City Management 101

Fill the void - somebody has to be there.

And once it's filled - act responsibly.

Your city will be better off because of it.

Prep

Last day before the last day of work here in Bristol.

It's amazing how busy you stay when preparing for the transition.

Project briefings with staff; trying to get work product ahead; and prepping all for the change.

I think the transition will go smooth; no, I know it will go smooth.

Too many good people for it not to.

Triple F

Have you been downtown yet this summer to take in all the music and special events?

If not - why not?

Here's a few reasons why you should.

To start with, it's fun.  And all your friends will be there.   And its free.

Fun, friends, and free.  A perfect combination - in Downtown Bristol.

City Management 101

A wise old city manager once told me you get what you keep - makes more sense every day.

Welcome

Last night was a milestone, of sorts, attending my last regular city council meeting in Bristol.  Almost 9 years worth of meetings.

A large diverse crowd was in attendance to speak on issues affecting city business, with most of it centered on the budget.

Now the budget wasn't on the agenda - that will be heard at a special meeting on June 18th.  But no matter.  Our agenda format was crafted 9 years ago to encourage citizen comments - both for items on the formal agenda as well as on items not under consideration that night.  It wasn't always that way but was changed for the express purpose on enhancing public input and to foster an open, welcoming government.

And last night it worked very well.

Now the budget will be approved on June 18th - and that will be the last last council meeting here for me.

So stop in if you want - you're always welcomed.

Approach

It never ceases to amaze the efforts city staff make - day in and day out - to provide services in an efficient and fair way.

No matter the situation or person - the goal is to be uniform in application and to do what can be done.

And as importantly - if it shouldn't be done - then it isn't.

That consistently of approach says volumes about the organization - and should provide comfort that city government is looking out for you.

Remember

Memorial Day - a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving in our Armed Forces - was celebrated on Monday.

A fitting national tribute - but let's do more.

Commit to remembering those fallen heroes continuously throughout the year.  Nothing is more deserving - or important.

MTAS

The Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS), an agency of The University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service, provides technical assistance to 350 cities and towns across the state.

Its mission - to meet the challenge of providing timely, valuable information, and assistance to Tennessee cities to build better communities.

Simple enough - but to know it is to know that it is much, much more.

With municipal management professionals with expertise in all municipal functions, MTAS exists for the sole purpose of helping cities - and help they do.  MTAS annually completes more than 1,000 major municipal management projects and provides an average of 6,000 other services each year - including many of them here for us in Bristol.

All a city has to do is ask - and a consultant is available to assist in the development of practical and individualized solutions. 

And the cost - zip, zero, nada. Almost all of MTAS's services are free due to the vision and wisdom of the Tennessee General Assembly that provides a direct state appropriation and a portion of the local share of the statewide sales tax to fund it - something it has done now since 1949.

MTAS is a jewel and the envy of other states - and it is my distinct pleasure to join its ranks as a management consultant late in June.  Perhaps the 35 years of municipal management experience gained in five cities in three states will be useful to the 40 cities in Middle Tennessee that I will directly support.  I suspect it will. 

Stay tuned

Today was one of the best days each month that I have  - breakfast with employees day.

What a great way to start the morning.  Just a nice chat on various items of interest both professionally and personally.  Always frank and candid, with purpose and meaning.  The kind of talk friends have as there is no boss in the room at these events.

Today was the last breakfast that I'll be attending with my planned departure in June.

Oh, I haven't mentioned that before - but will provide details soon.  

So stay tuned - we'll leave the light on for you.

Angiosperm

OK folks, you've asked for more..........and here it is.

The latest edition of Steele Creek Explorer hosted by Jeremy Stout.

Want to know more about wildflowers?  Click here:  Steele Creek Explorer

Thanks Jeremy - they keep getting better and better.

Democracy

Every other year the city holds an election for the privilege to serve on the city council.

This year is that year; in fact, today is that day.

Given early voting interest, a large turnout is expected to fill three seats on council and three on the board of education.  Democracy in action - and that's a really good thing to see.

Perhaps Sir Winston Churchill summed it up best in a speech in the House of Commons in 1947: 

No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.

So vote if you haven't; and vote every time you can.  We'll all be better off because of it.

Scofflaw

Scofflaw - one of the great words of all time in municipal government.

