The Executive Committee of the First Tennessee Development District Board of Directors met to discuss vital regional efforts underway throughout Northeast Tennessee.
The mayors received a brief report on upcoming HOME Grant applications that provide funds to improve or rebuild housing across the region. Bill Forrester, Director of Community, Planning, Housing & Development spelled out the requirements for the next round of HOME Grant funds, due on April 6th, and touted the work of the housing staff. Over the course of the last year, they have completed over $2 million dollars in home improvements for residents throughout the FTDD.
The Executive Committee also approved a resolution to release the interest held by the FTDD Revolving Loan Fund. This move gives the revolving loan fund far more latitude to make grants and support a wider-range of economic development projects. Area Agency on Aging & Disability Director Kathy Whitaker also briefed the committee on the Area Plan, which informs the FTAAAD's work for seniors in the region. She also informed the the mayors that the FTAAAD staff had excelled in meeting their mandate during COVID-19, including receiving a 100% on their recent audit by Tennessee Commission on Aging.
Lottie Ryans, Director of Workforce & Literacy Initiatives reported on the progress made by the FTDD Foundation and Region A.H.E.A.D. on the recently awarded BCBST Foundation Grant to promote "Take a Shot At Life" vaccine campaign. The campaign, designed by local marketing firms, is under review and elements of the campaign will launch soon, including mobile vaccine vans which will visit sites across the region.
Washington County Mayor Joe Grandy provided a brief update on the continued conversation to develop a regional economic development hub. In order to field questions and prepare for next steps, the Executive Committee will meet again in late April to formalize their view on this effort. Following a brief update from District Director Lana Moore, with Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger's office, Mayor Daniels adjourned the meeting.
For questions about this or any other Development District news, please contact Mark Stevans, mstevans@ftdd.org.