Brownsville, Haywood County, Tennessee

News

West Tennessee Represented at Tourism Marketing College

Anyone in the Tourism Industry will tell you that the competition is tough, and it is growing tougher every year. There are many new, unexplored tourist destinations popping up around the globe, so it is imperative that destinations learn to develop, and thus implement, new and ever-evolving marketing strategies.

Sonia Outlaw-Clark, Executive Director of the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center and Lori Nunnery, Executive Director of the Jackson Convention and Visitors Bureau will be spending a week at the Southeast Tourism Society’s Marketing College the week of July 25 – 30, to attend classes which target methods in which the tourism bureaus may remain competitive.

"West Tennessee is full of fascinating places and it's so important that we let the rest of the world know what we have, especially here in Brownsville and Haywood County,” says Outlaw-Clark. “That's why I'm so excited to be participating in this college and learning new and innovative ways to promote our events and attractions."

The Marketing College takes place in Dahlonega, Georgia, on the campus of the North Georgia College and State University and brings together tourism related professionals from all over the Southeast.

Vendor applications available for 7th Annual Hatchie Fall Fest

BROWNSVILLE, TN (July 26, 2010): Arts and crafts vendors, businesses and organizations are invited to submit their application to participate in this year’s Hatchie Fall Fest Saturday, October 16, in Brownsville, Tenn. Last year over 100 vendors gathered around the court square to sell their merchandise and promote their services. Despite frigid temperatures, attendance at the 2009 festival was estimates at 5,000 with over 7,000 expected at this year’s event.

Vendor spaces are 15’x15’ and available with or without electricity. Opening ceremonies for the festival will begin at 10 a.m. and entertainment and events are planned to last until 8 p.m.

Please note that most food concession spots have been filled. If you are a food vendor who serves an unusual or specialty item, call to confirm that no other vendor will be selling your specific items before submitting an application.

The Hatchie Fall Fest is a family-friendly festival that celebrates the Hatchie River and Brownsville-Haywood County. It includes all day entertainment, contest and tours, car show, arts and crafts vendors and a variety of foods. The event is held annually on the third Saturday in October. Festival admission is free.

To learn more about the Hatchie Fall Fest or to download a vendor application, visit the website at www.hatchiefallfest.com. Vendor applications are also available at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, 121 Sunny Hill Cove, behind McDonald’s at I-40 and Exit 56 in Brownsville, Tenn.; or call 731-779-9000 or 731-780-5144.

Hope for Haywood Volunteer Case Managers Needed

The newly-formed Hope for Haywood County Disaster Recovery Services (HHC-DRS) is beginning the process of evaluating and identifying client needs to assist with long-term recovery for our citizens who were affected by the May 1 floods. Volunteer case managers are needed immediately to help with this effort.

The job of the Volunteer Disaster Relief Case Manager is to identify the client’s needs, connect clients to resources and work with the HHC-DRS committee. The case manager’s relationship with a client is that of an advocate and will help the client develop a recovery plan for unmet needs.

Case manager duties will include interviewing clients and helping them prioritize urgent needs. The case manager will also assist the client in completing forms; identify possible sources to help fill gaps and refer clients to other programs or agencies when necessary. Case managers will remain in contact with clients until the needs are met and/or the case is closed.
Training for case managers will be conducted by UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) August 3-4. Those interested in volunteering should contact Emma Covington at 731-772-6062 (please leave a message if no answer).
The last day to register for FEMA assistance is Thursday, August 5.

West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center Welcomes 10,000th Visitor

BROWNSVILLE, TN (July 19, 2010): The Allen Gammon family, of Sachse, Texas, were on vacation and headed to Georgia when they decided to make a stop at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center Friday, July 16. They had no idea that the decision would win them a gift package valued at over $100 and the title of 10,000th visitor.
“We knew we were close earlier in the week,” says center director Sonia Outlaw-Clark. “After that it was just a matter of keeping an eye on the numbers.”

The staff checked the guest register periodically until it was down to the last few. They then began checking off the numbers as guests entered.

When the five members of the Gammon family came in, the staff knew that they were the winners. They quickly notified Outlaw-Clark, who was in a meeting with Brownsville Mayor Jo Matherne at the time. Both immediately left their meeting to welcome the family and present them with their gifts.

“The Gammons are a lovely group, who were very impressed with the Center,” says Mayor Matherne. “I’m so glad I was able to be a part of this milestone for the Center.”

The gift bag presented to the family included handcrafted items from the gift shop plus Sleepy John Estes and Alex Harvey CDs and a Tennessee birdhouse. The prize also included brochures and maps of other West Tennessee attractions.
The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center is located at 121 Sunny Hill Cove, just off I-40 at Exit 56, behind McDonald’s in Brownsville, Tenn. The Center includes tourist information, three museums and the last home of legendary bluesman Sleepy John Estes. Admission is free and plenty of parking is available. Group tours are welcome. For more information, call the center at 731-779-9000, or visit www.westtnheritage.com.

The Gammon family, from Sachse, Texas, poses with Brownsville Mayor Jo Matherne (left) and Center Director Sonia Outlaw-Clark (center) Friday, July 16, 2010. The family was the lucky winners of a gift bag valued at over $100 when they became the 10,000th guest this year to visit the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center.