The word - which combines scoff + law - was the winning entry during a Prohibition era national contest to characterize a person who drinks illegally.

It is now most commonly used to define a person who flouts the law, esp. by failing to comply with a law that is difficult to enforce effectively.

Scofflaw - hard to address, so please don't be one.  Your city government will thank you for it.

Officer of the year

It's always nice when nice guys - in this case a really nice guy - is recognized for outstanding service.

Congratulations to Clint Hull for being selected Tennessee officer of the year by the Optimist Club of Bristol TN/VA.  Virginia Officer Brandon Barr was similarly recognized

You'll see Clint often when you visit downtown Bristol - and when you do, congratulate him for a job well done.

City management 101

Surround yourself with the best and brightest staff and be the dumbest in the room.

Alliteration

Belk, Bass, Birthplace, BMS, and Bristol - are you sensing a pleasing pattern here?

Signs

Things remain very busy around city hall these days - much is underway.

A number of commercial construction projects are about to launch after a number of lean years following the great recession of 2007.

Importantly, the Belk groundbreaking takes place tomorrow at the Pinnacle.

Signs of recovery are in the air - and everywhere.

Housing assistance

Through the good work of the Community Development Department, the city has accessed new grant funds for emergency housing repairs under the Federal Home Loan Bank's Accessibility Rehabilitation Program.

The city, through the Bank of Tennessee and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, may access up to $75,000 for emergency repairs and accessibility modifications to owner-occupied homes.  Up to $7,500 may be spent per home.  These are private bank funds that do not require a local match.

This new program serves as a valuable addition to our housing assistance efforts as the spending requirements of the other programs are very limited for emergency repairs. 

Emergency repairs include items such as a roof or heating system replacement; while accessibility modifications may involve installing grab bars/handrails, widening doors, erecting handicap ramps, and others.

Interested persons may contact the Department of Community Development to discuss qualification requirements.

Nicker

An archaic definition for the word Orb is to encircle- and boy did he.

Orb was winner of the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday at Churchill Downs.

I hear he was heard nickering with happy anticipation in the stable after the race:  "I'll have another."

And perhaps he will - at the Preakness in two weeks - just like the chestnut a year ago.

Do it

The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago.

The second best time is today.    Chinese Proverb

Market

Saturday marks the opening of the 2013 season for the State Street Farmers Market - 8:00 a.m. sharp.

The first in the series of 6 free market posters will be available while supplies last.  

This year the posters will feature gardeners and cooks from a simpler time.

Stop by the market - you'll be glad you did.

And so will be your farmer friends.

Encore

The fashion department store Belk announced today that it will be building a new two-level, 132,000 square foot store at the Pinnacle at Exit 74.

A grand opening is set for the Spring of 2015.

Belk joins Bass Pro Shops as the second anchor tenant to commit to the 250-acre Pinnacle, a 1.2 million square foot open-air, mixed-use regional destination center.

Great news during this, the 125th anniversary of Belk.  Welcome to the Volunteer State!

Conviction

Plan, organize, direct, and control - the four basic pillars of management.  Both art and science.

Next comes staff motivation and training, followed by personal time-management and self-management skills.

Master all that, and you'll be on your way.

And while on that journey, keep in mind the 80/20 rule - that 20% of the work (the first and final 10%) takes 80% of the effort.  So start and end a project, task or assignment with conviction - and the desired outcomes will surely result.

Remarkable

Another great employee ended her stellar career with the city the other day.

Jan Detrick, Community Development Specialist, was honored at a retirement celebration in the City Hall Annex.

Friends and peers from near and far attended to wish Jan farewell and to recognize her for outstanding contributions to Bristol and the region.

She ably supported local housing programs and made life better for hundreds of residents in Northeast Tennessee.

Thanks Jan for all you did - it was remarkable.

Life-long

Spent several days in training last week with other city managers across the state.

The takeaways were many as learning is a life-long process.

No grades were given - but I suspect all would pass.

Pinball Wizard

The monthly breakfast meeting with a select number of city employees took place this morning.

In addition to talking about the proposed budget, ongoing economic development projects, and upcoming city capital projects - we talked about music.

Specifically - favorite musicians.  No reason was asked why; just who.

