County Property Owners may be looking at 61 Cent Tax Increase to help fund Judicial Center/Jail and School Employee Pay Raises

June 5, 2024
By: Dwayne Page

Going up again?

On the heels of a 27 cent increase just a year ago, the county property tax rate may be going up again this year by an even larger margin of 61 cents.

During a meeting Tuesday night, the county budget committee voted 4-2 to settle on a tax levy of $2.61 cents per $100 of assessed value to present to the full county commission for consideration when the proposed consolidated budget is up for adoption in a few weeks. That’s a 61-cent hike from the current tax levy of $2.00 per $100 of assessed value. A year ago, the rate was $1.7308 cents. Budget committee members voting in favor were Tom Chandler, Mathias Anderson, Tony (Cully) Culwell, and Glynn Merriman. Chairman Jeff Barnes and Sabrina Farler voted no. Susannah Cripps was absent.

Fifty-one cents of the proposed tax hike would go to fund debt service for the eventual construction of a judicial center or jail while the remaining 10 cent increase would be allocated to schools to help fund the proposed new school budget which includes pay raises for certified personnel and support staff.

Prior to the vote on the tax levy, the budget committee adopted both the General-Purpose Schools Budget and Local Highway Department budgets as presented. Member Sabrina Farler abstained from voting on the school budget because she is employed by the school system.

Altogether, schools would be getting almost one million dollars in new local revenue from the county including $620,000 from the tax increase ($62,000 per 1 cent of the tax rate) and another $370,000 contribution from the local purpose (sales tax) fund. Schools already get an annual contribution from the county’s local purpose fund of $1,540,000 for yearly school budget operation. The extra $370,000 would put the annual contribution from the local purpose (sales tax) fund for schools at $1,910,000. Even with the added funds, schools would be about $720,000 short of fully funding the $1.72 million cost of the pay raises with matching benefits as presented to the budget committee last week by Director of Schools Patrick Cripps. However, Cripps said Tuesday night after the meeting that the difference could be made up from the school budget’s reserves.

According to the proposed school budget, as adopted by the board of education last month, a $2,000 pay increase would go to school employees with up to 9 years of service (155 employees); $5,000 for those with 10-19 years (104 employees); and $6,000 to staff with 20 or more years (108 employees).

If approved by the full county commission, the new property tax rate levy would apparently be divided as follows:

County General: $1.2583
Highway/Public Works: $0.0326 cents
General Capital Projects: $0.0733 cents
Debt Service: $0.6160 cents (an increase of 51 cents from the current debt service tax levy of $0.1060)
General Purpose Schools: $0.6298 (an increase of 10 cents from the current General Purpose Schools tax levy of $0.5298 cents)

TOTAL PROPOSED COUNTY TAX LEVY: $2.61 per $100 of assessed value which is up from the current tax levy of $2.00 per $100 of assessed value.

Meanwhile in a separate move, the budget committee voted unanimously to send a statement to the county commission that in order to fund eventual construction of a judicial center/jail an initial and detailed bond resolution is needed with an authorization of funding by the county commission (when required) not to exceed $65 million. Budget committee member Tom Chandler said that this vote is not a recommendation from the budget committee but only a statement of what is needed for the full county commission to consider.

Any excess proceeds or interest income from the bonds, if approved by the commission, could be used for certain projects which would otherwise be funded from the capital projects account including for example, a new fire truck and ambulances, etc.

The budget committee will meet again Thursday night, June 6 at 6 p.m. in the downstairs courtroom of the courthouse. County Mayor Matt Adcock said another meeting is needed to tie up some loose ends, plug in numbers to cover increases in insurance costs, and to address issues regarding the solid waste operation, etc. Plans are to also adopt a proposed consolidated budget at the budget committee meeting Thursday night to present to the full county commission for final passage on Monday, June 24th.

June 5, 2024
By: Dwayne Page

For more than half a century, the annual Smithville Fiddlers Jamboree and Crafts Festival has been a popular tourist attraction for DeKalb County and an economic shot in the arm to the local economy. But store owners on West Walnut Street, members of the Smithville Merchant’s Alliance, claim that in recent years their business has been hampered somewhat on Jamboree weekend by craft booths that line both sides of the street in front of their shops making customer access difficult.