Matherne elected Mayor of Brownsville
June 15, 2010

Banking and marketing executive Jo Matherne has been elected Mayor of Brownsville. Matherne is new to elected office but touts a 35-year career in management and marketing, primarily in the banking industry.

During her campaign Matherne placed emphasis on the community’s economy. “I want to get all players involved in the future of downtown; I want to engage all interested parties in making Brownsville a destination for tourism,” Matherne said. “I want to pull together the various groups involved in working with our youth, to provide recreational and wholesome activities for them…” Matherne commented.

Matherne has chaired, helped found or served on the boards of a number of Brownsville and Haywood County organizations including Leadership Haywood County, Habitat for Humanity, Reading Railroad, the YMCA, Rotary Club, Arts Council and Haywood Park Community Hospital.

Matherne will begin her four-year term July 13.

USDA’s Outstanding Local Program Awards goes to Brownsville and Haywood County
April 6, 2010

USDA’s Rural Development office has recognized Brownsville and Haywood County as the top spot in Tennessee for the community’s development of business, industrial and livability standards and programs.

The Rural Development Award for Outstanding Local Programs was presented to Mayors Webb Banks and Franklin Smith during a ceremony in Jackson.

The community won the award thanks to a number of initiatives developed here including the 5,000-acre megasite and the multi-million dollar solar farm. The award recognizes other programs including aggressive industrial recruiting incentives, development of the new 480-acre industrial park in Brownsville and the Park of Dreams.

Presenters also mentioned the contributions local governments have made to the Boys and Girls Clubs, the Carl Perkins Center, the local campus of Tennessee Technology Center, affordable housing initiatives, the Stanton Cannery and the Delta Heritage Center.

Elma Ross Public Library to receive $1,500 technology grant

Elma Ross Public Library in Haywood County is receiving grant funds this year of $1,500 to purchase computers and other technology-related equipment. A total of 88 libraries in 64 Tennessee counties will receive grant funds through the program.

Local Librarian Katherine L. Horn said, “The Elma Ross Public Library is very pleased to have received this Library Services and Technology Act Grant so that we can stay current in our technology needs to better serve the people of Haywood County. The grant funds, along with the library’s matching funds, will be used to update a portion of the circulation equipment as well as a children’s computer station.”

“Particularly during tough economic times, it is important that our public libraries have the resources citizens need,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “In many communities across our state, particularly in rural areas, public libraries are the only free source of Internet access people have. And without Internet access, it is more difficult for people to file for unemployment benefits, conduct job searches or become more competitive in the workforce by learning new skills through online training programs.”

I am pleased that Elma Ross Public Library is receiving funding to purchase much needed equipment through this program,” Rep. Jimmy Naifeh said. “It is very important that we continue to provide our local libraries with the support they need to offer excellent services to our citizens.”
“Our world is becoming increasingly technology-oriented,” Sen. Dolores Gresham said. “Having access to a computer is fast becoming a necessity, not a luxury. So I am glad these grants will help make more computers available for public use.”

Staff members at the Tennessee State Library and Archives, which is a division within the Secretary of State’s office, provide advice and assistance to help library officials prepare their grant proposals, including suggestions about what type of equipment to include in their request. In order to qualify for funding, libraries are required to provide money from other sources that at least matches the amounts of their grant requests.

Flood assistance bill to become law
June 23, 2010

Applications for sales tax rebates will be available to flood victims when the proposal to assist flood victims sponsored by State Representative Jimmy Naifeh is signed into law in the coming days.

Under the bill, Tennessee flood victims that qualify for FEMA assistance could buy appliances, building materials and furniture sales tax free through September. The exemptions are capped at $2500 per household.

More information about the rebates may be obtained by calling 800-342-1003.

Mayor Banks makes final appointments
June 10, 2010

Retiring Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks attended his last full city board meeting this week, making three appointments to committees and boards.

Banks appointed Alderman Carolyn Flagg to the Delta Heritage Center Advisory Board. Alderman John Simmons will serve on the Tourism Advisory Board and Geraldine Flagg was appointed to the Housing Authority.

Banks and Vice-Mayor Joe Taylor will retire next month when their terms expire.

New administration likely to decide school funding
June 10, 2010

Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith has asked the Brownsville Board of Mayor and Alderman to help fund repayment of a $3 million bond issue needed for renovations planned for local schools.

County government operates the school system in Haywood County.

Director of Schools Marlon King has a $5.2 million list of school improvements. The county’s budget committee and education committee want $3 million of the work done immediately.

Mayor Smith proposes a financing plan that would have the school board fund annual payments of $100,000, the city $100,000 and county government $52,000. The annual payments would be required for 10 years.

The city board took no action on the request. Mayor Webb Banks and Alderman Joe Taylor’s terms expire next month. Banks said while he will leave behind a draft budget, the next administration would be responsible for the 2010/11 budget.

SBA pouring cash into Haywood County
June 10, 2010

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to accept applications for Federal Disaster Loans for homeowners, renters and businesses in Haywood County. The program comes as a result of the May 1 flood.

The SBA office is located in the Parks and Recreation Building at 100 Boyd Avenue.

Homeowners, renters or businesses that sustained damages from the severe weather, flooding, and tornadoes may submit completed SBA loan application as soon as possible.

To be eligible for an SBA loan you must first register for Disaster Assistance with FEMA by phone at 1 (800) 621- FEMA (3362).

