I-40/Canada Road Interchange Action

Petitions will be available in the near future for residents to petition the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to schedule the Public Hearing on the Canada Road/I-40 Interchange. We understand this is the next step in the process.

The Lakeland Economic Development Commission recently discussed plans to encourage the Tennessee Department of Commerce (TDOT) to take promised action to have a Public Hearing "this Spring" in the I-40 and Canada Road Interchange.

At this time, priority is on requesting that the promised Public Hearing be held as soon as possible so the project can get started!

I understand a 30 day notice period is required before the Public Hearing is held. During this period the Lakeland Economic Development Commission will encourage all persons who use the Interchange to attend the Hearing and followup with written comments.

City Hall Entrance signs

I hope you have noticed the refurbished Lakeland City entrance signs! These signs are the result of a lot of work by a number of people! A lot more is involved in this than I realized. I encourage all residents to give a special "thank you" to Kathleen Brasfield, City Beautiful Project Coordinator, and Michael Brasfield, Project Leader, whose woodworking skills made salvaging the signs a reality.

Persons who worked on the sign project include:

Civic Club Members: Michael Brasfield, Margaret Brown, Bobbi Cornett, Mary Lou Shannon, Vi Flannagan, and Shirley Broom.

Lion's Club Members: Bert Faller and Bill Gibson.

Girl Scout Leaders: Barbara Ellacott, Melissa Skovdal.

Girl Scout Studio 2B Troop 392: Jordan Spegele, Ashley Wei, Laura Ellacott, Jessica Weaver, Emily Adkins, Brittani Craft, and Carlin Gray.

Brownie and Junior Troop 472: Jennifer Hopper, Sorina Skovdal, Rachel Crawford, Taylor Adams, Kyrsten Gray, Evy Montgomery, Nikki Adams, Andrea Crawford, Morgan Chinery, Kayla Johnson, Ana Cuesta, and Caitlin Cuesta.

In addition I want to thank the Public Works crew who installed the signs, James Riley, Joey Courtney and Nelson Hardaway and to Eric Bridges and Nick Bridgman for the landscaping around the sign on Canada Road (all of the signs are in the process of being landscaped at the appropriate time of year).

Our thanks to all of these residents who helped make Lakeland entrances more attractive!

Art in City Hall-Glenda Brown

Artist Glenda Brown has a special treat for persons stopping by Lakeland City Hall. She is the "Art in City Hall" artist this month and you will enjoy the outstanding portraits on display.

This is a show you will need to stop by, study and enjoy.

Lakeland City Hall is at 10001 Highway 70 in Lakeland. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Art may also be viewed during evening meetings.

Fountain at IH Club Lake

The new fountain is installed at the Lakeland at IH Club! It is an impressive sight! This is a combined community effort with contributions by the Lakeland Lions Club, Lakeland Funfest and the City of Lakeland. Another company contributed to the fountain, but wishes to remain anonymous.

It is on a timer and so is on from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Stop by and take a look. Of course if you plan in attending the Fishing Rodeo this Saturday, you will have the opportunity to see it along with lots of fish!

Lakeland Memorial Tree Program

The Lakeland Natural Resources Department’s Memorial Tree Program is now available. A tree may be sponsored in honor or of in memory of a person selected by the donor, to commemorate individuals, families or organizations, or even to celebrate a special event such as a wedding, birth, birthday, anniversary or other special event.

A tree may be sponsored for a payment of $400. The Natural Resources Department will plant a tree from the Lakeland Tree Species Selection List (specific species may be requested and will be honored where possible), include an aluminum display with the type of tree, the donor and the person or event being commemorated. The tree will be guaranteed for five years and will be replaced for any reason within that five year period.

Additional information is available at www.Lakelandtn.gov or contact the Natural Resources Department at 867-2717. Brochures with an application are available at City Hall and will be e-mailed or mailed if requested.

Schedule Changes and Events

Schedule changes and special events over the next several weeks are:

-Monday, May 28, 2007: City Hall is closed for Memorial Day. Board of Commissioner Work Session is rescheduled to Monday, June 4, 2007.

-Saturday, June 2, 2007: 9:00 a.m. Fishing Rodeo at IH Park.

-Sunday, June 3, 2007: 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. City Hall Park. 30^th Anniversary of incorporation of the City of Lakeland

-Monday, June 4, 2007: 6:30 p.m. Board of Commissioners Work Session (rescheduled from Monday, May 38)

-Thursday, June 7, 2007: Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting rescheduled to Thursday, June 14, 2007

-Thursday, June 14, 2007: 6:30 p.m. Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

I always especially recognize Memorial Day, probably because when I was a kid, we always went what (to me) was a relatively long trip to the cemetery to visit our ancestors and deceased family members.

The small town where the cemetery was located (Soldier, Kansas) always had a big Memorial Day dinner for the persons visiting the cemetery. They also provided the lunch etc. for funeral services.

My parents both rest at the Soldier, Kansas Cemetery and the residents of Soldier provided the lunch at their funeral services and I still enjoy their Memorial Day lunches when we visit on Memorial Day.

I am still impressed by the dedication of the residents of Soldier, Kansas over all these years where they still provide such a service to visitors.

I think one of the reasons I enjoy being a City Manager so much is that I have some strong memories of the small towns I visited when I was a child and I realize the impact of city services and facilities. In addition to the Memorial Day visits being one of my earliest memories, we were heavy users of the Holton, Kansas library, parks and recreational facilities when we came to town on weekly shopping visits. I still remember how well they were maintained and the true dedication of the librarians and park workers and I hope we leave similar memories for our residents and visitors.

Windward Slopes Park improvements starting

Windward Slopes Park improvements will begin in the immediate future. The project will include off-street parking, playground equipment, a pavilion, tennis courts and a “ball wall”. The alignment of the walking trail will also be adjusted to allow for the projects.

The project is expected to be completed no later than early Spring of 2008 and hopefully well before that. The park improvements are funded by the City of Lakeland and a grant from the Tennessee Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Recreation Educational.

Last Chance to count in Lakeland Census!

The current “Special Census” count of Lakeland’s population is now 10, 838! If you haven’t completed the Special Census form, the deadline is Tuesday, May 15 for you to be counted!

Census information requested is only the names of the persons in your household and the address. This may be called in to City Hall at 867-2717, e-mailed to CityHall@lakelandtn.org or a form may be downloaded at www.Lakelandtn.gov and faxed to City Hall at 867-2063 or bought by City Hall at 10001 Highway 70.

If you haven’t submitted your census information, make yourself count and send your information today!

We appreciate the efforts of all Lakeland residents who submitted census information. I also thank Lakeland City personnel Debra Murrell, Anita Hughes, Bristol Roberts, Joey Courtney, Nelson Hardaway, James Riley and James Roberts for their special efforts to assist in “making everyone count” in the 2007 Special Lakeland Census.

Lakeland over 10,000 Population

On Monday, April 30, the Special Census count totaled 10,044 Lakeland residents. Approximately 668 census forms have not been returned, but City personnel are making a final effort to count all Lakeland residents.

We appreciate the assistance of all Lakeland residents who have returned the Special Census forms or called/e-mailed in their household names.

It's not too late! If you haven't returned your Special Census form, you can still call 867-2717, e-mail CityHall@lakelandtn.org, or download a form from www.Lakelandtn.gov and mail, fax or personally bring in the form!

If you did not list all of the persons in your household, you also still can submit a corrected form.

Lakeland city personnel Debra Murell, Anita Hughes, Bristol Roberts, Nelson Hardaway, James Riley and Joey Courtney all worked hard on making the Special Census a success.

Garage Sale Sign Guidelines

As the Garage Sale season approaches, Lakeland residents are reminded that City of Lakeland regulations allow one regulation size “Garage Sale” sign on the property of the Garage Sale. No flags, banners, balloons etc. are allowed to call attention to the Garage Sale. No permit is required for a Garage Sale or a Garage Sale sign.

Signs are not allowed on public property (intersections, street right of ways) and garage sale signs on public property will be removed.

We appreciate your cooperation in complying with the Lakeland community requirements on garage sale signs.

Specific regulations are:

Yard Sale Signs (14-404.2(20))

Signs for yard sales shall be allowed provided that:

(a) Only one (1) such sign shall be on the lot where the yard sale is located;

(b) Such sign shall not exceed five (5) square feet in sign area per side and 48 inches in height measured from finished grade;

(c) Such sign shall be removed immediately upon conclusion of the yard sale;

(d) No such signs shall be placed in such as manner as to obstruct visibility or be attached to utility poles, directional or regulatory signage, or trees; and

(e) Such sign shall not be placed closer than 15 feet from the edge of pavement or five (5) feet behind a sidewalk, whichever is greater.