And no, the English rock band of the 1960's and 1970's -The Who - were not named by a single person.

So who was?  The Eagles, Chet Atkins, The Eagles (again), Willie Nelson, Alicia Keys, Hank Williams Sr, Kiss, Jason Aldean, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and George Jones.

Why did we talk about musicians?  Because we could....it just started the day off right.

Pinball anybody?

Preparation

Seneca, Roman philosopher
(ca. 4 BC - AD 65)

Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity - Seneca

Are you preparing to be lucky?

Election

Springtime in Bristol has arrived.  The trees are blooming, the grass is greening, and the birds are chirping earlier and earlier each morning.

Election signs are popping out in large numbers this Spring too.  Every May in odd-numbered years a city election is held to select our governing board.  This year the three district seats are being contested.  And the prize - a four-year term on City Council.

Serving the community as a member of City Council is the highest level of community service for which we thank all of the candidates in advance.

And by the way, I passed 26 election signs on my way into the office today - of all sizes and colors.  And all were all properly placed off the public right-of-way - now that is also a beautiful sight.

Career

Are you interested in a career in law enforcement?  How about with the best municipal police department in Tennessee?

If so - now is your opportunity.

The city is accepting applications for police officer through 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 19.

Applications may be obtained in the Department of Human Resources, 801 Anderson Street, Room 204, during normal office hours or may be downloaded at bristoltn.org/ApplyingforaJob.cfm

The time remaining to apply is short - so act now if interested.  We'd love to have you join us.

Tunnel

Have you ever looked down at your feet and wondered what was below?  I mean really below?

Well, if you were to tunnel through the center of the earth from Bristol you would end up with a wet welcome  on the other side - the Indian Ocean, southwest of Perth Australia.

Not so surprising as the Indian is the third largest ocean covering approximately 20% of the Earth's surface - so you had a 1 in 5 chance of ending there.  
Now the million dollar question:  would you end up feet first or head first?  Ponder that one for awhile.

Customer service

The city recently commissioned a survey to ascertain public opinion on services and community characteristics in order to identify strengths and weaknesses which ultimately will lead to improved services, a better quality of life, and more civic engagement.

Included in the satisfaction levels measured were interactions with city employees.  This is important as the front line staff - those who provide information, assist with bill paying, collect trash, fight fires and crime, and even give traffic tickets - are the collective face of the city. 

When asked to indicate overall how satisfied they were with the employee in the most recent contact, city employees were rated highly: 71% of respondents rated their overall impression as "excellent" or "good."

In addition to the overall impression rating, employees scored 75% "excellent" or "good" for knowledge, 71% "excellent" or "good" for responsiveness, and 75% "excellent" or "good" for courtesy.

While overall staff scored well, each of the ratings were below comparison benchmarks.  So we have much yet to do and will focus more on customer service in the future.

Being a public employee is an honor and with it comes great responsibility in serving those who depend on us - our residents and visitors.  And the better we can serve them with knowledge, courteousness, and responsiveness - the better off they will be.

City Management 101

When grilling the perfect steak, the key is to flip it only once - let it cook on one side and finish on the other.

Same holds true for public policy making and implementation - figure it out once, and stick with it.

The consistency of this practice will be appreciated in the community as much - if not more - than a good Kansas City Strip.

1 Gigabit Community

Bristol is a 1 gigabit community, thanks to our own municipal electric utility - BTES.

So what's the big deal about one gig service?   A lot.

With 1 gigabit-per-second Internet speed, you can download about two hours of video or 200 songs in just seconds.  One gig service is 200 times faster than the average broadband performance today, and is 10 times faster than the FCC’s National Broadband Plan calling for 100 Mpbs speeds for 100 million households nationwide by 2020.

BTES offers this ultra-high speed fiber optic connection to all 33,000 homes and business in its service area.

Major businesses benefit from the power of this technology - and so can you.  For more information please click on the following link:    http://www.btes.net/

Temperate

After what seems to be forever, warmer weather showed up this weekend and is staying for awhile.

Goods news for all who have been awaiting anxiously for bright sunny skies and temperate conditions.

And with the warmer weather comes the mowing and trimming of grass in parks and along roadways, keeping city crews busy with this springtime rite.

But it's better than snow and ice removal - by quite a mile.

