Tree Ordinance impact on Homeowners

The Lakeland Tree Ordinance is a vital part of the Lakeland strategy to manage our natural resources so future generations can enjoy them.

An important aspect of the Tree Ordinance is the cooperation of individual homeowners in managing our trees.

Eric Bridges and Nick Bridgeman prepared the following article to help explain how the Tree Ordinance impacts individual homeowners. As noted in the article, www.lakelandtn.gov has a section on trees for additional information, or contact the Lakeland Natural Resources Department at 867-2717.

CITY OF LAKELAND

Natural Resources Department

This article will provide the citizens of Lakeland with a better understanding of how the tree ordinance affects residential homeowners. This is not the entire ordinance and does not address issues such as tree removal permits for building and development activities. For a full understanding of the intent and scope of the ordinance please visit http://www.lakelandtn.gov/pdfs/ord/LAKELAND13Ch4.pdf or come by City Hall and request a copy of the LTMO (costs $10). The following are some brief excerpts from the LTMO that affect all homeowners in Lakeland.

SECTION 13-401 PURPOSE

(1) Trees are a part of our heritage and our future, and that they are an essential part of the quality of life within our city.

The purpose and intent of this ordinance to provide a mechanism for the management of trees and other woody vegetation within the city.

SECTION 13-403.1 REGULATED ACTIVITIES (partial list)

(6) Any activity requiring issuance of a land disturbance permit (regardless of previous approvals on or current use of the land).

(8) Any activity requiring site plan approval, including but not limited to, pool permit requests, fence permit requests, and accessory structure permit requests.

(12) Removal of specimen tree(s) for any reason not listed in Section 13-403.2 Exemptions.

SECTION 13-403.2 EXEMPTIONS

(1) The following activities shall be exempt from the provisions of this Ordinance:

a. The removal of trees, other than specimen trees, from an owner occupied, single family or duplex lot of record where none of the above conditions (13-403.1) apply.

f. The removal of any tree which has become or threatens to become a danger to human life or property, as determined by an International Society of Arboriculture

Certified Arborist, or an American Society of Consulting Arborists – Registered Consulting Arborist.

(2) Notwithstanding the foregoing, all reasonable efforts shall be made to save specimen trees. Reasonable efforts shall include, but not be limited to, alteration of building design; alternate location of building, parking area, water retention, drainage pipes; or relocation of utilities.

What is a Specimen Tree? Specimen trees have a size requirement and a health requirement. The sizes are 20” dbh (diameter at 4.5 feet above ground) for hardwoods, 25” dbh for softwoods; and 4” dbh for small-statured trees. The tree must be free from disease or damage that would shorten the life-expectancy of the tree and must be structurally sound. Rare, endangered, or historically significant trees can also be considered specimen trees.

PERMIT REQUIRED!

The residential homeowner must receive a permit before removing a specimen tree (as defined by the ordinance) for any reason. This could mean that the homeowner wishes to install a pool or shed or new driveway, etc. The Natural Resources Department will work with you to ensure that all reasonable efforts are made to keep the specimen tree. If, after exhaustion of these efforts, the tree cannot be kept, you will typically be issued a tree removal permit. However, there are a few instances when the Natural Resources Department cannot issue the permit such as when there are reasonable efforts that have not been made, if a severe erosion problem would result from the tree removal, or if the request is simply based on “nuisance.” These types of requests would need to be determined by a higher board rather than staff.

If you have a question about whether or not you need a tree removal permit, you may call the Natural Resources Department before you begin work and we will meet with you to determine if a permit is required. However, City staff cannot perform hazard tree evaluations (or sick tree calls). That should be left to an ISA Certified Arborist®. But remember, that in order for a tree to be considered a specimen, it must be in good health. On a side note, residents should be wary of unsolicited diagnoses from a “tree care” company. There have been recent occurrences where these companies have told the resident that their trees were unhealthy and needed to be removed when, in fact, the trees were perfectly healthy. Please remember that not only is door to door solicitation illegal in the City of Lakeland, but that not all “tree experts” or companies are ethical in their pursuit of business. Again, play it safe and hire a Certified Arborist® when having your tree evaluated. Certified Arborists are required to follow a strict code of ethics.

While many of the tree removal inquiries we receive do not need a permit, it is much better to check first than to be faced with the penalty from an illegal tree removal. Although we seldom have to use it, the City does have a mitigation component that can be required for the malicious removal of or damage to specimen trees. The bottom line is that we work with homeowners to the best of our ability to try and keep specimen trees which are such a part of our community character and the reason many of us live here.

Lakeland Wastewater Treatment Plant

The new/expanded Lakeland Wastewater Treatment Plant is expected to open in mid-November. The plant will significantly expand the ability of the Lakeland Sewer System to treat wastewater and will significantly increase the quality of the water discharged to the Loosahatchie River.

The Wastewater Treatment Plant was constructed to allow future expansion without significantly affecting the curent operations.

The expanded plant will have a current capacity of approximately 2.5 million gallons per day. The capacity of the plant prior to the expansion was approximately 1 million gallons per day.

Windward Slopes Park

Windward Slopes Park development is expected to be completed in mid-November and will reopen to residents.

Activities will include the walking trail, tennis courts, a childrens playground and a pavilion. A unisex bathroom was also constructed.

Windward Slopes is adjacent to Lakeland Fire Station # 1 on Beverle Revira Drive.

Litter Marketing

I was unpleasantly surprised this morning to find another "litter marketing" campaign on my lawn and noted my neighbors also had this litter.

"Litter marketing" is the practice of putting rocks in a plastic bag with marketing literature and throwing it in driveways and yards.

While this may appear trivial, it is a serious problem, since this litter ends up in our drainage system and waterways and lakes and ponds. The city has had to spend thousands of dollars on repairs to the drainage system due to such thoughtless actions and concerned citizens have found hundreds of such bags in our lakes and drainage systems. The litter is also a danger to wildlife and pets.

The City is mandated by our storm water permit to control such violations and Code Enforcement officials will notify the company that this is a serious violation of our Storm Water Permit and issue a citation if possible.

In the meantime, I urge all residents to avoid purchasing from companies who use such practices and advise the City of Lakeland (867-2717) of such violations. Help protect the environment by stopping "litter marketing".

UPDATE: The company was contacted by Lakeland Code Enforcement and agreed to stop "litter marketing" in Lakeland.

Lakeland businesses

Askew Hargraves Harcourt and Associates (A2H) recently celebrated their second annual anniversary of their office in Lakeland at 3009 Davies Plantation Road. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce assisted in a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark this event.

An Art Exhibit by Jim Powell is currently on display at the A2H offices and the public is invited to view the art during normal business hours.

A2H purchased the vacant building at 3009 Davies Plantation Road and remodeled it into local offices. The building had been vacant for at least five years, so the remodeling of the building and the location of Askew Hargraves Harcourt and Associates in Lakeland provided a double benefit to Lakeland. Additional information on the firm, which provides engineering, surveying and planning services, is available at www.A2H.com.

