in Middle Tennessee his entire career. Besides a good learned legal opinion from a judge, litigators want something else, Binkley said.
Courtesy and patience are what litigants want from a judge, he said.
"I know what it's like to be a trial attorney, and I will not forget that if I become a judge,'' he said.
Nichols, 51, was appointed to special master in 1998. Nichols, a former reporter at the now-defunct Nashville Banner, said there are many qualified candidates in front of the selection commission.
"There are many candidates who are not as well known as we are but must be recognized," she said.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
"Truancy Problem In Metro Bigger Than Thought"
Metro students skipping school may be a bigger problem that officials previously thought.
Last month, seven high school students were arrested in an alleged daytime burglary ring.
Police said the teens spent class time breaking into houses in the Percy Priest Lake area.
Officers thought they might find more suspects by checking absentee records at Antioch's Ninth Grade Academy.
Police found more than they bargained for, with more than 150 students having 10 or more unexcused absences.
Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas said teens skipping school are more likely to be either victims of crime or criminals themselves.
... He said the students have learned how to work the system.
“You know what they told us when we interviewed them? ‘Oh yeah, I show up for their first period because I know after that they don’t care’,” Chief Serpas said. “Now darn it, we have seen this in other examples where there is a strong head count in the first period, we're told, and then the rest of their day kids are defaulted as present even if you didn't know they were there."
School officials said attendance is supposed to be taken in every class, every period and they've sent reminders out to teachers to make sure they do it.
Ralph Thompson, Metro Schools, said, “If the class by class attendance procedures are taken every day, there's always an opportunity for human error, but I can guarantee you the number of truants probably would be cut drastically.”
The Metro school system has 21 attendance officers. The Metro Police Department's flex unit also scours the streets from time to time looking for students who should be in school.
Lt. Damin Huggins, Metro Police, said, "During schools hours on school days we send in unmarked units surveillance teams and actually go out and investigate anybody that appears to be leaving school or that is under age that should be in school."
School officials believe the problem with truancy may be getting better.
They surveyed nearly half of the city's schools last week and found that most of them had improved on attendance when compared to last year, some by as much as 10%
To watch video CLICK HERE
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Last month, seven high school students were arrested in an alleged daytime burglary ring.
Police said the teens spent class time breaking into houses in the Percy Priest Lake area.
Officers thought they might find more suspects by checking absentee records at Antioch's Ninth Grade Academy.
Police found more than they bargained for, with more than 150 students having 10 or more unexcused absences.
Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas said teens skipping school are more likely to be either victims of crime or criminals themselves.
... He said the students have learned how to work the system.
“You know what they told us when we interviewed them? ‘Oh yeah, I show up for their first period because I know after that they don’t care’,” Chief Serpas said. “Now darn it, we have seen this in other examples where there is a strong head count in the first period, we're told, and then the rest of their day kids are defaulted as present even if you didn't know they were there."
School officials said attendance is supposed to be taken in every class, every period and they've sent reminders out to teachers to make sure they do it.
Ralph Thompson, Metro Schools, said, “If the class by class attendance procedures are taken every day, there's always an opportunity for human error, but I can guarantee you the number of truants probably would be cut drastically.”
The Metro school system has 21 attendance officers. The Metro Police Department's flex unit also scours the streets from time to time looking for students who should be in school.
Lt. Damin Huggins, Metro Police, said, "During schools hours on school days we send in unmarked units surveillance teams and actually go out and investigate anybody that appears to be leaving school or that is under age that should be in school."
School officials believe the problem with truancy may be getting better.
They surveyed nearly half of the city's schools last week and found that most of them had improved on attendance when compared to last year, some by as much as 10%
To watch video CLICK HERE
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Demand grows for office space in airport area
Location, price help reel in new tenants
By CHAS SISK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 10, 2008
The construction firm Balfour Beatty faced an unusual situation last year. Its Nashville office was out of space, and for the first time in the company's decade-long tenure in the Lakeview Ridge office park on Elm Hill Pike, there was no room to expand.
"This building pretty soon is going to have 100 percent occupancy," said Edward J. Hernandez, a senior executive in Balfour's Nashville office.
Such situations are cropping up in many office buildings clustered around Nashville International Airport. Long the weakest area for office leasing in the Nashville area, the airport submarket has seen some improvement lately.
Vacancies are down and rents are up. A half-dozen major office leases have been signed in the past six months. Companies have renewed leases that were about to end, while others are moving into better quarters in the area.
Balfour Beatty is one such company. The British construction firm has three divisions in Nashville: the construction management firm, Balfour Beatty Construction; the medical equipment planning and technology group, Balfour Resource Group; and the health-care program management and development firm, Balfour Concord.
All three businesses have expanded to the point that they have outgrown the 8,600 square feet of office space they now occupy. Next month, they'll move into nearly twice as much space in the nearby Highland Ridge Tower.
"We thought about the Demonbreun corridor or the downtown corridor," said Hernandez, who leads Balfour Resource Group. "But this made the most sense."
Other recent deals in the area include Kroll Background America's deal to lease 86,000 square feet; ServiceSource International Inc.'s deal for 20,000 square feet; and the state of Tennessee's deal for 14,000 square feet.
These have helped push the area's vacancy rate down from about 20 percent in 2005 to 15 percent at the end of last year. Meanwhile, the average rent for upscale office space has risen from about $15 a square foot to $16.50 today.
The area seems to attract regional offices for companies with headquarters elsewhere, said Whit McCrary, a principal with Colliers Turley Martin Tucker, which brokered Balfour Beatty's new lease.
"When you have a company that is locally based, their decision-makers live in Brentwood or Cool Springs so they want their offices there," McCrary said.
But decision-makers of companies that pick space near the airport "are not necessarily around locally," and the airport sometimes makes sense because it's easy access for executives who fly in and out of town to their company's Nashville office.
Site eases commute
The airport office market's central location is another factor, real estate professionals said. Office workers who live in Wilson, Sumner and many parts of Davidson counties have a shorter commute to the airport than to suburban office parks in Williamson County.
Finally, rents are cheaper at the airport. In Green Hills, landlords are asking $24.50 to $28 a square foot, according to Colliers Turley. On West End Avenue, they're asking $22.50 to $28.50. In Cool Springs, they're asking $19 to $24.
By comparison, asking rents at the airport are $16.50 to $21 in buildings north of Interstate 40 and $16.50 to $18 in buildings south of the interstate.
By CHAS SISK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 10, 2008
The construction firm Balfour Beatty faced an unusual situation last year. Its Nashville office was out of space, and for the first time in the company's decade-long tenure in the Lakeview Ridge office park on Elm Hill Pike, there was no room to expand.
"This building pretty soon is going to have 100 percent occupancy," said Edward J. Hernandez, a senior executive in Balfour's Nashville office.
Such situations are cropping up in many office buildings clustered around Nashville International Airport. Long the weakest area for office leasing in the Nashville area, the airport submarket has seen some improvement lately.
Vacancies are down and rents are up. A half-dozen major office leases have been signed in the past six months. Companies have renewed leases that were about to end, while others are moving into better quarters in the area.
Balfour Beatty is one such company. The British construction firm has three divisions in Nashville: the construction management firm, Balfour Beatty Construction; the medical equipment planning and technology group, Balfour Resource Group; and the health-care program management and development firm, Balfour Concord.
All three businesses have expanded to the point that they have outgrown the 8,600 square feet of office space they now occupy. Next month, they'll move into nearly twice as much space in the nearby Highland Ridge Tower.
"We thought about the Demonbreun corridor or the downtown corridor," said Hernandez, who leads Balfour Resource Group. "But this made the most sense."
Other recent deals in the area include Kroll Background America's deal to lease 86,000 square feet; ServiceSource International Inc.'s deal for 20,000 square feet; and the state of Tennessee's deal for 14,000 square feet.
These have helped push the area's vacancy rate down from about 20 percent in 2005 to 15 percent at the end of last year. Meanwhile, the average rent for upscale office space has risen from about $15 a square foot to $16.50 today.
The area seems to attract regional offices for companies with headquarters elsewhere, said Whit McCrary, a principal with Colliers Turley Martin Tucker, which brokered Balfour Beatty's new lease.
"When you have a company that is locally based, their decision-makers live in Brentwood or Cool Springs so they want their offices there," McCrary said.
But decision-makers of companies that pick space near the airport "are not necessarily around locally," and the airport sometimes makes sense because it's easy access for executives who fly in and out of town to their company's Nashville office.
Site eases commute
The airport office market's central location is another factor, real estate professionals said. Office workers who live in Wilson, Sumner and many parts of Davidson counties have a shorter commute to the airport than to suburban office parks in Williamson County.
Finally, rents are cheaper at the airport. In Green Hills, landlords are asking $24.50 to $28 a square foot, according to Colliers Turley. On West End Avenue, they're asking $22.50 to $28.50. In Cool Springs, they're asking $19 to $24.
