While the city's Garrison Park redevelopment
project has a signed grant contract with the state, engineers and a grant
consultant and work is progressing on design and engineering work,
council's action at last weeks called meeting put off passing the
third and final reading on a budget amendment funding work that has
taken place during the last part of the 2016-17 fiscal year.
So far the council has not canceled the
project, the work or the grant but only tabled the approval of a
budget amendment pending additional information.
City council called meeting-sitting at table L-R
Danny Wyatt, Pamala Harris, Mayor James Mayberry
and J. H. Graham
The discussion mainly concerned the
fence that is currently surrounding the park that the grant
application indicated would be removed. The LPRF (Local Parks and
Recreation Fund) has said the fence can be replaced but are holding a
position that the current must be removed as it was part of the grant
application they approved.
During discussion, councilman J. H.
Graham said that his phone calls over the previous two weeks
indicated that if the fence had to be removed and field A was lost
that his constituents were in favor of discontinuing the renovations
until coming up with a better solution. He added that finding a ball
park was difficult in the city of Crossville.
Concept for Garrison Park re-development plan
Garrison Park entrance and fence
City manager Greg Wood said that the
city would have the use of the ball fields that belong to the local school
system at the two high schools if they were needed. It was also
clarified that field A was not being removed and was not part of the
current grant or renovation plan.
The fence remains the main sticking
point as Graham said “I have a real problem with taking down a
perfectly good fence and building it back.”
Councilman Danny Wyatt said that there
was 4000 feet of chain link in the park that he said was “somewhere
in the neighborhood of $100,000. “I'd like for a good level headed
person to tell me why you would take a perfectly good fence down and
create a safety concern,” commented Wyatt.
Manager Wood explained that the current
trend in parks is to have open access and not have fences all the way
around them to encourage access to the park from all sides.
Wyatt said, “I'd like to make a
motion to table this until someone can tell us why we have to take
the fence down.
Questions arose on the fact that
the city has already signed contracts for work done by the
engineering firm Lose and Associates and Community Partners for grant
administration. City attorney Will Ridley said that the city would
have to pay for work that has already been done by the firms if the
city were to back out of those contracts.
Questions about whether backing out of
the grant would cause the city to be ineligible for additional such
recreation grants was also discussed but manager Woods planned to
meet with representatives of the city of Livingston for additional clarification
on some of the issues since they just completed a similar grant.
Councilwoman Pamala Harris indicated that the comments that they city could not get another grant didn't make sense to her since grants are usually awarded on a point system. Said Wood,
“If you don't close out one grant then it may be that you are not eligible to get
another one.”
Wyatt's motion was approved with 4
votes in favor.
A motion to approve the year end budget
amendments was approved by the council with little discussion and a
unanimous vote of the council members present. Councilman Scot
Shanks was out of town for the meeting.
Crossville city council agreed to move
forward with the planned redevelopment of Garrison Park while the
city plans to keep the perimeter fence around the park and the so
called Field “A” intact.
The city received a $500,000 grant
toward the project to remove the late 1940's grandstand, put in a
playground, a splash pad, a new basketball court and a rest room.
The city is to match the state funds for the total cost of $1 million
for phase one of the project. It is unclear if or when additional
work might be done on the park.
Initial design plan for Garrison Park improvements
The action on the June agenda was a
budget amendment for the current fiscal year to move forward with
contracts for design and grant administration. Council members Danny
Wyatt and Pamala Harris both expressed concern about the need to
retain the fence around the park and the larger ball field at the
park.
L-R: City manager Geg Wood, council members J.H. Graham
and Danny Wyatt, Mayor James Mayberry and council members
Pamala Harris and Scot Shanks.
The item was pulled out of the consent
agenda for separate action and discussion by councilman J. H. Graham
and councilman Danny Wyatt addressed his concerns saying, “I'm all
about building this park over there but I want it done correctly.”
Wyatt mentioned the fence around the park and said it would be very
expensive to replace.