Rigor

Back on March 7 I blogged about the new partnership of the city, industrial development board, and school system to share the cost of AP exams for Tennessee High School students.

With AP exams right around the corner, Director of Schools Gary Lilly reports the results of the first year of this initiative - which is exciting.

Last year 27 students took a total of 38 exams.  This year 153 students will sit for a total of 232 exams.  A significant increase by every measure.

The initiative seems to be achieving its end - to increase academic rigor and the push to build a culture of high academic achievement in our schools.

Now what could be better than that?

Splat

First Place poster by Jadyn Chapdelaine

Each year the Police Department and school system promote traffic safety by conducting a Traffic Safety Ambassador Program.

Included in those efforts is a poster contest by students of Vance Middle School.

The winning posters this year were drawn by Jadyn Chapdelaine (first), Emily Horne (second), and Tristen Bourassa (third).

Congratulations to all.

Toponymy

The scientific field of toponymy reveals 27 populated places named Bristol in the U.S.

These 27 cities, towns, or villages are located in 25 states (Louisiana and Ohio are reported to have a set each).

While Bristol is our favorite place name, do you know the most prolific of them all?

Riverside comes in first in 46 states, followed by Centerville (45), Fairview (43), Franklin (42), Midway (40), and Fairfield, Pleasant Valley, and Troy (39).

The friendly skies

Another great friend to the region bade farewell this week - Patrick Wilson, Executive Director of the Tri-Cities Regional Airport.

Patrick is assuming new duties at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport in April.

He served the airport with distinction during his many years of service and will be missed.

Assessor

A great friend of the city retired this week - Bobby Icenhour, Sullivan County Assessor.

Bob was an institution in Blountville and his contributions to Bristol and Sullivan County will long be remembered.

Congratulations on a great public service career.

Worth reminding

The concept of public good inherently implies some private loss.

Good work

Networks Sullivan Partnership and the city's economic development staff were recently successful in acquiring a grant from the State of Tennessee that will be used to assist a company move from outside the state to Bristol in the coming months.

Importantly, the grant facilitated a decision by the company that will place into productive use a long vacant manufacturing facility, create 30 jobs, and  result in an investment in new machinery and equipment of nearly  four million dollars.

Thanks to the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development, Richard Venable of Networks, and Mike Sparks and Kristi Haulsee for their collective good work.

Share

Last week the city received plans for the new 104,000 square foot Bass Pro Shops that will be opened next year at the Pinnacle at Exit 74.

Over 200 plan sheets were submitted - this is a big deal.

A building permit will be issued in no time - with construction to commence following site preparation that is underway.

And why did I share this?  Because I thought you'd like to know.

City Management 101

It's better to have it and not need it - then need it and not have it.

Candy eggs

Are your between the ages of 2 and 10 (or you know someone who is) and looking for a little fun this Saturday?

If so, head over to Steele Creek Park for the annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Bring a basket or bag and collect as many of the 10,000 candy or prize-filled eggs as you can. A number of great gifts will be won including bicycles, scooters, movie passes, gift certificates and many, many more.

Sign-up begins at 1:00 p.m. at the Rotary Shelter with the hunt to commence at 2:00 p.m.

And be sure to say hello to the Easter Bunny while you're there.

ED Update

The latest edition of the Strategic Economic Development Plan newsletter went live yesterday.

Didn't see it?  Just click here to view:  http://bit.ly/Xs3aZP.

But do it quick - it will only be available for 29 days and counting.

If you'd like to be added to the mailing list - just drop us a line at strategicplanning@bristoltn.org

Wise

Don't tilt at windmills - expend your energy wisely.

Phoenix

A trip down the parkway brought to my attention a project that started today to raze a dilapidated structure that had seen better days.

It took a little effort of the code enforcement staff and Better Property Board to get there- but the proof is in the pudding.  The building won't be standing much longer.

Hopefully a phoenix will arise from the ashes and the site will become home for a new business - yeah that's the ticket.

Never can have too many of those.

Rain

A rainy Monday afternoon following a beautiful race weekend - not a bad trade off at all.

Support

The end of a long work week is near - but not for city employees.

Our staff will be out in large numbers to support the thousands of fans that have come to Bristol to enjoy the races.

