January, 2010 Events and Meetings now on YouTube

Lakeland meeting and events are presented in "Channel 19" style on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQYujTIBMyE

January 2010 Meetings and events

City of Lakeland meetings scheduled for January 2010 include:

6:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 5: Board of Commissioners/Municipal Planning Commission Joint Meeting (discuss Land Development Regulations)

6:30 p.m., Thursday, January 7: Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

6:30 p.m. Monday, January 11: Park and Recreation Board Regular Meeting

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 12: Design Review Commission Regular Meeting

6:30 p.m., Thursday, January 21: Board of Appeals meeting (if needed)

Monday, January 18: City Hall closed, Martin Luther King Day Holiday

REFUSE COLLECTION/RECYCLING is one day later week of January 18-23 due to Martin Luther King Day Holiday

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 19: Municipal Planning Commission (rescheduled from regular meeting day of Monday due to Holiday)

8:30 a.m., Saturday, January 23: Board of Commissioners Retreat (City Hall)

6:30 p.m. Monday, January 25: Board of Commissioners Work Session

6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 26: Natural Resources Board meeting

6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 28: Economic Development Commission meeting

NOTE: New Refuse Collection regulations are effective January 1, 2010: Only bagged or yard debris in carts will be picked up on regular yard debris route (Yard Debris carts are picked up Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, check www.Lakelandtn.gov for specific day).

Be Prepared for Emergencies!

Emergency preparedness is important!. A slide show on preparing for emergencies is available on YouTube

at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICIgsInex90.

The presentation was prepared by Claude Talford, Lakeland Emergency Management Director.

Additional and more detailed information is available at www.Ready.com.

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD RECOMMENDATIONS SUBMITTED

Environmental Award recommendations submitted to the Lakeland Board of Commissioners include:

BUILDER/DEVELOPER: Frazier Construction, for home construction on Lot 109 of the Grover at Lakeland. This project is exceptional in exceeding the requirements of the Lakeland Tree Ordinance in its tree protection efforts and provides environmental benefits of the wooded lot upon completion of construction.

ARCHITECTURE/ENGINEERING FIRM: Asknew Hargraves Harcourt (A2H) of Lakeland for their work on the Canada Road Median Landscaping project. The Committee found the project showed innovation in the non-formal design, low flow irrigation, is exceptional in it's scale of almost 1 mile in length and utilizes native plants.

CITIZEN/ACTIVIST: Patrick Fisher, for his organization of two events in 2009 where he gathered trash with volunteers along Lakeland's roadsides, collecting over 40 bags of trash and furthermore separated out 200 pounds of recycling. material.

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS: Woodland Tree Service, for their work in planting trees at the Lakeland Elementary School. Woodland Tree Service donated trees, workers and equipment for planting trees at the school.

The Lakeland Environmental Awards Committee was formed in 2007 and over the course of 2007 and 2008 developed a program of recognition for environmentally responsible activities in Lakeland.

The Environmental Awards Committee reviewed the nominations and recommended award recipients to the Lakeland Natural Resources Board. The Natural Resources Board recommended the above award winners to the Lakeland Board of Commissioners for the First Annual Environmental Awards.

The Board of Commissioners will formally act on the recommendations at the January 7, 2010 Regular Meeting and will formally present the awards at a future date.

Additional information on the Environmental Awards program is available from the Lakeland Natural Resources Department.

Consolidation Watch-Charter Commission meetings

The "Consolidation Charter Commission" is starting to meet on a regular basis. The Charter Commission was established by Shelby County and the City of Memphis to develop a Metro Charter for consolidation of Shelby County and Memphis. Meetings are scheduled for January 7, January 21, February 4 and February 18, 2010 and will start at 4:00 p.m. Much of the work will be done by "committees" which will meet on detailed items and report back to the full Commission. I attended the Charter Commission meeting on December 17, 2009 and am reporting on my observations.

Two representatives of the million dollar funded effort of the "Rebuild Government" group were present and discussed their efforts.

It was interesting to note that one of the representatives had worked with Mayor Wharton (who is pushing consolidation) on the "Town Hall Meetings" on consolidation. These were billed as "listening tours", although I don't believe any were held in this part of the County and were not locally publicized.

The other representative served on Mayor Wharton's transition team (to Memphis Mayor).

They did not specifically respond to questions about who is funding the organization and why.

As was widely reported, the Charter Commission voted not to include schools in the discussions, but will include funding for schools. Currently 70% or our property tax goes to Memphis schools and 30% to County schools, which represents the actual school attendance to the two systems. The Memphis City Schools also receives substantially more federal funding.

There was a strong push by the Shelby County Commission to increase taxes for the unincorporated County area and suburban cities while decreasing taxes for Memphis for City schools and other services. Decreasing taxes for incorporated Memphis while increasing taxes for the suburban areas is one of the primary reasons for the push for consolidation by consolidation supporters, so this needs to be closely watched. I expect this is why the companies involved in "Memphis Tomorrow" (www.MemphisTomorrow.org) are pushing consolidation and contributing a lot of money to the consolidation push. I suspect they see a large payoff in the suburbs subsidizing their property taxes after consolidation.

This is what has happened in the Nashville Metro as the "independent cities" in the Nashville Metro property tax is within approximately .57 of the "full service" areas. General Services tax is $3.56, paid by everyone in county. Urban Services tax is $.57 (total of $4.13 rate for residents of central city). Over years, differential between two tax rates has narrowed as “urban” services have been declared “general”.

The Shelby County Attorney advised the Charter Commission that if a "Metropolitan" type of consolidation is selected, the Metro Charter can't abolish the "Constitutional Officers", but the Metro Charter can change their functions (except for functions specified in the Constitution.). This could include changing the duties of the Sheriff to only the jail etc.