The application deadline is July 6, 2010.

Sheriff Bond to be featured in video
June 10, 2010

Film producer Russ Hollingsworth and Director of the University of Tennessee Knoxville Video and Photography Center Tom Owens were in Brownsville Wednesday shooting video featuring Haywood County Sheriff Melvin Bond.

The video will be used along with footage of other county officials across Tennessee promoting the benefits of the County Technical Advisory Service (CTAS).

Hollingsworth and Owens have been gathering testimonials from people who have used the services. The video will be aired in Nashville during a County Officials Orientation to be held August 23-26.

Bond is a CTAS Certified Public Administrator.
Sheriff Bond has held numerous positions on state boards and has served as chairman of the Tennessee Correction Institute.

Faces with names needs photos
June 4, 2010

A Tennessee woman is on a mission to provide The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund with photos of Tennesseans killed during the Vietnam War.

Judy Gorman King, of White Bluff, Tennessee, has organized the names by county and is asking that anyone with photographs of those on the list contact her or send a photo.

According to King, an education center is being built nearby the Vietnam Memorial in Washington. A display to include the photos of those lost in the war is planned for the center.

King has submitted a list of Haywood Countians including:

William Coleman, Jr., Army
Andrew Currie, Marine
William Alford Ferrell, Army
William Lewis Haak, Marine
Richard Keith Johnson, Army
Larry Adrian Land, Marine
RT Perry, Army
Albert N Wright Jr., Marine
Billy Lee Wright, Army
James Edward Young, Army

King also lists the name of Norman Lane but reports she has Lane’s photo.

King’s contact information is:
Judy Gorman King
PO Box 226
White Bluff, TN 37187
e-mail: kingfieldpoet@yahoo.com

Schools slated for improvements
May 17, 2010

Haywood County leaders are considering a multimillion-dollar request by the school board to improve school facilities — mostly at the highshcool.

The county commission’s budget committee and education committee have been meeting on the subject since early May. The meetings included a tour of the high school where Director of Schools Marlon King wants to make about $3 million in improvements.

Mayor Franklin Smith has proposed, and the two county commission committees have recommended, asking the school board and Brownsville’s government to pay $100,000 each, annually, to retire a bond issue needed to pay for the renovations. County government would pay $52,000 annually. According to Mayor Smith, the payments would continue for 10 years when county government is better able to shoulder the remainder of the 15-year bond issue.

Schools Director King said last night that test scores for Haywood County students have significantly improved, even without the improvements.

Department heads and elected cooperating to spend less
May 17, 2010

Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith has sent a memo to county’s leaders — send your proposed budgets for 2010/2011 and make them less than the current year.

The county’s budget year ends June 31.

Budget Committee Chairman Allen King said he wants county leaders to tighten their belt. He is asking departments to plan on spending 3% less than the current year.

The county’s budget process requires department heads and elected officials submit their proposals to the county’s budget committee. The committee reviews the proposals, and usually, after dozens of meetings over several weeks, recommends a budget and tax rate to the county commission.

New member civil service board
May 17, 2010

Haywood County Commissioners confirmed Katherine Baggett to the Haywood County Civil Service Board.
Baggett replaces Doris Battle who resigned.
Sheriff’s department employees are regulated by Civil Service rules.

Equalization board confirmed
May 17, 2010

Five people were appointed to the county’s equalization board when the county commission met this week.
The board helps arbitrate property assessment appeals.

George Williams, Maltimore Bond, Rick Bowden, Tara Joyner and Susan Wilson will serve two-year terms.

Disaster assistance available to Haywood County
May 6, 2010

Haywood County has been designated for disaster assistance as part of Tennessee’s federal disaster declaration, according to officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The declaration resulting from severe weather occurring here May 1 through 2.

People and businesses affected by the storm may apply by calling FEMA at 800-621-3362 x 1.

You must have the following information to make application:

Address of affected home or business.
Names of all people living in the residence when the flood occurred. This includes children from a divorce or elderly parents who live at the residence at least 50% of the year.
Social Security numbers for all residents.
Type of insurance on the dwelling if any.
Phone numbers where residents may be contacted.

2010 Leadership Haywood County members graduate

Members of the Leadership Haywood County Class of 2010 participated in graduation ceremonies on April 22 after completing the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored program designed to heighten the awareness of community leaders, workers and volunteers about our strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities as a community. Members of the class were Reggie Averyheart, Wilma Boyd, Tim Curlin, Walter Dirl, John Duckworth, Bettie Johnson, Debbie Jones, Leslie Keathley, Sam Mathes, Clinton Neal, James Peace, David Rasmussen, Teresa Russell, Kim Schwarz, Cindy Smith, Tracy Taylor and Vicki Williams.
*Photo by Iris Photography

Beer sales ordinance strengthened
April 14, 2010

The city’s beer board will be given more direction when language is changed in the city’s beer permitting ordinance. The measure passed first reading this week — a second reading is required for final passage. The new rules are directed at violators who sell to minors.

First offense requires a fine of between $1,500 and $2,500 or a ten-day suspension of license.
Second offense requires a fine of between $2,000 and $2,500 or a fifteen-day suspension of license.
Third offense results in a fine of $2,500 or a thirty-day suspension of license.
Fourth offense requires a hearing by the beer board to determine a fine or revocation of license.
The new ordinance will state that permits may be permanently revoked when there are two violations within a twelve-month period. It also states no permit may be revoked without a hearing.