Entrance to Garrison Park
The other item Wyatt sought
clarification on is the ability to leave Field A since it is part of
the second phase of the project that is not currently funded or under
consideration. Wyatt also questioned why if the grandstand was part
of Field A was it part of this project.
Mayor James Mayberry responded, “The
bleachers were one of the biggest health and safety issues with the
whole deal and why it was a priority.”
Councilwoman Pamala Harris said her
biggest concern was if there was a guarantee that the city could
conserve Field A and conserve the fence. “I'm just uncomfortable
unless I know these things can be saved,” added Harris.
Mayor Mayberry said that he had a
verbal assurance that the state would use common sense about the
safety provided by the perfectly good fence and there should be no
reason to remove it. Mayberry added that he had been to the
Tennessee Municipal League meeting and found out that park designers
like to have parks feel more open without fences but that safety is a
concern.
Mayberry said that with the removal of
the grandstand a backstop fence would be required as well.
Discussion of a possible big tournament
in the Fall came up and it was estimated that no work on the field
would start before the first of 2018 and the grant funds must be used
within 2 years.
Video of council discussion on Garrison Park
With one final reading still to go, the
city will request an answer in writing by a special called meeting on
June 29th when the final reading is expected to take place along with
the final reading of the 2017-18 budget.
With that, Mr. Wyatt made the motion to
approve contingent on getting an answer by the third reading and was
supported by Mr. Graham and the motion passed unanimously.
The longtime park has been the location
of a baseball field since the 1920's according to property records
and at one time was the location where the Cumberland County Fair was
held.
IPswitch messages presented as part of the Tammie French grievance complaint.
The name indicates who sent the message and the messages are grouped by pairs of senders. Those represented include Tammie French, her secretary Amy Hester city marketing director Billy Loggins and interim city manager Steve Hill.
A brief explanation about IPswitch instant messaging
Crossville Marketing Director Billy Loggins
August 3, 2016
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 7:52 AM): you
there??
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 7:55 AM): yes
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 7:55 AM): why
aren't you lit up then lol
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 7:56 AM): I am now.
I just got here. lol
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 7:57 AM): oh ok
you and the wicked witch of the east getting along?
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 7:58 AM): you are
so mean!
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 7:58 AM): you blew
up my email last week, didn't you? did you not know I was on
vacation?
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 7:59 AM): Hey I
need two slugs for Friday Night Crossroads event Court House Lawn
4 to 8 please since there is not tournaments anymore this
shouldn't be a problem correct?
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 7:59 AM): oh
not at first
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:00 AM): haha
there is a tournament this weekend, but you should be able to get 2
for Friday night.
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 8:01 AM): If the
East Witch has a problem please refer them to the City Mgr.
major thanks!!!
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:01 AM): and I'm
hoping there's a light at the end of the tunnel.
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 8:01 AM): there
is when they are gone!!!
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:02 AM): you're
welcome! and I'm not given the concessions schedule so when I find
out who it will be I'll let you know.
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 8:02 AM): pray
for peace sister Amy
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:03 AM): that's
the truth
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 8:03 AM): lol
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:03 AM): I'm
praying that light at the end of that tunnel gets closer and closer
fast!
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:03 AM): lol
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 8:04 AM): me too
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 8:29 AM): oh my
bad. the tourney this weekend currently has 2 teams. you have the
inside track to everything, huh?
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 10:13 AM): two
teams wow how many rooms are needed??
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 10:18 AM): The
Super 8 for 2 weeks (that I know of) has on their sign a tourney that
cancelled. they may be booked up. lol
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 3:16 PM): hey are
you there?
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 3:16 PM): you have
two girls for Friday night. Ashley and Haley.
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 3:17 PM): WOW
You are soooo good
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 3:17 PM): LOL well
of course I am!
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 3:18 PM): which
one is better of these two?
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 3:19 PM): what are
you talking about? they are all good! Ashley is the one that won the
car last year that has worked the sustainability fair for you. Haley
is quieter but very sweet! She's a super good cleaner! she's always
willing to come in and work especially at a last minute notice.