By comparison, asking rents at the airport are $16.50 to $21 in buildings north of Interstate 40 and $16.50 to $18 in buildings south of the interstate.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Saturday Crime Update:Saturday March 8, 2008
Possible burglary attempt thwarted
Nashville
Metro police officers in Hermitage arrested two burglary suspects Thursday at the former Hickman Elementary School on Ironwood Drive.
James Randall Smith, 19, of Mount Olive Road and Angelo Catalanotto, 25, of Antioch Woods were stopped after being spotted walking away from the school, where six windows were found pried open, according to police.
Smith was charged with burglary and possession of burglary tools and was on probation for a 2007 theft at Pennington Elementary.
Catalanotto was charged with burglary and marijuana possession.
Nothing was taken from the building.
— HEATHER DONAHOE
Laptop case goes to grand jury
The case of a man charged with buying two stolen laptops from the Davidson County Election Commission will be sent to the grand jury.
Brent Rucker, 28, of Portland waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
Police said the two Dell laptops and computer equipment were stolen on Dec. 24 from the commission. Rucker purchased the computers the same day they were stolen, according to an affidavit.
The laptops, with more than 300,000 Social Security numbers of voters, were recovered last month in Goodlettsville.
A forensic examination of the laptops showed that voter information was not accessed or copied.
— CHRIS ECHEGARAY
Last of 4 suspects in robbery arrested
The fourth and final suspect in last week's robbery at a Subway restaurant in Hermitage was arrested Thursday.
Lawrence Hampton, 20, of Gina Brooke Drive told police he and the three other suspects robbed the Old Hickory Boulevard sandwich shop, according to a news release from Metro police.
Hampton was charged with aggravated robbery, along with Austin Beam, 19, Marc Servius, 23, and Keith Holman, 17.
—HEATHER DONAHOE
Nashville
Metro police officers in Hermitage arrested two burglary suspects Thursday at the former Hickman Elementary School on Ironwood Drive.
James Randall Smith, 19, of Mount Olive Road and Angelo Catalanotto, 25, of Antioch Woods were stopped after being spotted walking away from the school, where six windows were found pried open, according to police.
Smith was charged with burglary and possession of burglary tools and was on probation for a 2007 theft at Pennington Elementary.
Catalanotto was charged with burglary and marijuana possession.
Nothing was taken from the building.
— HEATHER DONAHOE
Laptop case goes to grand jury
The case of a man charged with buying two stolen laptops from the Davidson County Election Commission will be sent to the grand jury.
Brent Rucker, 28, of Portland waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
Police said the two Dell laptops and computer equipment were stolen on Dec. 24 from the commission. Rucker purchased the computers the same day they were stolen, according to an affidavit.
The laptops, with more than 300,000 Social Security numbers of voters, were recovered last month in Goodlettsville.
A forensic examination of the laptops showed that voter information was not accessed or copied.
— CHRIS ECHEGARAY
Last of 4 suspects in robbery arrested
The fourth and final suspect in last week's robbery at a Subway restaurant in Hermitage was arrested Thursday.
Lawrence Hampton, 20, of Gina Brooke Drive told police he and the three other suspects robbed the Old Hickory Boulevard sandwich shop, according to a news release from Metro police.
Hampton was charged with aggravated robbery, along with Austin Beam, 19, Marc Servius, 23, and Keith Holman, 17.
—HEATHER DONAHOE
Happy Day for the Students
Vivian Wilhoite(Metro Council Member District 29) and "Ozzie", the Sounds Mascot journeyed to Lakeview Elementary Design Center and Una Elementary School to read their favorite Dr.Seuss books to some lucky students today.
The children were so happy to see both of them walk in the door of their classrooms. I have never seen such happy faces in all my life. All for a good cause to strengthen the importance of reading.
What a great day for all. All schools should promote the Nashville Sound's Reading club. For more information on how to have "Ozzie" come to your school
Click Here
All Photos taken by:
M. Schwartz
Mssphotography@aol.com
www.fullcircle-adminservices.blogspot.com
The children were so happy to see both of them walk in the door of their classrooms. I have never seen such happy faces in all my life. All for a good cause to strengthen the importance of reading.
What a great day for all. All schools should promote the Nashville Sound's Reading club. For more information on how to have "Ozzie" come to your school
Click Here
All Photos taken by:
M. Schwartz
Mssphotography@aol.com
www.fullcircle-adminservices.blogspot.com
Mayor hears students' ideas to curb dropout rate
Dean says their input is valued because they're on 'front lines'
By NATALIA MIELCZAREK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 8, 2008
Lack of experienced teachers, informed guidance counselors and an uplifting atmosphere contribute to students' dropping out of Nashville schools.
At least, that's what 300 Metro and private school students think. They shared their concerns, and some solutions to curb the dropout problem, with Mayor Karl Dean during Friday's Mayor's Youth Summit at Vanderbilt University.
Dean told the young people he valued their comments because they — unlike anyone else — know firsthand what makes teenagers stay in school.
Johnathan Tharpe, a sophomore at Antioch High, said he wants the mayor to live up to his promise to lower Metro's 20.4 percent dropout rate.
"Nowadays, kids don't think it's a problem to drop out, but it's not OK," Johnathan said. "We have a new mayor, and a lot of things have been changing, so I figured the dropout rate would go lower, too. They brought all these kids here, so they must care."
Kids not short of ideas
The teenagers spent five hours talking about positive and negative effects of dropping out, life inside and outside of high school, and ways the community and family can help them succeed. Some suggested that teachers be paid more so they would come to work motivated and better prepared. Others said they wanted to see more internship opportunities to give students incentives to stay in school.
Dean said he would study the comments and forward them to the members of his task force charged with studying causes and solutions to the dropout rate.
"They're obviously on the front lines, so hearing their opinion about how we can keep kids in schools and why kids drop out is vital to the work of the task force," Dean said. "This is right on track with my desire to take dropout rates and truancy more serious than before."
By NATALIA MIELCZAREK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 8, 2008
Lack of experienced teachers, informed guidance counselors and an uplifting atmosphere contribute to students' dropping out of Nashville schools.
At least, that's what 300 Metro and private school students think. They shared their concerns, and some solutions to curb the dropout problem, with Mayor Karl Dean during Friday's Mayor's Youth Summit at Vanderbilt University.
Dean told the young people he valued their comments because they — unlike anyone else — know firsthand what makes teenagers stay in school.
Johnathan Tharpe, a sophomore at Antioch High, said he wants the mayor to live up to his promise to lower Metro's 20.4 percent dropout rate.
"Nowadays, kids don't think it's a problem to drop out, but it's not OK," Johnathan said. "We have a new mayor, and a lot of things have been changing, so I figured the dropout rate would go lower, too. They brought all these kids here, so they must care."
Kids not short of ideas
The teenagers spent five hours talking about positive and negative effects of dropping out, life inside and outside of high school, and ways the community and family can help them succeed. Some suggested that teachers be paid more so they would come to work motivated and better prepared. Others said they wanted to see more internship opportunities to give students incentives to stay in school.
Dean said he would study the comments and forward them to the members of his task force charged with studying causes and solutions to the dropout rate.
"They're obviously on the front lines, so hearing their opinion about how we can keep kids in schools and why kids drop out is vital to the work of the task force," Dean said. "This is right on track with my desire to take dropout rates and truancy more serious than before."
Nashville Gas Changing Name to Piedmont Gas
Yes that right! After 23 years, Nashville Gas is changing from their parent company's name to the name of Piedmont Gas. I understand that customers will soon receive the attached letter from the Tom Skains, CEO and President informing them of the name change. Also attached is the Ad that I understand will run in this Sunday's paper. The only thing that will not change, for now, is the rates. Thank goodness! I am sure all will be fine if you have made your utility payment to Nashville Gas. Surely Piedmont will accept it.
Just trying to keep my community updated.
Vivian Wilhoite
Dear Valued Customer:
On behalf of Piedmont Natural Gas, the parent company of Nashville Gas, thank you for choosing us to provide
you with clean, reliable and efficient natural gas for your home or business. We know that you have an energy
choice and value you as our customer.
I’m writing you today to make you aware of an upcoming change in the Nashville Gas name. Beginning later
this month, we will start the process of changing the name of Nashville Gas to Piedmont Natural Gas.
Piedmont Natural Gas acquired Nashville Gas Company in 1985. At that time, Nashville Gas served approximately
67,000 customers while Piedmont provided natural gas service to nearly 220,000 customers in North Carolina
and South Carolina. Today, with more than one million natural gas customers in three states, nearly 1,900
employees and more than 24,000 miles of distribution and transmission pipelines, Piedmont Natural Gas is the
second largest natural gas distribution company in the Southeast and one of the fastest growing natural gas
distribution companies in the United States.
In the weeks ahead, our fleet of service trucks and construction vehicles, employee uniforms, our bills and
correspondence, and even our website will begin displaying the new Piedmont Natural Gas name and logo.
These changes reflect the fact that all of us at Piedmont, no matter which state or which community we happen
to be in, share a common set of core values, a commitment to providing “best-in-class” service to our customers,
and a dedication to the communities we are privileged to serve. We are truly one company with one name.
Piedmont Natural Gas.