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce also has risen from being dormant to being an active asset to the area. The Chamber meets monthly (schedule and additional information is at LakelandChamberofCommerce.com). Businesses and residents are encouraged to become active in the Chamber as the Chamber continues its efforts to support local businesses and the community.

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce and the Lakeland Economic Development Commission are actively involved in encouraging development, support and expansion of quality retail and office uses in Lakeland.

Shelby County Register Tom Leatherwood presents website at Lakeland Chamber After Hours Mixter

Tom Leatherwood, Shelby County Register, presented the amazing amount of information available at the Register website at www.register.shelby.tn.us at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce quarterly After-Hours Mixer.

I won’t try to explain the information available, except it appears almost anything about property records in Shelby County can be found on this website! Mr. Leatherwood explained that the website includes property back to 1812 for Shelby County! It also includes historical records on Shelby County and GIS information. Definitely check this out at your first opportunity!

Thanks to the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce for bringing this information to Lakeland Chamber members and residents. If you have a chance to hear the presentation by Mr. Leatherwood in the future, I encourage you to attend!

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce web site is www.LakelandChamberofCommerce.com. The web site includes information on future meetings, membership and other chamber and community information.

Good Neighbors

I wrote the previous entry on animals due to the growing number of complaints I had received and the suggestion that I note that this is becoming a problem in Lakeland.

After the entry appeared, I received a comment that roaming cats are as much of a problem as dogs.

I think the issue really is “being a good neighbor”. A good neighbor doesn’t let their cats, dogs or other animals roam the neighborhood tearing up gardens, frightening walkers etc. A good neighbor shows respect for other residents in a lot of ways, including noise, trash, yard/house maintenance etc. (If I try to enumerate all of the ways, I will leave something out!)

I believe most Lakeland residents do try to “be a good neighbor”. I personally am lucky in that I have wonderful neighbors and it is easy to forget just how disruptive to daily life and “BAD” a “bad” neighbor can be.

If talking with your neighbor about a problem doesn’t help, or you don’t know the person responsible the City does have a Code Enforcement program to remind residents of violations of City Ordinances and resolve problems. Violations may be reported by using the Action Request form at www.Lakelandtn.gov, calling City Hall at 867-2717 or e-mail CityHall@Lakelandtn.org. We are required to provide notice of the possible violation and provide time to correct the problem, so it does take time to resolve the problem. In most cases we are required to provide at least 10 days notice of a violation.

Applications being accepted for appointed Boards and Commissions

Applications are being accepted for open positions on the Municipal Planning Commission, Design Review Commission, Board of Appeals, Park/Natural Resources Board and Economic Development Commission. Application forms are available at www.Lakelandtn.gov (under “employment") or by calling City Hall at 867-2717, stopping by City Hall or e-mailing CityHall@Lakelandtn.gov. (The web page is being updated with the open positions.)

What does a resident need to do to be appointed to one of the Boards or Commissions?

-The first step is to file an Volunteer Application. These are available as noted above.

-New this year, all applicants for the Boards and Commissions (except for the Municipal Planning Commission) will have the opportunity to visit with the Board of Commissions and discuss their qualifications for appointment. Members of the Municipal Planning Commission are appointed by the Mayor, so this procedure is not used for the Municipal Planning Commission.

Persons appointed to the Boards and Commissions play an important role in City government. Many decisions are final decisions, others are recommendations to the Board of Commissioners and recommendations by Boards and Commissions are always seriously considered by the Board of Commissioners.

Applicants for the Board of Adjustment, Park & Recreation/Natural Resources Board, Design Review Commission, and Economic Development Commission will have the opportunity to appear before the Board of Commissioners at the following meetings:

-Work Session, Monday, October 22, 2007

-Regular Meeting, Thursday, November 1, 2007

-Work Session, Monday, November 26, 2007

Applicants do not need to call ahead, but applicants who call at least a week before the meeting will be listed on the agenda as scheduled to speak.

We emphasize it is not required to appear before the Board of Commissioners.

If you are interested in a Board or Commission and wish to attend their meetings to get a better idea of what type of decisions they make, Regular Meetings of appointed Boards and Commissions are:

-Park and Recreation Board/Natural Resource Board meets the 2^nd Monday of each month.

-Design Review Commission meets the 2^nd Tuesday of each month.

-Municipal Planning Commission meets the third Monday of each month.

-The Board of Adjustment meets on the third Thursday of each month, but does not meet unless an appeal or other issues is to be decided.

-The Economic Development Commission meets the 4^th Thursday of each month, but does not meet in November or December.

If you want to contribute to the Lakeland community, wish to make a difference or want to be involved in important aspects of our community, I recommend you consider applying for appointment to one of the appointed Boards or Commissions.

We are publishing ore detailed information on the Lakelandtn.gov web page as well as providing information on blogs and news releases.

I-40/Canada Road Interchange information

Paul Degges, Chief Engineer for the Tennessee Department of Transportation recently confirmed in an e-mail to the City of Lakeland that the Single Point Interchange design will not delay the interchange improvements and that the City of Lakeland’s share will not increase due to an increase in construction costs.

This resolves two major concerns about the project.

The City of Lakeland expects to receive a contract on this project in the near future. We will keep you advised on progress in this matter.

Bobbi Cornett exhibiting Art in City Hall

We welcome Bobbi Cornett’s display of art at Lakeland City Hall, which started last week. City Hall seems suddenly alive with her colorful exhibits!

I always really enjoy her art and this exhibit is especially interesting with the variety of art works!

Stop by City Hall and view the Bobbi Cornett exhibit. She has a number of new art works that are especially interesting and enjoyable. The exhibit may be viewed anytime City Hall is open, normally from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and at night meetings of Boards and Commissions.

As with all “Art in City Hall” Exhibits, purchase of art may be made by contacting the artist directly.

Animals at large complaints

We have been getting an increase in complaints about animals running at large and not under the control of their owner. Problems have included residents being apprehensive about going since they aren’t sure about whether a dog is vicious or just overly friendly.

Lakeland Ordinances require that pets be under the control of the owner at all time when not on the owners property. Please enjoy your dogs, but keep them under your control when they are out of a fenced area!

Violations can lead to a citation for letting an animal running at large and/or animal facility fees if an animal must be picked up.

Your neighbors will appreciate your cooperation in this matter!

Non-Smoking Law-complaint procedures and information

Information on the Non-Smoker Protection Act and reporting violations is available at:

www.health.state.tn.us/smokefreetennessee.com

Violations may also be reported to the Tennessee Health Department at 800-293-8228.

I found the web site to be very informative both for reporting a violation and for information on complying with the new law.

The Tennessee Health Department deserves a big “thanks” for a good job on the web site.

The quickest and simplest way to report a violation is to report it to management of the facility. The management is required to take care of the violation. If management does not resolve the violation or the violations continues, the Department of Health can be notified either by the web page or the toll-free number.

Non Smoker Protection Act Effective October 1

The Non-Smoker Protection Act is effective October 1, 2007. The Act will affect almost all areas, including restaurants, offices and work places. Some Common Questions and Answers are posted below along with a link to the actual bill.