Taxpayers and utility will split cost of water/sewer extension south of I-40
April 14, 2010

Aldermen voted in favor of a partnership with the Brownsville Energy Authority to share the cost of the water and sewer lines that must cross under I-40 at Exit 56.

The city annexed the territory and must supply city services.

Brownsville taxpayers will pay for the construction and securing of easements.

BEA will pay for engineering, inspections, environmental review, preparation of easements and permitting.

College funding program hires part time director
April 14, 2010

A program that could provide funding for at least two years of college education for virtually every student in Haywood, Lauderdale and Tipton County is closer to reality, according to Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks.
The Southwest Tennessee Education Program (STEP) has hired former Brownsville/Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Director Sandra Silverstein as the part time director.

The initiative is designed to help prepare a workforce capable of staffing the megasite development.

City likes YMCA but stops short of funding
April 14, 2010

The Brownsville/Haywood County chapter of the YMCA needs money — and they’ve asked local governments to contribute.

This week the city board deferred the request until the next budget year. Outgoing Mayor Webb Banks says he can’t “obligate” the next administration to a long-term financial commitment.

The YMCA is asking city government and county government for contributions of $25,000 annually for five years. The contributions would require city and county taxpayers to ante up $250,000.

Elma Ross Library may receive new technology
April 13, 2010

Computer technology resources and training soon will be coming to as many as 76 libraries in 61 rural Tennessee counties. Haywood County might be one of them.

The initiative is the culmination of more than a year's effort by the state Department of Economic and Community Development and the Tennessee State Library and Archives division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
Elma Ross Librarian Katherine Horn said Brownsville and Haywood County meet the criteria. She says she will complete the application she hopes will bring the technology and training to Brownsville. “We hope to have a positive outcome” from our request, Horn said.

Haywood County big winner in Race to the Top education funding
March 30, 2010

Haywood County Schools are likely to get nearly a million dollars in Race to the Top funds.
Monday (March 29) the US Department of Education announced that Tennessee was one of two states that, so far, have been selected to get a share of the $4.5 billion pot of federal cash.
Delaware is the other.

Director of Schools Marlon King thinks Haywood County will get just over $900,000.
King said he has already begun planning — meeting with his executive cabinet. He said he will later meet with department heads and then present a plan to the school board.
The Race to the Top money is designed to reward school systems that are leading the way in comprehensive education across four key areas:

Adopting standards and assessments that prepare students to succeed in college and the workplace;
Building data systems that measure student growth and success, and inform teachers and principals how to improve instruction;
Recruiting, developing, rewarding, and retaining effective teachers and principals, especially where the are needed most; and
Turning around their lowest-performing schools.

Tennessee and Delaware were awarded the highest scores in the competition for the funding because of aggressive plans to improve teacher and principal evaluation, use of data to inform instructional decisions, and turn around their lowest performing schools.

Wheel tax spreads tax obligation
March 16, 2010

Voters agreed with county commissioners that an increase in the wheel tax is a good way to retire county debt and also fund air ambulance service.

The wheel tax referendum — held during a special election March 15 — passed with 886 voters agreeing and 756 disagreeing. The wheel tax will increase from $61 annually to $90.

County leaders say they will use the extra funds to retire debt and provide the air ambulance service (Hospital Wing) with a $100,000 annual stipend. In return Hospital Wing will provide free air ambulance service to any Haywood Countian regardless of their ability pay.

Planners improve zoning regulations
March 16, 2010

Haywood County Commissioners approved two zoning measures when they met this week.

County building codes will now abide by the International Building Code. The new rules mean the Standard Southern Building Codes will no longer govern contractors.

New zoning rules for travel trailers have also been adopted. The use of travel trailers by the huge workforce building the TVA power plant caught the attention of regulators here.

County officials say the new rules are being established for travel trailer parks so that adequate utilities — including sewage — are considered.

Mayor Franklin Smith noted that heavy use of travel trailers by construction workers could again become an issue when industry begins locating at the megasite.

Justice complex under budget
March 16, 2010

The criminal justice complex may be ready for limited occupancy by fall. Mayor Franklin Smith told county commissioners this week that courtrooms may be ready by October or November but the jail portion will take longer to finish. Wet weather has hampered some of the work.

Smith also reported the complex cost is tracking under budget. The original contract was for $11,370,100. Presently the projected cost is $11,120,100. That’s $250,000 less than expected.

2010 run-off election is officially dead
February 10, 2010

There will be no run-off election this year. The Brownsville City Board unanimously voted to repeal last year’s decision to amend the city’s charter so that a majority of voters elect aldermen and the mayor in Brownsville.
During this week’s meeting, Mayor Webb Banks mentioned a new measure that would change the charter before the next election in 2012, but he did not present a formal proposal.

Here’s a review of actions by the board.

The original ordinance was presented for the first reading September 9, 2009 and passed unanimously. The ordinance required a change in the city charter, which must be approved by the legislature. The change would require a run-off election if elected officials were not elected by a majority of the voters.
A second reading passed unanimously October 13 after a public hearing.
Late last year, Mayor Banks said he began taking a more detailed look at the new rules. The mayor says that a run-off election, held so late in the year (August), created unacceptable problems for newly elected officials.
In January, when Banks reported the complications, Alderman Leon King made a motion not to send the Ordinance to the State Legislature for the Charter change. Alderman John Simmons seconded the motion. The board agreed unanimously.
City attorney Michael Banks later reported that the action required a second reading. The second reading passed unanimously February 9, 2010.