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 3:22 PM): ok
glad they are good
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 3:23 PM): I could
have gotten my boss to have been there
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 3:27 PM): now
Sister Amy you were doing so well with this conservation and then
you go and say that I don't have my cross with me today so I'm
defenseless against that person.
Amy Hester(8/3/2016 3:32 PM): well
brother Billy know the peace will come over you like a sweeping ocean
wave.
Billy Loggins(8/3/2016 3:33 PM): thank
you so much I feel saved now may peace be with you and yours
August 4, 2016
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:02 AM):
Loser!!
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:02 AM): huh?
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:02 AM): just
checking to see if your awake
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:03 AM): LOL
barely
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:03 AM): East
Witch there?
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:03 AM): yes
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:04 AM): I'm
sorry
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:04 AM): you're
mean
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:04 AM): what
does she do all day there is no tour(s) anymore I don't get it
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:05 AM): LOL she
works in her office and does other stuff
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:05 AM): other
stuff
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:05 AM):
concession stuff
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:10 AM): are you
trying to see what all you will have to add to your job description
when you become my next boss?
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:32 AM): LOL
Not for all the money in China
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:32 AM): LOL
that's not what I've heard.
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:33 AM):
seriously not happening
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:33 AM): and I
thought you liked us
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:34 AM): too
funny
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:35 AM): oh
did you see that link I sent you
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:36 AM):
Brother B. J.
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:36 AM): I did. I
haven't watch it yet. Betty was at camp the other week where he was
the director.
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 9:37 AM): he is
really good watch it if you get a chance
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 9:38 AM): I will! I
haven't really heard him before. I've known who he is, but not heard
him or been around him.
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 3:42 PM): Still
there?
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 3:58 PM): yes
Billy Loggins(8/4/2016 3:59 PM): you
were not lit up I thought you might have had a stroke
Amy Hester(8/4/2016 4:02 PM): haha I
had to run and errand.
August 5, 2016
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 7:18 AM): are you
there?
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:27 AM): yes
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:28 AM): I was
just going to beat you to it today. I'm beginning to think you're
stalking me so I've been expecting roses any time now.
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:30 AM): too
funny
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:31 AM): that's
me!
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:31 AM): are you
ready for tonight?
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:32 AM): Is the
Witch there yet oh and yes
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:32 AM): no she
sent me a message last night she would be late this morning.
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:32 AM): good
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:32 AM): She
needs to be late for ever!
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:33 AM): yes
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:33 AM): What
is the biggest tour we have had?
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:33 AM): this
year
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:35 AM): 28, it
was Pheasy on May 21st... I think it was the Road to Panama
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:36 AM): ok
Is she working on scheduling tour for next year? Did Rutherford
tell her not to have tour?
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:38 AM): I don't
know. I don't think she starts on the next year until near the end of
the year of first of the year. I know the ones that have scheduled
tourneys have first chance at dates for the next year.
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:38 AM): Hey
please have the kids bring two " safety cones " to put over
the stakes of the blow up this afternoon
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:38 AM): I'm not
sure if that includes the ones that booked and then cancelled at the
last minute of not.
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:39 AM): ok,
that's a great idea! that would have saved my poor little middle toe
on the 4th.
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 8:39 AM): I
think of everything lol
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:39 AM): lol
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 8:42 AM): I know
she ordered 2 new wall calendars that we use for scheduling and last
year I don't think I ordered them until Dec.
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 10:10 AM): hey, can
I make a suggestion when you become my new boss?
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 10:11 AM): lol
ok geez
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 10:13 AM): can we
do a flyer or tri fold with all the Park has to participate in? We
have one of the walking trails but I'm asked all the time about
sports and stuff.
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 10:15 AM):
sounds good
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 10:15 AM): I
thought so too. pat pat on my back! oh wait my arms are too short.
Billy Loggins(8/5/2016 10:50 AM): your
unreal
Amy Hester(8/5/2016 10:50 AM): no I'm
not! I'm just awesome!
