Multiple Resolutions Gain Commission Approval
by Ashley Murphy

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

A North Lee Elementary field trip was to be held today and the attending fourth graders were going to interact with the commission and hold mock meetings. However, due to the weather, the trip was cancelled. Hannah Moore, Legislative Assistant Amy Moore's daughter, was present and opened the County Commission voting session with the Pledge of Allegiance.

After the Pledge and Invocation, Mayor D. Gary Davis brought forth a resolution to support the construction industry and the rights of sole proprietors, partners and up to three members of an LLC in the home building trade. There are proposals in the State Legislature to force a financial burden of workers compensation premiums to a sole proprietor, partner or member of an LLC during economic times when they can least afford it.

The purpose of this bill is to support the right of sole proprietors, partners and up to three members of an LLC in the construction industry to make an elective exemption of themselves if so chosen. The resolution was passed unanimously.

Commissioner Howard Thompson introduced a resolution requesting a crossover on Highway 64 at London Acres Drive. Commissioner Jeff Yarber inquired about the cost of such a project. Thompson responded saying there should be no cost. The intent of the resolution is to ask the State to develop the crossover, with no cost to the county, because it is a State controlled highway. During one previous conversation, it was said that a crossover could be placed, but at an expense to the county government.

This is a much needed project due to the high volume of traffic and issue with emergency crews. Commissioners Lisa Stanbery and Ed Elkins requested a memo also be placed with the resolution to include all of the current and incurring problems, plus the amount of people this will affect, so that the State will also see the need for such an intersection and be more open to the idea of using State funds. The resolution passed unanimously.

Other resolutions also passed: Resolution opposing unfunded local government mandates and additions to local government maintenance of effort requirements; Resolution to authorize acceptance of funding from the State of Tennessee for the Southeast Tennessee Community Corrections Program; Resolution to commend Bradley County Road Superintendent Tom Collins and the Road Department staff for exceptional work; Resolution to dissolve the Grievance Committee; and Resolution supporting the final design and funding of the completion of revised Corridor K through the Ocoee River Gorge. All resolutions passed unanimously.

The County Commission's next meeting will be held on Monday, February 22, 2010 at 7 p.m. at the Courthouse.