Question: Where can I find a copy of the amended bill?Answer: A copy of the bill can be obtained by going to the Web site

www.legislature.state.tn.us/bills/currentga/Amend/HA0739.pdf.

Question: When will this law take effect?

Answer: Public Chapter 410, known as the "Non-Smoker Protection Act", was signed into law by Governor Bredesen on June 11th, and will become effective on October 1, 2007.

Question: Which version of smoke-free workplace bill passed both the House and Senate and was signed by Governor Bredesen?

Answer: House Bill 1851 was passed by the State House of Representatives. The original language of the bill was amended and completely replaced with stronger smoke-free workplace requirements. That amendment is House Amendment No. 2. Senate Bill 1325 passed the State Senate. The language of this bill was amended and replaced with language mirroring HB1851.

Question: Where is smoking prohibited under the new law?

Answer: Under this new law, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places within the State of Tennessee with a few exceptions. The smoking ban applies, but is not limited to:

Restaurants

Public and private educational facilities

Health care facilities

Hotels and motels

Retail stores and shopping malls

Sports arenas, including enclosed public areas in outdoor arenas

Restrooms, lobbies, reception areas, hallways and other common-use areas

Lobbies, hallways and other common areas in apartment buildings and other multiple-unit residential facilities

Child care and adult day care facilities

Question: What areas are exempt from the smoking ban?

Answer: The following are exempt from the smoking ban provisions:

Private homes, private residences and private motor vehicles unless used for child care or day care

Non-enclosed areas of public places, including open air patios, porches or decks; any that are enclosed by garage type doors when all such doors are open; and any that are enclosed by tents or awnings with removable sides or vents when all such sides or vents are removed or open (Smoke from these areas must not infiltrate into areas where smoking is prohibited.)

Venues that restrict access to persons who are 21 years of age or older at all times

Private businesses with 3 or few employees, where smoking may be allowed only in an enclosed room not accessible to the general public; smoke from such a room must not infiltrate into areas where smoking is prohibited

Private clubs

Smoking rooms in hotels and motels, provided that no more than 25 percent of the rooms in a hotel or motel can be designated as smoking rooms

Tobacco manufacturers, importers and wholesalers

Retail tobacco stores that prohibit minors

Nursing homes and long-term care facilities, which are subject to the policies and procedures established by those facilities.

Commercial vehicles when the vehicle is occupied only by the operator

Question: Are bars exempt?

Answer: To be exempt under this law, an establishment must restrict access to persons who are 21 years of age or older at all times. This means that bars within restaurants, bowling alleys and hotels must be smoke-free unless the entire establishment limits access to persons 21 or older at all times.

Question: In order to allow smoking, can an establishment be smoke-free during the day, and limit access to 21 and up at night?

Answer: No, an establishment must limit access to patrons 21 and up at all times to be exempt from this law.

Question: Are establishments with separately ventilated smoking rooms exempt?

Answer: No, they are not.

Restaurants and Bar establishments

Question: I operate a restaurant. If I prohibit smoking and allow customers of all ages in the establishment during the daytime hours but at night restrict access to only those who are twenty-one years of age or older, can I allow smoking during the night when no one under 21 will be permitted inside?

Answer: No. An "age-restricted venue" under the Act means a legal establishment that affirmatively restricts access to its building or facilities at all times to persons who are twenty-one (21) years of age or older. An establishment that is age-restricted only at night but allows people of all ages during the daytime hours would not be an establishment that restricts access at all times to persons twenty-one years of age or older.

Question: Will all restaurants be smoke-free?

Answer: All restaurants in Tennessee will be smoke-free unless they choose to limit access to people 21 and older at all times. This includes restaurants with bars, as well as chain and hotel restaurants. Restaurants can allow smoking on outdoors patios.

Question: I know that I have to prohibit smoking in my restaurant, but can I build a smoking room in my restaurant with a separate entrance and limit access to that room to smokers twenty-one (21) years of age or older?

Answer: No. A restaurant is a public place and the Act bans smoking in public places. You would have to restrict access to the entire restaurant to people, including employees, twenty-one (21) years of age and older in order to qualify for an exemption.

Question: I own a restaurant. I know that people can smoke in an open air patio. How far from the entrance to the restaurant must my first smoking table be placed?

Answer: The exemption for open air patios still requires you to keep smoke from that area from infiltrating into areas where smoking is prohibited. There is no minimum distance requirement. However, no matter how far away your first smoking table is from an entrance to the restaurant, if any smoke from the patio gets back into the restaurant, then you will be in violation of the Act.

Defining work places

Question: I am a new home builder. I usually have crews of 5 to 10 workers build the new home. Since the home under construction is not a public place can I allow my workers to smoke while working?

Answer: The Act prohibits smoking in enclosed public places and places of employment. The new home under construction is a "place of employment" and therefore comes under the coverage of the Act. As to whether the workers would be prohibited from smoking while building the new home will depend upon when the new home under construction becomes an "enclosed area" under the Act. A site becomes an "enclosed area" under the Act when all space between a floor and ceiling is enclosed on all sides by solid walls or windows, exclusive of doorways, which extend from the floor to ceiling. Therefore, the new home becomes a "place of employment" that is an "enclosed area" where smoking is prohibited when the ceiling, all walls and windows are installed.

Apartment Complexes

Question: I live in a multi-resident housing complex. If my neighbors are smoking outside on their patio/porch and their smoke infiltrates into my residence through the heating and/or air conditioning unit, is this a violation of the Act?

Answer: No. The Act provides no protection against the secondhand smoke of your neighbor infiltrating into your residence. The Act does prohibit smoking in lobbies, hallways, and other enclosed common areas of apartment building and other multiple-unit residential facilities.

Requirements of Compliance

Question: What is required of employers or business owners?Answer: Employers and business owners are required by law to do the following:

Post "No Smoking" signs at every entrance to every public place and place of employment where smoking is prohibited.

Notify and inform all existing and prospective employees that smoking is prohibited.

Inform patrons and customers who are found smoking on the premises that it is prohibited.

Enforcement and Penalties
Question: Who is responsible for enforcing the smoking ban?

Answer: Both the Tennessee Department of Health and the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development have authority to enforce the law.

Question: What are the penalties for violating the smoking ban?

Answer: A person who knowingly smokes in area where smoking is prohibited is subject to a civil penalty of $50. A business that knowingly fails to comply with the requirements of this act shall be subject to the following:

For a first violation in a twelve-month period, a written warning from the Department of Health or the Department of Labor and Workforce Development

For a second violation in a twelve-month period, a civil penalty of $100

For a third or subsequent violation in a twelve-month period, a civil penalty of $500
Filing a Complaint

Question: How do I register a complaint about a violation of the smoking ban?

Answer: If you are interested in filing a complaint about a restaurant, hotel, licensed child care or health care facility, contact the Department of Health. Complaints will be accepted beginning October 1, 2007.