Again, we thank you for being our customer and for selecting clean, reliable and efficient
natural gas as your energy choice.
Thomas E. Skains
Chairman, President and CEO
Piedmont Natural Gas
Just trying to keep my community updated.
Vivian Wilhoite
Dear Valued Customer:
On behalf of Piedmont Natural Gas, the parent company of Nashville Gas, thank you for choosing us to provide
you with clean, reliable and efficient natural gas for your home or business. We know that you have an energy
choice and value you as our customer.
I’m writing you today to make you aware of an upcoming change in the Nashville Gas name. Beginning later
this month, we will start the process of changing the name of Nashville Gas to Piedmont Natural Gas.
Piedmont Natural Gas acquired Nashville Gas Company in 1985. At that time, Nashville Gas served approximately
67,000 customers while Piedmont provided natural gas service to nearly 220,000 customers in North Carolina
and South Carolina. Today, with more than one million natural gas customers in three states, nearly 1,900
employees and more than 24,000 miles of distribution and transmission pipelines, Piedmont Natural Gas is the
second largest natural gas distribution company in the Southeast and one of the fastest growing natural gas
distribution companies in the United States.
In the weeks ahead, our fleet of service trucks and construction vehicles, employee uniforms, our bills and
correspondence, and even our website will begin displaying the new Piedmont Natural Gas name and logo.
These changes reflect the fact that all of us at Piedmont, no matter which state or which community we happen
to be in, share a common set of core values, a commitment to providing “best-in-class” service to our customers,
and a dedication to the communities we are privileged to serve. We are truly one company with one name.
Piedmont Natural Gas.
Again, we thank you for being our customer and for selecting clean, reliable and efficient
natural gas as your energy choice.
Thomas E. Skains
Chairman, President and CEO
Piedmont Natural Gas
Friday, March 7, 2008
Alignment Nashville Moves To Mayor's Office
Posted: March 6, 2008 11:07 PM CST (Channel 5 News)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Alignment Nashville, a group that coordinates community organizations to help students in Nashville's public schools, will move to the mayor's office.
Mayor Karl Dean and the organization's leaders hope the new partnership will help them more efficiently focus on problems such as dropout and graduations rates.
The four members of Alignment Nashville will begin reporting directly to the mayor in four to six weeks.
"This move makes a lot of sense. Alignment Nashville is well positioned to assist the mayor with his agenda to connect the community and public education," said Sydney Rogers, executive director of Alignment Nashville.
Presently, Alignment Nashville shares office space with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Metro Schools.
"When you get a community actively engaged in a coordinated way around youth, you can't help but have an impact on graduation rates," said Jeffrey Dotts, director of children's health initiative for Alignment Nashville.
"What we need to be doing in Nashville is working to be sure that we are maximizing all the resources we have available in this community, to partner with our schools, to offer better education to our kids," Dean said.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Alignment Nashville, a group that coordinates community organizations to help students in Nashville's public schools, will move to the mayor's office.
Mayor Karl Dean and the organization's leaders hope the new partnership will help them more efficiently focus on problems such as dropout and graduations rates.
The four members of Alignment Nashville will begin reporting directly to the mayor in four to six weeks.
"This move makes a lot of sense. Alignment Nashville is well positioned to assist the mayor with his agenda to connect the community and public education," said Sydney Rogers, executive director of Alignment Nashville.
Presently, Alignment Nashville shares office space with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Metro Schools.
"When you get a community actively engaged in a coordinated way around youth, you can't help but have an impact on graduation rates," said Jeffrey Dotts, director of children's health initiative for Alignment Nashville.
"What we need to be doing in Nashville is working to be sure that we are maximizing all the resources we have available in this community, to partner with our schools, to offer better education to our kids," Dean said.
"Homeowner Shoots, Injures Suspect In Home Invasion"
A South Nashville homeowner shot a man, allegedly trying to invade his home.
It happened on Dover Road, near Briley Parkway.
Reported March 7, 2008 Wkrn (Channel 2)
Police say three men broke into the home around 5 p.m. Thursday.
A woman was inside at the time, and called her husband, scared that someone was in the home.
When he got home, the suspects and the homeowner got into a gunfight.
It's not clear how many shots were fired, but one suspect was shot.
"The suspect that was shot here at the scene, went a short distance, before he stopped, and was taken into custody," said Captain Randy Hickerson of the Metro Police Department.
To watch the video CLICK HERE:
It happened on Dover Road, near Briley Parkway.
Reported March 7, 2008 Wkrn (Channel 2)
Police say three men broke into the home around 5 p.m. Thursday.
A woman was inside at the time, and called her husband, scared that someone was in the home.
When he got home, the suspects and the homeowner got into a gunfight.
It's not clear how many shots were fired, but one suspect was shot.
"The suspect that was shot here at the scene, went a short distance, before he stopped, and was taken into custody," said Captain Randy Hickerson of the Metro Police Department.
To watch the video CLICK HERE:
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Man Robs Dunkin' Donuts
Posted March 6, 2008 by Channel 5 News
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Thursday morning, police said they are investigating an early morning robbery at an Antioch convenience store.
The robbery happened at the Dunkin' Donuts on Cane Ridge Road around 3 a.m.
Police said a store clerk propped open the back door after she took out the trash. A suspect followed her in and demanded money while holding her at gunpoint.
Police set out dogs to track the suspect, but they lost his sent about 100-yards away from the store.
Thursday morning, police said they are looking for a man in his late 20s wearing a dark sweatshirt with a striped hood. He's about 5 foot 8 inches and armed with a handgun.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Thursday morning, police said they are investigating an early morning robbery at an Antioch convenience store.
The robbery happened at the Dunkin' Donuts on Cane Ridge Road around 3 a.m.
Police said a store clerk propped open the back door after she took out the trash. A suspect followed her in and demanded money while holding her at gunpoint.
Police set out dogs to track the suspect, but they lost his sent about 100-yards away from the store.
Thursday morning, police said they are looking for a man in his late 20s wearing a dark sweatshirt with a striped hood. He's about 5 foot 8 inches and armed with a handgun.
Assault Rifle Used In Overnight Robbery
Reported March 6, 2008 (Channel 5 News)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Metro police said two men were robbed at gunpoint in a hotel room overnight.
The incident happened at the Knights Inn on Spring Street.
According to police, a woman lured the two victims into a room where another man appeared, armed with an assault rifle.
The suspect robbed both men, then left.
Police do not have any leads or suspects Thursday morning.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Metro police said two men were robbed at gunpoint in a hotel room overnight.
The incident happened at the Knights Inn on Spring Street.
According to police, a woman lured the two victims into a room where another man appeared, armed with an assault rifle.
The suspect robbed both men, then left.
Police do not have any leads or suspects Thursday morning.
"Ronal Serpas: Police Dept. Cuts Could Put Nashville At Risk"
Metro Mayor Karl Dean is asking every department to cut back by five, ten, or fifteen percent.
Police Chief Ronal Serpas says that those cuts would put Nashville at risk.
Serpas said, “A five percent cut immediately stops the aggressive hiring program and at that moment we start going backwards.”
Nashville is currently at it's lowest crime rate in 17 years.
Chief Ronal Serpas stressed the reduction came while the police department also cut costs below its $151 million budget.
But, he says more money must be added to increase patrols, and work closer with Metro schools.
“I think you have an...
... interest in seeing truancy reduction. Obviously the schools do and courts do, and I just want to thank you for being so cooperative on that, " Mayor Karl Dean said.
Chief Ronal Serpas also called for the creation of a Metro DNA lab to help the overburdended TBI system, and increase revenue.
Initial costs for the stand-alone facility would run $1 million, and then $250,000 to maintain it every year.
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Police Chief Ronal Serpas says that those cuts would put Nashville at risk.
Serpas said, “A five percent cut immediately stops the aggressive hiring program and at that moment we start going backwards.”
Nashville is currently at it's lowest crime rate in 17 years.
Chief Ronal Serpas stressed the reduction came while the police department also cut costs below its $151 million budget.
But, he says more money must be added to increase patrols, and work closer with Metro schools.
“I think you have an...
... interest in seeing truancy reduction. Obviously the schools do and courts do, and I just want to thank you for being so cooperative on that, " Mayor Karl Dean said.
Chief Ronal Serpas also called for the creation of a Metro DNA lab to help the overburdended TBI system, and increase revenue.
Initial costs for the stand-alone facility would run $1 million, and then $250,000 to maintain it every year.
Copyright 2008 by WKRN Nashville Tennessee. All Rights Reserved.
Happy Day for Kids!! Posted By Vivian Wilhoite
Wow! this has been a very exciting week celebrating "Dr. Suess's Birthday and Read Across America" week. As some of you may know, the Metro Council introduced a Resolution in recognition of this week as it kicked off on Monday, March 3 at the Adventure Science Museum sponsored by the Metropolitan Nashville Education Association and the Tennessee Education Association. Clint Black, Grammy award Country Music Artist read to the children and did a little sing along. It was really fun! A great time was had by all.