Please contact City Hall at 867-2717 or CityHall@lakelandtn.org if you have specific questions on Garage Sale sign regulations.

Transportation Project Update

Beverle Revira Drive Extension: Plans for the Beverle Revira Drive extension (extension of the street past Lakeland Fire Station # 1 to Huff and Puff) are complete. The project will be bid as soon as the Municipal Planning Commission reviews the construction plans and necessary easements are obtained.

The project is a major effort in plans to improve access from Seed Tick to Canada Road.

The City has also been approved for a grant for a traffic signal at Beverle Revira Drive and Canada Road after the extension is completed.

This project will significantly improve fire/ambulance response to the Lakeland Elementary School area and improve the current bottleneck at Canada Road and Huff and Puff.

Eventually, Beverle Revira Drive will extend from Canada Road to Chambers Chapel Road.

For those persons who are new to Lakeland, Beverle Revira Drive is named in honor Beverle Revira, the first Mayor of Lakeland.

Traffic Signals at I-40 and Canada Road Interchange: I regret to announce that the traffic signals have been delayed for another three months. I understand the project, which is funded by the federal government and administered by Shelby County will be delayed for some required environmental reviews. Current plans are for the project to be bid in June of 2007.

This project is desperately needed and I hope this is the last delay.

Canada Road/I-40 Interchange: The Tennessee Department of Transportation is expected to schedule a Public Hearing in the near future. There will be at least 30 days notice of the date of the Public Hearing on the interchange.

The Lakeland Economic Development Commission is actively working on an educational campaign to inform Lakeland residents and all motorists using the interchange of the Public Hearing and the advantages of the Single Point Interchange.

Traffic Signals at Highway 70 and Canada Road: We are waiting confirmation that the Tennessee Department of Transportation intends to install traffic signals at this intersection (with left-turn lanes in all directions). We learned that this project was funded by a safety grant, but we are awaiting a letter of confirmation.

New Canada Road planning: Planning is expected to start in the near future on New Canada Road. Shelby County, the State of Tennessee and the City of Lakeland are using the Context Sensitive Solution approach, which will involve a citizens in planning the route and other features of New Canada Road.

We expect this to start in the near future.

Funds for the construction of New Canada Road were recently approved in the MPO Plan for New Canada Road. This will be an 80% grant, with the City contributing 20%. The City has requested that Shelby County participate in funding and planning this project, since Canada Road is a major north/south artery that serves many Shelby County residents who are not Lakeland residents.

I-40/Canada Road interchange Public Hearing emphasis of EDC Action

The Lakeland Economic Development Commission (EDC) is emphasing the importance of attending the upcoming Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Public Hearing on the Canada Road/I-40 Interchange. The date of the Public Hearing is expected to be announced shortly.

An informational brochure and galvanizing public attendance at the Public Hearing is a top priority. Following the Public Hearing, the emphasis will be on demonstrating continued public support to State Officials. The brochure will include information on the need for the interchange and the differences between the “single-point interchange” and the enhanced “diamond” interchange.

The EDC held the Special Meeting to set priorities and decided that the logical priority is the completion of the interchange, with the immediate emphasis on the Public Hearing and follow-up support.

Lakeland Economic Development members include Board of Commission Liaison Randy Nicholson, EDC Chair Mark Lawrence, Melissa Smithmier, John Dudas, Municipal Planning Commission Liaison Kathleen Brasfield, Don Oliver, Connie Hess, Josh Roman and Pamela Womack.

The Economic Development Commission members are appointed by the Lakeland Board of Commissioners.

Join Neighborhood Watch efforts!

I am reprinting the item below from QNet since I feel this is an excellent method to raise awareness of and prevent crime in Lakeland.

Yahoo Groups is easy to use and is very effective. I urge all Lakeland residents to join this Yahoo Group and fight crime in Lakeland!

LAKELAND NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Brian S. Haines, Council of Lakeland Associations

The Council of Lakeland Associations (COLA) invites all Lakeland neighborhood leaders to join our interactive online forum by signing up at the following address:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lakelandcola/
Click the "Join This Group" button to apply for access and discover the quick and easy polls and discussion threads that are aimed at sharing knowledge, experience and encouragement for establishing and maintaining effective Neighborhood Watch programs in Lakeland. Please don't wait until you feel the sting of criminal activity in your neighborhood or home before you get involved. Take a proactive role in making Lakeland a less attractive place for criminals to operate. Together we can!

Recycle Bin Lids Available

The City is receiving approximately 100 lids for the recycle bids for testing by Lakeland residents. The lids are designed to "snap" onto the recycle bins and prevent recyclables from blowing and also keeps them dry in wet weather!

Lids are available at City Hall (10001 Highway 70) on a first-come basis. Persons who are unable to stop by City Hall should e-mail cityhall@Lakelandtn.org or call 867-2717 and leave your name and address and we will deliver a lid as long as they are available.

We will appreciate your comments on the lids after you have tested them before we decide to proceed with providing lids to all customers who recycle.

Lakeland Census-We Count on You!

Lakeland residents who have not yet responded to the 2008 Special Census are encouraged to respond to the census survey. Surveys are currently being mailed out to residents who have not responded.

Also, if you did not include all household members in the survey, please complete another survey listing all persons in your household. (We will simply use the new survey and delete the previous survey)

Residents who do not receive a form (especially new residents) or residents who need to complete another form to list all household members may obtain a form at www.Lakelandtn.gov, e-mailing CityHall@lakelandtn.org or calling City Hall at 867-2717.

We appreciate the high response rate of Lakeland residents and encourage residents who are not counted to respond to the survey and residents who may have submitted an incomplete survey to complete a survey. Every resident counts! For every resident counted, the City receives approximately $109 per year, which benefits all Lakeland residents.

Please call Debra or Anita at Lakeland City Hall if you have any questions or desire additional information.

May 7 Community Meeting HOLD THIS DATE!

The second Lakeland Community Meeting with Farr and Associates on the Lakeland development code rewrite is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 7, 2007 at the IH Clubhouse.
Hold this date! This will be an entertaining and informative meeting that you will enjoy!

J. Higbee, Lakeland Growth Management Director, advised that

The goal of this meeting is to gather community preferences for the types of development desired in Lakeland. The meeting will last about 2 1/2 hours and will focus on an image preference survey (IPS). During this activity, participants will view and rate photographs illustrating different development types. The images will include photographs from Lakeland, metro-Memphis, and communities from around the country. The results of the IPS will be compiled and used to help create zoning and subdivision standards that will guide future development in Lakeland.

Additional information will be provided in the near future, but mark this date on your calendar now and plan to attend this important meeting!

Connecting trail in IH Park under construction

Construction will start soon on a connecting trail between the main parking lot and the lake area at IH Park. The trail will start at the south side of the parking lot and end near the lake at IH Club.

The trail is designed to be accessible to persons with a disabilty and also willl provide a safe way to access the lake area of the park from the parking lot.

Call MLGW First!

During a recent meeting with Memphis Gas Light and Water (MLGW), it was noted that some property owners do not contact MLGW before contacting or starting development of property. If your property requires extensive work to hook up to electric, water or gas service (or if 3-phase service etc. is required), it may affect your development or even your purchasing decision.

Contact MLGW Residential Services before you make any major decisions! Call 528-4855 and ask for Chris Williams. If he is not available ask or leave a message for Wayne Ellis.

This call could save you a considerable amount of money!

Yard waste trucks added

Hunter Carruthers, with All Star Waste Service, recently advised he has added several yard waste trucks to handle the increased yard waste generated by the recent warm weather.

We appreciate All Star's response to this seasonal increase in yard waste.

Economic Development Commission meeting postponed

The Economic Development Commission scheduled for Thursday, March 22, 2007 will be rescheduled.

Lakeland's 30th Birthday!

Mayor Scott Carmichael recently noted that 2007 is the 30^th Birthday for Lakeland. Brenda Lockhart and other City staff are working on a 30^th Anniversary. Other organizations or individuals may wish to celebrate and participate in the City celebration.

Please contact Brenda or I if you have any suggestions!

Carol Pollard art display at Lakeland City Hall

Carol Pollard presents her art as the Art at City Hall artist. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and view a variety of her enjoyable art display.