Board Of Commissioners October meeting schedule

A ceremony for outgoing Vice-Mayor Stephanie Anderson is schedulcd for 6:00 p.m., Thursday, October 4 prior to the October Board of Commissioners meeting.

Then Randy Nicholson, Mark Hartz and Gerrit Verschuur will take the Oath of Office as Commissioners.

A short reception will be held for Vice Mayor Anderson and the Commissioners after the Oath of Office.

The Regular Meeting will start at 6:30 p.m.

All Lakeland residents are welcome to attend.

Town Hall Meeting date changed

Lakeland residents are reminded that the Town Hall Meeting, which normally is held on the first Board of Commissioners meeting in October has been rescheduled to the November Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting to avoid conflicting with the presentation to the outgoing Commissioner and the Oath of Office ceremony for the new/re-elected Commissioners.

Soliciting in Lakeland

I recently was advised of some confusion concerning door to door "soliciting" in Lakeland. The Ordinance in effect is published below.

Persons noticing illegal soliciting may call the Sheriff at 379-7625.

Section 1:

Chapter 9-201, 9-202 and 9-203 of the Lakeland Municipal Code are deleted in its entirety and replaced by the following:

Chapter 9-201: Selling Prohibited:

It shall be unlawful anywhere in the City of Lakeland, Tennessee, for any person, peddler, huckster, hawker or transient vendor to sell or offer for sale on streets and street right-of-ways, private residences, from motor vehicles, and all types of transportation conveyances, except as allowed elsewhere in the Code, any goods, wares, services or merchandise of any nature.

Chapter 9-202: Panhandling prohibited

It shall be unlawful anywhere in the City of Lakeland, Tennessee to stop a vehicle or approach a stopped vehicle on a public street or roadway and ask for donations of any kind or sell any product standing on said street, roadway, sidewalk or median.

Chapter 9-303: Exceptions:

A. The provisions of this Ordinance shall not apply to bona fide merchants who deliver goods in the regular course of business.

B. Solicitors for charitable, non-profit or religious organizations who go from dwelling to dwelling, business to business, street to street, taking or attempting to take orders for goods, wares and merchandise are exempt from these provisions, provided a Lakeland Permit is obtained, a picture identification is worn at all times and the organization meets the Internal Revenue Service Criteria to qualify as a charitable, non-profit or religious organization.

C. The dispensing of religious pamphlets or other literature which is protected by the United States Constitution under Freedom of Speech, Religion or Press is exempt from this chapter.

D. Campaigning for public office is exempt from this Chapter.

First Reading: May 04, 2006.

Public Hearing: May 22, 2006.

Final Reading: June 01, 2006.

Commissioner David Lillard new Commission Chair

Shelby County Commissioner David Lillard recently took the Oath of Office as Chairman of the Shelby County Board of Commissioners.

Chairman Lillard’s County Commission District includes Lakeland. He is interested in hearing from Lakeland residents and very responsive to needs of Lakeland. I have been very pleased with his awareness of the County impact on Lakeland and the need to represent his District, while he is also aware of the needs of all of Shelby County on the County Commission, especially in his role as Chair of the Commission.

Commissioner Lillard also serves as President of the Tennessee County Commissioners Association for 2006-2007, where he provides statewide leadership for Tennessee’s 1600 County Commissioners in Tennessee’s 95 Counties. Commissioner Lillard is the first Shelby County Commissioner to be elected President since TCCA was founded in 1966.
Commissioner Lillard has represented our District since 2002. His father, David Lillard, is a County Commissioner in Fayette County, Tennessee. They are the only father and son who serve simultaneously as County Commissioners from different Tennessee counties.

Highway 70/Canada Road signal design work to start

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has advised that a design consultant will be selected in three weeks to design the traffic signals at Highway 70 and Canada Road. The actual schedule of construction has not been established.

We will be closely monitoring this process and requesting that TDOT expedite the design and construction of the traffic signals.

The traffic signals will be funded by a safety grant and will be designed and built at no cost to the City of Lakeland. A fully signalized intersection with left hand turns in all directions is being designed.

Status Report of Transportation Projects

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners recently approved an engineering contract to design landscaping and bicycling/pedestrian trails for Canada Road from I-40 to Highway 64. We plan to complete the landscaping in the median this winter (which is the best time to plant landscaping).

The City has applied for an “enhancement grant” to fund these improvements. If the grant is approved, the bicycling/pedestrian trails will be completed within the next year. If it is not approved, the City will use the funds budgeted for matching the grant to landscape the median and the bicycling/pedestrian trails will be funded by a variety of means. Parts of the trail will be constructed by development adjacent to Canada Road, grants and local funding until the entire project is completed.

The City of Lakeland has a number of on-going transportation projects significantly affecting Lakeland residents, especially in the Canada Road corridor. A comprehensive plan is in progress, which will impact all persons using Canada Road.

Major transportation projects are:

I-40 Interchange:

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has approved the design on the I-40 Interchange improvement. A “diamond” design was approved and the Lakeland Board of Commissioners have agreed to provide the extra funds for a “Single Point Urban Interchange”. (An example of a Single Point Urban Interchange is Walnut Grove and Germantown Road. To get the full impact of the Single Point, go east on Walnut Grove and then south on Germantown Road. The “single point” on I-40 and Canada Road will be on the top rather than on the bottom.)

STATUS: Plans being developed. Necessary easements and right-of-way to be acquired around July 1, 2008.

“New Canada Road” from I-40 to Highway 70

This project will create “New Canada Road”. The existing Canada Road will remain, but through traffic will use New Canada Road.

The City is approved for an 80% grant to engineer and build New Canada Road (estimated cost is $10,000,000). The Engineering is starting in the immediate future as soon as final contracts are approved by TDOT.

STATUS: A “Context Sensitive Solution” (CSS) design approach is planned to obtain input on the design of New Canada Road. The City is awaiting approval from the Tennessee Department of Transportation to start on the CSS. This should start in the near future. The CSS approach is to involve all stakeholders along the route of New Canada Road to have the opportunity to be involved in the design phase of New Canada Road.

Traffic Signals at Highway 70 and Canada Road

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has approved this project. We are awaiting final approval from TDOT for design and construction of this project.

STATUS: We expect this project to proceed relatively quickly as soon as the necessary environmental and other requirements are met. Some easements will be required since this will be a full signal with left hand turn lanes.

Beverle Revira extension to Seed Tick

Traffic signals at Beverle Revira/Davies Plantation and Canada Road

The City of Lakeland has funds budgeted to fund the extension of Beverle Revira to Huff &Puff/Seed Tick, thus eliminating the bottleneck at Huff & Puff and Canada Road.

The City has also been approved for a traffic signal at Beverle Revira/Davies Plantation to provide a much better traffic flow.

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.

STATUS: Plans have been completed and funds are budgeted for the extension of Beverle Revira Drive. We are currently awaiting final approval of easements.

Funds for the traffic signals have been approved. If we obtain the easements in the near future, the traffic signals will be installed at approximately the same time as the road extension.