"Ozzie", the Sounds Mascot and I journeyed to Lakeview Elementary Design Center and Una Elementary School to read to our favorite Dr.Seuss books them today. They were so happy to see us walk in the door of their classrooms. All for a good cause to strengthen the importance of reading. Reading to children is the best light anyone can find. Volunteer to read to children at the schools not just this week but every day.
"Ozzie", the Sounds Mascot and I journeyed to Lakeview Elementary Design Center and Una Elementary School to read to our favorite Dr.Seuss books them today. They were so happy to see us walk in the door of their classrooms. All for a good cause to strengthen the importance of reading. Reading to children is the best light anyone can find. Volunteer to read to children at the schools not just this week but every day.
Harding Place Extension is a topic of interest - Please Attend Meeting
As you may be aware, the Harding Place Extension is a topic of interest. This endeavor began during the 1970s. This plan involves extending Harding Place to run parallel to Donelson Pike. How could it affect you? Well apart of the plan includes closing Old Murfreesboro Road as it approaches Faircloth. Many are concerned about the closing of this section of the road at Old Murfreesboro Road and the traffic havoc it will create.
To hear more about this plan and what is being done to date, please attend the following meeting:
Priest Lake Park Neighborhood Watch
Thursday, March 6, 2008 at 6:30 pm,
Priest Lake Presbyterian Church
2785 Smith Springs Road
Tonight's meeting will provide the most up to date information available regarding the closing of a section of Smith Springs Road that many of us travel in and out of our community daily. You will get a notice regarding other meetings on this issue and I will inform you of these meetings as well. But I wanted to invite you to this meeting as well. I hope that you will attend.
Gratefully,
Vivian Wilhoite
Metro Councilmember, District 29
589-2003
www.vivian-29.blogspot.com
To hear more about this plan and what is being done to date, please attend the following meeting:
Priest Lake Park Neighborhood Watch
Thursday, March 6, 2008 at 6:30 pm,
Priest Lake Presbyterian Church
2785 Smith Springs Road
Tonight's meeting will provide the most up to date information available regarding the closing of a section of Smith Springs Road that many of us travel in and out of our community daily. You will get a notice regarding other meetings on this issue and I will inform you of these meetings as well. But I wanted to invite you to this meeting as well. I hope that you will attend.
Gratefully,
Vivian Wilhoite
Metro Councilmember, District 29
589-2003
www.vivian-29.blogspot.com
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Metro school board sets timeline to hire schools director
The Metro school board Tuesday approved a formal timeline to select a new director of schools.
The timeline calls for a new director to be in place by July 1, giving board members four months to hire a search firm, interview finalists and negotiate with top candidates.
Board members also added language asking potential search firms to include details about any nontraditional directors they have placed in recent years.
The formal approval came before the board's annual budget meeting with the mayor and after a weekend planning session where the board discussed the superintendent search. Nashville joins Memphis and Knoxville as large school districts in Tennessee searching for a new school chief.
The board must make a decision before school board elections in August to have a permanent director in time to start the next school year. State law prohibits any action 45 days before or 30 days after an election.
If the board does not make a decision before July, a new school year will have started before a new candidate is in place.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
The timeline calls for a new director to be in place by July 1, giving board members four months to hire a search firm, interview finalists and negotiate with top candidates.
Board members also added language asking potential search firms to include details about any nontraditional directors they have placed in recent years.
The formal approval came before the board's annual budget meeting with the mayor and after a weekend planning session where the board discussed the superintendent search. Nashville joins Memphis and Knoxville as large school districts in Tennessee searching for a new school chief.
The board must make a decision before school board elections in August to have a permanent director in time to start the next school year. State law prohibits any action 45 days before or 30 days after an election.
If the board does not make a decision before July, a new school year will have started before a new candidate is in place.
— JAIME SARRIO
jsarrio@tennessean.com
Decision delayed on lease for Preds
Authority wants time to review deal
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 5, 2008
After taking 15 weeks to hammer out the details of a new arena lease, representatives of the Nashville Predators' new owners said they were frustrated that the Metro Sports Authority wanted more than one week to review the agreement.
The sports authority, which serves as the Predators' landlord at the city-owned Sommet Center, decided Tuesday not to vote on the matter this week.
Voting this week would have allowed final lease approval to be placed on the Metro Council's March 18 meeting agenda, but authority members wanted more time.
"I'm not going to be rushed to judgment on this thing," board member Arnett Bodenhamer said.
The Predators' lead owner, David Freeman, thanked the authority for "all the time you have taken and will take" dealing with the issue. But spokesmen for the hockey team expressed their disappointment after the meeting.
Issue called a 'distraction'
Peter Heidenreich, a lobbyist for the Predators, said it's "a distraction" to have the lease "still hanging out there" as the Predators are a month away from finishing the regular season.
The proposed new lease would give the Predators millions of new dollars to manage the Sommet Center. The new owners say they need the money to have a chance to succeed and keep the team here long-term. They want to start operating under those terms as soon as possible, attorney James Weaver said.
After the owners and Mayor Karl Dean's administration finished negotiating basic lease terms Nov. 16, they spent more than three months reaching a longer agreement, which was completed Friday.
Weaver said the owners
didn't want the negotiations to take so long, but various issues held up the talks.
"Everybody wanted it done faster," Weaver said.
Emmett Edwards, the sports authority's executive director, said he would push for a vote in about two weeks, which would let the Metro Council take up the lease April 1.
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 5, 2008
After taking 15 weeks to hammer out the details of a new arena lease, representatives of the Nashville Predators' new owners said they were frustrated that the Metro Sports Authority wanted more than one week to review the agreement.
The sports authority, which serves as the Predators' landlord at the city-owned Sommet Center, decided Tuesday not to vote on the matter this week.
Voting this week would have allowed final lease approval to be placed on the Metro Council's March 18 meeting agenda, but authority members wanted more time.
"I'm not going to be rushed to judgment on this thing," board member Arnett Bodenhamer said.
The Predators' lead owner, David Freeman, thanked the authority for "all the time you have taken and will take" dealing with the issue. But spokesmen for the hockey team expressed their disappointment after the meeting.
Issue called a 'distraction'
Peter Heidenreich, a lobbyist for the Predators, said it's "a distraction" to have the lease "still hanging out there" as the Predators are a month away from finishing the regular season.
The proposed new lease would give the Predators millions of new dollars to manage the Sommet Center. The new owners say they need the money to have a chance to succeed and keep the team here long-term. They want to start operating under those terms as soon as possible, attorney James Weaver said.
After the owners and Mayor Karl Dean's administration finished negotiating basic lease terms Nov. 16, they spent more than three months reaching a longer agreement, which was completed Friday.
Weaver said the owners
didn't want the negotiations to take so long, but various issues held up the talks.
"Everybody wanted it done faster," Weaver said.
Emmett Edwards, the sports authority's executive director, said he would push for a vote in about two weeks, which would let the Metro Council take up the lease April 1.
Three Metro officers reassigned during investigation
Three Metro police officers have been placed on administrative assignment while department administrators investigate possible misconduct.
Officers Stephen Reece, Mike Evans and Charlie "Danny" Cage are not permitted to be on Metro police property and are required to remain at home during their regular working hours for the duration of the investigation, police spokesman Don Aaron said.
Aaron would not specify the nature of the investigation but emphasized that the officers are not being disciplined.
"This investigation is the result of information that was brought to the attention of the department," Aaron said.
— HEATHER DONAHOE
hdonahoe@tennessean.com
Officers Stephen Reece, Mike Evans and Charlie "Danny" Cage are not permitted to be on Metro police property and are required to remain at home during their regular working hours for the duration of the investigation, police spokesman Don Aaron said.
Aaron would not specify the nature of the investigation but emphasized that the officers are not being disciplined.
"This investigation is the result of information that was brought to the attention of the department," Aaron said.
— HEATHER DONAHOE
hdonahoe@tennessean.com
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Subject: Truancy Initiative at Antioch High School
Date: Tuesday 3/4/2008
Precinct: Hermitage
Detail: A-Shift, Flex Unit
Major Event Information
Today, the Hermitage Flex A-Team conducted a truancy initiative at Antioch High School (1900 Hobson Pk). The area surrounding this high school has had an unreasonably high number of residential burglaries and other theft offenses in recent weeks. Our goal was to impact crime in the region which is possibly being committed by truant juveniles.
Overall, 8 subjects were charged with 11 misdemeanor and felony offenses. A breakdown of the charges is as follows: (4) Loitering During School Hours, (1) Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, (3) D/L Required, (1) Trespassing, (1) Felony Possession of Drugs within 1000 feet of a school, (1) Drug Paraphernalia, and The best arrest of the day came when Officers Ward and Christie made a stop on a subject suspected of loitering. The juvenile was stopped after he was seen driving around the parking lots of Antioch HS while school was in session. During the stop, the odor of marijuana was emanating from inside the car. A probable cause search yielded approximately 33 grams (just over an ounce) of marijuana as well as some digital scales. As it turns out the defendant has been expelled from a couple of high schools and had no business being on school property.