Recent meetings and discussions with the Fiddlers Jamboree Board of Directors have apparently not resulted in a solution to the satisfaction of the store owners so they came to the monthly meeting of the Mayor and Aldermen Monday night to express their concerns. They also presented a petition signed by themselves and fellow downtown business owners asking city officials to intervene.

From the beginning of the annual festival, the city has allowed Jamboree organizers on that weekend to block off the downtown square and use the streets for setting up food and craft booths.

Kim Luton, president of the Fiddlers Jamboree and Crafts Festival, explained during the meeting Monday night that vendors who rent booth space pay a fee to the Jamboree which goes toward the event’s operation cost.

“Our policy states that we will place a booth in front of businesses last. If we see we are going to be full, we offer the booth space to businesses before we place them and ask that they pay the craft booth fee of $135 for that space. If so, we place the craft booth on the waiting list in case something becomes open. We see this as a goodwill gesture from the businesses to support the Jamboree,” said Luton.

Although it’s not new for craft booths to be placed throughout downtown during the Jamboree, Walnut Street has become a much busier place in recent years as new businesses have moved into what were once mostly vacant buildings.

Rick Walker, owner of the Arts Garage on West Walnut Street, said while vendors should not be allowed to block access to their store fronts, West Walnut Street businesses should also not have to pay a fee to ensure space in front of their stores is unoccupied.

“We don’t want vendors blocking access to our business fronts”, explained Walker. “We have been forced to pay a $135 vendor fee to have a 10’ x 10’ spot open in front of our businesses. I would like to point out that this is not required of the businesses on Main Street because they don’t have vendors on that side,” he said.

“Randy Caldwell of the Purple Door Antiques and Unique’s and I attempted to make a resolution of this. We met with the president of the Jamboree committee on August 22, 2023. We expressed our concerns and provided some suggestions and potential solutions in writing. We were able to meet with the Jamboree committee on May 9, 2024 where we expressed our concerns again. We offered some solutions and both the fire chief and chief of police offered some solutions as well. We were sent a letter on May 20 from the Jamboree committee saying basically the solution is if there are not enough vendors you can have the space in front of your building but if there are too many vendors you will have to pay to have that space open,” said Walker.

“My request is that the city council intervene with the Jamboree committee on behalf of the businesses and business owners of downtown Smithville to help us come to a resolution and stop this unfair practice of charging us to have the space in front of our businesses. I want to be clear we support the Jamboree 100%. I have gone to the Jamboree every year since I have lived here, and I have products that I have bought from vendors that I use on a weekly basis but we can’t have that at the cost of our (store owners) success. We bring tax revenue into the city every day. We have created and revitalized downtown in the last couple of years so much so that social media influencers and the Discovery Channel influencers have come to downtown Smithville to film it and advertise it to the world. The state tourism board is investing in Smithville and DeKalb County because of the things that are going on here. So we ask that you help us intervene with this to have a resolution that is both beneficial, successful, and as fair as possible for both the Jamboree and for the businesses downtown,” said Walker.

Randy Caldwell of the Purple Door also addressed the mayor and aldermen.

“We are not here in a combative mode,” said Caldwell. “We would just like to work out a solution that is a win-win for both parties. As Rick said we have been working through this for about three years. We have been professional about it. We have even offered to do a layout to see how it can benefit both parties but unfortunately, we have arrived at the same solution every year. We don’t think what we are asking is unreasonable,” Caldwell continued. “We think there are viable options that can work for both parties. I attended a committee meeting here a few weeks ago. One of the things we were told was one of the reasons the Jamboree was started was to help the businesses downtown in a period when business was slow. I can attest as a business owner that business is slow this time of the year. Its very important for us to be successful and we want the Jamboree to be successful but its hard to be successful as a retail establishment when people cannot see your building,” explained Caldwell. “Even if we have the 10-foot space in front of our shop, its still difficult for people to see it. I know how hard it is to put on an event like this. I don’t think its malicious by any intent. People are used to doing the same thing every year and we understand that, but we think everybody can be successful if we look at some options. We did pass around a petition. We are representing the Smithville Merchant’s Alliance as a group of retail owners downtown. This petition is signed by 83% of the retail businesses downtown in support of our request. We ask that you take that into consideration as you consider our request. These business owners all live and work here. We invest in the community. We are here 365 days a year and we are also very supportive of all the different organizations. We put on events which costs us money, time, and effort but we are bringing tax dollars to the city and county. To reiterate, we are in support of the Jamboree. We want the vendors to be successful. We understand the value they bring in foot traffic to our door. My wife was a vendor for three or four years here at the Jamboree, so we very much appreciate what everybody does to make that happen. Again we respectfully request that you consider what we are asking,” said Caldwell.