She has a degree in Art and is a Charter Member of the Bartlett Art Association. Her art has been displayed in a variety of galleries and public areas and is now available for viewing at Lakeland City Hall!

We are enjoying her art daily at City Hall and appreciate her display and invite all residents to stop by and enjoy Carol Pollard’s art display.

Dogs: Please keep on lease and clean up after dogs!

Lakeland residents are reminded that dogs must be on a leash in public areas. The Lakeland Park and Recreation Board members recently have had complaints about dogs running loose in city parks. This is a danger to others, as well as a violation of park rules.

Also, persons walking dogs are reminded to clean up after the dog. This is a courtesy to others as well as necessary for health and sanitation reasons. Again, park rules require persons to clean up after dogs or other animals.

If necessary, the City will start giving citations to violators to emphasize the need to comply with these rules.

ATT Cable Bill-Oppose it!

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners adopted a Resolution urging Tennessee State Representatives and Senators to oppose the ATT Cable bill and I urge Lakeland residents (and any Tennessee citizen) to insist that this bill be defeated! I have enclosed a copy of the Resolution.

Remember, BellSouth is now part of ATT and BellSouth has refused to do ANYTHING to clear up the phone directory or number mess in Lakeland (they don't even RECOGNIZE Lakeland!).

This is the same company that advised that Lakeland residents could "write all the letter and call all they want", but BellSouth wouldn't do anything about providing a Lakeland phone book or clearing up the phone mess in Lakeland. They kept their word-they still can't find Lakeland or determine if a phone subscriber lives in Lakeland!

WRITE, CALL, E-MAIL OR FAX YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TO OPPOSE THIS BILL!

A RESOLUTION OF THE LAKELAND BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS URGING THATSB1933 / HB1421 THE “COMPETITIVE CABLE AND VIDEO SERVICES ACT” NOT BE ADOPTED BY THE TENNESSEE LEGISLATURE

WHEREAS, the U.S. Congress established procedures and standards in order to foster competition and encourage the growth and development of cable systems, assure that cable systems are responsive to the needs and interests of the local community, assure that cable companies provide and are encouraged to provide the widest possible diversity of services to all, and provide for the orderly renewal of cable television franchises; and

WHEREAS, the U.S. Congress, having determined that local governments are best suited to decide what is in the best interest of the citizens of their respective city, town or county, granted cable franchising authority to local governments; and

WHEREAS, municipalities across America have the legal right to enter into non-exclusive cable and video franchise agreements with cable and telephone companies; and

WHEREAS, municipalities welcome competition in the cable industry and stand ready to negotiate franchise agreements with cable and video operators in a timely fashion; and

WHEREAS, the “Competitive Cable and Video Service Act” is premised on the erroneous and unsubstantiated assertion that local governments and the local cable franchising process impedes competition among cable and video providers; and

WHEREAS, the existence of more than 600 cable franchise agreements that cable and telephone companies have entered into with local governments in Tennessee provides clear and convincing evidence that such assertions are baseless; and

WHEREAS, this legislation, under the guise of increased consumer access and choice, is simply an attempt by a corporate giant to bypass the local cable franchise process and unjustly gain advantages in its competitive fight with other cable and telephone companies that have duly and lawfully adhered to the congressionally authorized local cable and video franchising process and entered into more than 600 local cable franchise agreements with local governments in the state; and

WHEREAS, the local franchising process in Tennessee has benefited consumers and municipalities by ensuring that cable and video operators respond to local needs and interests; and

WHEREAS, these benefits include, but are not limited to, locally imposed and enforceable customer service standards; build out requirements that ensure cable operators serve the entire community; provision of public, educational and governmental (“PEG”) access channels; complimentary cable and Internet service to public buildings and community facilities; municipal management of the public rights-of-way; and franchise fee revenues for use of the public rights-of-way; and

WHEREAS, the Tennessee General Assembly is considering legislation that would effectively eliminate the process by which local governments establish and enforce requirements that protect its citizens and ensure that all residents are assured access to cable or video service; prohibit the state and local governments from enacting any consumer quality and service protection standards; greatly minimize local governments’ enforcement of customer service standards; significantly reduce PEG channel obligations, including local control and PEG support; abolish the granting of complimentary services; and limit local authority over the public rights-of-way; and reduce franchise fees paid to local governments for use of the public rights-of-way; and

WHEREAS, such legislation would radically alter the regulatory framework for cable operators that has been in place for decades, allow cable and video providers to “cherry pick” the most profitable neighborhoods and customers, and impede local governments’ ability to protect their citizens and provide for the needs and interests of their communities; and

WHEREAS, the affect of such legislation would undermine congressional intent regarding the provision of cable and video service; and

WHEREAS, the U.S. Congress considered and rejected similar legislation last year;

RESOLVED by the Lakeland Board of Commissionersthat the City of Lakeland hereby opposes the “Competitive Cable and Video Services Act” currently being considered by the Tennessee State Legislature and the United States Congress; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Lakeland will send this resolution to all the members of the 105^th Tennessee General Assembly, the Tennessee Congressional delegation, and the two U.S. Senators from Tennessee

No Burning without a Permit!

We have had several calls concerning burning debris, leaves and debris in Lakeland. We checked and found that NO BURNING is allowed in Shelby County (not just Lakeland) without a permit as noted below.

NO “agricultural burning” is allowed (this is how leaf burning is classified). Controlled burning is allowed by permit only from Shelby County Fire Department AND the Shelby County Health Department. This type of burning is the pit-type burning by developers.For burn permit, individuals should contact the Battalion Chief on duty at Shelby County Fire Department at 379-7072 and Allen Simpson from the Shelby County Health Department at 544-7303. Mr. Simpson said there are some exceptions to the “no agricultual burning” rules. He also indicated that cooking and ceremonial fires are permitted.

A copy of the Shelby County Fire Regulations will posted at www.Lakelandtn.gov in the near future.

Census 2007-Followup forms sent

The City has just sent a second mailing of Census forms to residents who have not yet returned a Census Form. If you have not received a Census Form, please download a form from www.lakelandtn.gov or call 867-2717. We can fill out a form over the phone or by E-mail (cityhall@lakelandtn.org).

If you have not sent a Census form, please send a form listing all residents of your household as soon as possible. You may also call City Hall at 867-2717 and provide the information over the phone or E-mail the information to cityhall@lakelandtn.org.

If you have sent in a form and did not include the names and addresses of all residents of your household, please send in a revised form or call/e-mail City Hall with the names of the additional residents.

This is extremely important to Lakeland residents since the City receives approximately $109 per year for EACH resident!

Please contact City Hall if you have any questions or desire additional information.

New Natural Resources Web Site on www.lakelandtn.gov

Www.Lakelandtn.gov now has a page dedicated to Natural Resources, including a link to the nationally acclaimed Lakeland Natural Resources Inventory, links to webpages of a variety of natural resources as well as local programs and events involving natural resources. (Click “natural resources” under the government tab.)

The site includes detailed information on a variety of topics and issues on natural resources, as well as a comprehensive list of webpages. An example of links is noted below. This site is one the most comprehensive sources of information on Natural Resources I have seen.

(Some links on the www.Lakelandtn.gov Natural Resources web page).

US Forest Service
- US Fish and Wildlife Service
- US Park Service
- TN Dept. of Environment & Conservation
- TN Wildlife Resources Agency
- TN Division of Forestry

· Other Agencies and Non-Profits
- National Arbor Day Foundation
- University Ag Extension (Forestry, Wildlife, Fisheries)
- International Society of Arboriculture
- Society of American Foresters
- TN Urban Forestry Council
- TN Native Plant Society

· Articles and Manuals
- TN Best Management Practices
- TN Exotic Invasive Plant Pest List

Congratulations to Natural Resources Technician Nick Bridgeman and Natural Resources Director Eric Bridges on this outstanding site!

Memphis area top 10 in pure water

According to an article in a national magazine, Memphis water ranks in the top ten as the most pure water of all metropolitan areas (the top 100 in population). Since Lakeland water is provided by Memphis Light Gas and Water, which serves most of the Memphis area, we have some of the most pure tap water that is available in the nation!

Town Hall Meeting Rescheduled

The Town Hall Meeting normally scheduled for the first Board of Commissioners meeting in April has been rescheduled to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20 at Lakeland City Hall. The meeting will begin with the initial Land Development Regulations and Design Guidelines presentation, which will include audience participation. An opportunity for general comments on any subject will follow the presentation.