Also, of interest to Lakeland residents especially, one "independent city" in the Nashville Metro tried to start a City Police Department, but the Nashville Metro refused to let them start their own Police Department, so obviously a lot of independence is lost in the Metro system! (The Charter could be written so this did not happen.)

It was also noted that the Urban Growth Boundaries Statute does not apply to Metro Charters. The annexation boundaries are decided by the Charter so obviously this is something we need to watch.

The next meeting, January 7, 2010, is a discussion of the Jacksonville's Consolidated Government, by their General Counsel, Rick Mullaney. It was noted that he has acted as a consultant to assist in other "consolidations", so he obviously is a strong proponent of consolidation.

Overall, I feel the Charter Commission Members will listen. We need to make sure we talk to them and convey how you feel about Consolidation and the proposed Consolidation Charter. I encourage Lakeland residents to attend the Charter Commission meetings if possible and if not, call or write the Charter Commission to convey your opinion.

Pruning of trees in Lakeland-information and YouTube video available

(This information is provided by Eric Bridges and Nick Bridgeman of the Lakeland, Tennessee Natural Resources Department concerning the requirements of the City of Lakeland on pruning of trees on public right of way in Lakeland.

The MLGW subcontractor, ASPLUNDH, is pruning trees in Lakeland. This necessary maintenance of the utility always causes concern for us and our residents. We’d like to share with you some progress that’s been made on cooperative work between the City and the utility. You may still not like the way the trees looks when it’s all said and done but it will be better for the tree, the utility, the City, and you.

What are the City and the utility doing to help with this issue? We are doing two things; adopting a better pruning standard; and, increasing our removals. Watch this YouTube Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFCkv8fxsOg or contact City Hall if you would like more information. (Note: A short cut is to search for "Lakelandtn" and "Eric".)

There are four parts to the issue and as you will see they are all inter-related.

1. Reliability: We need to keep tree limbs out the powerlines to prevent outages. Proper pruning will increase system reliability by decreasing tree-related outages.
2. Costs: It costs a lot of money to prune the entire utility system. Proper pruning can reduce these costs.
3. Safety: Limbs growing near and into the powerlines can become energized and a danger to people who may contact the tree or climb the tree and reach the wires. Pruning correctly will minimize this risk.
4. Tree Health: Pruning property will maximize tree health
5. What can you do to help? Never plant a large maturing tree within the utility easement. Better to plant a tree that has a mature height of 15 feet or less and let it grow to its full form than to plant a large maturing tree and continually fight against its natural tendencies. Consider redbuds, dogwoods, multiple stem crape myrtles, etc. You can also help by calling us when you see a problem. We don’t see and hear everything so we need your eyes out there!

Our ultimate goal is to make sure the right tree is growing in the right place.

Holiday Schedule

Meetings and closings over the next few weeks include:

-Board of Commissioners Work Session, 6:30 p.m., Monday, December 21, 2009 (Beer Board at 6:15 a.m.)

-Municipal Planning Commission, Tuesday, December 22, 2009

City Hall closed Christmas Eve, December 24 and Christmas Day, December 25

City Hall closed New Year Day, January 1, 2010

Board of Commissioners/Municipal Planning Commission Joint Meeting (Land Regulations) 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Board of Commissioners regular meeting, 6:30 p.m., Thursday, January 7, 2010

Land Regulations Joint Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 5, 2010

NOTICE OF JOINT MEETING

CITY OF LAKELAND

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

& MUNICIPAL PLANNING COMMISSION

Notice is hereby given that the City of Lakeland Board of Commissioners and Municipal Planning Commission will meet in joint session to review drafts of the proposed Land Development Regulations, by Farr Assoc. The joint session will be Tuesday, January 5, 2010, 6:30 p.m., at Lakeland City Hall, 10001 U.S. Hwy 70.

I-40/Canada Road traffic signals status

City Engineer Philip Stuckert reported the following status on the traffic signals at the I-40 and Canada Road interchange:

The Contractors have submitted product literature to the consulting engineer and TDOT for approval of signal equipment. This was completed on November 21, 2009. They are waiting for this product submittals to be approved by both agencies. Delivery of signal equipment takes anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks. Once the submittals are approved, they plan to order the equipment. They suspect the submittals will be approved prior to Christmas. Once the approvals are completed, they plan to schedule their work at the interchange. I suspect that work will start in January and be completed by March 2010.

IH Clubhouse classes scheduled

CLASSES CURRENTLY OFFERED AT IH MANAGERIAL CLUBHOUSE
4523 Canada Road



ADVANCED AND COMPETITIVE CHEERLEADING FOR CHILDREN AGES 4 - 15

Advanced and competitive Cheerleading is available from the local Young Champions organization (373-3655), www.youngchampions.us. Classes are held Thursday evenings for children ages 4-15 at IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road through a public/private partnership between the City of Lakeland and Young Champions.

DANCE LESSONS AND DANCE OFFERED WEDNESDAY EVENINGS

Featuring West, Imperial, and East Coast Swing
IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road

When: Every Wednesday 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Cost: $5.00
Lesson included - No partner needed
Lessons are from 7:00 p.m. - 7:45 p.m., Dance until 10:00 p.m.
Drinks and water available for a Donation
Contact: thewtsd@gmail.com for more info.

EXPERIENCE A NEW APPROACH TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS WITH GYROKINESIS.

Classes will be Held at IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road, Beginning January 4, 2010, at 7:30 a.m.

Cost: $25 Per Class (Recommend 6 Classes to see benefits.)
For more information or to enroll, contact Bonnie Carr at 592-9247

Using simple breath patterns and gentle movements of the spine, Gyrokinesis workouts lengthens muscles, stimulates circulation and joints, and increases flexibility. Incorporating principles of Yoga, Dance, Gymnastics, and Tai Chi, Gyrokinesis is a series of exercises that anyone can perform regardless of age, health, or fitness level.

All sessions are conducted by a Licensed Physical Therapist with more than 30 years experience in advanced training in Pilates, Gyrokinesis, and Gyrotonic.