Be it public safety, public works, or administrative employees - all have a role in making a visit to Bristol and BMS so special.

So thank them when you see them - as well as the hundreds of volunteers - who combined desire for nothing less than an outstanding experience for you - our visitors, friends, and fans.

We enjoy doing this twice a year - and thank you for choosing Bristol.  It is an honor and privilege to serve you.

Lucky 10

Oh, by the way - are you in need of a new car?

How about a 2013 Mustang?

Ten lucky fans attending the Food City 500 will win a new Mustang thanks to Bruton’s Big Bristol Giveaway sweepstakes at Bristol Motor Speedway on Sunday.

And your odds of winning?  Pretty sweet.  50 prize finalists will have a chance to receive one of the ten Mustangs - a 1 in 5 chance to win.

Compare that to these other odds:  finding a pearl in an oyster: 1 in 12,000; being struck by lightning: 1 in 700,000; getting attacked by a shark: 1 in 11,500,000; and winning the Mega Millions lottery jackpot:  1 in 135,145,920.

Sunday March 17th - may the luck of the Irish be with you - at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Race

It's race week in Bristol.  One of the very special times to be here.

Bristol Motor Speedway will be at its best - as it always is.

So don't miss the finest that NASCAR has to offer.

After all - there is only one BMS.

Advanced Placement

A key action for the Bristol Tennessee City Schools (BTCS) in the Strategic Economic Development Plan under the objective to Excel in Post-Secondary College Preparation and Career Readiness was to modify graduation requirements to include a minimum of one Dual Enrollment or Advanced Placement course and require all students choosing an AP course to take the course exam.

To that end, BTCS modified its policy this year to require that students taking AP classes are now required to take the exam for AP credit.

Last night the City Council approved an agreement with BTCS and the Industrial Development Board regarding the payment of AP course examination fees whereby each party will fund 1/3 of the cost over a period of five years to assess the efficacy of the initiative.

The policy change of the BTCS, enhanced by the commitment of the parties to cover the fee, is expected to result in a significant increase in the number of students taking AP exams.  And once the student has confirmation that she/he is capable of handling college-level work by passing the exam, the likelihood of continuing their education past high school increases and an advancement of our goals to make Bristol a center for educational excellence and to strengthen, expand and attract businesses through workforce development and training will be enhanced.

NE State

Bristol received great news yesterday - that Northeast State Community College will be bringing higher education classes to the downtown.

A new teaching site will be housed on the third floor of City Central located at 620 State Street.   The college will lease 16,000 square feet for classrooms and offices with initial enrollment expected at 100-200 students.

Northeast State will offer two-year associate degrees, certificates, Workforce Development training, and GED/Adult Education at the site; and is actively seeking partnerships with other area higher education institutions to broaden class offerings at the site.

Interestingly, college officials are planning to offer an entertainment technology program that will mesh with Bristol’s “Birthplace of Country Music” brand.  The program will focus on equipping students with sound, lighting, and rigging skills, which could be used in performances, hotels, churches, theaters, and other related venues.

Thanks to Dr. Janice Gilliam, building owner and alumnus Allen Hurley, and the Tennessee Board of Regents for working together in making this important project a reality.

Team

The Community Development staff spent the morning doing a little team building.

Top L-R:  Al Bradley, Mindy Bowman , Karl Cooler, Randy Rice, Steve Blankenship, Donnie Branson
Bottom L-R:  Brian Hilderbrand, Jan Detrick, Travis Blevins, Shari Brown, Heather Moore, Sharon Wilfred

Remember, you don't have to be sick to get better.

Participation

The city is now accepting applications for the 2013 Citizens Fire Academy.

The six week program will introduce the participants to the history of the fire service; fire safety; firefighting skills, tactics, and strategy;  basic first aid and CPR; and emergency preparation and mitigation.

The program begins on Thursday, April 18 and will continue for six successive Thursdays.

For additional information or to request a copy of the application, please contact the Bristol Fire Department at 989-5701.  Applications may also be downloaded at bristoltn.org

Integrity and pride

"Integrity and Pride" by Matthew Mills

The 11th session of the Paper Windows photography contest - "Seeing Red" - is now in the books.  The 2nd place photo of Quint 3 was taken by Matthew Mills.