The development of the Land Development Regulations and Design Guidelines is estimated to be an 18 month project and will significantly affect development in Lakeland. The new Regulations and Guidelines will basically implement the recently completed Comprehensive Plan.

Mayor Scott Carmichael, Vice-Mayor Stephanie Anderson and Commissioners Mark Hartz, Clark Plunk and Randy Nicholson encourage all Lakeland residents to attend this important meeting.

Soliciting Scam

All residents are reminded that commercial soliciting is not allowed in Lakeland. This includes all commercial salespersons who you have not invited to your home. (Religious groups are exempted, but still will have a City of Lakeland permit that they are authorized to solicit. Political campaigning is exempt.)

Report any violations to the Shelby County Sheriff at 901 379-7625 and to City Hall at 867-2717.

I was advised of the following letter which describes why the City of Lakeland adopted a "no commercial soliciting" policy:

I am a resident in (Lakeland Addition) meadows Subdivision. Many of you are probably aware that there have been several young people trying to sell magazine subscriptions door-to-door. Their "story" is that they are students of a local University and they are raising funds and looking for sponsors for one of their school programs, such as ROTC.

After thinking about it over night and reconsidering my purchase, I decided to do a little research on the Internet. I cannot stress enough - this is a total SCAM! I have attached only one of many articles about this company called Interstate Subscription Service, or ISS. They have also been reported to the Better Business Bureau. From what I have read, a large majority of the customers never receive their magazine order.
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/ripoff43048.htm These solicitors are not students, nor do they live nearby. They travel in groups from city to city, playing on innocent families to buy their magazines.

Yes, I was duped. I am now in the process of getting this canceled and my money back. On the back of the sales receipt you have the option to cancel within 3 days of purchase by filling it out and returning it (postmarked) by the deadline. I also called the company at (210) 340-0002 and was assured that my check would not be cashed and they would return it to me through the mail. According to the representative I spoke with, they DO NOT condone their sales representatives telling potential buyers anything other than the truth. If they are reported, they are fined on the 1st offense, suspended on the 2nd offense and terminated on the 3rd offense. I cannot verify whether or not that is true. We are a small community and we know most of our neighbors and their children. If your children are trying to raise money for a school fund-raiser or otherwise (sports, etc.), it is a wise idea to go with your children, even if you stand on the street and let them do the talking. Times have changed and it's dangerous out there. It's our responsibility to keep our children and neighbors safe. You don't always know who is living down the street.

Census 2007-ALL household names required

A high percentage of Special Census forms have been returned. We appreciate this quick response.

One problem we have noted is that many responses list the name of only one person. In some cases, we know there is more than one person in the household.

To be counted, each NAME must be listed! If you have already completed your Census response, I urge you to take either of the following actions:

-Call (867-2717) or E-mail City Hall and correct the form. We can look up your name and add the other names.

-Download a new Census Form 2007 from Lakelandtn.gov (or call City Hall to have one faxed or E-mailed) and complete it with the names of all members of the household.

Again, we emphasize that ALL NAMES of persons in the household must be list. Otherwise, the City loses approximately $109 per person not named! This is a yearly payment, so this is $109 per person, per year!

We will appreciate your assistance in helping us obtain a true count of Lakeland residents!

Lakeland City Hall E-mail

Due to a variety of computer equipment problems, the Lakeland City Hall E-mail has been out off and on since Tuesday, February 20. Today (Friday) we were advised they are working on the problems this weekend and we should not expect our normal E-mail service to resume until Monday, February 26.

If you E-mailed the City during this time and did not receive a response, please re-send your E-mail. I don't understand the techncial aspects, but persons sending an E-mail to xxx@lakelandtn.org should have received a rejection notice, but my test E-mails indicated a rejection notice is not being sent.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this creates.

City of Lakeland E-mail service out Tuesday, February 20

E-mail to the City of Lakeland on xxx@lakelandtn.org is disrupted due to the City server "motherboard" going out. The motherboard is being replaced, but we do not expect it to be replaced until Wednesday, February 21.

It is my understanding that all E-mail sent during this time will be received, but cannot be accessed until the server motherboard is replaced. Since City Hall cannot access the E-mail or Internet, responses to E-mails will be delayed. Since Monday, February 19 was a City Holiday, responses to E-mail from Friday, February 16 may be delayed.

We apologize for any inconvenience this problem has created. Please call City Hall if you need immediate assistance.

Sewer backup? Call the City first!

Lakeland sewer customers are urged to call City Hall first if you have a sewer backup (867-2717 during business hours or 867-8920 after hours and weekends).

City personnel will check to see where the blockage is. If the City sewer lines are ok, you will be advised to call a private company to clean out your sewer line.

If the problem is in the public sewer, the problem will be fixed at no charge. In addition to saving time, it also may save you money. If you call a private sewer cleaning company first, you may be charged even if the problem is in the public sewer.

In case of a sewer backup, call the City first!

Responsible Recycling

We encourage all residents to recycle as much as possible. One problem several residents have noted is trash flying out of recycle bins, which is counterproductive to recycling!

We are looking at possible solutions. Please practice “responsible recycling” and double check to insure that all materials to be recycled will not blow off.

As an example of how easy this can happen, my recycling schedule is usually early morning. The recycling truck had a damaged tire (Tuesday, February 6) and was about five hours late coming by. I was dismayed to note that several items had blown out and were in my back yard!

Please remember to double-check and make sure we don’t trash up our neighborhoods during our attempt to recycle!

Renaissance Group and Askew Hargraves Harcourt and Associates Offices-The type of quality development Lakeland needs!

Two outstanding-and opposite-excellent examples of the type of development the City of Lakeland promotes are the Renaissance Group, at 9700 Village Circle and Askew Hargraves Harcourt and Associates at the corner of Fletcher Trace and Davies Plantation Road.

Both firms offer architectural, engineering and other related services. Renaissance Group built a new building on Village Circle (east of Crackerbarrel). I had the privilege of touring the building and it is certainly an outstanding asset to Lakeland and the type of quality development needed in Lakeland.

Equally important, Askew Hargraves Harcourt and Associates (A2H) remodeled an existing building at Fletcher Trace and Davies Plantation. I believe the building was vacant for at least five years before A2H remodeled it for their officers. I recently had the pleasure of attending an art opening in the building and it is an outstanding example of re-use of an existing building and is also an excellent asset to Lakeland.

Our congratulations (and welcome!) to Askey Hargraves Harcourt and Associates and Renaissance Group for their confidence in the future of Lakeland and for their quality development. They are outstanding examples of the future of Lakeland “Where Quality of Life is a Way of Life”.

SHOP LAKELAND!

Recent area events and comments emphasize the importance of where Lakeland residents shop.

I have heard several comments about how nearby City residents “pay for the services” provided by that City. That is partially correct, but Lakeland residents (and other visitors) contribute a healthy amount when purchasing goods and services from businesses located in other Shelby County cities! Each City gets the sales taxes from the businesses located in their city, so Lakeland (and Shelby County) residents DO contribute a healthy amount of revenue to city services in other cities by the sales tax and user charges.

I encourage Lakeland residents to “shop Lakeland” whenever possible and keep your sales tax dollars working in Lakeland. While Lakeland businesses are still limited, retail will continue to develop. We continue to encourage “quality” commercial development in Lakeland. We do not feel the residents should sacrifice their quality of life for new commercial or residential development.

Lakeland has several excellent businesses, including (but not limited to) Crackerbarrel, Lennys, Zaxby’s , Kroger, Sonic, Howards Donuts, TWO Subways, Stonebridge Golf Course, the UPS Store, Auto Zone, Gateway Tire, Back Yard Burger, Walgreens, Tiger (and other) Cleaners, Hertz car rental, Enterprise Car Rental, Trustmark Bank, Club Windward, VF Stores, Old Time Pottery, and numerous others. This is only a small fraction of businesses in Lakeland.

You can fulfill a lot of your needs right here in Lakeland! (See www.Lakelandtn.gov for the list of all Lakeland businesses.)

As retail businesses develop, I encourage Lakeland residents to support new and existing retail businesses in Lakeland. If we demonstrate our support, this will only encourage additional businesses. Also, support the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, which is doing an excellent job of promoting Lakeland businesses. See www.LakelandChamberofCommerce.com for information and membership forms.

By developing Lakeland businesses, we can continue to strengthen our public services infrastructure to serve our residents and visitors to Lakeland, instead of subsidizing public services in other cities. We will appreciate you doing business in Lakeland!

