As we delve into what could be the last city budget I work on as a councilmember, I reflect upon both the state of the city and my contributions thus far. I could boast that, during my tenure, no property taxes were raised and we’ve reduced total debt levels. However, those claims would be misleading … Continue reading A Tale of Three Cities – FY2017 Budget Column
The following represents an unofficial account of the significant items discussed and/or voted upon during the February 8, 2016 City Council Regular Meeting. The complete agenda packet is found here, here and here and a video of the meeting can be viewed here. Draft meeting minutes will be posted on the city website in the March … Continue reading Council Votes: 2/8/16 OAK RIDGE CITY COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY
The following represents an unofficial account of the significant items discussed and/or voted upon during the November 16, 2015 City Council Regular Meeting. The complete agenda packet is found here and here and a video of the meeting can be viewed here. Draft meeting minutes will most likely be posted at the city website as … Continue reading Council Votes: 11/16/15 OAK RIDGE CITY COUNCIL MEETING SUMMARY
The following represents an unofficial account of the significant items discussed and/or voted upon during the October 20, 2015 City Council Work Session and Special Meetings. The complete agenda packets are found here and here. Joint Work Session with the Board of Education: Presentation of the Preschool Committee’s Recommendation for a new Preschool Building Mayor … Continue reading Council Votes: 10/20/15 OAK RIDGE CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING/WORK SESSION SUMMARY
Did you know that most of our local elections have historically been decided by less than 20% of our population? In fact, one of the biggest financial decisions ever made in our city’s history - the high school renovation project - was determined by only 11% (3,198) of our residents. A number of factors have … Continue reading 2014: The Year That Oak Ridgers Take Back Their Government
I was recently invited to speak to the Anderson County Tea Party. The following were my talking points. Critical documents are hyper-linked in blue. Why Your City’s Financial Matters Matter Just about anything that happens (or doesn’t) in Oak Ridge has a direct tie to money, your money. Local government spending directly impacts your wallet. Think not only … Continue reading City of Oak Ridge Financial Snapshot: Why Your City’s Financial Matters Matter
Happy Spring! Council’s schedule for the remainder of this month includes a work session and a special meeting scheduled for this Monday, March 24th at the Municipal Building. Details on the Special Meeting are provided below. The work session will follow and the agenda is located here. Results of the March 3rd regular city … Continue reading March City Council Update/Additional Special Meeting