Striping/Turn Lanes on Canada Road north of I-40

The City has been approved for state funding to re-stripe Canada Road from I-40 to Green Spruce. This will include striping to provide for improved flow of traffic and include a center turn lane.

The City also plans on installing a right turn lane from Davis Plantation East to the west (Memphis) entrance ramp to I-40 to expedite the flow of traffic going west on I-40

STATUS: This project has been approved for some time and funds are expected to be released in the near future.

Traffic Signals at I-40 and Canada Road

Funding for temporary traffic signals at I-40 and Canada Road have been approved. These signals will replace the “stop” signs and will substantially improve the flow of traffic until the interchange construction is completed.

STATUS: Funding is approved. Final approval is contingent on some final environmental reviews.

When all of these projects are considered as a comprehensive plan, they are a comprehensive solution to the problems in the Canada Road Corridor. Reflecting the regional nature of this Corridor, the projects will be paid for by a combination of Federal, State, County and local funds.

Woodland Park Street Improvements

Woodland Park Addition street improvements are programmed for this budget year to complete the street improvements started last year. The project will include repair of curb and gutter, repairs as needed and then an asphalt overlay of streets needing an overlay.

The areas needing repair are being identified at this time. Curb and gutter repair and some street repair will be required prior to the overlay of streets needing an overlay.

Please don’t hesitate to call City Hall (867-2717) if you have any questions about personnel marking the street repairs etc. In most cases, City personnel will be driving a marked City vehicle, wearing a uniform or have identification badges. PLEASE never hesitate to ask for identification or call City Hall for verification.

The curb and gutter repair and street repairs will be accomplished first followed by the overlay of the streets to be repaired. The schedule will depend on the weather and contractors schedule and amount of repairs necessary prior to the final overlay.

Trash/Recycling one day later next week

Lakeland residents are reminded trash pickup will be delayed by one day due to the Labor Day Holiday:

Monday routes will be picked up on Tuesday

Tuesday routes will be picked up on Wednesday

Wednesday routes will be picked up on Thursday

Thursday routes will be picked up on Friday

Friday routes will be picked up on Saturday

Tuesday recycling route will be picked up on Wednesday

Wednesday recycling will be picked up on Thursday

Lakeland selects single-point interchange for exit 20

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners decided to provide funding for upgrading the design of the Canada Road/I-40 exit 20 interchange from a “diamond” design to a “single-point” design.

The Board of Commissioners made the decision after hearing the upgraded design will be functional (from the standpoint of handling traffic) up to 15 years longer. (Although not mentioned at the meeting, I have heard forecasts of the single point design functional life of 40 years and beyond versus 20 years for the diamond design.)

Other benefits of the single point I have heard are reductions in “waiting” time, reductions in emissions (thus improving air quality), easier access to businesses in the area of the interchange, and safer traffic flows.

The City is requesting that the city share be a maximum of 3 million dollars and especially that the new design not have a negative impact on the schedule of the project. I believe there is an excellent chance that the city share may be capped at a maximum of 3 millions dollars and that the new design will not delay the project.

Other levels of government (County, State and Federal) and other private sources will be requested to participate in this project in recognition that the single-point design will benefit the entire region, not just Lakeland.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation will complete the design of the interchange and acquire necessary easements prior to bidding construction of the interchange.

We appreciate the assistance and substantial work of many Lakeland residents in their support of the single point interchange design.

Representative Ron Lollar Announces Forestry Grant

Representative Ron Lollar, Lakeland's Tennessee State House Representative advised of approval of a grant of $8,761 to the City of Lakeland to help with urban forest management staffing.

The grant was approved after a review by state urban forestry officials and the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council Grant Review Committee. Properly managed trees in urban environments can aid economic development efforts and help with air quality, heat island effect, storm water retention, water quality and aesthetics.

This grant has substantially increased the capacity of the City of Lakeland to handle Lakeland's forests and natural resources. The grant has partially funded the Natural Resources Technician position, which has provided the City to develop the Natural Resource Inventory and the nationally recognized Lakeland Natural Resources Program.

Natural Resources Director Eric Bridges, Natural Resources Director Nick Bridgeman and the Natural Resources Board are dedicated to the effective management of our Natural Resources and we appreciate their dedication and hard work. The Natural Resources Board includes John Ward, Hank Hess, Billie Fae Horton, Anthony Neri, James Bacon, Clay Rogers and Commissioner Randy Nicholson.

Special Meeting on I-40/Canada Road Interchange

A Board of Commissioners Special Meeting is being scheduled for 6:00 p.m., Monday, August 27, 2007 to discuss consideration of the City of Lakeland providing/finding the funding for a Single Point Interchange (upgraded from the diamond interchange approved by the Tennessee Department of Transportation).

The Special Meeting is being scheduled prior to the normally scheduled Work Session.

Neighborhood Watch meeting-Tuesday, August 21st at Stonebridge Golf Course Clubhouse

At City Hall we receive reports of vandalism and crimes and I have observed the effectiveness of a strong Neighborhood Watch program in a number of additions in Lakeland. Brian Haines advised of a meeting in Lakeland on Neighborhood Watch and how you can assist in developing an effective Neighborhood Watch program.

Mid South Neighborhood Watch Seeks to Unify Lakeland Assocations:

Please join us for an informational crime prevention meeting on Tuesday August 21st, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be located at the

Stonebridge Golf Club Clubhouse, 3049 Davies Plantation Rd., Lakeland, Tennessee.

We will have panelists from Bartlett Government and Police Department to share how they have doubled their Neighborhood Watch numbers in just a few years.

We have the information and the tools you need to make your Neighborhood Watch program successful! If you want to stand your ground in defending the safety and security of Lakeland, please mark this date and time on your calendar!

Any questions maybe directed to Fran Wilson at 901-246-7020 or via e-mail: fwilson22@comcast. net.

If you organize Neighborhood Watch in your area, are an HOA officer, a "block captain" or if you merely have an interest in preventing crime in Lakeland, this meeting is for you!

TDOT announces decision on I-40/Canada Road interchange design

The Tennessee Department of Transportation has notified Mayor Carmichael that the “enhanced diamond” interchange design was selected for the Canada Road/I-40 Interchange rather than “single point” interchange desired by the City.

Good news is that the “enhanced diamond” has a 20-year design life. The original “diamond interchange” would have been obsolete as soon as it was constructed so the efforts of the City have not been completely in vain and will mean a much better interchange.

The Board of Commissioners will also review the option of the City paying for the single point interchange design after a report by the consultant Traffic Engineer.

Portions of the TDOT letter to Mayor Carmichael are noted below:

The Department of Transportation has selected the conventional diamond concept for the interchange of Interstate 40 and Canada Road. This decision does not come easily, but has come from a very thorough evaluation process of the two interchange forms. We understand your preference in the single point interchange over the conventional diamond, however, based on our evaluation each will provide sufficient reserve capacity for the interchange turning movements at Canada Road.