IH CLUBHOUSE AVAILABLE FOR RENT

The IH Clubhouse is available at special rates for community classes and instructions Monday through Thursday. Call Lakeland City Hall at 867-2717 for additional information. It is also open for viewing every Wednesday afternoon from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. for residents new to Lakeland and anyone interested in renting the Clubhouse. The City of Lakeland schedules the Clubhouse for both public and private events such as Company gatherings, Christmas, birthday, and anniversary parties, weddings, reunions, etc.

For further clubhouse rental information, call City Hall at 867-2717

(Compiled by Gerry Burditt, Editor of Qnetcola@bellsouth.net. To receive this on-line newsletter of Lakeland news and events, e-mail Qnetcola@bellSouth.net)

Lakeland December Meetings and Events on YouTube!

"Channel 19" style slide show of Lakeland events and meetings on You Tube!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jmggvY4idk

Jay Walko Speaker at Natural Resources Board meeting tonight (Tuesday) 6:30 p.m.

Jay Walko, Director of the Tennessee Ornithological Society (Memphis Chapter) is the scheduled speaker at the Lakeland Natural Resources Board meeting tonight (Tuesday) at 6:30 p.m.

Mr. Walko is an excellent speaker. If you have any interest in birds, don't miss this opportunity! the agenda for the Lakeland Natural Resources Board is at www.Lakelandtn.gov, or call City Hall for additional information (867-2717).

4 wheelers (All Terrain Vehicles) prohibited on public property/streets

We encourage owners of ATV's and similar off-road vehicles to enjoy their vehicles, but to observe the law and not operate the vehicles on public streets, public property or on private property without permission of the owner

All Terrain Vehicles (ATV's) continue to a hazard on City streets and also are damaging private and public property. We are especially concerned about young children operating these vehicles illegally on public streets and public property.

State law and City Ordinances are specific on this: ATV's and similar off-road vehicles are prohibited on public streets and highways! Operators (and parents in the case of juveniles) are responsible for damage to property and the City of Lakeland will bring civil action if necessary to recover the cost of damages to city streets or public parks.

Surveillance camera are being used in some City parks to curb vandalism or criminal behavior and will be used to recover costs of vandalism and damage by ATV's or similar vehicles as well as prosecution in Shelby County courts.

State law and City Ordinances require permission BEFORE an ATV or similar off-road vehicle can use private property.

The City of Lakeland and the Shelby County Sheriff urge residents to contact the Shelby County Sheriff if residents observe ATV or similar vehicles on public streets or public property or if it appears they are on private property without permission. We are concerned about some recent near accidents between cars and ATV's and damage to private and public property.

Again, we hope responsible users and owners of ATV's will enjoy their vehicles, but the use of such vehicles on city streets, public property or without permission on private property is illegal and could lead to substantial costs for damages.

.

City of Lakeland Holiday Schedule

Schedule changes or events during the holiday season from Thanksgiving through New Year Day are:

-City Hall Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26 and Friday after Thanksgiving, November 27

-Saturday, December 5, 2009: Holiday Parade

-Saturday, December 12, 2009: Visit with Santa, IH Clubhouse 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

-Board of Commissioners December Work Session rescheduled to Monday, December 21, 2009

-Municipal Planning Commission meeting rescheduled to Tuesday, December 22, 2009

-Economic Development Commission meetings are not scheduled in November or December

-City Hall closed Thursday, December 24, Christmas Eve and Friday, December 25, Christmas Day

-City Hall will be closed Friday, January 1, 2010, New Year Day.

Board of Commissioners Agenda/supplemental information at www.lakelandtn.gov

The Board of Commissioners Work Session Agenda and supplemental information on the agenda items is available at www.lakelandtn.gov. (Click the link for the page number to link to the supplemental information, if available, not all supplemental information is available).

While the only decisions at the Work Session are what items are to be placed on the Regular Meeting agenda (for the Thursday, December 3 meeting in this case), the agenda items are discussed in detail and public comment and input is welcome. Persons wishing to speak on an agenda item should sign up prior to the meeting.

Discussion at the Work Session allows the staff to to research any questions or provide more information on an agenda item the Board of Commissioners after the Work Session discussion and prior a decision being made on the item at the Regular Meeting.

An agenda is also published for the Regular Meeting where action on the agenda items may be taken by the Board of Commissioners

Dance Lessons and Dance Saturday, November 21

Lessons on the "Bop" style of dancing will be offered this Saturday, November 21, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. followed by the monthly dance at 7:00 p.m. at the IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road.

The Bop lessons will be taught by Pete Nolen and Jo Reynolds of the River City Bop Club. Come on out and take lessons and learn how to do the Memphis (Lakeland?) Bop and then dance, or just come on out and watch!

Persons attending the dance are welcome to dance any type of dancing, music is generally music of the 60's, 70's and 80's that encourages all types of dancing, not just Bop.

Admission fee for Lakeland residents is $4.00. Soft drinks are sold for a nominal charge.

Tree pruning on Lakeland streets

Natural Resource Director Eric Bridges advised as follows in the current tree pruning on Lakeland streets:

MLGW is currently having their contractor, Blume/Asplundh, prune trees along power lines within Lakeland. The utility prunes on regular cycles. Utility line clearance is essential to minimize power outages but also for safety. Trees growing too close to a power line can become conductors but can also serve as ladders for children or homeowner’s to climb and reach live wires.

We’ve all seen how dramatic utility line pruning can be. The City of Lakeland Natural Resources Board, Board of Commissioners, and Natural Resources Department have worked with MLGW and Blume/Asplundh to implement a better system of pruning. This system is composed of two parts: increased removals and lateral pruning.

First, large maturing trees growing under the power lines will be removed. We must stop planting or allowing tall maturing trees to grow under power lines. They will have to be topped repeatedly and will therefore become unsightly, unsafe, and will continue to sprout back into the lines.