Water and sewer rates to increase slightly
February 10, 2010

Brownsville Utility Department Manager Regie Castellaw says he needs to hike water and sewer rates to fund added expenses. The city board of mayor and aldermen approved the request.

Castellaw says the current water rate for the average residential customer will increase from $15.09 to $17.37 ($2.28 increase) while the current sewer rate will increase from $14.73 to $16.94 ($2.21 increase). Together that means residential water and sewer rates will go up about $4.50 a month — that’s a 15% increase.

New expenses include painting the water tank located in the industrial park. The water tank paint job could cost up to $250,000.

City clerk presents General Fund budget report for 2008-2009
February 10, 2010

City Clerk Jerry Taylor briefed the city board on Brownsville’s fiscal condition for the year ending June 2009. The audit report for that year has just been completed.

Highlights include:

Income from taxes and other sources fell short of estimates by $282,000. Sales tax income was $61,000 less than budgeted, beer tax income fell short of estimates by $74,000 and property tax collections were down $84,000.
The city spent $519,000 less than budgeted.
The net effect is the city ended the budget year with a surplus of $237,000.

Local physician wants to build therapy center
February 10, 2010

Local physician, Dr. Jack Pettigrew, plans to build an Aqua Therapy Center.

The center would be located on 7.8 acres of land on North Washington adjacent to Dr. Pettigrew's medical practice. The estimated cost is $2 million, and its expected to treat patients in a 30 to 40 mile radius.

Pettigrew says he will ask the Brownsville Industrial Board to provide the same incentives offered industry. A payment in lieu of tax program (PILOT) and other incentives will be included in his request.

Mayor recommends committee membership changes
February 10, 2010

Mayor Webb Banks has made two new committee appointments.

Banks tapped County Commissioner Becky Booth for the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center Advisory Board. Booth replaces Sonia Outlaw Clark who recently won the job as the center’s new director.

Marvin Deberry is Mayor Banks’ choice for the industrial board. Deberry replaces Walter Battle who is stepping down.

Board votes to purchase three new police cars.

Aldermen approved the purchase of three new police cars and a four-wheel drive truck.
Police cars are replaced as they become expensive to maintain. Each new police car will cost taxpayers $23,000.
The public works department will use the four-wheel drive truck. It’s expected to cost $21,600.

Change in March meeting
February 10, 2010

The next schedule meeting of the Brownsville Board of Mayor and Alderman is March 2, 2010 in city hall at 5:30 p.m. The board will be meeting on the first Tuesday rather than the second Tuesday in March. The board will resume its regular schedule (second Tuesday) in April.

City in special session — new political rules adopted
January 20, 2010

Brownsville’s aldermen voted on second reading to pass ordinance allowing city employees to run for select political offices. The city board met in special session Tuesday night at 7:15.

The new rules passed the first test a week ago.

The old rule prohibited city employees from running for any political office. The new rules allow them to do it on a selective basis. The ordinance allows a city worker to run for mayor while continuing employment with city government. But a city worker may not run for a part time aldermanic position.

City workers may, however, run for political positions in other governments.

Charter change likely delayed until 2012
January 20, 2010

Aldermen and the mayor are considering delaying their earlier plan to change the city’s charter requiring Brownsville’s elected representatives to be elected by a majority of voters.

Mayor Webb Banks says he wants to also wants to move the election day to earlier in the year so that, in case a run-off is required, the new representatives won’t take office so late in the year and long past the end of the city’s fiscal year.
Banks’ proposal won’t change the charter until 2012.

Mayor Banks made the proposal at this week’s special meeting of the city board but did not ask aldermen to vote on it.
It is expected the issue will likely be discussed at the February meeting.

Wheel tax going to a public vote
January 20, 2010

The Haywood County Commission’s proposed increase in the wheel tax is going to the voters.
The increase in the tax, ordered by the county commission last fall but stopped by a petition drive, will be a question for voters to decide and will appear on the ballot within sixty days.

The tax was adopted to help pay for the $15 million criminal justice complex debt and to fund the $100,000 stipend the county voted to provide the air ambulance service. But community protestors managed to get enough signatures on a petition to stop it.
County Mayor Franklin Smith says the petition requires the special election.

The election commission forecasts the special election to cost $13,000. The exact date hasn’t been set but we the election is likely sometime in March.

County officials say county bills will have to be paid one way or the other. If the wheel tax fails, then it is likely commissioners will be required to again hike the property tax.

Education committee wants a bigger school board
January 20, 2010

Could the Haywood County School Board double in size? It could if the county commission’s education committee gets its way.
At this week’s county commission meeting the education committee recommended the school board grow from five to ten members. County commissioners talked about the idea but didn’t take any action except to suggest the committee continue to study the idea.

Commissioners may appoint temporary school board member
January 20, 2010

National Guardsman Daniel Thornton has been deployed to the Middle East. Thornton, who is a member of the school board, will be gone for about a year and county commissioners are considering placing somebody in his seat — at least until he returns home. Thornton represents district two and six.