The estimated costs for each interchange form were a large factor in this decision. As you may know, since December of 2005, TDOT has lost more than $171 million in federal highway funding. As such, with the statewide commitments underway the department is unable to provide the estimated $3 million in additional funds required for the single point interchange.

The Department is willing to consider the single point interchange further if the additional costs can be provided through local funding sources. Should you be interested in providing the additional funding, pleased contact me at (phone number). Unless I am advised in writing that the additional costs required for the single point interchange will be provided by local sources by Friday, August 31, 2007, the department’s engineering staff will resume the design work on the conventional diamond interchange. (Letter is signed by Paul Degges, Chief Engineer)

We appreciate TDOT reviewing all options to the Interchange design and are looking forward to a rapid completion of a successful project.

At this time, we do not have a time frame for project completion.

Press Release on discolored water

This is the MLGW Press Release on the discolored water situation:

A problem last night at MLGW’s Shaw Water Pumping Station serving the Cordova, Arlington, Lakeland and unincorporated areas of Shelby County resulted in discolored water for many of these customers. They may also experience low water pressure. Please limit unnecessary water usage in this area for the remainder of today.

The discoloration is caused by iron and does not pose a health hazard. If your water is not clear enough to see through, it will probably have a metallic taste and may stain white clothing. Until you see you water clear please do not wash clothes, dishes and automobiles.

MLGW is diligently working to resolve this problem.

*IMPORTANT** Discolored Water in Lakeland

We have had numerous reports of discolored/brown water this (Thursday, August 16) morning. The water is safe to drink but may have a metallic taste.

This is due to a problem with a pumping station that serves Lakeland, Arlington, Cordova and County residents.

MLGW has advised residents (including all Lakeland residents) to take the following precautions:

-Avoid using water if at all possible. The repairs are creating low water pressure problems.

-DO NOT WASH CLOTHES ETC!! The water may stain clothes etc. If they are discolored, leave them wet if possible.

MLGW is working on resolving the problem as soon as possible.

New City Engineer

Philip Stuckert is starting as Lakeland City Engineer on August 20. Philip and his wife (Joyce) are in the process of moving from Casper, Wyoming, where Philip was Public Services Director for the City of Casper. Philip has a M.S. degree in Civil Engineer and has been with the City of Casper since 1985. He started as an Associate Engineer, was promoted to City Engineer and then promoted to his current position as Public Services Director.

Philip and his family had been looking to relocate to this area and we are pleased he agreed to assume the Lakeland City Engineer position.

Philip is looking forward to starting (he is already reviewing all of the agendas and materials and studying city procedures and regulations). After he has a chance to get oriented, he has emphasized he is looking forward to being available to visit with Lakeland residents and City and area officials.

60-no longer an abstraction!

60 years old. What used to be an abstraction (and a far off one at that) is now a reality. I don’t really dwell on it. Over 20 years ago, I firmly decided not to worry about events I couldn’t do anything about so I could concentrate on events I could do something about. Turning 60 is definitely not something I can change!

I have learned the value of experience the older I get! I have also realized how important it is to look at life with the wonder of a child looking at something new and exciting and not to get into a rut.

Probably, as for the past 20 years, maybe 30 years, what bothers me most is the lack of time to do what I want/have to do. Probably for the last 15 years, I don’t like the idea that opportunities are closing on me.

I will always remember the first time (and subsequent) times I heard or read the Robert Frost poem “The Road Not Taken” and how I immediately recognized the Great Dilemma of life.

Some roads I am glad I have taken is my career as City Manager, marrying Aliene, moving to Lakeland, bike riding, walking in the morning, l loving to read etc. Not to say there aren’t many things I would have done different, but overall I feel I am on the right road in those areas. I think that helps facing the years to come and the feeling that opportunities are closing.

Looking back, I am glad that at 40 I realized the “future is now”. While I realized you still need to plan for the future, you live in the present. At 50 I finally understood the beauty of experiencing every minute of life, including the rough times.

One thing about living in a 55+ community, I see some many people “more mature” than I who still enjoy life and have a high quality of life. It can be done!

Yesterday I mentioned that perhaps the scariest thing about turning 60 is that in 10 years I will be 70! I hope to work at least 10 more years, so in only 10 short years I could be facing the major life change of retirement. Of course, I remember when I was in my 30’s I thought retiring at 55 was a great idea, in my 40’s I thought retiring at 62 was great, when I was 57 I liked the idea of retiring at 67, now I am thinking of retiring at 70 when I am 60!

Of course, one reason I picked 67 was that in 2015 I wanted to walk up to the stage and receive my “40 years of service” award from the International City Managers Association at the Annual Conference! It is hard to believe on October 21, 1974 I started my first full-time career job with the City of Liberal, Kansas. (I started my first City Manger position in 1981. I can still remember the impact of realizing my responsibility-as well as the opportunities-of the position.)

The first real impact of working for City government actually came shortly after I started my first job. I was standing in line for a show and I looked at the line and a chill went down my back (a pleasurable chill) when I realized that my job affected, however small, the quality of life for everyone in the City. I am pleased to note that I still feel that chill of pleasure!

60 years-perhaps still an abstraction, but I am living it!

Lakeland Natural Resources Program presentations

We are pleased to announce the Natural Resources Director Eric Bridges and Natural Resources Technician Nick Bridgeman are invited to make of presentation to the Arbor Day Foundation “Partners in Community Forestry” Conference in Baltimore in November AND to the International Society of Arboriculture-Southern Chapter in Knoxville next March.

The Presentations include the Lakeland Natural Resources Program.

We are proud of our Natural Resources Department and are glad the hard work and dedication of Eric and Nick are being recognized on an international scope.

With the above conferences, the presentation on the Lakeland program have included two national/international. Conferences, two regional presentations and two state (Tennessee) presentations.

These presentations are providing Lakeland with international recognition, and much more important, providing a standard and information for similar programs internationally based on the Lakeland model.

SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT

Smoke Free Environment

The State of Tennessee has adopted a Non-Smoker Protection Act. Many businesses may not realize that this Law is effective June 11, 2007 so it is now in effect. However, all businesses have until October 1, 2007 to comply with the law.

Basically, the law will prohibit smoking in almost any enclosed public buildings (“public” defined as open to the public) and requires almost every public and private employer to comply. The law prohibits smoking in retail stores, public places, restaurants, offices etc.

“No Smoking” signs or the international no-smoking symbol must be placed at every entrance to a public place or place of employment where smoking is banned.

The smoking ban is enforced by the Tennessee Department of Health and Department of Labor and Workforce Development. A person smoking in violation of the ban is subject to a civil penalty of $50. Owners or managers of public places who violate the ban will be subject to a warning for a first violation, a civil penalty of $100 for a second violation in a 12-month period, and a civil penalty of $500 for a third or subsequent violation in a 12-month period.

A copy of the bill is available at http://tennessee.gov/sos/acts/105/pub/pc0410.pdf

Political Signs

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners recently amended the Ordinance concerning Political Signs to delete the requirement for a permit and for the $500 deposit effective immediately.