Low-impact Adult Exercise program continued!

The Lakeland Parks and Recreation program of “low impact” Adult Exercise Program will continue until further notice at 5:30 p.m., Tuesdays at the Stonebridge Golf Course Clubhouse.

Class Instructor is Randy Kostiuk, a Lakeland resident interested in promoting community fitness. We appreciate Randy's instruction and the Stonebridge Golf Course for allowing the group to meet at the Clubhouse.

Call Brenda or Joy at 867-2717 or e-mail Brenda Lockhart at BLockhart@lakelandtn.org if you have any questions or desire additional information.

See you Tuesday!.

Return the Special Census form today!

Special Census forms have been mailed out to all Lakeland resdents. Please complete and return the form while you are thinking of it!

The Special Census is important to Lakeland for a number of reasons, including an additonal $109.60 per person from State Shared Taxes! Approximately 20% of these funds must be used for streets (either construction or improvement), so tangible results will result! The actual amount required to be spend on streets is based on the shared taxes coming from the gas tax. The reminder is spent on city services.

Please return the form as soon as it is received!

Low Impact Adult Exercise program 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 16, 23 and 30

The Lakeland Parks and Recreation program is offering a “low impact” Adult Exercise Program starting at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at the Stonebridge Golf Course Clubhouse.

For the first three weeks, the classes are FREE to determine the level of interest. Class Instructor is Randy Kostiuk, a Lakeland resident interested in promoting community fitness.

Call Brenda or Joy at 867-2717 or e-mail Brenda Lockhart at BLockhart@lakelandtn.org if you have any questions or desire additional information.

See you Tuesday!.

James Riley obtains CDL!

Congratulations to Maintenance Technician James Riley for qualifying for his Commercial Drivers License (CDL). James completed the requirements in a short time and it illustrates his dedication and initiative.

We appreciate City personnel who demonstrate the extra drive and initiative to provide the best services to your residents. Again, congratulations to James. We appreciate his outstanding work and ability and are pleased to have him on the Lakeland team!

CHRIS MASIN, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Chris Masin has resigned as Public Works Director after he accepted a position with Shelby County. We wish Chris well and appreciate his substantial contributions to Lakeland. He will be missed both professionally and personally.

Chris was hired to establish the first Geographic Information System (GIS) for Lakeland at a time when many people did not even realize what GIS is! Many decisions are based on this system established by Chris.

In 2001, Chris stepped in and “did whatever it took” to keep all operations of the City maintaining during a period of change. When I arrived, I was amazed when I realized how much and the variety of duties Chris had accomplished to keep everything running! He stepped in wherever he was needed and became the “go to” person to resolve problems and get things done.

In “Hurricane Elvis”, Chris was on the job supervising the cleanup and disposal of an enormous amount of limbs and debris.

Many times I would see Chris at all hours and days working to keep City services operational for our residents, or see the results of his work.

I think most of all, he was helpful and courteous to all, both other personnel and the public and he will be missed. We wish him the best in his new position. Fortunately, he will be close since he is still in Shelby County!

Lakeland to be in Lakeland Addresses!!!!

MLGW President Joseph Lee III has notified the City of Lakeland that "Lakeland" will be used in Lakeland addresses in the future. “Lakeland” instead of “Arlington” will be on Lakeland addresses when they release addresses to the U.S. Postal Service or private mailers instead of automatically using “Arlington” on all 38002 ZIP Codes. (MLGW supplies the addresses to the U.S. Postal Service for ZIP Code 38002.)

Until about two years ago, "Arlington" was the "default" city for ZIP Code 38002. The City requested that the both “Arlington” and “Lakeland” be appropriate cities for ZIP Code 38002 and the U.S. Postal Service granted the request. (If you put in 38002, you will occasionally have Lakeland come up instead of Arlington!)

MLGW has now changed their computer system to recognize Lakeland addresses as “Lakeland” rather than “Arlington”. Now your junk mail and bills will be addressed to “Lakeland” instead of Arlington!

This will also eliminate some of the problems created by the mis-identification of Lakeland residents and businesses as “Arlington”. I feel this is a major effort in our efforts to eventually gain our own identity with the U.S. Postal Service.

Now, if we can just get BellSouth to recognize that Lakeland exists….

We appreciate the efforts of Mr. Lee and the MLGW staff in accomplishing this change in their computer system. I encourage Lakeland residents to thank MLGW for their efforts to recognize the needs of Lakeland residents.

Comcast upgrade

Comcast cable will be working on their network management systems during the dates of January 10-27, 2007 between the hours of 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Although there may be some disruptions to service, Comcast is taking several steps to minimize any service interruptions, including customer service technicians standing by in case they need to make service calls and doing simulations to locate problem areas before they affect customers.

The result of the improvements is to allow more efficient coordination and management of everything from telephone traffic to scheduling installations, service and repair and responding to customer inquiries. It also will all other Comcast call centers to assist in case of a catastrophic event (such as Hurricane Elvis in the summer of 2003).

HIghway 64 in Lakeland

Speeding on Highway 64 and left-turn protection signals on Highway 64 is another transportation problem for Lakeland residents.

I personally am very familiar with the speeding problems on Highway 64 since I confront them daily (as I do the Canada Road/I-40 Interchange and Highway 70/Canada Road intersection).

Highway 64 itself is either in the Shelby County or the City of Memphis so our options are limited to jawboning. We are fortunate that both the Shelby County Sheriff Deputies and City of Memphis Officers regularly work Highway 64 to keep speeding controlled.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has agreed to lower the 55 mph speed limit to 45 mph in the area of Fletcher Trace and Highway 64 (I haven’t received a letter detailing the exact limits), but we don’t have a schedule of when this will effective.

We receive many complaints (and I personally have seen some major accidents) at the unprotected left turn from Highway 64 to Davies Plantation, but the City of Memphis is responsible for this light. We have contacted the City of Memphis on this and have been advised this is being reviewed for a left turn signal but it is uncertain if a left turn signal is justified in accordance with City of Memphis standards.

Special Census of Lakeland residents coming

Lakeland residents will receive a Special Census form within the next two weeks. We are requesting that Census forms be returned as soon as possible to avoid losing an estimated $150,000 to $200,000 in state shared taxes EACH YEAR.

Lakeland residents can help by returning the form as soon as possible. A self-addressed stamped envelopment will be included with each Census form.

Tennessee cities receive an estimated $109.60 per person to provide services to residents. A portion of this must be used for street improvements or maintenance and the remainder is part of the General Fund budget that provides services to residents. The current official population of Lakeland is 8,011. We estimate that since the last census, at least another 1,500 residents have moved to Lakeland. Even this conservative estimate, the Special Census is expected be bring in over $150,000.

To emphasize the importance of the individual residents responding to the Special Census, consider that every 10 residents responding to the Special Census means over $1,100 per month for City services!

After the Census forms are sent out next week, Census forms will be placed for download at www.lakelandtn.gov if you misplace your census form.

Residents with questions may contact Debra Murrell at the City of Lakeland, 867-2717, e-mail DMurrell@lakelandtn.org.

You are important! Please return the Census form as soon as possible

Fletcher Trace construction resumes Monday, January 8

Fletcher Trace construction will resume (weather permitting) on Monday, January 8, 2007. Construction crews will be “milling” the street in preparation for the new asphalt surfacing. Depending on weather and subsurface conditions, the process is expected to take two weeks.

Residents are asked to observe the “no parking” notices so that the project can proceed as fast as possible.

Motorists are encouraged to avoid Fletcher Trace if possible. If traveling on Fletcher Trace, watch for construction and rough work surfaces and use extreme caution.

New Canada Road from I-40 to Highway 70, including a possible partnership with Shelby County and TDOT on a “context sensitive design” of the road.

New Canada Road has been planned since the early 1990’s in Lakeland. New Canada Road will include a new route west of the exisiting Canada Road. The exact route is currently being determined.

Shelby County Mayor Wharton proposed a Shelby County/City of Lakeland Partnership to develop New Canada Road in a “Context Sensitive” design.

New Canada Road will be partially funded by federal funding. Estimated completed date is:

-Final alignment of New Canada Road: 2007

-Road Design (construction plans): Started either in 2007 or 2008

-Acquisition of easement etc. (2008)

-Construction of road: Construction schedule depends on the road design and the acquisition of easement.

STATUS: Design funding has been approved.