When commissioners met this week they didn’t take action, but have asked County Attorney Michael Banks to research the issue and report.

With Thornton absent from the five-member body, there is no tie-breaking vote.

More debt approved
January 20, 2010
The county commission has adopted a resolution authorizing the issuance of 5,575,000 in general obligation bonds.

The bonds are a part of the $15 million financing previously approved for the project. The most recent bond issue includes Build America Bonds. They include special financial incentives for bondholders and taxpayers. The incentives are tied to the national stimulus program.

County committees unchanged
January 20, 2010

The county’s standing committees won’t see changes this year. Mayor Franklin Smith re-appointed, without changes, committee assignments this week.

The committees, which include the powerful budget group, are made up exclusively of county commissioners. (Committee assignments may also be seen at brownsvilllehaywoodcounty.com)

“Greenway” could be paid by grant
January 20, 2010

Development of the new industrial park may include scenic trails and plots known as “greenways.”
Haywood County government will submit an application to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation to help pay for the project. The $107,658 grant will be used to construct approximately 1,900 linear feet of greenway in the new industrial park. The grant includes a request of $80,000 from the Recreational Trail Program. Local taxpayers will ante up a match of $27,658.

County now owns part of the megasite
January 20, 2010
The Haywood County Commission has voted to purchase 3.5 acres of land at the megasite for $37,100. Taxpayers paid $10,600 per acre. Mayor Smith said the acreage was considered in the original purchase but the owners would not agree to sell —only recently changing their position. The tract will belong to the county unless it is purchased by the state.

County recycling program wins top state award

The Tennessee Recycling Coalition (TRC) has announced that the solid waste department of Haywood County has been named Government Recycler of the Year.

The award will be presented at the TRC Conference February 10.

"Clinton Neal has certainly led the department to the next level in providing, promoting, and encouraging recycling and waste minimization throughout the county, “ County Mayor Franklin Smith said.

Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks administers the oath of office to Hunter Bryant.
Bryant, 10, is recovering from a form of leukemia.
Brownsville Police Chief Chris Lea and Mayor Banks granted Hunter's wish
to make him a police officer. In fact, Chief Lea stepped aside
December 29 to make Hunter chief for the day.

Large crowd interested in solar farm
November 20, 2009

A 20-acre field located at the southwest edge of Haywood County may have captured the attention and interest of more people here than any other subject in recent history. At a “scoping” session last night, the courthouse courtroom was overflowing with people trying to learn more and commenting on the proposed solar farm.

The $30 million solar installation will cover about 20 acres and provide power to an estimated 700 homes. A nearby visitor’s center will allow the public to learn more about the sun’s renewable and clean energy. All will be located within sight of I-40.

Presenters at the meeting included representatives from the US Department of Energy, Tennessee Department of Transportation and the Tennessee Department of Community Development.

Comments came from a wide range of participants including the Sierra Club and local residents.
Preliminary studies don’t indicate any environmental issues according to Ryan Gooch, Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s director of energy.

Officials provided details of the proposed solar farm
at a meeting held November 20, 2009

The solar farm “scoping” session attracted a large crowd.
The courtroom overflowed with people interested in the $30 million installation

Stanton Mayor Allen Sterbinsky, Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist, Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks, Jackson Chamber of Commerce board member Kathy Watts, Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith and Madison County Mayor Jimmy Wallace were among dignitaries touring the Haywood County Megasite November 18.

Chris Lea named new police chief
November 2, 2009

Haywood Countians have known Chris Lea by many titles — police officer, sheriff’s deputy, EMT, state trooper and even fire chief. Today, the Brownsville Board of Mayor and Aldermen gave him a new title; Chris Lea is the new police chief in Brownsville.

At a specially called noon meeting of the city board, Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks suggested to aldermen that Lea be the next police chief — and he got the nod.

Lea will replace Gill Kendrick who announced last week he was leaving to take the top spot at the Jackson Police Department.

Lea started his career as a Brownsville police officer in 1987. He worked as a sheriff’s deputy under Sheriff Raymond Russell and later for the Haywood County Ambulance Authority. Mayor Webb Banks eventually appointed him fire chief but he left that job to become a state trooper.

Lea is also a county commissioner and he chairs the county’s jail committee currently overseeing the construction of the new criminal justice complex.

Lea plans to be on the job as Brownsville’s top cop by November 16.

In addition to his emergency service experience, Lea holds a number of certifications — all current. He’s an IV trained emergency medial technician, POST certified police officer, a law enforcement instructor and a certified fire inspector.

Chamber holds annual Banquet

Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks (left) presents to Haywood County Mayor
Franklin Smith the Outstanding Progress Award for his work in the community and on the Megasite.)

It was a night of celebration and recognition at the Brownsville Country Club Thursday, October 22 as the Brownsville Haywood County Chamber of Commerce held it annual Membership Banquet and Awards Ceremony.

For Chamber Executive Director Joe Ing, the banquet not only served as a night for the organization to recognize its own members, but to also thank the community.

“There is no chamber without the people,” Ing said to the crowd. “We always appreciate it. We appreciate you more than you know and it is a pleasure to work for you everyday.”
Ing noted that it had certainly been a “crazy year” for Haywood County, with its share of ups and downs.