Sign Regulations are noted below. Please contact Lakeland Code Enforcement (867-2717) or e-mail CityHall@lakelandtn.org if you note a sign violation or have quesitons. City personnel are trained to enforce the sign ordinance in a fair and equitable manner. At least for the present time, Code Enforcement will handle political sign enforcement as follows:

-Signs on occupied private property: For minor violations, Code Enforcement personnel will attempt to contact the occupant (signs are allowed only on occupied property with approval of the occupant), advise of the violation and provide an opportunity to correct the violation.

-If a violation appears simply to be a misunderstanding of the rules and regulations, the occupant, campaign manager or candidate will be contacted, if possible, to remedy the violation.

-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. will be picked up immediately. Common Open Space owned by the Home Owners Association etc. is not considered occupied property.

Please contact Lakeland Code Enforcement if you have any questions. Basic standards for political signs are noted below.

-Signs are not allowed on public property, which includes right of ways, streets, on signs, medians, parks, public facilities etc.

Signs on public property are immediately removed by Code Enforcement personnel.

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 City Hall.

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

Lakeland BOC Regular Meeting Changed to Wednesday, August 1

The August Regular Meeting of the Board of Commissioners has been rescheduled to Wednesday, August 1, 2007.

Hunting/Discharge of Weapons in Lakeland

The City of Lakeland has designated certain areas of the City where is it is legal to discharge weapons.

Discharge of weapons, bows, pellet guns is illegal except as follows:

-In the protection of life

-Law Enforcement Officers in the performance of their official duties

-At a legal Firing Range

-Military functions such as parades, funerals etc.

-In areas of Lakeland described as follows:

-Zoned AG (Agricultural) in the Lakeland Zoning Ordinance AND;

-At least 20 acres in size

There is a map of areas where, under Lakeland Ordinances, weapons can be discharged at www.Lakelandtn.gov.

The Shelby County Sheriff may be called at 379-7625 if a resident feels weapons are being discharged illegally.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regulates hunting and hunting may not be allowed in areas described above. There are restrictions on hunting within a prescribed distance of a public road, a residence etc. The discharge of weapons such as firearms, bow, pellet guns etc. are not authorized in the City limits except as noted above.

Illegal hunting can be reported toTWRA at 1-800-831-1173. Call TWRA at 1-800-372-3928 for general questions on hunting. The TWRA web page is www. Tennessee.gov/twra.

Lakeland Municipal Planning Commission-Postponed Agenda Items

The applicants have requested the following items be postponed to a future agenda for the July 16, 2007 Lakeland Municipal Planning Commission Agenda. The applicants requested that the projects be heard on August 20, 2007.

-Equestria Planned Development (Preliminary Development Plan)

-Arcadia Planned Development (Secondary Detailed Development Plan)

-Lakeland Commons Planned Development at Seed Tick and Highway 70 (Preliminary Development Plan)

MLGW Tree cutting on Memphis Arlington Road

I read in the Commercial Appeal this (Saturday) morning that MLGW had advised they would hold future work until they discussed the matter more with the City of Lakeland.

All we have requested is that the plans be reviewed by the Lakeland Municipal Planning Commission as is required by Tennessee Law.

We hope the matter can be worked out quickly. Obviously we want MLGW construction to proceed as fast as possible. However, as with any construction the plans need to be reviewed to insure that the plans are appropriate for the area.

MLGW Tree cutting on Memphis Arlington Road

MLGW is installing 3-phase service the Estates of Maple Grove, which is on Memphis Arlington, roughly ½ mile east of Seed Tick Road.

For some time, we have been discussing with MLGW the Tennessee State Law requirement (T.S.A. 13-4-104) that they submit plans before they start “improvements” (not maintenance) such as this.

The last discussion included the promise that MLGW would submit documentation on their position (that the State law on this does not apply to them) and also review the State Law that we (including the City Attorney) feel requires such approval.

We understand that there are interpretations to every law and we are willing to discuss this with MLGW.

Yesterday, without any notice, MLGW started construction, including moving several protected trees in the process. They did stop when we issued a “Stop Work” order.

This morning (Friday, July 13) am MLGW representative called the City staff person who issued the Stop Work order and basically advised him (in essence) that the officials who make such decisions at MLGW didn’t care what Lakeland thought and they were proceeding with the project.

The City staff is reviewing our options on this matter but we hope that MLGW will keep their promise to review the Tennessee State Statute involved and submit the information that they feel exempts them from the statutes before taking any further action.

I fully expect that the City of Lakeland will take whatever action is necessary to insure that MLGW complies with Tennessee State Law and City Ordinances.

I will post to this Blog as necessary to update on this matter.

Lakeland Retail Future to be discussed 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 12

A Community Retail Development Program discussion will highlight the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce “Lakeland After Hours” at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, July 12.

All Lakeland residents are encouraged to attend.

RSVP to Sondra Blondis at 213-2143 or 483-6367. Additional information is available at www.LakelandChamberofCommerce.com. Lakeland After Hours is at the Oakwood Clubhouse at 10133 Matwood Oak Drive.

A Tennessee Valley Authority representative will be present and discuss how the Lakeland community can partner with TVA to design a Retail Attraction Package that is tailored to Lakeland.

The Lakeland Retail Attraction Package will kickoff in September of 2007. The Lakeland Chamber and Lakeland Economic Development Commission encourage any person interested in the future of Lakeland to attend this meeting.

This could be the meeting that sets the pattern for the future of Lakeland! Plan to attend this important meeting. This Lakeland After Hours is sponsored by Trustmark Bank and the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce.

Trash pickup changes week of July 4, 2007

Trash pickup will be delayed one day this week after the July 4 Holiday. Specific changes are:

-Wednesday trash pickup route will be picked up Thursday.

-Thursday trash pickup route will be picked up Friday.

-Friday trash pickup route will be picked up Saturday.

The recycling schedule will not be affected.

Operation Safe Community

Operation Safe Community is a partnership of a number of organizations and persons to reduce crime in Shelby County. As noted by one of the participants, criminals don’t recognize municipal boundaries.

Chair of the Committee is U.S. Attorney David Kustoff. Shelby County Sheriff Mark Luttrell and District Attorney Bill Gibbons are actively involved (and I believe initiated Operation Safe Community). Representatives of Shelby County departments, all Shelby County municipalities, the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, Memphis Tomorrow etc. are actively involved in the initiative so it is a program which may make a difference and be effective. Some action items have already been implemented.

Operation Safe Community has a number of priority action items and I believe it will make a difference. I am impressed by the action accomplished thus far and the continued interest in the organization and the implementation of the action items.

Detailed information is available at www.operationsafecommunity.org. Interested persons can sign up for E-mail updates etc. at this web site.

Proposed Sign Ordinance Amendments

The Lakeland Board of Commissioners is considering the following amendments to the Lakeland Sign Ordinance. This will be on First Reading at the BOC meeting on Thursday, July 5. Residents or Businesspersons with questions may contact Jim Atkinson at Lakeland City Hall with any questions, clarifications or comments.