Transportation Project: Construction of Beverle Revira Drive from Canada Road to Huff & Puff/Seed Tick

This project includes the extension of Beverle Revira Drive (the street in front of the Fire Station) to connect with Huff & Puff/Seed Tick Road. This will provide a better connection especially for residents along Seed Tick Road and will substantially improve safety.

Traffic Signals will be installed at the Beverle Revira Drive/Canada Road intersection as soon as possible.

STATUS: Construction Plans for Beverle Revira are complete. Currently obtaining roadway easement. This project is totally funded by the City of Lakeland.

Estimated construction date is in 2007.

The traffic signal schedule is currently unknown and will depend on when the road construction is completed and availabilty of funding.

Transportation Project: Highway 70 safety, speed limits and Canada Road intersection

Highway 70 has been a continual safety concern, due to speed and especially sight limitations Of special concern is the Highway 70/Canada Road intersection.

STATUS:

Board of Commissioners is considering a Resolution to TDOT to reduce the speed limit.

Board of Commissioners have requested a “safety study” for all of Highway 70 in the Lakeland City limits to determine solutions to the sight limitations and problem intersections along Highway 70.

This request is currently under review by TDOT.

Transportation Project: I-269 (will follow current route of Highway 385)

To provide background information on possible projects that may be discussed, I am writing this series on transportation projects underway, planned, anticipated or even rumored! The State and County officials will have the latest available information. Many levels of approvals are involved in each project. A project could have the City, Shelby County, metro planning organization, state and federal government involved in just that one project, so the process is complicated and can take time.

I will also include latest information (to the best of my knowledge) on the status of the project and what agency needs to make a decision before the next step in the project process.

The project involves changing Highway 385 to I-269. I-69 is projected to be by the Mississippi River an I-269 will follow the present and projected Highway 385.

I am not really familiar with this project, so if you have questions, this is a good meeting to ask the top TDOT officials on the status of the project and what is planned.

(The current Lakeland Transportation Plan projects Chambers Chapel to be extended accross the Loosahatchie River to connect with I-269. This project is well in the future.)

Transportation project: Noise barriers on I-40

To provide background information on possible projects that may be discussed, I am writing this series on transportation projects underway, planned, anticipated or even rumored! The State and County officials will have the latest available information. Many levels of approvals are involved in each project. A project could have the City, Shelby County, metro planning organization, state and federal government involved in just that one project, so the process is complicated and can take time.

I will also include latest information (to the best of my knowledge) on the status of the project and what agency needs to make a decision before the next step in the project process.

Transportation project: Noise barriers on I-40

We get a lot of comments and questions on when there may be noise barriers installed on Interstate 40.

Our best answer on this is it is our understanding when I-40 is widened through Lakeland, noise barriers are installed under certain conditions.

STATUS: No action planned. When I-40 is widened, TDOT will be contacted to consider noise barriers as a part of the project.

The Lakeland Chamber meeting is a good time to ask this question is you are interested in this project. I’m sure anyone who lives close to I-40 is very interested in this project!

Transportation Project: Temporary Traffic Signals at I-40/Canada Road

From 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2007, the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce will host top Tennessee Department of Transportation, Shelby County and City of Lakeland officials at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce “Kick Off” meeting.

To provide background information on possible projects that may be discussed, I am writing this series on transportation projects underway, planned, anticipated or even rumored! The State and County officials will have the latest available information. Many levels of approvals are involved in each project. A project could have the City, Shelby County, metro planning organization, state and federal government involved in just that one project, so the process is complicated and can take time.

I will also include latest information (and to the best of my knowledge) on the status of the project and what agency needs to make a decision before the next step in the project process.

This project is to install temporary traffic signals at I-40/Canada Road to eliminate the stop signs and improve traffic flow.

This project is expected to be bid in January or February of 2007, with construction in the summer of 2007.

STATUS: Shelby County is administering this project. Shelby County will bid the project as the next step in this project.

Transportation Project I-40/Canada Road Interchange

From 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2007, the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce will host top Tennessee Department of Transportation, Shelby County and City of Lakeland officials at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce “Kick Off” meeting.

To provide background information on possible projects that may be discussed, I am writing this series on transportation projects underway, planned, anticipated or even rumored! The State and County officials will have the latest available information. Many levels of approvals are involved in each project. A project could have the City, Shelby County, metro planning organization, state and federal government involved in just that one project, so the process is complicated and can take time.

I will also include latest information (and to the best of my knonwledge) on the status of the project and what agency needs to make a decison before the next step in the project process.

The I-40/Canada Road Interchange effort has been underway for some time. Currently the project is in the design stage.

The final plan of the proposed interchange project is still under review although we expect an answer in the very near future. Either a “diamond” interchange (similar to the Appling/I-40 interchange) or a “single point” (similar to the Germantown Road/Walnut Creek interchange except that the light would be on top rather than on the bottom) is planned.

The City is requesting that the State include funds for right-of-way acquisition in the next fiscal year budget with funds for actual construction in the next fiscal year budget. Anticipated completion, at the very earliest, is 2009.

STATUS: Waiting on Tennessee Department of Transportation to make the decision of whether the Interchange is to be a "diamond interchange" or a "single point" interchange.

Paul Degges information

This is information on Paul Degges, TDOT Chief Engineer, who is scheduled to appear at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Kick Off meeting at 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2007 at the Oakwood Clubhouse.

As I noted previously, Mr. Degges is highly respected and has been very responsive to requests for information etc. by the City of Lakeland

I think Lakeland residents will enjoy meeting and hearing Ed Cole, Paul Degges, and Michael Oakes and urge all area residents and businesses to attend.


Paul D. Degges, P.E.
Chief Engineer
Tennessee Department of Transportation


The mission of TDOT is to plan, implement, maintain and manage an integrated transportation system for the movement of people and products, with emphasis on quality, safety, efficiency and the environment.

As Chief Engineer, Paul Degges oversees the design and implementation of all of TDOT’s engineering projects. Each year TDOT lets several $100 million in projects to contractors. In addition to this responsibility, Paul manages the activities of 10 divisions and 4 regional offices.

Paul received his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Tennessee Technological University and is a licensed engineer. Beginning his career with TDOT in 1988, Paul has worked within several disciplines including field construction, roadway design, information systems, hydraulic design and structures. Paul has served in many roles including Assistant Director of Construction, Director of Region 3 (Nashville), and as Transportation Administrator, which supports the Chief Engineer.

With 18 years of experience, Paul is the youngest individual to serve as Chief Engineer for TDOT. Paul and his wife, Saundra, have two children.

Ed Cole information

This is information on Ed Cole, Tennessee Department of Transportation Chief of Enviornment and Planning. Mr. Cole is scheduled to appear at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Kick Off meeting at 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2007 at the Oakwood Clubhouse.

As I noted previously, Mr. Cole is highly respected and has been very responsive to requests for information etc. by the City of Lakeland

I think Lakeland residents will enjoy meeting and hearing Ed Cole, Paul Degges, and Michael Oakes and urge all area residents and businesses to attend.

Edward H. Cole

Chief of Environment and Planning
Tennessee Department of Transportation

Before his appointment by Commissioner Gerald F. Nicely to become the Chief of Environment and Planning for the Department of Transportation, Edward H. Cole served as Executive Director of Cumberland Region Tomorrow. A ten-county regional planning organization, this agency was responsible for development of a regional vision for land-use, transportation, historic site, social service and other factors that influence regional development in the Nashville area. Prior to that service he was senior principal for American Management Systems, a Fairfax, Virginia company.
Cole’s experience in state government totals 16 years. He functioned as deputy commissioner in the Department of Environment and Conservation and briefly served as interim commissioner in that department. He also had a stint as Chief of Finance and Information for the agency. His other involvement in Tennessee state government includes positions in information services in the Department of Children’s Services and the Tennessee Department of Health and Environment. He also worked briefly as an information systems consultant for the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet of the state of Kentucky.

A former employee of the Metropolitan Government in Nashville, Cole was an assistant to the executive director of MDHA from 1981 to 1983 and an environmental analyst for the Metropolitan Planning Commission and the Metropolitan Health Department from 1978 to 1981. Cole has also taught planning and political science courses at the university level and was a visiting lecturer in government at the University of Sydney, Australia from 1970-72.

A 1965 graduate in political science from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon, Cole has an MS in Planning from the University of Tennessee and an MA in political science from the University of Florida.

Cole has served on many boards and commissions during his career including the Environmental Council of States, the Tennessee Public Health Association, the National Advisory Committee on Environmental Policy and Technology, the EPA Executive Steering Committee, the National Association of Information Systems Resource Executives, the Dede Wallace Mental Health Center, and the Hillsboro-West End Neighborhood Association.