Second, we will be using natural target or lateral pruning. That means cutting branches back to a main lateral or the trunk. This is called natural target pruning because its pruning back to the point that the tree would naturally shed the branch. It allows the tree to close the wound and minimizes sprouting back toward the line. It follows the national standard for pruning and is not topping or tipping.

Topping is cutting the tree between the nodes or at a random spot on the branch. It’s bad for the tree as this type of pruning prevents wounds from healing over. It’s bad for the citizens because it obviously looks bad but can also be unsafe. And it’s bad for the utility because it promotes sprouting back which increases pruning costs and decreases reliability because of the number of tree-related outages.

Please note that this type of pruning and these removals may look drastic the first cycle. But we hope you will appreciate that we are working to create permanent solutions to tree and utility line conflicts. We must prune trees properly so they don’t create hazards or grow back into the lines. And we must stop planting large maturing trees near power lines. It’s all part of our mission as a Tree City to get the Right Tree in the Right Place.

Also note that this type of pruning is only being practiced along the City streets. Pruning on private property is still between the utility and the homeowner. If you have any questions you may call the Lakeland Natural Resources Department at 867-2717.

Joint MPC/BOC Meeting scheduled to review Land Development Regulations Monday, November 30

A Joint Municipal Planning Commission/Board of Commissioners meeting is planned for 6:3o p.m., Monday, November 30, 2009 at Lakeland City Hall to discuss the proposed Land Development Regulations.

The major topic of the meeting will be Zoning and Land Use under the proposed Regulations, including zoning districts, land uses, building types, parking, landscaping, and open space types.

Interested persons are encouraged to attend. Additional information on the proposed Land Development Regulations is available at www.Lakelandtn.gov or call 867-2717.

Don't want your green (yard waste) cart?

Customers who don't want their green yard waste cart may leave it out any day. All Star will pick up any green yard waste cart that is put out on the driveway/yard.

If it is your normal pickup day and it has yard waste in it, they will assume you wish to keep it!

Please call City Hall (867-2717 ext. 204) and ask for Debra or call All Star Waste Systems directly if your cart is picked up by mistake or if you have any questions.

Lakeland Chamber Meeting 11:30 a.m. this Thursday!

Lakeland residents and business persons are encouraged to attend the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce luncheon this Thursday (November 12). Information on this is reprinted below.

Do You Know What Tools Are Available for YOUR Business? Discover Invaluable Business Resources at the Next Chamber Luncheon THIS Thursday, November 12th

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes representatives from the Memphis & Shelby County Office of Economic Development who will discuss resources available to existing businesses in Lakeland.

Many business people don't realize that there are a wide range of programs available to existing businesses to help them grow & flourish in today's economic environment.

We are fortunate to have Deputy Director Maggie Conway and Business Enterprise Specialist Sharon Taylor McKinney from the Memphis & Shelby County Office of Economic Development as our guest speakers.

Their presentation will specifically focus on programs designed to benefit existing small to medium businesses.WHEN: Thursday, November 12th from 11:30 a.m. 'til 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: Stonebridge Golf Course Clubhouse · 3049 Davies Plantation Road

COST: Luncheon is $10 for members / $15 for non- members. FREE for first-time guests who RSVP in advance.

RSVP: Please reserve your seat before Thursday, November 5th by contacting Sandra Blondis at 213- 2143.

ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKERS:Sharon Taylor McKinney is a Business Enterprise Specialist for the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.

She works with entrepreneurs, small business owners, high growth business executives, and private and public leadership within nine counties in West Tennessee through the Business Enterprise Resource Office (BERO) housed in the Tennessee Economic & Community Development. BERO provides services in four core areas: 1) Access to and Provision of Technical Assistance 2) Access to Diversity Certification and B2B markets with Tennessee 3) Manufacturing Initiatives 4) Access to International Trade Exporting

Maggie Conway is the Deputy Administrator of the Memphis & Shelby County Office of Economic Development (OED). OED is a clearinghouse for startup or expanding businesses providing technical assistance related to financing options, reduction of operating costs, infrastructure improvements, taxes, access to qualified employees, and regulatory permitting.

This local government agency is part of the Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning & Development which also includes land use controls, comprehensive planning, transportation, and construction code enforcement.

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerceemail: infinityfactory@mac.comphone: (901) 213-2143 or 483-6367web: http://www.mylakelandchamber.com

Cheerleading options for Lakeland area residents

Cheerleading options abound for Lakeland area residents from the City classes in basic cheerleading to competitive classes offered by Young Champions.

The City of Lakeland cheerleading classes start after Thanksgiving. Although registration is officially over, interested persons (ages 5-11) should contact Brenda Lockhart or Joy Cloud at 867-2717. Additional information is also available at www.Lakelandtn.gov.

Advanced and competitive Cheerleading is available from the local Young Champions organization (373-3655), www.youngchampions.us. Classes are held Thursday evenings (except Thanksgiving) for children ages 4-15 at IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road through a public/private partnership between the City of Lakeland and Young Champions.

The IH Clubhouse is available at special rates for community classes and instructions Monday through Thursday. Call Lakeland City Hall at 867-2717 for additional information.

Monday, November 16 deadline for applications for Community Leadership positions for Boards and Commissions

Applications are being accepted until Monday, November 16 for community leadership positions on Lakeland Boards and Commissions.

An application is available at www.Lakelandtn.gov and may be mailed to City of Lakeland, 10001 Highway 70, Lakeland, Tennessee 38002, faxed to 867-2063 or e-mailed to TMeyer@lakelandtn.org. Residents may also call 867-2717 for an application form.

If you have been thinking getting involved in the Lakeland community, now is your chance!

Openings are available for appointment on the following Boards and Commissions. Applicants must be Lakeland residents, except for the Economic Development Commission. Lakeland residency is not required for appointment to the Economic Development Commission.

