Hosted by Mayor W.T. Daniels of Greeneville on the terrace of the historic General Morgan Inn, the Board of the First Tennessee Development District met on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 for the 55th Semi-Annual Meeting.
Board members, regional partners, guests, and staff gathered for the first in-person event held by the FTDD since COVID-19 shuttered much of the region in 2020. As part of the agenda, the board adopted an amended budget for the current fiscal year in addition to adopting a new budget for FY2022. The work plan, which outlines the District’s goals and outcomes in economic development, housing, work force development, planning, and senior services was also approved for the coming year. “We are excited to bring the wide array of services provided by the FTDD before the full board for their approval,” said Chris Craig, executive director, “it is truly stunning when you look at the width and breadth of what we accomplish each year.”
During the course of the meeting, the board also affirmed the Executive Committee’s motion to endorse the creation of a regional hub, and fully endorse a working relationship between the FTDD and the hub after it is established. While the framework and duties for this new organization are being formalized with stakeholders across the region, the First Tennessee Development District remains committed to its core mission – regional progress through regional cooperation.
Staff service awards were presented and included Kathy Whitaker, 45 years, Ken Rea, 35 years, Dale Condon and Angie Gwaltney, 20 years, and Michele Jenkins for 15 years of service with the FTDD. Their hard work, dedication, and expertise represent a combined 135 years of experience serving the region.
In addition to the business meeting, the assembled guests also heard from Greg Jones, a founder of Morgan Square, the genesis of the General Morgan, who provided a recap of the project and the role the hotel has played in Greeneville’s downtown development and economic growth. “The hotel and Downtown Greeneville are showpieces,” said Daniels in summing up the evening, “I am proud to have the region’s leaders here to see everything the town has to offer.”
For questions related to the Semi-Annual Meeting, please contact Mark Stevans, mstevans@ftdd.org.