Messages between Tammie French and Steve Hill
Tammie French(8/4/2016 3:46 PM): I am
looking at trying something new at Centennial Park and would like to
know if funds from our budget can be used to pay for it.
We have not really gotten into any type
of programming before, but I would like to try some early morning Tai
Chi classes free to the public. We could pull money from our Public
Relations line item if you both salute it. I have not negotiated a
fee with an instructor yet until I get a go ahead, although we have
discussed having the classes.
Steve Hill(8/5/2016 8:03 AM): I am not
sure if that is a good direction to go in or not. But if you want to
get the costs and such together we can look into it.
Tammie French(8/5/2016 8:16 AM): Ok
Steve Hill(8/5/2016 8:18 AM): Do we
have a tournament this weekend?
Tammie French(8/5/2016 10:49 AM): We
did, he cancelled Wednesday, said possibility of rain and yard sale
being factors. Next weekend is the big one.
Tammie French(8/5/2016 10:52 AM): We
have fastpitch scheduled for September 3rd, September 17th, October
1st, October 15th and October 29th.
August 9, 2016
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 11:37 AM): Wake
up!!!!
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:37 AM): yeah!
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 11:38 AM): just
emailed you
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:38 AM): did
Milton get you today? he called back here this morning
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:38 AM): ok
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:38 AM): that
wasn't even funny!!
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 11:45 AM): yeah
it was lol
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:45 AM):
bwahahaha
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 11:48 AM): turn
in some overtime for this lol tell Fred I said you could
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:49 AM): LOL that
was funny! you tell Robin for me
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 11:49 AM): ok
I will now lol
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 11:52 AM): lol let
me know how that goes! is that overtime in your budget
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 3:56 PM): go
ahead and knock off have a great evening!
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 3:56 PM): thanks!
will you clock me out later?
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 3:57 PM): yep
and two hrs overtime
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 3:57 PM): woohoo!
thanks!
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 3:58 PM): you're
such a great boss!
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 3:58 PM): lol
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 3:59 PM): When are
you coming to decorate your office here?
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 3:59 PM): ha ha
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 4:00 PM): I really
like a beach theme! I think you should go with it.
Billy Loggins(8/9/2016 4:00 PM): not
happening lol
Amy Hester(8/9/2016 4:00 PM): as long
as it's not UT stuff
August 11, 2016
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 9:28 AM): I just
had one of the pickle ball players to come by. he's had the courts
scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays 6pm-8pm for about a month now. He
wants to extend the time to 5pm -9pm for 10 weeks cause he has 24
people wanting to play on those nights!! We are going to need more
pickle ball courts.
Tammie French(8/11/2016 10:30 AM): We
may have to designate certain times only for pickleball and certain
times only for tennis.
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 10:31 AM): ok.
Tammie French(8/11/2016 10:32 AM): That
might drive a few of them back to FFG. I feel like they are going to
smother out the tennis players.
More from August 11 2016
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 9:27 AM): I just
said one of the pickle ball players to come by. he's had the courts
scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays 6pm-8pm for about a month now. He
wants to extend the time to 5pm -9pm for 10 weeks cause he has 24
people wanting to play on those nights!! that's just one guy that has
a regular reservation and there's others. pickle ball is booming!
Steve Hill(8/11/2016 9:42 AM): You are
going to have to go up there and start playing also. Sound like OT.
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 9:43 AM): LOL yep!
also sounds like we need more courts. lol
Steve Hill(8/11/2016 9:43 AM): any
tennis players complain?
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 9:44 AM): I
haven't heard any. I also haven't had any reservations from tennis
players either.
Steve Hill(8/11/2016 9:53 AM):
interesting
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 9:55 AM): I had
read an article several months back that called pickle ball "the
fastest growing sport in the US" and went as far as to say it
wasn't if it would come to your community but when. Johnny Shanks had
been in last year asking for it. it's bigger than what I realized. a
lot of older tennis players are playing it cause it's not as hard on
the joints. lol not as much running.