Commander Michelle Richter
Hermitage Precinct
880-1776
Precinct: Hermitage
Detail: A-Shift, Flex Unit
Major Event Information
Today, the Hermitage Flex A-Team conducted a truancy initiative at Antioch High School (1900 Hobson Pk). The area surrounding this high school has had an unreasonably high number of residential burglaries and other theft offenses in recent weeks. Our goal was to impact crime in the region which is possibly being committed by truant juveniles.
Overall, 8 subjects were charged with 11 misdemeanor and felony offenses. A breakdown of the charges is as follows: (4) Loitering During School Hours, (1) Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, (3) D/L Required, (1) Trespassing, (1) Felony Possession of Drugs within 1000 feet of a school, (1) Drug Paraphernalia, and The best arrest of the day came when Officers Ward and Christie made a stop on a subject suspected of loitering. The juvenile was stopped after he was seen driving around the parking lots of Antioch HS while school was in session. During the stop, the odor of marijuana was emanating from inside the car. A probable cause search yielded approximately 33 grams (just over an ounce) of marijuana as well as some digital scales. As it turns out the defendant has been expelled from a couple of high schools and had no business being on school property.
Commander Michelle Richter
Hermitage Precinct
880-1776
Metro Police Expand Gang Enforcement
NASHVILLE, Tenn. Reported on News Channel 5 3/03/2008
Twenty three officers will join Metro police's weekend gang enforcement initiative.
Beginning Friday, they will work to reduce crime in known gang areas and suspected gang-related crime hotspots.
Last year, Operation Safer Streets netted 2,078 arrests, 432 drug seizures, 45 gun confiscations and the execution of 377 outstanding warrants, according to Metro police.
Police said the numbers for gang activity stayed pretty constant, but this initiative is credited with being an effective way to reduce gang activity before it gets worse.
"There are some places in Nashville where these gang members have made it their mission to destroy the quality of life in neighborhood," said Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas. "We're just not going to tolerate it."
While the officers will patrol areas with known gang activity including Antioch and Madison, Serpas said, "We're not safe until every single neighborhood is safe."
Fourteen officers devoted to the gang unit saturate different areas on the weekends.
Adding 23 more officers "sends a message to gang bangers that we're not going to put up with their criminal activity," said Capt. Todd Henry, who directs Operation Safer Streets.
The officers, mostly in uniform, will target each hot spot several times each weekend. By spreading out the resources, police hope their presence prevents crime.
"I think the people who are still held hostage in many cases by these violent criminals and gang members, they're going to see a whole lot of police activity," Henry said.
Gang activity is not necessarily on the rise. Serpas said crime is down four years in a row. But of the crime that does occur such as murder, rape and robbery, much of that is linked to more than just an individual but to a gang of criminals police are prepared to target.
"The message to bad guys is we're here, if you commit a crime, go to jail, get out, we'll still be here and you'll go to jail again," Henry said.
The 23 officers used to be a part of a program called Mission One. In that program, some officers and detectives worked one weekend day a month to help out patrol.
Now, all of those officers will focus on gang activity and high-crime areas. They will work on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. However, if statistics show other nights would be more productive, the schedule will change.
To Watch the Video: Click Here
Twenty three officers will join Metro police's weekend gang enforcement initiative.
Beginning Friday, they will work to reduce crime in known gang areas and suspected gang-related crime hotspots.
Last year, Operation Safer Streets netted 2,078 arrests, 432 drug seizures, 45 gun confiscations and the execution of 377 outstanding warrants, according to Metro police.
Police said the numbers for gang activity stayed pretty constant, but this initiative is credited with being an effective way to reduce gang activity before it gets worse.
"There are some places in Nashville where these gang members have made it their mission to destroy the quality of life in neighborhood," said Metro Police Chief Ronal Serpas. "We're just not going to tolerate it."
While the officers will patrol areas with known gang activity including Antioch and Madison, Serpas said, "We're not safe until every single neighborhood is safe."
Fourteen officers devoted to the gang unit saturate different areas on the weekends.
Adding 23 more officers "sends a message to gang bangers that we're not going to put up with their criminal activity," said Capt. Todd Henry, who directs Operation Safer Streets.
The officers, mostly in uniform, will target each hot spot several times each weekend. By spreading out the resources, police hope their presence prevents crime.
"I think the people who are still held hostage in many cases by these violent criminals and gang members, they're going to see a whole lot of police activity," Henry said.
Gang activity is not necessarily on the rise. Serpas said crime is down four years in a row. But of the crime that does occur such as murder, rape and robbery, much of that is linked to more than just an individual but to a gang of criminals police are prepared to target.
"The message to bad guys is we're here, if you commit a crime, go to jail, get out, we'll still be here and you'll go to jail again," Henry said.
The 23 officers used to be a part of a program called Mission One. In that program, some officers and detectives worked one weekend day a month to help out patrol.
Now, all of those officers will focus on gang activity and high-crime areas. They will work on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. However, if statistics show other nights would be more productive, the schedule will change.
To Watch the Video: Click Here
Monday, March 3, 2008
Mentally disabled lose services
Medicaid cuts have hurt clients, providers alike
By CLAUDIA PINTO • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 2, 2008
Barbara Eastep’s son is 26 years old, but he only recently learned to walk up stairs by himself and speak clearly enough to order a meal at a restaurant.
Eastep said her son’s progress is being stymied because he has lost physical therapy services and is about to lose speech therapy services he receives through the statewide Medicaid Waiver program.
The waiver provides a variety of services to roughly 6,000 Tennesseans who have an IQ lower than 70.
“I am very angry,” said Eastep, whose son is blind, epileptic and mentally disabled.
“This is a safety issue. How is he going to learn how to communicate in an emergency without speech therapy? How will he gain enough balance to keep from falling on his face when he has seizures without physical therapy?”
Ricky Eastep — who has suffered a fractured eye socket and multiple stitches from seizure falls, despite wearing a helmet — is one of many Tennesseans being affected by the cuts.
The state’s Division of Mental Retardation Services is in the process of eliminating services to an undetermined number of people on the waiver. In addition, a 6.1 percent rate reduction in payment to the 400 providers that deliver services has been in place since Jan. 1.
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Families and providers are reporting the following consequences: Providers have cut workers’ pay, laid workers off and stopped offering services altogether. Clients are losing needed services or not getting as much treatment.
Steve Norris, deputy commissioner with the state’s Division of Mental Retardation Services, said anyone who loses services could appeal the decision. He said those affected would receive a letter explaining how to do so.
Norris said the division was in the beginning stages of reviewing every care plan to make sure people are getting appropriate services. He said the process would take a few months to complete, and that it was unclear how many people would lose services.
“We are trying to be very careful,” Norris said. “The last thing we want to do is deny someone needed services.”
He said he hoped the individual cuts would end the rate reductions to providers by July 1, and that rate reductions could decline in the months ahead as expenditures for clients go down. “This is a temporary problem,” Norris said.
Housing worries some
Max Tice, a behavior analyst for people on the waiver, says he has a client who beats himself up and is covered in bruises.
Tice used to be able to work with him for 10 hours a month, but since the cuts has only five hours a month to try to stop the dangerous behavior.
“Here’s a guy that we need plenty of time to work with,” Tice said. “He will take a fist and beat himself in the head as hard as he can. It’s damaging to the brain.”
In addition to clients’ losing treatment services, Tice said he was concerned about a money-saving housing measure.
Tice said two of his clients had been told that they would be getting housemates — one is physically violent and has bitten off a person’s finger; the other is a sexually aggressive, convicted pedophile.
“Based on what I’m seeing, I’m frightened,” Tice said. “I am frightened for these people who can’t take care of themselves.”
Norris said cutting services and implementing rate reductions was not something he wanted to do. However, he said it was the only way to avoid a $15 million budget shortfall for the year.
“I’m obligated to stay within my budget,” he said.
While the federal government pays for the bulk of the statewide waiver services, the state still pays out $170 million per year for the roughly 6,000 people enrolled.
State officials say the average cost per client needs to be $209 a day to stay within budget. In October, the cost was $233 a day.
“We are dealing with 6,000 individuals who deserve everything we can provide for them, but it can’t be open-ended,” Norris said. “There have to be limits.”
Norris said that because health-care costs for things such as nursing and therapy services are going up, it’s important to trim any unneeded services.
He said single-person placements could be one of those things.
“There are some people who must live alone,” he said. “My feeling is that there are not a whole lot of them.”
Norris said any provider concerned about the safety of a client should contact the regional director or him.
“We are not going to force anyone to live in an environment that’s unsafe,” he said.
Providers aren’t paid
The disabled aren’t the only ones affected when services are cut. Providers such as Lori Wigginton no longer get paid.
Wigginton, who is also a behavior analyst, said she used to spend about nine hours a month per client and now spends an average of four and a half hours a month with them.
“My pay is being cut in half,” she said. “If I’ve already used up my hours for the month, then I don’t get paid if there is a crisis.”
She said she had found herself working for free.
“It’s unethical for me not to.”
Norris said he had heard that a lot of providers had experienced pay cuts and that “several” agencies had laid off employees, but he could not provide exact numbers.