Note the interesting reflection of Fire Station 3 and the U.S. and Tennessee flags flying proudly in the breeze.

Pretty much says it all. 

Partner

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children recently recognized the Police Department and 911 Center as an official certified partner.

Over the past year, staff completed specialized training provided by the National Center on handling calls regarding missing or exploited children.

The Police Department is adopting the best practices from the National Center as policy for the department. By participating in this program, the National Center provides additional resources to the department during a missing child event.

A good place

Tennessee is on the right
and Virginia the left

The Bristol Tennessee-Virginia A Good Place to Live sign was moved to its current location in 1915 - straddling the state line.  It formerly stood atop a hardware store on the Tennessee side of town.

The original slogan -- Push!-That's Bristol -- was changed in 1921 following a slogan contest.

The sign holds over 1,300 light bulbs and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Win-win-win

One of the annual objectives for our Community Relations Department is to enhance downtown activities by scheduling events at the Paramount Center for the Arts.

The latest promotion was the Phil Vassar concert on February 14th which was a near-sellout with 700 patrons in the house.

Financially the event was successful with net revenue to the city.

But just as importantly, the lights inside the theater were bright that night and additional customer traffic was generated for our downtown restaurants and shops.

A win-win-win outcome for sure - thanks to the good work of Community Relations staff.

Access-completion-community

Northeast State held an advisory board meeting today to discuss its ongoing efforts to open a teaching site in Bristol.

Although a ribbon-cutting ceremony is not currently scheduled - such an event now appears to be close.

And what a great event that will be when it happens.

Capital planning

The City Council reviewed the five-year capital improvement plan in work session that called for $106 million in projects during the Fiscal 2014- 2018 time period.

Leading the way were General Facility improvements at $32 million followed closely by School improvements at $31 million.

A sizable amount of the projects will be funded by others - but the the majority of the spending still depends on city funds.

And all of this is why our efforts to grow our tax base is so important - to provide the school, utility, park, and other facility improvements to benefit and serve our residents and guests.

Let there be light

The next phase of the downtown streetlight improvement project was authorized by City Council that will place decorative lights on the north side of Anderson Street between Volunteer Parkway and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.  The lights will be spaced between the existing cobra head lights that will remain in place to achieve the desired look while maintaining an enhanced level of lighting along this 5-lane roadway.

In addition, 3 lights will be installed at the City Hall and City Hall Annex with one light to be placed at the main entrance, Police Department entrance, and Juvenile Services entrance. 

The ornamental poles are identical to the poles previously which replicate the lights that once stood downtown.  The poles will include banner arms and rings, a flag pole holder, an electrical outlet at the top for seasonal lighting.

An energy efficient LED lamp, which is available now for the first time, will be used that will provide the same light color as the existing metal halide lights but will be much more energy efficient and have a longer service life.    

Police academy

Are you interested in learning more about the operation of the Bristol Police Department?  If so, applications are now being accepted for the next Citizens' Police Academy that will begin on April 8 and run weekly through June 17th.

The academy is designed to provide residents with an inside look at the operations and services of the police department and includes classroom instruction and hands-on training.

Participants will learn more about patrol services, investigative services, crime prevention, and other special services.

Applications are available at www.bristoltn.org .

9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

This one almost got away but Sunday marked the start of the Chinese New Year - the Year of the Snake.  And a Water Snake in fact.

Being a water snake myself - be nice - makes this year particularly meaningful somehow for Bristol.

Perhaps our economic development discussions with our friends from the Far East will be productive this year.  Stay tuned.

Birthplace of Country Music Museum

This week the City Council approved an agreement with the Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) for the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.

The agreement provides a financial commitment of up to $600,000 with the first $300,000 to be provided in 3 annual installments of $100,000. Up to 50% of those funds may be used for pre-opening expenses with all remaining unspent funds to be placed in an operating reserve for use following the opening of the museum.  The second $300,000 will be available during the first 60 months of operation to temporarily cover any operating losses, with any such funds advanced to be repaid without interest.

The agreement further requires BCM to contract with a qualified, venue management company with experience in museum or like entertainment/educational facilities to operate the museum for a minimum period of sixty months (60) following its opening.  This requirement coincides with the period that the city has committed to backstop any temporary operating losses that may occur.