One of the major downs touched upon by Ing that evening was the closing of Cub Cadet.
Originally built inside the Brownsville Industrial Park in 1980, the plant closed in July, which eliminated 480 jobs, 200 of which were full-time with the rest of the job loss hitting 280 seasonal workers.

A business that dealt with lawn and garden products sales, it was the downturn in the nation’s housing market that fired the deadly unemployment bullet to the plant.
Still, while facing imminent shutdown, Ing noted that employees didn’t really take the situation without a spark.

“They exceeded their quotas to the day that they shut their doors,” Ing said. “That speaks volumes of people of Haywood County.”

Of course the major up that hit Haywood County - the West Tennessee Megasite - was talked about at the banquet, and also led to a special thanks and recognition award for Haywood County Mayor Franklin Smith.

“I want to assure you that if it hadn’t been for Franklin Smith, we wouldn’t have the Megasite,” Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks said before awarding Smith.

While accepting the Outstanding Progress Award, Smith touched on a few items himself, specifically his love for Haywood County.

“People ask me what is so special about Haywood County,” Smith said. “It’s the people in Haywood County that make it special.”

“The people that are elected to run Haywood County give you 100 percent 24/7,” Smith continued. “Never in my life have I seen so many elected officials work for the people like they do.”

“Work for the people” seemed to be the theme to remember that night as several well-known residents in the county were also awarded.

Carolyn Flagg was awarded Volunteer of the year for her work in numerous organizations and events, most known among them perhaps being Relay For Life.
Albert Campbell, who is also the current Chamber president-elect, received the award for Ambassador of the Year.

The award for Educator of the Year went to Toni Eubanks, who was described as a “person who serves with a loving heart.”

CEO David Rasmussen accepted the award for Business/Industry of the Year for Haywood Park Community Hospital.

The Woman of the Year award went to Cynthia Rawls-Bond, who was noted for her long list of service and work with a plethora of organizations throughout Haywood County.
“This is really something else,’’ Rawls-Bond said after receiving the award. “I’ve always been an ambassador for Brownsville and Haywood County. It has always been and is a wonderful place.”

And the Man of the Year award went Attorney Michael Banks, who some noted as not only doing a lot of work for the city and county, but also being instrumental in bringing the Megasite to the County.

“It’s more than an honor to receive this award,” Banks said. “It honestly takes an entire community for things to turn out well. I hope I’m a reflection of the good that comes out of Haywood County.”

Chamber announces outstanding citizens and business at banquet

At the 2009 Annual Brownsville-Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Banquet on October 22, five individuals and one business were honored for their service to the community. Albert Campbell (from left) was named the Ambassador of the Year, Cynthia Rawls Bond was named Woman of the Year, Haywood Park Community Hospital was selected as Business/Industry of the Year (accepting was David Rasmussen, CEO), Carolyn Flagg was named Volunteer of the Year, Toni Eubanks was selected as Educator of the Year, and Michael Banks was named Man of the Year.

September 30, 2009

Megasite passes final state vote

Joe Ing’s text message sent to the local media was simple. It stated, “We win”.
Enough said, really.

Ing, Executive Director of the Brownsville/Haywood County Chamber of Commerce, was one of many attendees at Tuesday’s meeting of the executive subcommittee of the state building commission. The commission, after delaying their vote twice, voted to approve the megasite plan.

Tuesday’s vote means some Haywood County landowners will likely start receiving their part of $40 million the state legislature appropriated for the purchase of nearly 4000 acres. The purchase options on the land expire at the end of October. The sales are likely to be closed quickly.

The vote was snarled in red tape delaying it twice but the commission voted unanimously to approve the site.

County Mayor Franklin Smith, Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks, Stanton Mayor Allen Sterbinsky and dozens of others were on hand to speak for the project.

The megasite is located near Exit 42 on I-40. The super sized industrial site will be home, proponent’s hope to an industry hiring thousands of workers. Tennessee has already filled two megasite, one in Chattanooga where Volkswagen will build cars and another near Clarksville where Hemlock Semiconductor will produce high-tech parts.

A 22,000 panel solar farm has already been approved and will be located near the megasite. Federal funds made the $30 million solar far possible.

See additional stories this page.

September 16, 2009

Solar Farm wins federal approval

When Brownsville/Haywood County Chamber of Commerce Director Joe Ing attended yesterday’s annual economic conference in Nashville the keynote speaker had a welcome surprise. In an unexpected announcement, Governor Phil Bredesen said the U.S. Department of Energy had approved the solar farm to be located near the Haywood County industrial megasite.

Bredesen announced plans for the park, which is to be funded in part by a $62 million stimulus grant months ago, but the plan had been snarled in questions that seemed to threaten the program. The problem has been that Tennessee’s ideas are far different from other states’ more conventional plans. The forward-thinking ideas forced the energy department to ask questions.

The governor said environmental impact questions still must be answered but he believes the project will go forward and may even be operating before he leaves office early in 2011. The solar farm will be near but separate from the megasite. Yesterday the governor also said he believes the megasite will be approved shortly and called questions being raised by some in Nashville “legitimate.”

The solar farm will occupy 20 acres and include a visitors and education center. More than 22,000 solar panels are expected to generate about 500 megawatts of power — enough —some say — to power 700 homes. The governor hopes the solar farm will attract more so-called green businesses to the 1700-acre megasite.