Cole and his wife Pat live in Nashville where he enjoys bicycling, boating, traveling and volunteer work.

Plan to attend the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce meeting-January 11, 2007

Top State, County and City transportation officials will be available to Lakeland and area residents at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce After Hours Kickoff at 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 11, 2007. The meeting will at the Oakwood Clubhouse, 10133 Matwood Oak Drive, Lakeland, Tennessee.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) State Chief Engineer Paul Degges and Ed Cole, the Chief of Environment and Planning for the Tennessee Department of Transportation, Shelby County County Engineer Michael Oakes and Lakeland personnel will be present to answer questions and discuss transportation for the Lakeland and Shelby County area.

Shelby County, and County Engineer Michael Oakes have been instrumental in improving transportation in Lakeland, including a partnership on Canada Road from I-40 to Highway 64 and a planned partnership on New Canada Road from I-40 to Highway 70 with emphasis on a “context sensitive design”.

Detailed information on Paul Degges and Ed Cole will follow in separate blog entries, but both are highly respected and have been very helpful and responsive to the City of Lakeland and we are very pleased to have Mr. Degges, Mr. Cole and Mr. Oakes at one meeting and available to Lakeland residents.

Residents with questions on transportation are encouraged to attend this meeting. Pending or anticipated long-term and short-term projects in the Lakeland area include:

-I-40/Canada Road interchange upgrade

-I-40/Canada Road temporary traffic signals (to be installed in 2007)

-The proposed I-269 (proposed for the existing 385 route)

-Highway 70 safety, including speed limits, bike lanes and the intersection of Highway 70 and Canada Road

-Highway 64 speed limits and safety; the construction of New Canada Road

-Sound barriers on I-40 from approximately the MLGW water tower to Chambers Chapel Road (not planned at this time, but could be included as part of any future expansion of I-40)

-the construction of Beverle Revira Drive to connect Canada Road with Huff & Puff/Seed Tick

-the re-striping of Canada Road from approximately Green Spruce to I-40 and widening (providing additional turn lane) on Canada Road from Davies Plantation/Beverle Revira Drive to I-40

-New Canada Road from I-40 to Highway 70, including a possible partnership with Shelby County and TDOT on a “context sensitive design” of the road.

-Bike lanes and other future transportation projects.

Future entries will include discussion of these future or anticipated projects in more detail.

All Lakeland and area residents and business owners and managers are especially urged to attend this Lakeland Chamber of Commerce meeting. Transportation is essential to the survival of existing businesses and the future development of commercial businesses. Transportation is also especially important to Lakeland residents, and residential developers and builders.

Detailed information on the meeting is available at www. LakelandChamberofCommerce.com.

Fletcher Trace Construction Schedule

Construction on Fletcher Trace is expected to resume shortly after January 3, 2007, depending on the weather. Major work remaining includes “milling” (removal of some of the old asphalt) and new asphalt.

For safety reasons, the work was postponed over the holidays. Asphalt plants shut down over the holidays and we did not want to create any safety hazards. Milling leaves the street rough and weather conditions could have created major safety problems if asphalt could not be laid after the street is milled either due to weather conditions or the asphalt plants being closed.

The Work is expected to take approximately two weeks after it is restarted. Please use extra caution when using Fletcher Trace during this construction.

Karen Jarrett, City Engineer

Karen Jarrett has resigned as City Engineer after she accepted a similar position with another City. We wish Karen well and appreciate her substantial contributions to Lakeland. She will be missed both professionally and personally.

Karen is the first full-time City Engineer for the City of Lakeland. She established procedures and standards for engineering and development that provide a high standard for development in Lakeland, benefiting both current and future residents. I think she found talents in herself she didn’t realized she had as she grew professionally in her position at Lakeland.

Karen is moving to another position, but her time at Lakeland will continue to benefit Lakeland. She will be missed.

The City is currently interviewing applicants for City Engineer and expects to offer the position to an applicant for City Engineer in the near future. Of course, the time will depend on the applicants and whether the applicant accepts the offer. Applications are being accepted until the position is filled.

Holiday Schedule Changes

-Week of December 24-December 30 and December 31-January 6, 2007:

-Trash pickup will be delayed one day (Monday picked on Tuesday, Tuesday picked up on Wednesday, Wednesday picked up on Thursday, Thursday picked up on Friday, Friday picked up on Saturday)

-Recycling will be picked up on WEDNESDAY rather on Tuesday of each week.

-City Hall will be closed Monday, December 25 and Tuesday, December 26. City Hall will also be closed Monday, January 1.

Bobbi Cornett-Art in City Hall Artist

Just in time for Christmas, Bobbi Cornett is the Artist for the Art in City Hall exhibit. Continuing the 2006 tradition of outstanding art by Lakeland artists, Bobbi Cornett's art is brightening the walls of City Hall!

Stop by and view her art! It will make you forget about the cold weather! The public is welcome to view the art at any time City Hall is open. Persons wishing to purchase art may contact the artist directly.

Thanks to applicants for Lakeland Boards and Commissions!

The Mayor and Commissioners appreciate the strong interest demonstrated by Lakeland residents in applying for positions up for appointment on the Lakeland Boards and Commissions.

Making the appointments was very difficult due to the high quality and the number of applications for the positions up for appointment/reappointment. It was even more difficult because many of the persons currently serving are doing an outstanding job and applied to continue on the Board or Commission they are currently serving on.

The City received over twenty-two applications for the eleven positions that were open for reappointment or appointment.

The Mayor and Commissioners urge all persons not appointed to continue to apply as positions become open. All positions are advertised prior to an appointment to the opening and the Board of Commissioners is pleased at the interest demonstrated by Lakeland residents.

Please do not be discouraged if you were not appointed. The City needs interested and motivated residents to serve on the Boards and Commissions!

ALERT-Curb address painter solicitor

On Tuesday, December 5, we received seveal complaints about an illegal solicition to paint addresses on the curb.

The vendor does not have a license and their notice did not list any address, phone number or any contact point.

We have notified the Shelby County Sheriff Department and encourage citizens not to buy from "door to door" businesses, since this is illegal in Lakeland and purchasing from them only encourages illegal behavior.

The Notice reads as follows. The copy I have was on a red piece of paper:

**NEIGHBORHOOD ADDRESS PROGRAM**

REFLECTIVE ADDRESS NUMBERS ARE BEING PIANTED ON THE CURB

Your Street will be worked on starting tomorrow. We are trying to install individual house numbers straight down the street, so in case of an emergency, especially at night, your home can be found a lot easier by ambulances, patrol cars, fire departments, cabs, repair and delivery persons. Statistics show that 75% of our homes are inadequately numbered for night use, and that’s hen these numbers really stand out.

We are doing something different. Instead of just painting numbers on the curb, we first put down a Midnight Black background, then apply large 4” white Night Vision numbers on top of he black background. This system is very attractive, extremely durable, and the numbers show up at night like street and interstate signs brilliantly reflective.

The cost of this professionally installed service is only $5.00 cash or check. A courteous representative will collect after the Reflective numbers have been installed. If not at home payment instructions will be left.

Thank you.

To be include…Print your house number on the back of this notice and put it on the inside olf a window so it can be seen from the street. We will not install you address numbers unless this slip is in the window.

***Endorsed by CRIMEWATCH AMERICAN**

Can 900 quickly find your address when every second counts

If you have any information on this, please call City Hall (867-2717) or the Shelby County Sheriff at 379-7625. If you have purchased this service, please advise City Hall of the name and number so we can contact them.

Sign Ordinance Public Input Meeting 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 13

Residents and business representatives are encouraged to attend a Public Input meeting on the Lakeland Sign Ordinance at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, December 13. The meeting is at Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70

The Lakeland Sign has been reviewing the Sign Ordinance and wants YOUR input on the Lakeland Sign Ordinance and especially the proposed revisions to the Lakeland Sign Ordinance Committee

Persons interested in attending should contact Jim Atkinson at 867-2717. While an RSVP is not necessary to attend, it will be beneficial to know approximately how many plan on attending.

I urge all residents and business representatives to attend this important meeting.
The Sign Committee will propose amendments to the Lakeland Board of Commissioners. The BOC will hold, at a meeting a first reading, a public hearing and a final reading before the changes are enacted.