He said he was aware of only one agency in East Tennessee that has stopped providing services because of the reduced reimbursement rates.
However, Wigginton said she knew of seven providers that had stopped offering services.
Carol Westlake, executive director of the Tennessee Disability Coalition, fears there will be more provider closures and layoffs if the rate reductions continue much longer.
“They can’t business-wise continue this way,” she said. “They’ll go out of business, and there won’t be enough providers to serve people in the community.”
By CLAUDIA PINTO • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 2, 2008
Barbara Eastep’s son is 26 years old, but he only recently learned to walk up stairs by himself and speak clearly enough to order a meal at a restaurant.
Eastep said her son’s progress is being stymied because he has lost physical therapy services and is about to lose speech therapy services he receives through the statewide Medicaid Waiver program.
The waiver provides a variety of services to roughly 6,000 Tennesseans who have an IQ lower than 70.
“I am very angry,” said Eastep, whose son is blind, epileptic and mentally disabled.
“This is a safety issue. How is he going to learn how to communicate in an emergency without speech therapy? How will he gain enough balance to keep from falling on his face when he has seizures without physical therapy?”
Ricky Eastep — who has suffered a fractured eye socket and multiple stitches from seizure falls, despite wearing a helmet — is one of many Tennesseans being affected by the cuts.
The state’s Division of Mental Retardation Services is in the process of eliminating services to an undetermined number of people on the waiver. In addition, a 6.1 percent rate reduction in payment to the 400 providers that deliver services has been in place since Jan. 1.
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Families and providers are reporting the following consequences: Providers have cut workers’ pay, laid workers off and stopped offering services altogether. Clients are losing needed services or not getting as much treatment.
Steve Norris, deputy commissioner with the state’s Division of Mental Retardation Services, said anyone who loses services could appeal the decision. He said those affected would receive a letter explaining how to do so.
Norris said the division was in the beginning stages of reviewing every care plan to make sure people are getting appropriate services. He said the process would take a few months to complete, and that it was unclear how many people would lose services.
“We are trying to be very careful,” Norris said. “The last thing we want to do is deny someone needed services.”
He said he hoped the individual cuts would end the rate reductions to providers by July 1, and that rate reductions could decline in the months ahead as expenditures for clients go down. “This is a temporary problem,” Norris said.
Housing worries some
Max Tice, a behavior analyst for people on the waiver, says he has a client who beats himself up and is covered in bruises.
Tice used to be able to work with him for 10 hours a month, but since the cuts has only five hours a month to try to stop the dangerous behavior.
“Here’s a guy that we need plenty of time to work with,” Tice said. “He will take a fist and beat himself in the head as hard as he can. It’s damaging to the brain.”
In addition to clients’ losing treatment services, Tice said he was concerned about a money-saving housing measure.
Tice said two of his clients had been told that they would be getting housemates — one is physically violent and has bitten off a person’s finger; the other is a sexually aggressive, convicted pedophile.
“Based on what I’m seeing, I’m frightened,” Tice said. “I am frightened for these people who can’t take care of themselves.”
Norris said cutting services and implementing rate reductions was not something he wanted to do. However, he said it was the only way to avoid a $15 million budget shortfall for the year.
“I’m obligated to stay within my budget,” he said.
While the federal government pays for the bulk of the statewide waiver services, the state still pays out $170 million per year for the roughly 6,000 people enrolled.
State officials say the average cost per client needs to be $209 a day to stay within budget. In October, the cost was $233 a day.
“We are dealing with 6,000 individuals who deserve everything we can provide for them, but it can’t be open-ended,” Norris said. “There have to be limits.”
Norris said that because health-care costs for things such as nursing and therapy services are going up, it’s important to trim any unneeded services.
He said single-person placements could be one of those things.
“There are some people who must live alone,” he said. “My feeling is that there are not a whole lot of them.”
Norris said any provider concerned about the safety of a client should contact the regional director or him.
“We are not going to force anyone to live in an environment that’s unsafe,” he said.
Providers aren’t paid
The disabled aren’t the only ones affected when services are cut. Providers such as Lori Wigginton no longer get paid.
Wigginton, who is also a behavior analyst, said she used to spend about nine hours a month per client and now spends an average of four and a half hours a month with them.
“My pay is being cut in half,” she said. “If I’ve already used up my hours for the month, then I don’t get paid if there is a crisis.”
She said she had found herself working for free.
“It’s unethical for me not to.”
Norris said he had heard that a lot of providers had experienced pay cuts and that “several” agencies had laid off employees, but he could not provide exact numbers.
He said he was aware of only one agency in East Tennessee that has stopped providing services because of the reduced reimbursement rates.
However, Wigginton said she knew of seven providers that had stopped offering services.
Carol Westlake, executive director of the Tennessee Disability Coalition, fears there will be more provider closures and layoffs if the rate reductions continue much longer.
“They can’t business-wise continue this way,” she said. “They’ll go out of business, and there won’t be enough providers to serve people in the community.”
Sunday, March 2, 2008
ORDINANCE NO. BL2007-40
Boarding like the small window has, is the correct way. The large of wood is incorrect way to baoard the house. Wood should fit the size of the windows and doorways.
An Ordinance Amending Section 16.24.340 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws regarding the boarding of vacant property.BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF
THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. Section 16.24.340 of the Metropolitan Code is hereby amended by adding the following new subsection U.:
“U. Boarding of vacant buildings.
1. Every person owning or having control of a vacant building shall lock, board or otherwise secure all windows, doors and openings on the ground floor of the building to restrict entry by unauthorized persons.
2. A vacant building that is boarded pursuant to this section shall be boarded by using one half (1/2) inch plywood board. Any board placed on a vacant building shall be painted a color that is consistent with the color of the structure and shall be cut to fit into any windows, doors or other openings on such vacant building.”
Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect from and after its passage, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.
Sponsored by: Vivian Wilhoite
Saturday, March 1, 2008
NewsChannel 5 Investigates:
Mayor Demands End of Sex Assaults on Buses
Posted: Feb 29, 2008 05:27 PM CST
In a NewsChannel 5 exclusive, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean says it's time to do something about the sexual assaults on Metro's special-ed buses.
"I want to get this cleared up and get this cleared up as soon as we possibly can," Dean tells NewsChannel 5 chief investigative reporter Phil Williams.
For months, NewsChannel 5 Investigates has exposed problems on those buses.
Now, Dean says enough's enough -- and he's getting personally involved. The mayor is telling the school board that he wants a plan on his desk in two weeks to end the sexual assaults of these vulnerable children.
Phil Williams got the mayor's attention when he went to the school board demanding answers.
"I think that the current situation ... is unacceptable," Dean says.
While the mayor doesn't run the buses, he says that he can demand that the school board do something about the problem.
"As a parent too, you don't even want your child's feelings to be hurt -- let alone to be physically hurt. So this is about as serious an issue as there can be."
Our investigation revealed the heart-breaking stories of an 11-year-old autistic girl named Jenna and a 9-year-old boy named Gilbert.
Months ago, Gilbert's mother was wanting answers.
"I want someone to say this is why this was allowed and I want someone to say, OK, it's never going to happen again and this is how we are going to stop it," Kimberly Lopez-Ruiz told NewsChannel 5 Investigates.
Now, Metro police say they've now got two new incidents they're investigating.
Yet, school board chair Marsha Warden refused to tell Williams what's being done to protect other kids.
"Excuse me, sir, I'm getting our meeting started," Warden said, walking away.
"Can you tell me one thing you've done to protect the students?" Williams persisted. When she wouldn't answer, he asked, "How many more kids have to be molested?"
Dean says, "Clearly, we have to move forward in a way that shows that we are addressing this issue, that we are going to take steps to make things better."
Now, the mayor has written the school board:
"The parents of our students need to know that when they place their children on our school buses that they are safe.... I am requesting that you ... provide a definitive plan that will give us assurance that this problem is being addressed."
As to the solution, police say the most recent assaults could have been prevented if there had been aides on the buses.
Williams asks Dean, "Do you think that is the solution and can the city afford it?"
Dean answers, "With kids with special needs we have a lot of buses, but clearly cost should not stand in the way of making sure that people are safe."
And while the city looks to protect other students, what about Jenna, Gilbert and the other students?
"What would you say to those parents who's children may have been victims?" Williams asks Dean.
"My heart goes out to those parents," the mayor says. "My heart goes out to those children. We need to get this right, and that's what we are going to do."
The mayor sent his letter to school officials Thursday night -- and asked them to have a plan to him by March 14th.
And, in case they didn't get the message, he'll have a chance to make his point again when those school officials come before him next Tuesday for budget hearings.
TO SEE MORE INFORMATION
Posted: Feb 29, 2008 05:27 PM CST
In a NewsChannel 5 exclusive, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean says it's time to do something about the sexual assaults on Metro's special-ed buses.
"I want to get this cleared up and get this cleared up as soon as we possibly can," Dean tells NewsChannel 5 chief investigative reporter Phil Williams.
For months, NewsChannel 5 Investigates has exposed problems on those buses.