Lakeland Board of Appeals (BOA)

The BOA hears appeals on

variances and other planning-

oriented matters. This board meets

“as needed” at 6:30 p.m. on the third

Thursday of each month at City Hall.

Lakeland Design Review

Commission (DRC) Design Review

Commission members are appointed

by the Mayor. The DRC reviews the

design, sign, lighting, and

landscaping plans of commercial

businesses and new residential

developments. Meetings are held at

6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of

each month at City Hall.

Lakeland Economic Development

Commission (EDC) The EDC

reviews and proposes economic

development initiatives/programs

and maintains an active relationship

with current and potential Lakeland

businesses. The EDC meets at 6:30

p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each

month at City Hall.

Lakeland Municipal Planning

Commission (MPC) Municipal

Planning Commission members are

appointed by the Mayor. The MPC

reviews development plans, zoning

matters and planning-related

matters. Meetings are held at 6:30

p.m. on the third Monday of each

month at City Hall.

Lakeland Natural Resources

Board (NRB) The NRB is charged

with planning, advising, and

promoting the development of a

comprehensive, community-

endorsed natural resources and

environmental stewardship program

for the City. The NRB generally

meets at 6:30 p.m. on the last

Tuesday of every other month at City Hall.

Lakeland Parks and Recreation

Board (PRB) The PRB reviews and

recommends park development

plans, recreation programs and

recommends locations of new parks.

This board meets at City Hall on the

second Monday of each month at

6:30 p.m.

Census 2010 program debuts at 2010 Holiday Parade

"Be Counted in 2010" is the theme of a Census 2010/City of Lakeland partnership to insure all Lakeland residents respond and are counted in the 2010 Census.

City of Lakeland Office Coordinator Theresa Meyer prepared an application and is administering the Census 2010/City of Lakeland partnership. The program is funded by Census 2010 to maximize Census 2010 responses and minimize expensive recounts.

The program will kick off at the 2010 Lakeland Lions Club Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 5, with "Census 2010 Clowns" walking the parade route and distributing candy to children (and adults) and "Be Counted in 2010" writing pens to the crowd.

A correct census count is important to the City of Lakeland not only for planning purposes, but also because a large portion of the City budget is based on population.

Census data affects our voice in Congress ...determines how may seats each state will have in the US House of Representatives as well as the redistricting of state legislatures, county and city councils, and voting districts.

Census Dates:
February-March 2010 - Census questionnaires are mailed or delivered to households
April 1, 2010 - Census Day! Households return completed questionnaires
April-July 2010 - Census takers visit household that did not return a questionnaire by mail

Census information is at www.2010Census.gov.

Signal light construction starts at Highway 70 and Canada Road

Construction has started on the signal light project at Highway 70 and Canada Road. Please use caution when using this intersection. There may be some delays due to lane closing and equipment working on the highway.

The project is scheduled to be completed no later than June of 2010.

Lakeland Tennessee Holiday Parade scheduled Saturday, December 5

The Lakeland Tennessee Lions Club Holiday Parade is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. (10:00 a.m. lineup), Saturday, December 5, 2009. The parade route will be the same as last year (line up on Shadowgreen Lane by the Sonic, proceed along Kingsridge to Canada Road and then to the Lakeland Mall.

The Parade Theme is "Holidays Around the World".

Entry information and applications are available at Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70, or by calling Stephanie Lefler at 901-233-6655 (e-mail stephlefler@gmail.com) or Bert Faller at 901-834-2938. The information will also be posted on the City web site www.lakelandtn.gov in the immediate future.

Due to insurance requirements, the City of Lakeland has had to require that no candy or other objects be thrown from moving vehicles. Entrants are encouraged to use "walkers" if they wish to distribute candy etc.

Yard Waste Carts to be delivered starting Monday, November 2

Green yard waste carts will be delivered to all Lakeland refuse collection customer starting Monday, November 2, 2009. The yard waste cart will expedite recycling of yard waste material.


The green yard waste carts are for yard debris only so it can be recycled. Yard waste includes leaves, grass, tree limbs etc. Only yard debris (no trash etc.) should be placed in the yard waste carts.


NOTE: The schedule for pickup of yard waste carts is on a different schedule than the regular carts and recycling and will be Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Customers with Monday pickup will have the yard waste cart picked up Wednesdays, customers with Tuesday pickup will have yard waste carts picked up Thursday, and customers with Wednesday pickup will have their yard waste cart picked up on Friday.

This schedule is for the yard waste carts only, the current pickup schedule continues as usual for refuse carts and recycling.

City of Lakeland November Schedule

Schedule changes and Holiday schedules for November include:

-Wednesday, November 11, 2009: Veterans Day. City Hall closed.

-Municipal Planning Commission changed from Monday, November 16 to Tuesday, November 17.

-Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27: City Hall closed for Thanksgiving Day holiday and day after Thanksgiving

Remember the Halloween Party this Friday, October 30, at the IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road. Details at www.Lakelandtn.gov

Be Ready for an Emergency!

Emergency Management Director Claude Talford advised of an excellent source for information on emergency preparedness at http://tinyurl.com/2fp8nw

Information on creating a family emergency plan, emergency kits etc is available at this site!

BOC Work Session Rescheduled

The October Board of Commissioners Work Session has been rescheduled from Monday, October 26 to Tuesday, October 27. The meeting will start at the usual time of 6:30 p.m..

Automotive Waste Collection Day scheduled November 12, 2009

An Automotive Waste Collection Day is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Thursday, November 12, 2009 at the Shelby County Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 6305 Haley Road.

Shelby County residents (no businesses) are encouraged take this opportunity to properly dispose of used motor oil, gas, automotive batteries, anti-freeze, and transmission fluids.

This is a American Recycles Day Event sponsored by the Shelby County Public Works Division (Environmental Programs). Call 901 379-4439 for additional information.