The construction of the country music museum was identified in the recently adopted strategic economic development plan as one of two special opportunities requiring special focus and attention.  

With this action, the city stepped-up in a big way to advance this important economic development project.

Grid

Sometimes you have to go off the grid.

But always return when you do.

Ghost buster

Tomorrow is February 2 - Groundhog Day.

Didn't we just blog about this Phil Connors?

Time sure does fly - make the most of it.



Or does it.......................

Stitch

The other day I wrote about how being proactive can save more work later - remember a stitch in time saves nine?

What should have been mentioned - but wasn't - is that that one stitch needs to be done correctly or all is for naught.

So do it promptly, but correctly.  Or you might as well not bother at all.

Good start

Last night the City Council and Bristol Industrial Development Board met to approve a development agreement for the Bristol Border Region Retail Tourism Development District.

The day marked the culmination of 19 months of concentrated work by many to position the city for a major retail project on Interstate 81 at Exit 74 that will be anchored by Bass Pro Shops - the 5th Bass Pro to open in Tennessee and the first anchor tenant for the project.

The day also marked the start of the next chapter of work - the construction phase including public improvements followed by vertical improvements (i.e., stores).  This phase will be completed by April 2014 when the initial public improvements are completed to usher in the opening of Bass Pro; to be followed by the first opening of other retail stores in the Spring of 2015.

This project was identified as key objective in the strategic economic development plan that was adopted one year ago this month.  So it's fair to say where off to a good start.

Thread

A "stitch in time saves nine" is a great proverb.

And its meaning?  To prevent more work later - do it now - even if it doesn't involve needle and thread.

Haggis

Happy Robbie Burns Day.

An 18th century Scottish poet and writer, Robbie is best known for Auld Lang Syne, the song most often heard at New Years.  A true Scot, his favorite food was, of course - haggis.

Everybody who likes haggis, please raise your hand.  And for the rest of us - a double cheeseburger will be just fine.

King University

Dr. Greg Jordan announced today that King College will officially be renamed King University on June 1, 2013 to reflect the comprehensive nature of their academic programs.

Congratulations to President Jordan, the Board of Trustees, and the faculty and staff for another milestone event at this great academic institution.

Reward

Are your days busy and productive?

It really doesn't matter how, why, or what for, or whether at work, home, play, or some or all of the above.

Just be busy - and productive.  Life will be more rewarding that way.

Directions

I asked you to wish for sunny days - not heavy snowfall like we had yesterday.

Reminds me of an incident a long time ago about following instructions before starting an elementary school quiz.

The instruction of the teacher was to read the directions in full before starting the quiz.  Turns out the last direction of the 3 on the top of the page was to disregard the other 2 and just put the pencil down and quietly fold hands on the desk and wait on the others - to not take the quiz at all.

Of course, most of the students didn't bother to read the directions and were later embarrassed when the teacher shut down the exercise and pointed out their failure to follow her instructions and the directions.

So follow directions - you'll be better off because of it - as was I.

Rain

Did you know that 71% of the surface of the earth is water, with 97% of that salt water?  That leaves a mere 3% in freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams.

And that's just water on the surface.

There's also water in the ground and in the air - although I suspect much of it above the earth has reached the ground in the form of rain in Bristol the past week.

So keep your umbrellas handy - and wish for sunny days.

Justice

Stand up to injustice whenever you see it.

Balance the scale - make a difference.

Fish

Fish or cut bait is a great American expression that had a very specific meaning at one time but has morphed to its 21st century meaning.

Back in the 1800's, it literally was used in the fishing industry to differentiate between work assignments - either to have the job of fishing or the job of cutting the bait used to fish.

Today it is commonly used to act or not act; to take action or alternatively, to procrastinate or stand down.  A far cry from the act of fishing.

So given the choice, let's fish.

And that's it - lock, stock and barrel.

Survey

Were you one of the 1,200 randomly selected Bristol households to receive our community survey in the mail?

If so, please complete it and return as soon as possible as your response is important.

The National Citizen Survey is designed to elicit responses in key service areas and community characteristics to assist the City Council in making policy decisions and prioritizing resource allocations in the future.

The survey will result in a 95% confidence level around every question and will provide norms against which to compare our results.  These norms are derived from an integration of results from over 400 citizen surveys administered in more than 40 states and will provide real context to the resulting data. 