Steve Hill(8/11/2016 9:56 AM): makes
sense
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 9:56 AM): yep
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 10:35 AM): Here's
what my current boss said about the pickle ball....”Amy Hester
(8/11/2016 9:28 AM): I just had one of the pickle ball players to
come by. he's had the courts scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays
6pm-8pm for about a month now. He wants to extend the time to 5pm
-9pm for 10 weeks cause he has 24 people wanting to play on those
nights!! We are going to need more pickle ball courts.
Tammie French (8/11/2016 10:30 AM):
We may have to designate certain times only for pickleball and
certain times only for tennis.
Amy Hester (8/11/2016 10:31 AM): ok.
Tammie French (8/11/2016 10:32 AM):
That might drive a few of them back to FFG. I feel like they are
going to smother out the tennis players.”
Steve Hill(8/11/2016 10:39 AM): Isn't
that a wonderful attitude for the parks director!!!!!! No wonder we
have lost so much of our activities at the parks.
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 10:41 AM): I
almost fell out of my chair! She doesn't want stuff here, Sam doesn't
at the soccer fields... crazy need to just padlock everything. I've
been hearing complaints from teams that practice on Sundays that
can't get in the restrooms at Turner cause they're locked. I guess
just give it all over to the druggies and let the good people go
somewhere else.
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 10:43 AM): And the
tourney for Oct 15th just cancelled.
Steve Hill(8/11/2016 10:47 AM): One day
next week we need to get together and talk. I will call you Monday
and set up a time.
Amy Hester(8/11/2016 10:47 AM): ok,
anytime!
August 17, 2016 (the message relate to Ms. French attending a family funeral.)
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 1:20 PM):
Tammie Jr. you there?
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 1:20 PM): Bum
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 1:23 PM): your
boss was here visiting earlier. I forgot to ask him if he wanted to
be my new boss since you didn't want to be.
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 1:23 PM): is Jr
there today?
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 1:23 PM): sorry
I mean Sr.
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 1:24 PM): nope!
won't be back till some time tomorrow.
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 1:24 PM): why are
you wanting to come measure your office?
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 1:24 PM): good
lord how long does it take to plant someone??
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 1:25 PM): the
planting was today.
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 1:25 PM): then
why did she take off Monday
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 1:27 PM): she left
about 1:20 on Monday, hung out I mean worked until then
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 1:31 PM): your
mean you need to go up Sunday
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 3:00 PM): I'm not
mean!
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 3:00 PM): did you
decide to go to work today and not lay out?
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 3:01 PM): yes
I work 7 days a week and don't get overtime so there!!
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 3:02 PM): ha that
shows you! you don't know how to get overtime.
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 3:02 PM): you're
not playing the system right
Billy Loggins(8/17/2016 3:07 PM): I
know I'm going back to hourly so I can break em! lol
Amy Hester(8/17/2016 3:08 PM): LOL they
may be about broke now. Lol
August 18, 2016
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:03 AM): hey bum!
are we going to sell the bricks out of Garrison?
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:07 AM): of
course you are in charge of that promotion I have given you the
title of Ms Brick !!
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:08 AM): LOL
you're funny! you're in charge of the city
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:08 AM): your
so funny your my favorite loser!
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:09 AM): yay! I'm
your favorite!
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:10 AM): but
you still need to go up Sunday
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:10 AM): only if
you're going with me
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:11 AM): lol
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:11 AM): my boss
has finally arrived
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:12 AM): boo
boo
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:12 AM): yeah!
I've got to behave now.
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:19 AM): did you
send the dog guy to cal me and be mean?
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:20 AM): yes
I said you were the Shell Answer Woman
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:21 AM): I told
him he needed to talk to my boss cause she's got the answers. He said
he had talked to you and you didn't know anything about it and it's
not on the city calendar so it's not a city sponsored event. lol
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:22 AM):
communication is a beautiful thing don't you think?
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:23 AM): yes it
is!! hospitality should be our middle names.
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:03 AM): hey bum!
are we going to sell the bricks out of Garrison?
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:07 AM): of
course you are in charge of that promotion I have given you the
title of Ms Brick !!