The Shelby County Household Hazardous Waste Facility is a joint effort by Shelby County and the Cities of Lakeland, Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Millington, Arlington and Bartlett.

Use of this facility is limited to residents of Shelby County for residential disposal only.

BOC/MPC Joint Session to review Land Development Regulations scheduled

The Board of Commissioners and the Municipal Planning Commission have scheduled a Joint Session at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, October 29, 2009 to discuss the proposed Land Development Regulations.

Residents and interested persons are always welcome at City meetings.

Yard Waste Carts to debut in November

Yard waste carts will be distributed starting November 2, 2009 to encourage recycling of yard waste (leaves, limbs etc.). All yard waste debris in the yard waste carts or in bags will be recycled to assist the City in meeting State of Tennessee mandates for recycling.

The new yard waste carts are part of a new contract with All Star Waste Systems which is effective January 1, 2009. All Star elected to start the yard waste recycling program in early November.

The refuse collection and recycling schedule will stay the same. The yard waste schedule will change to Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. A Newsletter is being prepared that will be distributed to all refuse collection customers detailing the schedule for when yard waste is being picked up.

The green colored yard waste carts will be delivered in addition to the regular refuse carts. Additional yard waste carts my be ordered directly from All Star Waste Systems for $3.30 per month. All yard waste in carts or in bags will continue to be picked up without additional cost. There will be an additional fee for loose limbs or tree debris not in carts or bags after January 1, 2010.

Watch for the newsletter to be distributed in the near future which will have detailed information on refuse and yard waste collection and recycling.

City of Lakeland Facebook and Twitter pages

The City of Lakeland Facebook page can be directly accessed at www.Facebook.com/LakelandTn

The main City of Lakeland Twitter page can be directly accessed at www.Twitter.com/Lakeland

Traffic Signal projects scheduled to start

Two traffic signal projects are scheduled to start Monday, October 19. Weather, or delays in receiving material could change the schedule. Motorists are encouraged to take extra precautions around the construction area.

Canada Road/I-40 Interchange: Traffic signals and lane improvements are being installed at the interchange to minimize delays, increase safety and reduce air pollution. The construction time frame is highly dependent on weather and the contractor receiving material, but the project should be complete by Spring 2010 at the latest.

Canada Road and Highway 70: Traffic signals and lane improvements are being installed to improve safety. The construction period is dependent on weather and the contractor receiving material. The project is scheduled to be complete no later than June of 2010.

City Hall E-mail disruption notice

The Lakeland City Hall e-mail system will be out from approximately 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2009, until approximately noon, Thursday, October 8, 2009 for a scheduled upgrade of the e-mail system.

This outage will only be on @lakelandtn.org.

CONSOLIDATION WATCH: Wharton proposes Charter Commission choices

The City of Memphis City Council and the Shelby County Commission have each adopted actions to create a “Charter Commission” to consider a Consolidation Charter (probably the “Metro” type of government consolidation).

The first step is for the County Mayor to appoint 10 members of the Charter Commission and then the Memphis City Mayor appoint 5 members to create a 15 member Charter Commission.

Shelby County Mayor AC Wharton has proposed the following members:

-Rufus Washington (representing unincorporated Shelby County)

-Chris Patterson (Germantown)

-J.W. Gibson (Shelby County Commissioner, but representing Memphis)

-Andrew Fowlkes (Representing Memphis)

-Julie Ellis (Representing Memphis)

-Lou Etta Burkins (Representing unincorporated Shelby County)

-Linda Kerley (Representing Collierville, former Collierville Mayor)

-Richard Hodges (Representing Millington, Mayor of Millington)

Bill Orgel (Representing Memphis)

Randolph Wallace (Representing Memphis)

The Memphis City Mayor appoints five members of the Charter Commission.

Assuming the Memphis City Mayor appoints all Memphis residents, the Charter Commission would have ten members appointing Memphis and only five people who don’t live in Memphis, or represent Memphis in some way.

City personnel or a Lakeland resident intend to attend every meeting of the “Charter Commission”, take notes and write a summary of the Charter Commission meeting so Lakeland residents can be aware of what is going on. (Note that no representatives were appointed from Lakeland, Arlington or Bartlett.)

The Athenian Oath

The Athenian Oath

We will never bring disgrace on this our City by an act of dishonesty or cowardice. We will fight for the ideals and Sacred Things of the City both alone and with many. We will revere and obey the City's laws, and will do our best to incite a like reverence and respect in those above us who are prone to annul them or set them at naught. We will strive increasingly to quicken the public's sense of civic duty. Thus in all these ways we will transmit this City, not only not less, but greater and more beautiful than it was transmitted to us.

(I have heard and read The Athenian Oath since probably I was in the seventh grade. I recently saw it on the National League of Cities website and it has the same power, beauty, and and sense of responsibility as the first time i read it and my first day of my career as a City administrator. I still get a chill down my back when I read it.)

What is a sustainability City/Community?

Sustainability is a word which is frequently used, but what does it mean when it comes to cities? One of the goals identified by the City of Lakeland is to be a "Sustainable City" and Shelby County has a program on "sustainability".

I recently read a definition of Sustainability that I feel communicates the meaning well. (It is from a document by the City of Alexander, Virginia):

"A Sustainability Community is an environmentally, economically, and socially healthy place people can live, work, and play for decades to come.

ECOLOGICAL SUSTAINABILITY: Ensures that all parts of the natural and built environments work together as a single ecological system.

ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY: Ensures a healthy economy that supports and sustains people and the environment in which they live over the long term.

SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY: Ensures that a community meets residents' basic needs and has the resiliency to prevent and/or address problems in the future."

Halloween Carnival scheduled for Friday, October 30

The Lakeland Parks and Recreation Department has scheduled a Halloween Carnival and event for Friday, October 30, 2009.

Starting at 6:30 p.m., there will be a Halloween Carnival for children from 3 to 11 years old.