The survey results will be compiled, analyzed, and returned for public review in the next few months.

GIGO

Remember the acronym GIGO, Garbage in, garbage out that was commonly used a few years ago in the computer science field?

You don't hear it so often these days, but basically it means that if the data used to make a decision is faulty, then the resulting conclusions will subsequently be flawed.

So get and use good data - and your decision making success will exponentially improve as a result.

Land Use Plan

Thanks to the good work of Shari Brown and the Community Development Department staff, the city has a new Land Use Plan and Policy.

The purpose of the Land Use Plan and Policy is to provide a general pattern for the location, distribution and character of future land uses within the city and urban growth boundary.  It reflects the community's vision of its future self by guiding future land use decisions and the accompanying physical development in the city that will occur.  It is intended to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare by providing efficiency and economy in the process of growth. 

The policies are based on the following principles:

-  To utilize land resources in a manner that contributes to community health, safety, and quality of life.

-  To secure the city's economic future by strengthening cultural tourism and arts, motor sports, medical arts and healthcare, diversified manufacturing, and destination retail.

-  To ensure that policies are in place that will allow the construction and availability of housing that will provide diverse housing choices throughout the community.

-  To create an efficient, well-connected, intermodal transportation network.

-  To preserve important community assets including cultural, historic natural, and archaeological resources.

The plan was adopted by the Planning Commission and City Council following its presentation and review at five community meetings that were held for public input and feedback.

  

Persevere

Initiating a new program or service, undertaking a new project, or introducing a new product is harder than it looks.

Look to the news today for a great example - the new Boeing 787 is being severely questioned and scrutinized as the result of several minor mishaps for which the causes are still under investigation.  Just a few short months ago the Dreamliner maiden commercial flight was widely heralded for its innovation and technology.

And a few months back Apple iOS6 maps were roundly criticized for their failure to live up to Apple standards of quality - resulting in a public apology from CEO Tim Cook and the return of Google maps as an option.

Yes - it's harder than it looks.  You just have to put your nose to the grindstone and persevere.  And persevere you will if you just try.

Legislation

This past week the Joint Legislative Policy of the Tri-Cities for the 2013 Session of the Tennessee General Assembly was presented to area legislators, city officials, and staff at a luncheon in Johnson City.

The legislative policy is developed annually by the Cities of Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City to provide a unified position regarding key state legislative initiatives affecting the communities.

The 2013 Policy includes twenty-five (25) objectives grouped into the seven subject areas of Education, Public Safety, Economic Development, Unfunded Mandates and Local Control, Land Use and Growth, Transportation, and Local Revenue.

Bristol Vice Mayor Ben Zandi, Johnson City Vice Mayor Phil Carriger, and Kingsport Mayor Dennis Phillips did a fine job presenting the policy agenda this year.

E-agenda

One of our work plan goals was to institute an electronic City Council agenda packet this year.

So starting with the January 8, 2013 meeting, all of our agenda packets will be available for viewing online.

You can link to the material from our website, www.bristoltn.org, or at the following:

http://www.boarddocs.com/tn/bristoltn/Board.nsf/Public

Hope you keep watch as an informed and educated citizenry is always the best friend of city government.

2012

With the calendar turned and 2012 now behind us, it's appropriate to think back on all that we accomplished as a group last year.

First and foremost, we continued to provide a high level of basic municipal services in an efficient, consistent, and effective way.  That is our primary mission and the fundamental reason we exist as an organization.

We made significant progress on a number of fronts through strategic capital investments in buildings, property, and equipment.  These investments serve as the building blocks for future enhancements to the quality of community life or provide the necessary tools and resources to conduct our business operations effectively.

We reached out to the public and community in immeasurable ways, be it the many festivals and events we supported, the neighborhood meetings we held, through our governmental television channel, BTN-TV16, or in the thousands of other ways that we directly touched the lives of our residents and visitors.

We maintained our fiscal house in order despite a still soft local and national economy.

And we showed tremendous pride, teamwork, and a can-do attitude that was pervasive throughout the organization.  The character of our organization is a major contributor - if not the major contributor - to our overall success.

Yes, 2012 was a good year - bring on 2013.