In her remarks, Kim Luton expressed her thanks to the City of Smithville “for all the city provides for the Jamboree weekend including security, EMA (Emergency Management Agency), city workers and so much more. We, the Jamboree board, truly appreciates it all,” she said.

“The mission statement of the Smithville Jamboree and Crafts Festival is to preserve the true heritage of Appalachian Craft, Music and Dance. This year’s festival is the 53rd Jamboree to carry through with our mission,” said Luton. “The Jamboree Board is made up of 11 members. We also have seven separate committees that work on different areas of the Jamboree. No one is paid. It is an all-volunteer effort with a lot of time involved. This is a free event for the public. The Jamboree is a 501c 3 non-profit organization. We barely break even. All donations to the event provide a tax write off to those who assist the Jamboree financially. Our income is derived from sponsorships, food booths, entry fees, and craft booth fees,” Luton explained.

“We also promote the City of Smithville and downtown. We want the businesses to succeed and capitalize on the two-day event as much as the possibly can. At our last board meeting, we invited the downtown businesses to come and discuss their concerns. Fire Chief Charlie Parker and Police Chief Mark Collins joined us and offered a suggestion for opening up 3rd Street in order to increase our booths and offer a place to move some booths as needed. This year it is not possible because of electrical boards that would need to be in place. The costs are more than our budget can handle this year at $2,000 to $3,000. However, this is something we can begin to look at for next year,” said Luton.

“We have hired an additional constable to patrol the streets and sidewalks. Vendors should not be putting their containers or anything on the sidewalks. We understand that was an issue last year and we will make sure the sidewalks are clear at all times”.

“As far as Main Street is concerned,” Luton said “it is the fire lane Chief Parker has designated. Booths are not straight down the middle of the street. Each year, we rotate moving them further to the right or the left so that there is enough room for emergency services if needed. This is the only reason there are booths on one side of Main Street,” said Luton.

“On average, there will be 25,000 to 30,000 visitors over two days. It has been said that this festival and I quote” provides enough income to supply my store for Christmas”. Several stores have called and asked, “how can we help?” That’s what it’s all about, community and common good for all,” added Luton.

After the public comment period, Mayor Josh Miller and the Aldermen briefly discussed the concerns but took no action.

“I was told this morning (Monday) that only two booths would be on Walnut Street this year (Jamboree),” said Mayor Miller. “The cut-off date (for booking a Jamboree craft booth rental) was June 1. I don’t know if that has changed but there is apparently not going to be an issue this year. But whatever you do (aldermen) we have to be fair. We cannot do one (exception) for Walnut Street and not do it for Market Street or all streets. Everybody has to be on a level playing field,” said Mayor Miller

Alderman Danny Washer made a motion to table the request until a workshop could be scheduled to discuss it further, but the motion died for the lack of a second.

Alderman Beth Chandler said the issue should be revisited before the Jamboree next year.

June 4, 2024
By: Dwayne Page

Should the Smithville Mayor and Aldermen update the city’s beer ordinance to make it easier for businesses including eateries in the downtown business district to sell the beverage?

During Monday night’s monthly meeting, three people addressed the mayor and aldermen to make this request.

Local businessman Tony Luna, who has businesses at 102 and 106 West Main Street, said the existing beer ordinance is an impediment to economic growth and its unfair because of the distance requirement for businesses to obtain a beer permit.

Under the ordinance, the language states that “In no event will a permit be issued authorizing the manufacture or storage of beer, or the sale of beer within 400 feet of any school or church. The distance requirement shall be measured in a straight line from the primary entrance of the establishment seeking a permit to sell beer to the primary entrance of the school or church”.

Currently, two businesses downtown have permits to sell beer but one of them got their permit through the state for the sale of high gravity beer.

“I stand before you to shed light on an issue that affects our community, our businesses, and our future. It’s a matter that has lingered for far too long-an outdated beer law in downtown Smithville, mainly on the three most popular downtown streets,” said Luna.

“Picture this: You step out of our historic courthouse, and only 170 paces to the west, you can obtain a beer license. And a few fewer steps to the east, and there it is again-a beer license. But what about the streets in between? Why are they left out of this opportunity,” Luna asks.

