02/25/2025
Sorry folks, this is a long one.
Last night was a long Collegedale Commission workshop, just as I expected. Some very important topics were discussed.
Airport Project
The first major discussion was about the airport project. Jay Jolley, the entrepreneur behind Sky Boss—the private company wanting to build at the airport—gave a lengthy presentation. He did a great job outlining his vision, explaining the numbers, and simplifying the process to make it seem like a no-brainer for the Commissioners.
Essentially, he is asking for $500,000–$700,000 in taxpayer dollars to construct a multimillion-dollar building that the city will own in 40 years. He also mentioned how much money this project would bring into Collegedale’s economy, though I have my doubts about those numbers. The number of jobs created? Only 1–2 full-time positions initially, with the possibility of 2–4 more over the next three years.
At first glance, based on his presentation, this investment looks reasonable. The building will be beautiful and will enhance the airport’s entrance. However, I want to be clear—everything I say here is my own opinion. I encourage everyone to get the facts and form their own conclusions.
Sometimes, financial decisions are spread across multiple budget years, making it harder for the public to see the full picture. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers:
The State of Tennessee awarded the airport a $1.28 million grant (requiring a 10% match) with the expectation of creating 48 new jobs by 2026.
If we accept the grant but only create two full-time jobs, will there be an audit? Vice Mayor Tonya Sadler raised this question.
Last year, Commissioner Tim Johnson led an effort to allocate a large amount of taxpayer dollars to the airport, totaling $500,000 so far.
The 10% match for the state grant requires $128,000 from taxpayers.
The city approved funding to start the process to relocate a maintenance building. Per the City Manager he estimates around $100,000 to complete the relocation of this building.
Now, Sky Boss is requesting an additional $500,000–$700,000.
Total taxpayer investment in the airport will be: $1.228–$1.428 million. And that number could rise. So I ask—when is enough, enough?
From what I observed last night, this project already has at least four Commission votes in favor, based on their comments and body language.
Street Scan Results
A brief update was given on the Street Scan results. The Commission previously approved spending around (going from memory on this amount) $40,000 (over three years) for this service, which scans streets and traffic signs to assess road conditions.
I opposed this spending when it was first proposed. In a city just 12 square miles, officials should already know which streets need repairs. The results? Most of our streets were labeled "good" (green), some "moderate" (yellow), and only a few "needs resurfacing" (red).
Our city allocated $900,000 for paving in this budget, yet I haven’t seen any work done. They now plan to combine two years’ budgets and start paving in June or July.
Greenway Extension
Three possible routes for extending the Greenway were presented, all leading to Tucker Road near the Homewood subdivision sidewalks. The city considers the sidewalks on Edgmon and Tucker part of the Greenway, so their goal is to connect the trail to those sidewalks.
The chosen route will pass through the old Tallent Farm property along a sewer easement and will require permission from a couple property owners for easements. When completed, residents will be able to walk or bike from this side of town to the center of Collegedale. Estimated cost: $1.65 million.
Jake Brake Ordinance
Commissioner Howse proposed an ordinance to regulate exhaust brakes (Jake Brakes) on large trucks without proper mufflers while traveling on Apison Pike. She mentioned that the loud noise scares kids at bus stops and pedestrians. To me, this seems more like a concern for residents near Apison Pike—such as the Howse family.
Supporting Small Businesses
Vice Mayor Sadler suggested an initiative to highlight small businesses in Collegedale. I think this is a great idea. It’s not easy to open a brick-and-mortar business in our city due to strict regulations (just ask Advance Auto). Recognizing businesses that choose to operate here is a positive step, and this would come at little to no cost to taxpayers.
Strategic Plan – Another Waste of Money?
After the workshop, a special meeting was held to finalize goals for a city strategic plan before sending out a request for bids. The City Manager estimates this will cost around $100,000.
Here’s my issue: These "goals" were set by the Commissioners, not the citizens. No one has asked residents what they want for their city.
Do you want the Greenway to extend to every subdivision?
Do you want a walkable city center with retail, housing, and restaurants?
Do you think improving communication is a priority?
Do you want more parks, bicycle trails, or even a putt-putt course?
This was the list from the Commissioners. If these are your priorities, great—but shouldn’t the community have input before $100,000 is spent on an out of state company to formalize what the Commission has already decided? Shouldn’t taxpayers have a voice in setting our city's priorities and strategic plan?
Final Thoughts
I know some city officials have expressed concerns about "incorrect" information circulating on social media. Since I’ve been the most vocal about airport spending, I assume they’re referring to my posts.
For the record, I always ask questions and get information directly from the City Manager and, at times, the Airport Manager. I have never intentionally posted incorrect information or misled anyone. Dollar amounts can change—initially, I was told the city might be $1 million short on the airport project after the grant. Now, they’ve found ways to cut costs, and per Jay Jolley, the current estimate is $500,000–$700,000.
I want to be clear: I’m not anti-airport. Build whatever you want out there—just don’t use our tax dollars to do it. I truly believe this is a hobby airport with a couple of small businesses, and it will not have a huge economic impact on our community. I just want to keep the citizens informed on what's going on with our city and how our elected officials are choosing to spend our tax dollars. Their communication is terrible. Not once has any of them asked the public what they want done around our town or if they want their tax dollars being spent at the airport. They speak about improving communication and they run on it during the election, but not one of them has done anything to show it. Trust me when I say this commission relies on the community not being plugged in and not asking questions about spending taxpayer dollars. Get involved.
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