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:08 AM): LOL
you're funny! you're in charge of the city
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:08 AM): your
so funny your my favorite loser!
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:09 AM): yay! I'm
your favorite!
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:10 AM): but
you still need to go up Sunday
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:10 AM): only if
you're going with me
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:11 AM): lol
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:11 AM): my boss
has finally arrived
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:12 AM): boo
boo
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:12 AM): yeah!
I've got to behave now.
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:19 AM): did you
send the dog guy to cal me and be mean?
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:20 AM): yes
I said you were the Shell Answer Woman
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:21 AM): I told
him he needed to talk to my boss cause she's got the answers. He said
he had talked to you and you didn't know anything about it and it's
not on the city calendar so it's not a city sponsored event. lol
Billy Loggins(8/18/2016 9:22 AM):
communication is a beautiful thing don't you think?
Amy Hester(8/18/2016 9:23 AM): yes it
is!! hospitality should be our middle names.
August 22, 2016
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 1:55 PM): loser
you in
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 1:55 PM): bum are
you in?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 1:56 PM): are
you attending the benchmarking meeting tomorrow?
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 1:57 PM): I'm
assuming I am since I do it, but I haven't been told. are you?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 1:57 PM): not
if you are
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 1:57 PM): lol
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 1:57 PM): oh you
know you are wanting to sit by me so you'll look smart and cool!
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 1:58 PM): if
you do it then you don't have to be told goof wad
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 1:59 PM): well, I
do a lot of stuff but that doesn't mean I attend a meeting about it.
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 1:59 PM): you
make my head hurt
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 1:59 PM): have you
even started yours?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:00 PM): I
have never been asked to attend anything about it
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:00 PM): so no
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:00 PM): do you
not do benchmarking?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:01 PM):
nopper
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:01 PM): sales
tax collection is my benchmarking
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:02 PM): lol you
should get the benefit like the rest of us.
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:02 PM): ok
take of your buddy over there
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:03 PM): what
buddy?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:03 PM): yeah
right
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:03 PM): you
all are so tight folks are starting to talk!
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:04 PM): ha
you're just jealous
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:04 PM): lol
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:04 PM): so are
you coming to measure your office?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:05 PM): does
it have a tv in it?
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:05 PM): yes, and
the security cameras too. and we still have cable
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:06 PM):
really how big a tv
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:06 PM): not as
big as mine.
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:06 PM): we
have BIG ones here
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:07 PM): I have a
big one, but we also have cable do you?
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:07 PM): yes
the bigger the better
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:07 PM): Rick has
a hand me down from the Palace tv.
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:08 PM): what
a setup
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:08 PM): well,
you can add new tvs in the budget when you get here.
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:10 PM): hey
see if you can find a 5 day funeral for her to attend I'm sure she
is related to someone that has just met our holly father
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:11 PM): 5 DAYS?
I was hoping you could find her a 10 day funeral.
Billy Loggins(8/22/2016 2:12 PM): pull
up the west coast folks that have just passed....... see if you can
make a connection
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:12 PM): LOL
Amy Hester(8/22/2016 2:13 PM): you're
friend that called the other day is correct the bark in the park is
not a city sponsored event cause our logo is not on the flyer.
August 25, 2016
Amy Hester(8/25/2016 8:11 AM): Hey, I
sent this to Tammie yesterday and she never answered me. Yesterday
afternoon after she had left, Angie called back again. I think they
are wanting something for this weekend's preseason tourney. do you
have any suggestions? Tony said we can do whatever for this weekend.
I don't think we can get a sign made like Angie suggested now. But
could we do something like putting her number in the center circle of
the field? I don't really know. “Amy Hester (8/24/2016 8:21 AM):
Angie called yesterday evening and Hailey Randolph that was killed on
the 4 wheeler played for CRYSA. She was even at camp this summer.
Angie is wanting to know if they can do something on the U15
field/goal to honor her memory. Said her jersey # was 15. They can't
renumber the field, but are wondering what else they might could do.”