“It’s not a matter of mere convenience; it’s a matter of fairness. Our local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and aspiring restaurateurs deserve equal access to economic growth. The current system creates an uneven playing field-one where some strive while others struggle to keep up,” Luna continued.

“As we all know, Smithville and Center Hill Lake, is more than just a dot on the map. It’s a hidden gem-our charming streets, friendly faces, and warm hospitality draw visitors from all corners of Tennessee and beyond. We are a tourist-destination waiting to bloom,” explained Luna.

“Imagine the possibilities: boutique breweries, cozy pubs, and vibrant eateries lining our streets. Picture tourists enjoying local craft beers, sharing stories, and creating memories. Our community has the potential to become a hub for food experiences, live music, and cultural exchange”.

“Here’s the irony: While the state of Tennessee allows beer licenses, our city boundaries restrict them. Its time to bridge this gap. Let’s harmonize our local laws with the broader vision of progress, We owe it to our citizens, our visitors, and our future generations”

“Its about economic growth: By reforming this outdated law, we open doors for new businesses. Image revitalized storefronts, bustling sidewalks, and a thriving local economy. Our entrepreneurs deserve a chance to flourish,” said Luna

“Its about job creation: More businesses mean more jobs. From brewers to servers, from chefs to musicians-we can create employment opportunities that sustain families and strengthen our community fabric”.

“A vibrant downtown isn’t just about commerce; its about culture. Its about fostering creativity and providing spaces where everyone feels welcome”.

“Its about community pride: When we see our town thrive, we feel a sense of pride. Its not just about beer; its about building a legacy-a Smithville that future generations will cherish”.

“In closing, I leave you with this: Our beer laws are outdated. I have no intention of opening a pub or restaurant. I am here as a business owner that can see the missing link that other small towns are doing, and we are missing out on tax dollars that we need. I am vested in the town and county and would love to see a town where every street, every corner, and every business thrives,” said Luna.

Ken Fennell and his wife Erin are owners of the Refined Boutique and the 105 West Main building downtown. Mr. Fennell addressed the mayor and aldermen further making the case for a change in the city’s beer ordinance.

“Respectfully we ask for consideration of removing the beer ordinance. The reason is business growth for everybody and prospering Smithville,” said Fennell. “

“I did a lot of research online reading articles and there are three common ingredients that make up a successful small town business district. They fall into three things. One is a commitment and investment by the private groups that are doing these businesses as well as the public, which is you, the chamber, and the city. We get tons of support from the chamber. What we are asking from you is not financial support but just merely removing the hurdles and the boundaries that prohibit us from being better and growing,” explained Fennell.

“The second ingredient is the hours of operation. Its hard for us as business owners to justify opening every hour every day or even some months, when frankly its dead downtown which leads into the third ingredient-a variety of establishments. Small downtowns cannot thrive without a variety of establishments. Retail cannot stand alone. Restaurants without beverage options cannot stand alone,” said Fennell.

“The National Restaurant Association says 7 in 10 customers say they are likely to choose a restaurant based on the availability of beer, wine, or cocktails. The margins of those items are far greater than food itself”.

“This past Saturday at three o’clock I dropped a couple of things off at our store and then left. Downtown at that time was dead. Nobody was there. Down the road Twisted Oaks was standing room only. You couldn’t get another car in the parking lot. I think you find the correlation there with the food and beverage and the options for entertainment outside listening to music. We need that,” said Fennell.

“In closing, Time Magazine had an article that talked about how buying local boosts the economy. It equates money in the economy and blood in the body as similar entities. When money flows, blood flows and the body does well. When money flows fast, the body does even better. When the dollars stay local and when the money is spent here, and that waitress or waiter buys gas or goes to the local Food Lion, it stays in the local tax base,” added Fennell.

The mayor and aldermen also heard from local resident Gary Booth.

“I don’t own any businesses downtown and I don’t drink beer, but I want to make it clear that I stand in support of the two people here (Luna and Fennell) who were talking about relaxing and or otherwise adjusting the rules just to create more options downtown. I would really like to see more opportunities for the city to get more money in terms of taxes for the city to grow and to give residents more reason to come downtown. I do stand in support of that even though I won’t be having a beer,” said Booth.

Mayor Josh Miller explained that any change in the beer ordinance would require passage of an ordinance on two separate readings and a public hearing. Discussions prior to such a move would most likely have to take place during city council workshops. The aldermen took no action Monday night.

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