Now, Dean says enough's enough -- and he's getting personally involved. The mayor is telling the school board that he wants a plan on his desk in two weeks to end the sexual assaults of these vulnerable children.
Phil Williams got the mayor's attention when he went to the school board demanding answers.
"I think that the current situation ... is unacceptable," Dean says.
While the mayor doesn't run the buses, he says that he can demand that the school board do something about the problem.
"As a parent too, you don't even want your child's feelings to be hurt -- let alone to be physically hurt. So this is about as serious an issue as there can be."
Our investigation revealed the heart-breaking stories of an 11-year-old autistic girl named Jenna and a 9-year-old boy named Gilbert.
Months ago, Gilbert's mother was wanting answers.
"I want someone to say this is why this was allowed and I want someone to say, OK, it's never going to happen again and this is how we are going to stop it," Kimberly Lopez-Ruiz told NewsChannel 5 Investigates.
Now, Metro police say they've now got two new incidents they're investigating.
Yet, school board chair Marsha Warden refused to tell Williams what's being done to protect other kids.
"Excuse me, sir, I'm getting our meeting started," Warden said, walking away.
"Can you tell me one thing you've done to protect the students?" Williams persisted. When she wouldn't answer, he asked, "How many more kids have to be molested?"
Dean says, "Clearly, we have to move forward in a way that shows that we are addressing this issue, that we are going to take steps to make things better."
Now, the mayor has written the school board:
"The parents of our students need to know that when they place their children on our school buses that they are safe.... I am requesting that you ... provide a definitive plan that will give us assurance that this problem is being addressed."
As to the solution, police say the most recent assaults could have been prevented if there had been aides on the buses.
Williams asks Dean, "Do you think that is the solution and can the city afford it?"
Dean answers, "With kids with special needs we have a lot of buses, but clearly cost should not stand in the way of making sure that people are safe."
And while the city looks to protect other students, what about Jenna, Gilbert and the other students?
"What would you say to those parents who's children may have been victims?" Williams asks Dean.
"My heart goes out to those parents," the mayor says. "My heart goes out to those children. We need to get this right, and that's what we are going to do."
The mayor sent his letter to school officials Thursday night -- and asked them to have a plan to him by March 14th.
And, in case they didn't get the message, he'll have a chance to make his point again when those school officials come before him next Tuesday for budget hearings.
TO SEE MORE INFORMATION
Chief puts pressure on gangs
By NATALIA MIELCZAREK • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 1, 2008
Nashville neighborhoods will see more police presence starting next weekend as Chief Ronal Serpas expands anti-gang efforts.
Serpas said Friday he wants to beef up a program dubbed Operation Safer Streets by assigning an additional 23 officers every Friday and Saturday to patrol the city, especially spots known for gang activity.
How Smart Guys Defeat Pimples
Winning at the Health Insurance Game
Are You Diabetic? Simplify Your Life
Doing so will double the number of patrol officers on those days, he said.
The expansion will phase out an initiative called Mission One, in which detectives and officers assigned to non-precinct duties were assigned to patrol duty one Friday or Saturday a month.
Some have complained that the program, which started in 2004, compromised their safety.
They will now make the transition to Operation Safer Streets, the chief said.
"There are gangs in Nashville," Serpas said. "They do disrupt schools, and they do commit violence, mostly against one another.
"We've been engaged in Operation Safer Streets specifically because of that."
Metro Canine Sgt. Danny Hale said reassigning more officers to Operation Safer Streets was "a step in the right direction."
"The good part about it is that a lot of your criminal activity originates from gang activity, so you've got detectives out there working," said Hale, president of Metro's Fraternal Order of Police, the police union.
Nashville neighborhoods will see more police presence starting next weekend as Chief Ronal Serpas expands anti-gang efforts.
Serpas said Friday he wants to beef up a program dubbed Operation Safer Streets by assigning an additional 23 officers every Friday and Saturday to patrol the city, especially spots known for gang activity.
How Smart Guys Defeat Pimples
Winning at the Health Insurance Game
Are You Diabetic? Simplify Your Life
Doing so will double the number of patrol officers on those days, he said.
The expansion will phase out an initiative called Mission One, in which detectives and officers assigned to non-precinct duties were assigned to patrol duty one Friday or Saturday a month.
Some have complained that the program, which started in 2004, compromised their safety.
They will now make the transition to Operation Safer Streets, the chief said.
"There are gangs in Nashville," Serpas said. "They do disrupt schools, and they do commit violence, mostly against one another.
"We've been engaged in Operation Safer Streets specifically because of that."
Metro Canine Sgt. Danny Hale said reassigning more officers to Operation Safer Streets was "a step in the right direction."
"The good part about it is that a lot of your criminal activity originates from gang activity, so you've got detectives out there working," said Hale, president of Metro's Fraternal Order of Police, the police union.
Preds, Dean hammer out lease
Arena deal was months in the making
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 1, 2008
The Nashville Predators took the next big step toward securing a long-term future in Music City on Friday, as the team's new owners agreed to detailed terms of a more rewarding arena lease.
But the Metro Sports Authority and Metro Council still must approve the agreement before it can take effect. And David Freeman, the leader of the Predators' ownership group, has not yet signed the lease.
Freeman said that there was "no significance" to that omission, however, and that he wasn't aware he needed to sign.
"This is terrific for the city of Nashville," he said. "We're absolutely committed to the deal."
Hockey boosters hailed the deal as one more boost to Nashville's hopes of keeping the NHL team for many years.
"It's good to see this moving toward completion in such a way that it encourages the continued presence of the Predators in Nashville," said Ralph Schulz, president and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Predators' mostly local new owners, who say they want to do everything possible to keep the team here, say they need a more generous Sommet Center lease to have a chance financially. They bought the Predators for $193 million from Craig Leipold, who estimated his losses since 1998 at $70 million.
Leipold bought the NHL's Minnesota Wild in January, reportedly for an estimated $260 million.
The Predators' owners agreed to major lease terms with Mayor Karl Dean's administration on Nov. 16, three weeks before they took control of the team. Attorneys on both sides spent the past three months filling in the blanks, making 3,400 changes to the two primary documents governing the team's relationship with the city.
Dean agreed to give the Predators $3 million a year for five years to manage the city-owned Sommet Center, $3.8 million a year in annual operating support and additional incentives to bring more events there. In exchange, the Predators agreed to stay in Nashville for five years.
The team actually could leave after the 2009-10 season if it were to lose $20 million in that time and couldn't sell an average of 14,000 tickets a game, but it would repay Metro about $6.8 million a year.
Dean said in a statement that he was pleased to see the documents completed.
"The amended lease reflects the deal terms we agreed to in November," he said. "I think it is a deal that protects the city's investment while giving the local ownership group a chance to succeed."
Preds to get more money
One new wrinkle in the proposal would let the Predators keep 100 percent of any payments from the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau on top of the $2 million a year in incentives the city previously agreed to. The bureau's president, Butch Spyridon, didn't return a phone call seeking comment on the amount or purpose of such payments.
Freeman said the measure would reward the Predators' management for staging events that bring thousands of tourists to town but don't necessarily turn a profit for the arena itself. Rather than splitting the bureau payments with Metro, which the bureau works for, the Predators would keep all of the money.
The proposal also appears to clear up a question that held up negotiations several weeks ago. The Predators can assign the lease to another organization, such as the owners' lenders, but must get the sports authority's approval first.
The documents also reveal that Freeman, a Nashville venture capitalist, owns 32.63 percent of the team, while California-based William "Boots" Del Biaggio III and Warren Woo together own 31.58 percent.
Del Biaggio and Woo are the only owners outside Middle Tennessee right now, though another California-based in vestor is awaiting National Hockey League approval. Nashville health-care executive Herb Fritch has the third-largest interest at 15.79 percent.
The sports authority will meet Tuesday, but it's expected to call another meeting to give members more time to review the lease documents before voting.
NEW LEASE AT A GLANCE
Metro would provide:
• $3.8 million a year toward operating Sommet Center for five years, matching 2006's level.
• An additional $3 million a year in management fees, rent reduction and other lease changes for five years.
The Predators would:
• Continue to run the arena.
• Get half of all revenues above '06 levels for five years, capped at $2 million a year.
• Keep 100 percent of any money paid by the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau.
• Cap Metro's liability for operating losses at $3.8 million, plus up to 5 percent a year in adjustments.
• Agree to stay in Nashville at least five years. They could, however, leave in 2010 if owners lose at least $20 million and paid attendance doesn't average 14,000 a game.
— MICHAEL CASS
By MICHAEL CASS • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 1, 2008
The Nashville Predators took the next big step toward securing a long-term future in Music City on Friday, as the team's new owners agreed to detailed terms of a more rewarding arena lease.
But the Metro Sports Authority and Metro Council still must approve the agreement before it can take effect. And David Freeman, the leader of the Predators' ownership group, has not yet signed the lease.
Freeman said that there was "no significance" to that omission, however, and that he wasn't aware he needed to sign.
"This is terrific for the city of Nashville," he said. "We're absolutely committed to the deal."
Hockey boosters hailed the deal as one more boost to Nashville's hopes of keeping the NHL team for many years.