Incidental Signs – Currently, incidental signs are permitted up to one square-foot with a maximum height of two feet. The proposed change would allow two square feet in area and three feet in height. Incidental signs are typically used for directional purposes, such as “entrance”, “exit”, etc. Incidental signs may not contain any commercial message.

Temporary Signs (banners) – Currently, each business is allowed one temporary sign permit for a banner each year and the permit is good for 30 days. The proposed change would allow three permits per year, good for 10 days each (30 days total per year).

Ground Sign – Currently, principle ground signs must be setback at least 20 feet from front property lines. The proposed change would allow a 10-foot setback.

Window Signs – Currently, window signs are not permitted. The proposed change would allow a maximum of 2 window signs per business not to exceed 10% of the total window area and be no larger than 20 square feet.

I emphasize these are staff proposals and may not be approved or may be revised prior to final adoption.

Jeffery Thomas

Jeffery Thomas passed on on Saturday, June 22, 2007 after collapsing while playing basketball.

He worked for the Lakeland Parks Department in the recreational program and maintaining and improving the City parks.

When I first interviewed him, he mentioned his goal of becoming a Coach. As part of the Lakeland Parks Department he was a Coach as well as a Referee for the Lakeland Recreation program.

Jeffery was talented and dedicated to improving the recreational program for Lakeland residents and especially enjoyed working in the recreational activities. I observed him over the time he worked for the City and noted his dedication and hard work, and, most of all, his pride in doing an excellent job.

The City Staff and children and parents who participated in the Lakeland Recreation Program will miss Jeffery.

Update on I-40/Canada Road Interchange

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) advised at a meeting with Lakeland City staff and engineering consultant on Monday, June 18, 2007 that both the Enhanced Diamond and the Single Point Urban Interchange designs are still under consideration.

TDOT advised that, if all performance factors are equal over a 20 year period, the more inexpensive Enhanced Diamond design would be selected. However, the City of Lakeland Transportation Consultant is submitting documentation showing that the Single Point Urban Interchange is more effective and will save money over the 20 year period and is worth the initial extra cost.

City staff also presented petitions with over 1,100 signatures (!) urging TDOT to select the Single Point Urban Interchange. (A big thanks to all the persons who spent a lot of time and effort in collecting signatures! Your support and work are appreciated and I believe it will be a factor in the final decision.) TDOT noted the petitions and letters were received and than recommended the City retain them.

We do definitely feel that TDOT has not yet determined the design and will consider all the facts before making a decision in the near future.

A TDOT representative also called me last week to remind me that TDOT will hold a Public Hearing after the design is selected. Even if the Enhanced Diamond interchange is selected, persons may still appear and recommend the Single Point Urban Interchange or recommend changes to the Enhanced Diamond design.

We will keep you advised of any news we hear on this matter.

Thanks for your Support!

984 signatures (letters and on petitions) have been counted as of 4:30 p.m. Friday in support of the “Single Point Urban Interchange” for the I-40/Canada Road interchange upgrade.

We expect the total signatures will top 1,000 by Monday.

We appreciate the support of area residents and especially the persons who dedicated a lot of time and effort in collecting signatures and passing out letters!

We expect that the Tennessee Department of Transportation will select a design in the near future. A Public Hearing on the design will be held after the design is selected.

Letters and petitions may still be turned into City Hall until approximately 10 a.m. Monday morning. City staff will take the petitions and letters to Nashville Monday afternoon for a meeting with TDOT as an indication of the support and concern for the Canada Roard/I-40 interchange.

Interchange at I-40 and Canada Road

What is a Single Point Interchange and why is it so important to Lakeland and residents of surrounding areas (anyone using or affected by this Interchange)?

Detailed information is available at www.Lakelandtn.gov on why the Single Point design is so important to Lakeland.

Downloadable petitions and sample letters are available at this website so you can support the Single Point design.

If you haven't already done so, I urge you to downloand a petition now and get signatures and/or download a sample letter!

All petitions and letters should be sent to Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70, Lakeland, Tennessee 38002 so they are received by June 15, 2007.

Lakeland events-special thanks

The Lakeland Fishing Rodeo and the 30^th City of Lakeland Birthday Celebration was successful due to excellent and dedicated work by the staff and volunteers, including the Lakeland Park Board/Natural Resources Board.

We especially appreciate the efforts of Lakeland personnel, including

Lakeland Parks and Recreation Director Brenda Lockhart

Recreation Coordinator Joy Cloud

Park Coordinator Dan Scott

Park Maintenance Jeffery Thomas

Natural Resources Director Eric Bridges

Natural Resources Technician Nick Bridgeman

As always, volunteers are especially important to Lakeland, and the members of the Lakeland Park and Recreation Board/Natural Resources Board contributed a lot of volunteer time and effort to making these events successful. Members include

John Ward (Chair of the Park Board/Natural Resources Board)

Commissioner Randy Nicholson

James Bacon

Bille Fae Horton

Anthony Neri

Clay Rogers.

I-40 Canada Road Action needed!

All residents of the area who are impacted by the I-40/Canada Road Interchange-We need your help!

The Tennessee Department of Transportation advised the City that a Public Hearing on whether the Single Point Interchange design or the enhanced diamond design is being selected. Instead there will be one more meeting with City staff only and TDOT.

THE MEETING IS JUNE 18, 2007. WE WANT TO BRING ALONG ALL THE LETTERS AND PETITIONS POSSIBLE TO INDICATE THAT EASTERN SHELBY COUNTY RESIDENTS (AND FAYETTE COUNTY RESIDENTS) WANT AN INTERCHANGE WITH THE "SINGLE POINT DESIGN" AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

YOU CAN HELP!

The information provided below is also at www.Lakelandtn.gov, as are Petitions and sample letters. Petitions and sample letters can also be E-mailed to you by contacting the City of Lakeland at CityHall@lakelandtn.org, faxed or mailed by calling 867-2717 or picked up at Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70, Lakeland, Tennessee.

NOTE THAT PETITIONS AND LETTERS MUST BE RETURNED TO LAKELAND CITY HALL BY JUNE 15, 2007 TO BE DELIVERED IN PERSON TO THE TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ON JUNE 18, 2007!

ACT NOW!

PLEASE HELP GET THE BEST INTERCHANGE DESIGN AT I-40 AND CANADA ROAD.

1. Download the attached petition and get it signed by as many people and possible and return it to Lakeland City Hall by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 15. (Petitions will be at www.Lakelandtn.gov

Or

2. Download the attached letter, date and sign it and return it to City Hall, 10001 Highway 70 by 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 15. (Sample letters will be at www.Lakelandtn.gov

Or

3. Write a letter to Mr. Degges at the address noted in your own words (handwritten is fine) and return it to City Hall, 10001 Highway 70 by 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 15.

The mailing address for Lakeland City Hall is Lakeland City Hall, 10001 Highway 70, Lakeland, Tennessee 38002.

We will handcarry all letters and petitions to Nashville on Monday, June 18, 2007 to personally deliver them to Mr. Degges at the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

YOUR SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED!