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CLB workshop
Members of the Cocke County Legislative Body met in a workshop Thursday evening. The recently elected members of the body are trying to develop priorities for future expenditures of limited money. Chair Clay Blazer reported that the county has not borrowed money for the last 10 years, and currently has a debt of about $22 million. that he says compares to the $175 million owed by Jefferson County. The current Cocke County debt is to be paid off in ten years, however, there are major needs on the horizon including a resolution to the jail overcrowding, development of the industrial park as well as possible school needs. Blazer also pointed out that the county in recent years has stopped financing patrol cars and school buses on 20-year notes, and instead is funding them in the current year budget. He stressed the need for an adequate fund balance in the budget so there is adequate funding for unforeseen issues. Commissioner Forrest Clevenger argued for a closer look at, in his words, "wastefull spending". In particular, he pointed to overtime pay in the sheriff and fire departments. Mayor Crystal Ottinger said the County Technical Advisory Service(CTAS) is available to advise the county on planning and the financing of any new debt. CLB member David Veridal suggested that the county develop five and ten-year plans to assist in budgeting needs. The mayor agreed to send a letter to all department heads, requesting a list of future capital needs, so those needs can be prioritized. Blazer said although there is a major push for industrial jobs in the community, more revenue is pumped into the government coffers from retail. "If Volkswagen came here, our property tax rates would not go down. You need to understand that. The way to lower property tax rates is through retail development," he said. But Commissioner Gayla Blazer pointed out that good paying jobs are important to grow retail spending in the community. And Commissioner Clevenger added that retail spending can also be increased through more tourism. Partnership President Lucus Graham said an important factor to consider when trying to recruit industry is the "quality of life" of the community. Mayor Ottinger also pointed out that for growth out in the county, water and wastewater service is important. The committee was told that RGE, a plastics injection firm off Cope Boulevard, closed it's doors suddenly earlier this week, leaving 34 workers without a job. Graham said he has not been able to contact the owners of the firm for discussions and has not received any communications. Mayor Ottinger said she received a phone call regarding the situation after the plant closed on Thursday. "She had worked the night before but got a call at 9:30 telling her that they were closing. First shift was working at the time. There was no rhyme or reason. Several months ago they were talking about expanding, but they have canceled orders for supplies and canceled contracts saying they would not fulfill the orders. And they left." The firm recently obtained a USDA grant as well as a property tax abatement contingent on an expansion up to 80 jobs. But the loan now will be rescinded. Representatives from the Friends Animal Shelter will be at the Monday night CLB meeting to address concerns regarding the operation. The committee also is looking at opportunities for all-terrain vehicle trails and travel on the roadways. EMA Director Kevin Benton said some rafting companies in Hartford are interested in expanding into such a service. He said there are lots of opportunities for ATV recreation without traveling on a state highway.
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Return to Today's News Stories - Front PageThursday, April 29, 2021
US 411 Project News
Mill Creek Wildfire Update
More Bad News For Smokies' Fans
Wednesday, April 28, 2021
Mill Creek Wildfire doubles in size
Goodbye Smokies?
Keep Cocke County Beautiful
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Tuesday, April 27, 2021
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Monday, April 26, 2021
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Friday, April 23, 2021
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