Steve Hill(8/25/2016 11:47 AM): I would
be good with doing whatever they want. But sadly they should go
through Tammie. Let me know what happens.
Amy Hester(8/25/2016 11:51 AM): Thank
you. I'll ask her if/when she comes in. Her and Rick are both out
today.
Steve Hill(8/25/2016 2:16 PM): where is
she?
Amy Hester(8/25/2016 2:17 PM): she came
in between 12:30 and 1:00. she's gone now to CH and Public Works.
Amy Hester(8/25/2016 2:21 PM): Angie
sent out a text to a big group including the two of us about 12:15
asking the coaches of the older groups to meet at the center circle
and have a moment of silence. I asked if she read the text and well,
it wasn't a very nice polite response to me. she then said she didn't
like the idea of doing anything cause she didn't want our parks to
become a cemetery for people.
Steve Hill(8/25/2016 2:33 PM): what a
sweetheart!!
Amy Hester(8/25/2016 2:34 PM): oh yes!
so caring!
August 26, 2016
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:06 AM):
LOSER
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:06 AM): dented
can
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:07 AM): did
you have a guest stop by?
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:07 AM): yes!
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:07 AM): how
long?
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:07 AM):
probably no more than 15 min
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:08 AM): did
she call him you think?
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:09 AM): I don't
think. he told her he wouldn't get her involved in the stuff
happening Monday and she told me she wished he didn't know she was
here.
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:09 AM): what
happened Monday
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:10 AM): I don't
really know what he's up to
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:11 AM): What
about Monday!!! focus
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:11 AM): focus
my brain is overloaded now that's what happens when you're a butt
wipe
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:12 AM): he told
her he's pressing criminal charges against the CM and he's going to
take him down.
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:13 AM): for
what?? again what happened Monday
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:13 AM): not
past tense! he's doing that this coming Monday.
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:13 AM): work
with me on verb usage
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:14 AM): your
killing me ok very slow what is happening Monday
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:14 AM): he's
pressing criminal charges against the CM and he's going to take him
down
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:15 AM): for
what??
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:15 AM): she
didn't say
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:15 AM): I don't
think he told her.
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:16 AM): He
talked about Danny and Jesse not getting alone and how they got rid
of Mr. Rutherford to hire Steve
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:17 AM): is
it over a possible meeting to take place??
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:17 AM): I don't
know. I missed the first part of their talk.
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:17 AM): that
might have with some park employees??
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:18 AM): He's
got her back and she's doing a good job and he was here to encourage
her... CRAP stuff
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:19 AM): I
thought at first he might have known about the current rumors of some
employees moving to public works but she didn't mention that at all.
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:19 AM): ok
just checking to see it that is what ir was
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:20 AM): she
said she's made peace with her losing her job
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:24 AM): she
thinks you are going to apply for the CM position and get it.
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:25 AM): 110%
absolutely not happening I would leave if they made me take
that
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:26 AM): ha
Billy Loggins(8/26/2016 10:30 AM): do
you think the past City Mgr. put him up to do that?
Amy Hester(8/26/2016 10:34 AM): I don't
know. He told her Jesse was against getting rid of Mr. Rutherford
then he put together the idea of hiring Steve that's when Jesse
decided to fire him.
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:54 PM):
rerun what's that
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:54 PM): don't
you remember that show from the late 70's What's Happening?
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:54 PM): geez
you need to go on a game show
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:55 PM): only if
you'll be my phone a friend
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:55 PM): lol
what the Wicked Witch up to?
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:55 PM): LOL I
don't know. just hanging out in her office
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:56 PM): Have
you seen Pete today?
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:56 PM): he
was here earlier.....Souza been by again?
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:56 PM): not
since Friday.
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:57 PM):
Wan't he filing charges today?
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:57 PM):
wasn't
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:57 PM): said he
was. but who knows
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:58 PM): who
is going to be the new Council members in November?
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:58 PM): you
think I'm psychic?