At 9:00 p.m., there will be a movie and treats for children ages 12 to 15 years old.

Watch for additional information. This notice is provided so Lakeland residents can schedule this event in if you have children in these age groups interested in attending!

Board of Commissioners appoint Liaisons to Lakeland Boards/Commissions

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners reorganized at the Regular Meeting on October 1, 2009, as Don Barber and Cecil Tompkins assumed their positions on the Board of Commissioners.

BOC Liaisons are appointed to Lakeland Boards and Commissions for one year terms (in this case from October 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009). The Liaison is a full voting member.

Appointments included:

Board of Appeals: Mark Hartz

Design Review Commission: Cecil Tompkins

Economic Development Commission: Cecil Tompkins

Municipal Planning Commission: Randy Nicholson

Natural Resources Board: Randy Nicholson

Park and Recreation Board: Don Barber

Tompkins, Barbara take Oath of Office, Mayor Carmichael starts new term

Cecil Tompkins and Don Barbara took the Oath of Office to the Board of Commissioners and Mayor Scott Carmichael took the Oath of Office for his third term as Mayor at the Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting on Thursday, October 1, 2009.

Proclamations for Commissioner Gerrit Verschuur and Commissioner Clark Plunk were read and Commissioner Verschuur and Commissioner were thanked for their service. Both had elected not to run again.

Randy Nicholson was elected as Vice-Mayor to a two-year term. The Board of Commissioners elects a Vice-Mayor after every general election to a two-year term. The Vice-Mayor assumes the duties of Mayor in the Mayor’s absence and also assumes some administrative responsibilities.

The Board thanked Mark Hartz for his work as Vice-Mayor, He has been Vice-Mayor for six of his ten years on the Board of Commissioners.

Make a Difference! Volunteer now for Lakeland Boards and Commissions!

Each year the Lakeland Mayor and Board of Commissioners consider applications for appointment to vacancies on City of Lakeland Boards and Commissions as noted below. If you want to be part of Lakeland's future, apply now for the openings on the following volunteer positions:


Lakeland Board of Appeals (BOA) The BOA hears appeals on variances and other planning-oriented matters. This board meets “as needed” at 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at City Hall.


Lakeland Design Review Commission (DRC) Design Review Commission members are appointed by the Mayor. The DRC reviews the design, sign, lighting, and landscaping plans of commercial businesses and new residential developments. Meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at City Hall.


Lakeland Economic Development Commission (EDC) The EDC reviews and proposes economic development initiatives/programs and maintains an active relationship with current and potential Lakeland businesses. The EDC meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month at City Hall.

Lakeland Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) Municipal Planning Commission members are appointed by the Mayor. The MPC reviews development plans, zoning matters and planning-related matters. Meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at City Hall.


Lakeland Natural Resources Board (NRB) The NRB is charged with planning, advising, and promoting the development of a comprehensive, community-endorsed natural resources and environmental stewardship program for the City. The NRB generally meets at 6:30 p.m. on the last Tuesday of each month at City Hall.


Lakeland Parks and Recreation Board (PRB) The PRB reviews and recommends park development plans, recreation programs and recommends locations of new parks. This board meets at City Hall on the second Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.


For additional information or application, contact City Hall by phone at 867-2717, visit the City website at www.lakelandtn.gov, or email tmeyer@lakelandtn.org.

Applications are being received until 4:30 p.m. on Monday, November, 16, 2009

New Canada Road Public Workshop September 29

The third and final Public Workshop by the New Canada Road Advisory Team is scheduled from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at the IH Managerial Park, 4525 Canada Road.

The New Canada Road Advisory Team will present their recommendations for New Canada Road.

This meeting will also be the first National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) informational meeting. The NEPA process will be outlined at the meeting.

Additional information is at www.NewCanadaRoad.com

Emergency Management Resource Page available

An Emergency Management resource web page is now available at the the City of Lakeland web page, www.Lakelandtn.gov, or can be directly accessed at http://www.lakelandtn.gov/government/emergency.htm.

This page is designed to provide all Emergency Management resource information at one location.

New Canada Road Advisory Team meetings Tuesday, September 8

The New Canada Road Advisory Team is meeting from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2009 at the IH Club, 4523 Canada Road. Note that the 2:00 p.m. time is an hour earlier than the normal starting time.

Additional information is at www.NewCanadaRoad.com.

Public Forum on Consolidation September 10

The Shelby County Chambers of Commerce Alliance is presenting a Public Forum on consolidation from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, September 10, 2009 at the Memphis Area Homebuilders Association building at 776 Germantown Parkway.

Suburban Mayors (including Lakeland Mayor Scott Carmichael) will speak and Municipal Technical Advisory Service Consultant Pat Hardy will also make a presentation on the pros and cons of consolidation. (For an article by Mr. Hardy and other consolidation background information, www.Lakelandtn.gov.)

The Shelby County Chambers of Commerce Alliance is an Alliance of the Lakeland, Millington, Arlington, Bartlett and Collierville Chambers of Commerce.

The Public is encouraged to attend.

Refuse Collection one day later next week

Refuse collection, including recycling, will be delayed one day next week due to the Labor Day Holiday.

Regular Monday pickup will be Tuesday, regular Tuesday pickup will be Wednesday and regular Wednesday pickup will be Thursday.

I-40/Canada Road Interchange traffic signals approved!

The Shelby County Commissioners approved the bid for installing traffic signals at the I-40/Canada Road Interchange at a recent meeting!

This is expected to minimize the congestion and safety hazards at the interchanage.

As soon as the contract is offiically signed, the materials will be ordered, which is expected to take 6-8 weeks.

Due to weather, the contractors schedule and other uncertainities, it is diffiult to predict when the project will be completed. However, I expect the project will be compeleted by early 2010, if not before.

We appreciate the hard work and time of the Shelby County Engineering Department on this and the support of the Shelby County Commission.

The traffic signals are funded by a "congestion grant", which is 100% federally funded.