Highway 70 and Canada Road intersection-TDOT recommends 4-way stop/signalization

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) recently studied the Highway 70 and Canada Road intersection and recommended a 4-way stop in the immediate future and traffic signals when possible.

This recommendation is on the Lakeland Board of Commissioners Work Session agenda on Monday, November 27, 2006 for discussion with possible action at the Tuesday, December 4, 2006 Regular Meeting. The Lakeland Board of Commissioners meet at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 10001 Highway 70.

The TDOT letter notes that traffic signals are recommended, but only with left turn lanes on Highway 70. The recommendation states this would be an “expensive and lengthy process”.

A 4-way stop, including the conversion of the existing flashing light, stop signs and flashing warning signs of the stop ahead is recommended in the immediate future, while the City prepares plans for signals and searches for funding for signalization. I understand from the TDOT letter that funds are available to assist in a four-way stop in the immediate future.

The Canada Road alignment is being finalized from I-40 to Highway 70 within the next year. The City is currently waiting for funding for the necessary engineering study. We expect this funding in the immediate future.

Natural Resource Inventory meetings

The adoption of the Natural Resource Inventory includes a series of meetings in addition to the Public Input meetings. The schedule includes:

-Tuesday, November 21, 2006: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.: Public Input Meeting, Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70

-Saturday, December 2, 2006: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.: Public Input Meeting, Lakeland Mall (after Christmas Parade)

-Tuesday, December 5, 2006: 6:30 p.m., Lakeland Board of Commissioners. The Natural Resource Inventory will be presented to the Lakeland Board of Commissioners for information.

-Monday, December 11, 2006: 6:30 p.m., Lakeland Park/Natural Resource Board. The Natural Resource Inventory will be presented to teh Lakeland Park Board/Natural Resources Board for recommendation.

-Monday, December 18, 2006: 6:30 p.m. Lakeland Municipal Planning Commission. The Natural Resources Inventory will be presented to the Municipal Planning Commissoin for action.

All meetings are open to the public. All interested persons are invited to attend.

Refuse Collection changes Thanksgiving Week

Refuse collection schedule for the week of November 20-25 (Thanksgiving week) is:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday routes will be picked up on their normal schedule.

Thursday routes will be picked up Friday, November 24.

Friday routes will be picked up Saturday, November 25.

Natural Resource Inventory Public Input Meetings

Public input meetings on the Natural Resource Inventory are scheduled for:

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70; and

12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturday, December 2, 2009 at the Lakeland Mall (site of the end of the Christmas Parade) The meeting will be inside the mall.

All interested persons are encouraged to attend. There will be a short presentation of the Natural Resources Inventory followed by a comment and question time.

Natural Resource Technician Nick Bridgeman developed the Inventory and this is the assessment stage of the process with the ultimate goal of conservation of Lakeland natural resources.

The Future

I just realized today, 20 years ago (Veterans Day) I purchased my first “real” (IBM Compatible) computer. It didn’t have a hard drive (the store told me I wouldn’t need one for awhile!), and I thought I was up to date on technology! (I had had several Commodores, a VIC 16 and a Commodore 64). I actually used it for at least 6 years when I jumped at least two generations of computers.

I had no idea of the tremendous changes yet to come. I believe cell phones had just come out and were still a novelty, Blackberry’s, GIS,digital cameras, digital music, GPS navigationsystems and similar items were still to come. Lakeland was just 9 years old as an incorporated city.

I can remember in the late nineties I went to a conference where a speaker observed that it was possible to build and operate a plane that would be completely computer operated form take-off to landing and it was feasible for small “computer” airplanes. This hasn’t happened yet and I don’t foresee it in the future. Also, when I was about ten years old, I remember seeing an ad with a car with the passengers playing cards etc. with the car controlled automatically. I never thought that in 2006 we would be driving cars the “same old way”!

Technology has completely changed the way cities operate, yet we still do many things, mow grass, fix streets, drive cars etc. basically the same way. In other areas, including communication, we would never have imagined the future of 2006 back in 1986.

The Board of Commissioners, Lakeland Boards and Commissions and city staff are always preparing for the future, especially now in our period of rapid growth. When we look back from 2026, I expect there will be many concepts we can’t even imagine now but we do our best to prepar for the future. Every structure, street and residential or commercial addition built today (and trees and natural resources saved) will impact our future and the BOC, Lakeland Boards and Commissions and city staff have the difficult task of forecasting and preparing for the future.

The City will soon be announcing the dates for Public Input Meetings on the Natural Resources Inventory. The Assistant Natural Resources Director Nick Bridgement and Natural Resources Director Eric Bridges have completed an AMAZING amount of work on this. I encourage all residents to attend one or both of the meetings to provide input. The Natural Resources Inventory will also be reviewed at Board of Commissioner and Municipal Planning Commissions meetings.

The Natural Resources Inventory, along with the Comprehensive Plan, Code revisions and a Park and Recreation Plan are only a few of the tools the City of Lakeland uses to forecast and prepare for the future. We especially value the comments, suggestions and input from Lakeland residents as we prepare the Lakeland community for future generations. (Times and dates for the Natural Resources Inventory public comment meetings will be announced in the near future.)

Help-Ok signs now available.

“Help-OK” placards are available immediately from Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70, Lakeland, Tennessee or at Lakeland Fire Station # 1 on Beverle Revira Drive. We are also providing placards for Home Owners Associations, Neighborhood Associations and other groups to distribute to individual dwelling units.

Placards have two sides a “Help” side and an “OK” side. Rescue workers can quickly determine if a resident is ok or needs help. This will substantially increase rescue operations and all residents are encouraged to participate in this program.

The Placards are not just for an emergency. They also provide useful information on an item you need to keep in easy reach in the event of an emergency. The Placards are the color “red” on one side (the “needs help” side) and the color “green” on one side (the “ok” side). In addition to providing assistance in an emergency, the Placards also contain useful information on emergency preparedness, helpful numbers, and information on the type of emergencies in Shelby County and what to do for each one.

I feel these are excellent tools for an emergency and I encourage all residents to get a placard and, more important, know where you put it.

The Placard is prepared by the Memphis/Shelby County Emergency Management Agency.

Remember to get your “Help-Ok” placard now

Trash pickup is on normal schedule this week

The Vetereans Day holiday will not affect the trash pickup schedule. Residents with scheduled Friday collections will be picked up on Friday.

Wyatt Bunker speaks thisThursday in Lakeland

Shelby County Commissioner Wyatt Bunker is the featured speaker for the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Meeting at11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. this Thursday, November 10, 2006 at the the Oakwood Clubhouse. The scheduled speaker, Shelby County Commissioner Joyce Avery, will be unable to attend due to having to attend funeral services Thursday.

If you haven’t met Commissioner Bunker, come out and meet him! If you have met him, stop by and visit with him!

This is an excellent opportunity for Lakeland and Shelby County residents to hear and visit with one of our elected representatives in Shelby County government.

Additional information is available at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce site www.LakelandChamberofCommerce.com..

Schedule Changes for November and December

Closings and changes in schedules for meetings and for City Hall for November and December are:

-Friday, November 10, 2006: Veterans Day (observed): City Hall closed

-Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24, 2006: (Thanksgiving, Day after Thanks giving): City Hall closed

-Thursday, November 30, 2006: Economic Development Commission meeting changed from Thursday, November 23 to Thursday, November 30)

-Tuesday, December 5, 2006: December Board of Commissioners Regular December meeting changed to Tuesday, December 5 (from Thursday, December 7)

-Tuesday, December 19, 2006: December Board of Commissioners Work Session (for January, 2007 meeting) changed to Tuesday, December 19, 2006 (from Monday, December 25, 2006)

-Monday, December 25, 2006 and Tuesday, December 26, 2006: Christmas Day and Christmas Eve (observed): City Hall closed

-Economic Development Commission meeting is cancelled for December, unless it is rescheduled a the November meeting

A City Calendar is available at www.lakelandtn.org and is updated when changes are made.
-

It's Lakeland, Tennessee!

A resident recently advised me of a mixup because of a Lakeland store using an “Arlington” address rather than the correct “Lakeland” address.

There was a special event at the store and apparently several residents saw the “Arlington” address and went to the Arlington store and missed the event.

The Economic Development Commission recently discussed this at the October meeting and resulting action hopefully will lead to a resolution of the reason why so many Lakeland businesses and residents are assigned “Arlington” addresses.

Also, the City staff is sending flyers to all Lakeland based businesses suggesting they make sure their residents can find them by using “Lakeland, Tennessee” in their address!