Haywood County selected for high-tech solar farm
May 14, 2009

Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen announced this week that state government would build Tennessee’s largest solar power farm in Haywood County. Bredesen surprised even local officials with the announcement at 10 a.m. on Wednesday.

According to the governor’s office, the $30-million-plus solar power installation will be built at the megasite and will cover about 20 acres. Though it is unclear exactly where the power production facility will be located at the site, Bredesen said it would be visible from I-40. The megasite tracts are all located near Exit 42.

Capable of producing 5 megawatts of power, the facility will produce enough electricity to power 700 homes. Tennessee is home to a number of new industries that produce components used in producing solar power. TVA has agreed to buy the electricity the plant generates, and Bredesen says profits will be plowed back into growing the infrastructure at the power plant.

Leaders say the plant is also likely to attract additional green power industry to Tennessee and make the megasite even more attractive to prospects.

The governor did not say when he thought construction might begin but did say the project must be approved by the Department of Energy and the state legislature. Funding for the project comes from federal stimulus legislation earmarked for Tennessee and green energy production.

Additional local news stories

New Director named for West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center

Sonia Outlaw-Clark

Brownsville Mayor Webb Banks recently announced a new director has been appointed to the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center.

The new appointee is Sonia Outlaw-Clark. Clark is a native Haywood Countian who has years of service in community projects.

“Sonia was selected,” the Mayor said, “due to her journalism experience, management skills, and her proven ability to work with people in organizing successful projects.”

Clark was employed for approximately eight years with the Brownsville States-Graphic and has served six years as office administrator for First Presbyterian Church in Brownsville.

She is a graduate of Leadership Haywood County and the recipient of many community service awards. Clark has been a member of the Hatchie Fall Festival since it inception about six years ago and served two years as chairperson. She is currently serving as president of the Brownsville Business Association.

“The Heritage Center offers a very unique opportunity for promoting our region,” says Clark, “and I’m looking forward to helping the counties showcase themselves to the millions of visitors who travel Interstate 40 each year.”
Clark assumed her duties as the new director at the Delta Heritage Center January 1, 2010.

The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center is located at 121 Sunny Hill Cove, just off I-40 at Exit 56, in Brownsville, Tenn. The center features the music museum, a cotton museum, the Hatchie River museum and two rotating exhibits including the photography of Joe Guinn and information boards highlighting counties throughout West Tennessee. Current museum hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, call the center at 731-779-9000. Group tours are welcome.

Lea making sweeping changes in BPD
December 9, 2009

Chris Lea has been on the job less than a month, but already he’s won approval from the Brownsville City Board for significant changes at the Brownsville Police Department. Lea was named police chief just last month, replacing Gill Kendrick who took a job as chief in Jackson.
Highlights of personnel changes include:

Increasing investigators from two to four. An investigator will be on duty and on patrol between 8 a.m. and midnight.
Promotions that include three new lieutenants and four new sergeants. Promoted to lieutenant are Sgt. Kim Williams, Sgt. Jason Singleton and Sgt. Jason Haynes. New sergeants include Chad Jackson, Mitchell Turner, Shaun Ribble and Brad Davis.
The personnel changes mean there will be at least five officers on patrol at all times.
Lea’s personnel program will add $2796 in additional expense to the BPD’s personnel budget but overtime is expected to be virtually eliminated.

Aldermen and the mayor also granted permission for Lea to upgrade the police department’s computer software. Chief Lea told the city board the software was last updated in 1991 and the annual software maintenance agreement cost $10,000.

The new software will cost $44,546 but won’t include an expensive annual maintenance fee. The computer upgrade will eliminate several steps in paperwork and will link to other law enforcement software including the jail, central dispatch and the sheriff’s office. Lea believes the upgrade will reduce administrative time and allow more time for patrols.

New money
December 11, 2009

Police Chief Chris Lea easily justified his new expenditures, but news that the city has received some unexpected income made pulling the trigger on the costs easier for aldermen.

City Clerk Jerry Taylor told aldermen and the mayor government has received $269,273 from TVA. TVA pays local governments so-called impact fees because of the work they’re doing on their Lagoon Creek Power Plant. The city also received $27,573 from an insurance claim, and just over $1,000 from a tax/equity payment from the Brownsville Housing Authority.

City plans emergency equipment and other purchases with disaster funds
November 11, 2009

A federal disaster declaration, the result of storms that occurred in 2008, has made Brownsville, Haywood County and Stanton eligible for more than $2 million in assistance.

The Brownsville City Board has applied for a $750,000 grant under the program. The money requires no local match and doesn’t have to be repaid.

At this week’s city board meeting aldermen learned the money, if granted, would be used for a number of items.

The city fire department will get a $250,000 first response truck and a 1,000 gallon pumper truck estimated to cost $185,000.
Two portable generators at a cost of just over $46,000.
Two private homes will be relocated and will cost $160,000.
$86,250 will go for rental housing rehabilitation.

Hatcher sells new police cars
November 11, 2009

Three new police cars will soon be delivered to the city. Hatcher Chevrolet will sell the cars to the city after placing a low bid of $23,036 per car.

City to hold auction
November 11, 2009

Seventeen surplus and seized vehicles now owned by the city of Brownsville will go on sale in early December. The city board authorized City Clerk Jerry Taylor to conduct an auction.

The auction will be conducted December 5 at 8am at the city shop located on East College Street.