Commissioner Joyce Avery to vist Board of Commissioners meeting

Joyce Avery, Shelby County Commissioner for District 4 (the Lakeland District) is scheduled to visit with Mayor Carmichael and the Lakeland Board of Commissioners at the regular Board of Commissioners meeting at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, September 3.

Commissioner Avery is scheduled to assume the position of Chair of the Shelby County Commission in September. She has served on the Shelby County Commission for seven years and has been an active supporter of Lakeland and her District during her time on the Shelby County Commission.

I-40/Canada Road traffic signal bid considered for approval Monday

The Public Works Committee of the Shelby County Commission (District 4 Commissioner Wyatt Bunker is the Chair) approved the bid for the traffic signal at the I-40 and Canada Road Interchange.

The full Shelby County Commission is scheduled to approve the bid for the traffic signals at the regular meeting starting at 1:30 p.m., Monday, August 31, 2009.

The traffic signals will substantially improve safety, reduce congestion and accidents and reduce air pollution.

The traffic signals will substantially improve the response of the Shelby County Ambulance, the Fire Department and the Hazardous Response Unit to all areas of Shelby County.

We appreciate all of the time, work and effort put into this project by the Shelby County Public Works and Engineering Department personnel and the Shelby County Commissioners.

After approval of the bid, the traffic signals should be operational by early 2010.

Lakeland sign regulations

We have received questions about the Lakeland Sign Regulations especially as it relates to temporary political campaign signs.

Signs on medians, intersections, or placed illegally on traffic control signs or public property (street right of ways, parks etc.) or, common open space, unoccupied property etc. are illegal signs and are picked up immediately. Common Open Space owned by the Home Owners Association etc. is not considered occupied property.

Political signs are allowed under the following circumstances:

-One sign per candidate or issue on an occupied lot. (with permission of the owner).

-Placed no closer than 15 feet to the edge of the pavement (or 5 feet behind the sidewalk), whichever is greater.

-Cannot be erected more than 30 days before Early Voting and must be removed within three days after the election.

-Signs cannot exceed 5 square feet in area per side and cannot exceed 48” in height.

For specific information the Lakeland sign ordinances are at www.Lakelandtn.gov, or contact Code Enforcement at City Hall, 867-2717.

We appreciate the cooperation of all residents in observing these sign regulations.

I-40/Canada Road Interchange traffic signals scheduled for approval

We received confirmation that the bid for traffic signals for the I-40/Canada Road Interchange is scheduled for approval by the Shelby County Commission.

The Public Works Committee of the Shelby County Commission (District 4 Commissioner Wyatt Bunker is the Chair) is considering the traffic signal at the Committee meeting starting at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at the Shelby County Courthouse.

The full Shelby County Commission is scheduled to approve the bid for the traffic signals at the regular meeting starting at 1:30 p.m., Monday, August 31, 2009. (We will confirm this is on the agenda.)

We encourage all Lakeland residents and persons who use the Interchange to contact the Shelby County Commissioners (www.ShelbyCountytn.gov) and ask them to PLEASE approve this bid!

The traffic signals will substantially improve safety, reduce congestion and accidents and reduce air pollution.

The traffic signals will substantially improve the response of the Shelby County Ambulance, the Fire Department and the Hazardous Response Unit to all areas of Shelby County.

We appreciate all of the time, work and effort put into this project by the Shelby County Public Works and Engineering Department personnel.

New Canada Road Advisory Team September meetigns

The New Canada Road Advisory Team has scheduled the following September meetings:

-3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2009: The Advisory Team will review the alignment of New Canada Road. The Team plans to make a final decision on the alignment at this meeting. The meeting is at the IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road.

-7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 29, 2009: The Advisory Team will have a Public Meeting concerning New Canada Road. This is the last scheduled meeting of the Advisory Team. The meeting is at the IH Clubhouse, 4523 Canada Road.

Additional information is available at www.NewCanadaRoad.com

Shelby County Chambers of Commerce Alliance sponsoring Forum on "Consolidation"

The Shelby County Chambers of Commerce Alliance is sponsoring a Forum on "Consolidation Issues" at 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Thursday, September 10, 2009 at the Memphis Area Homebuilders Association.

All Suburban Mayors (including Lakeland Mayor Scott Carmichael, who has accepted the invitation) are invited to speak to present their views.

Pat Hardy, with the Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS), has been invited to discuss the pro's and con's of "consolidation". Mr. Hardy had completed substantial research on the consolidation issue.

A research paper by Mr. Hardy is available at www.Lakelandtn.gov.

Save the evening of September 10, 2009 for this informative meeting!

Business Appreciation Breakfast, 7:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 19

Lakeland businesspersons, including home-based businesses, are invited to the Business Appreciation Breakfast at 7:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at the Stonebridge Golf Club. The event is co-sponsored by the City of Lakeland and the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce Existing Business Committee.

A limited number of attendees may still register-call Lakeland City Hall at 867-2717 or e-mail Tmeyer@lakelandtn.org!

Mayor Scott Carmichael, Vice Mayor Mark Hartz and members of the Lakeland Economic Development Commission (Connie Hess, Chair); the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce (Mark Lawrence, President) and the Existing Business Committee of the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce will be present. The Business Liaison for the City of Lakeland (Debra Murrell) will also be present. This program has been nicknamed the “Friendly Face” program, since the City desires to display a “friendly face” to new and existing businesses.

Enjoy a free breakfast, win door prices and visit with other business persons, the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, City officials and staff, the Greater Memphis Chamber and find answers to questions about Chamber and City services.

Businesses will be encouraged to sign up for personal visits with appropriate City staff to discuss any questions, opportunities, or challenges.

To maximize the opportunity for Lakeland businesses to attend, the City reserved several extra breakfast meals. Call (867-2717) or e-mail (Tmeyer@lakelandtn.org) to reserve a place today!