"It's good to see this moving toward completion in such a way that it encourages the continued presence of the Predators in Nashville," said Ralph Schulz, president and CEO of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Predators' mostly local new owners, who say they want to do everything possible to keep the team here, say they need a more generous Sommet Center lease to have a chance financially. They bought the Predators for $193 million from Craig Leipold, who estimated his losses since 1998 at $70 million.
Leipold bought the NHL's Minnesota Wild in January, reportedly for an estimated $260 million.
The Predators' owners agreed to major lease terms with Mayor Karl Dean's administration on Nov. 16, three weeks before they took control of the team. Attorneys on both sides spent the past three months filling in the blanks, making 3,400 changes to the two primary documents governing the team's relationship with the city.
Dean agreed to give the Predators $3 million a year for five years to manage the city-owned Sommet Center, $3.8 million a year in annual operating support and additional incentives to bring more events there. In exchange, the Predators agreed to stay in Nashville for five years.
The team actually could leave after the 2009-10 season if it were to lose $20 million in that time and couldn't sell an average of 14,000 tickets a game, but it would repay Metro about $6.8 million a year.
Dean said in a statement that he was pleased to see the documents completed.
"The amended lease reflects the deal terms we agreed to in November," he said. "I think it is a deal that protects the city's investment while giving the local ownership group a chance to succeed."
Preds to get more money
One new wrinkle in the proposal would let the Predators keep 100 percent of any payments from the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau on top of the $2 million a year in incentives the city previously agreed to. The bureau's president, Butch Spyridon, didn't return a phone call seeking comment on the amount or purpose of such payments.
Freeman said the measure would reward the Predators' management for staging events that bring thousands of tourists to town but don't necessarily turn a profit for the arena itself. Rather than splitting the bureau payments with Metro, which the bureau works for, the Predators would keep all of the money.
The proposal also appears to clear up a question that held up negotiations several weeks ago. The Predators can assign the lease to another organization, such as the owners' lenders, but must get the sports authority's approval first.
The documents also reveal that Freeman, a Nashville venture capitalist, owns 32.63 percent of the team, while California-based William "Boots" Del Biaggio III and Warren Woo together own 31.58 percent.
Del Biaggio and Woo are the only owners outside Middle Tennessee right now, though another California-based in vestor is awaiting National Hockey League approval. Nashville health-care executive Herb Fritch has the third-largest interest at 15.79 percent.
The sports authority will meet Tuesday, but it's expected to call another meeting to give members more time to review the lease documents before voting.
NEW LEASE AT A GLANCE
Metro would provide:
• $3.8 million a year toward operating Sommet Center for five years, matching 2006's level.
• An additional $3 million a year in management fees, rent reduction and other lease changes for five years.
The Predators would:
• Continue to run the arena.
• Get half of all revenues above '06 levels for five years, capped at $2 million a year.
• Keep 100 percent of any money paid by the Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau.
• Cap Metro's liability for operating losses at $3.8 million, plus up to 5 percent a year in adjustments.
• Agree to stay in Nashville at least five years. They could, however, leave in 2010 if owners lose at least $20 million and paid attendance doesn't average 14,000 a game.
— MICHAEL CASS
Fifth year of failing grades may await Metro
Schools audit identifies nagging problem areasBy JAIME SARRIO • Staff Writer (Tennessean) • March 1, 2008
It will be at least another school year before Metro Schools is able to meet state goals under No Child Left Behind, education officials said Friday.
That means the troubled district, which has failed to meet standards four years in a row, would face stiffer penalties under the school-reform law and lose more local control to the state department of education. It would also be another blow to the district's reputation, because Metro Nashville and Robertson County are the only two districts in Tennessee facing such severe sanctions.
Local policymakers and state officials say it takes longer than a year to repair a damaged district and steer students on a new course. And that means a fifth year of failing scores from spring standardized testing is a likely fate for Metro Schools.
"I think we've already begun some of the tough stuff of swallowing it and accepting it, and now we're ready to move forward and correct it," said board member Steve Glover, who represents the Donelson area. "We're turning the ship around and this is a pivotal point. You don't get here overnight, and we're not going to turn it around overnight."
Friday, board of education members and state reform officials gathered in Nashville to discuss the results of an independent audit, which detailed reasons for the district's poor performance.
Many of Metro's students have been struggling to learn math and reading. Poor reading scores among Hispanic and black students and dismal math scores across the county prompted the district's "corrective action" status under No Child Left Behind.
The state stepped in last summer and will continue to be a presence until Metro can meet benchmarks for two years in a row. The state plans to offer employees and consultants to help the district reshape its curriculum and assessment departments and to advise in other areas.
According to the audit findings, some of the district's major flaws are in leadership, academic content and expectations, professional development and culture and climate. The district also has a habit of spending money on programs that don't directly relate to material students will be tested on and not following up to make see if new programs are effective.
Climate of fear found
Pedro Garcia's exit in January may solve some of the leadership and climate problems, because a culture of fear existed under his direction, according to the audit. But it is an issue the district must continue to address with the selection of the next director of schools, said Connie Smith, a high-ranking state official who is overseeing the district's reform.
"You can repair it by putting a person in the big job who will be respected and who can provide the truth to the people in the trenches," Smith said.
Interim director Chris Henson said he plans to sit down with district staff and discuss how to implement the recommendations from the audit, performed by the nonprofit group Edvantia for about $30,000.
But even business leaders, who worry about what financial impact a failing school district has on the city, seem to know that it's unlikely this year's changes will be reflected in next year's No Child Left Behind results.
"People are feeling an urgency because we know any significant interventions, such as high school career academies or focused teacher training, will take more than a year to produce tangible results," said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. "We have to get these initiatives right the first time, because under NCLB, the clock is ticking."
Metro Schools likely will move into "restructuring 1," which gives the state power to assign personnel and force the district to plan for a takeover, in addition to the powers it already has.
Alene Arnold, whose children attend Percy Priest Elementary, said she wasn't surprised by the audit's results. She hopes the district listens so that it can move into good standing sooner or later.
"Real change takes time, and we need to give the system and the community time to address these needs," said Arnold, who was interviewed for the audit. "If the restructuring addresses the district's needs, that's what needs to happen."
It will be at least another school year before Metro Schools is able to meet state goals under No Child Left Behind, education officials said Friday.
That means the troubled district, which has failed to meet standards four years in a row, would face stiffer penalties under the school-reform law and lose more local control to the state department of education. It would also be another blow to the district's reputation, because Metro Nashville and Robertson County are the only two districts in Tennessee facing such severe sanctions.
Local policymakers and state officials say it takes longer than a year to repair a damaged district and steer students on a new course. And that means a fifth year of failing scores from spring standardized testing is a likely fate for Metro Schools.
"I think we've already begun some of the tough stuff of swallowing it and accepting it, and now we're ready to move forward and correct it," said board member Steve Glover, who represents the Donelson area. "We're turning the ship around and this is a pivotal point. You don't get here overnight, and we're not going to turn it around overnight."
Friday, board of education members and state reform officials gathered in Nashville to discuss the results of an independent audit, which detailed reasons for the district's poor performance.
Many of Metro's students have been struggling to learn math and reading. Poor reading scores among Hispanic and black students and dismal math scores across the county prompted the district's "corrective action" status under No Child Left Behind.
The state stepped in last summer and will continue to be a presence until Metro can meet benchmarks for two years in a row. The state plans to offer employees and consultants to help the district reshape its curriculum and assessment departments and to advise in other areas.
According to the audit findings, some of the district's major flaws are in leadership, academic content and expectations, professional development and culture and climate. The district also has a habit of spending money on programs that don't directly relate to material students will be tested on and not following up to make see if new programs are effective.
Climate of fear found
Pedro Garcia's exit in January may solve some of the leadership and climate problems, because a culture of fear existed under his direction, according to the audit. But it is an issue the district must continue to address with the selection of the next director of schools, said Connie Smith, a high-ranking state official who is overseeing the district's reform.
"You can repair it by putting a person in the big job who will be respected and who can provide the truth to the people in the trenches," Smith said.
Interim director Chris Henson said he plans to sit down with district staff and discuss how to implement the recommendations from the audit, performed by the nonprofit group Edvantia for about $30,000.
But even business leaders, who worry about what financial impact a failing school district has on the city, seem to know that it's unlikely this year's changes will be reflected in next year's No Child Left Behind results.
"People are feeling an urgency because we know any significant interventions, such as high school career academies or focused teacher training, will take more than a year to produce tangible results," said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. "We have to get these initiatives right the first time, because under NCLB, the clock is ticking."
Metro Schools likely will move into "restructuring 1," which gives the state power to assign personnel and force the district to plan for a takeover, in addition to the powers it already has.
Alene Arnold, whose children attend Percy Priest Elementary, said she wasn't surprised by the audit's results. She hopes the district listens so that it can move into good standing sooner or later.
"Real change takes time, and we need to give the system and the community time to address these needs," said Arnold, who was interviewed for the audit. "If the restructuring addresses the district's needs, that's what needs to happen."
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