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 12:58 PM): I've
heard JH Graham and Scot Shanks have the best shots
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 12:59 PM): yes
I do oh did you go up yesterday
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 1:03 PM): did you?
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 1:04 PM): no
I'm pure!
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 1:04 PM): give me
a min while I roll in the floor laughing
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 1:06 PM): my
nickname in Brother BJ
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 1:06 PM): lol
you're funny
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 1:39 PM):
sometimes I get the strangest calls here!! there's apparently an ad
somewhere that says "if you can't find out when the best time to
see the leaves change colors, call the park and they can tell you."
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 1:40 PM):
unreal
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 1:41 PM): yes!! I
got one last year too! the one last year went on the ask me what the
elevation is of FFG.
Billy Loggins(8/29/2016 1:41 PM): tell
em 1881 that's the Airport
Amy Hester(8/29/2016 1:42 PM): LOL
that's funny I've sent them to Kyle before. Lol
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 2:34 PM): tourney
for this coming weekend just cancelled.
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 3:40 PM): You
make these folks mad so they want come
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 3:41 PM): ha I
think it's you calling them and telling them to know come that you'll
pay them money to not come.
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 3:41 PM): lol
you big loser
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 3:43 PM): you big
bum
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 4:14 PM): # 1
loser
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 4:14 PM): are you
cheering for yourself or am I your favorite?
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 4:16 PM): your
too funny I still hope you go up Sunday it would do you a ton
of good!
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 4:16 PM): are you
going with me
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 4:19 PM): no
my job is to pray for the lost and misguided
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 4:21 PM): that's
so sweet you are praying for Tammie. I know you're not talking about
me cause I wasn't misguided until I met you and Steve!
August 31, 2016
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 2:34 PM): tourney
for this coming weekend just cancelled.
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 3:40 PM): You
make these folks mad so they want come
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 3:41 PM): ha I
think it's you calling them and telling them to know come that you'll
pay them money to not come.
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 3:41 PM): lol
you big loser
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 3:43 PM): you big
bum
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 4:14 PM): # 1
loser
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 4:14 PM): are you
cheering for yourself or am I your favorite?
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 4:16 PM): your
too funny I still hope you go up Sunday it would do you a ton
of good!
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 4:16 PM): are you
going with me
Billy Loggins(8/31/2016 4:19 PM): no
my job is to pray for the lost and misguided
Amy Hester(8/31/2016 4:21 PM): that's
so sweet you are praying for Tammie. I know you're not talking about
me cause I wasn't misguided until I met you and Steve!
September 1, 2016
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:07 AM): I
don't facebook share a link with me so I can send out please you
get have time to add those festivals / events pls
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:08 AM):
https://www.facebook.com/135237620015/photos/a.10150415582545016.417355.135237620015/10154927901830016/?type=3&theater
see if you can pull that up
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:09 AM): you need
a facebook page. need one for marketing
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:10 AM): I
thought you said we had one can you dont put this stuff there?
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:11 AM): the City
has one, but I'm not allowed to put anything on it. we have one here
at the Parks and I post things on it.
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:11 AM): who
does the bloody City's!!!!!!!!!!!!
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:11 AM): I just
posted that video and 9 people have already seen it. I posted that
area events flyer and 55 people have already seen it.
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:12 AM): I don't
have a clue. that's what I asked you.
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:12 AM): are
they adding anything to it start a new one
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:12 AM): I can
posted things on the website's calendar of events and on ours but
that's it.
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:14 AM): someone
posts things. it's listed as City of Crossville-Local Government
https://www.facebook.com/CityofCrossville/?fref=ts
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:18 AM): I asked
Kyle if we could make a facebook page for city sponsored events and
he said he's not the one to ask but doesn't know who it would be.
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:18 AM): goof
ball who do you think you would ask geez
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:24 AM): IP
Kyle back and say it would be the Marketing Director
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:24 AM): lol he
added me to the city page so I can add to it too
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:24 AM): this
is unreal
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:25 AM): you love
this kind of stuff
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:26 AM): Is
everyone on meth geez I wonder what dept. would handle community
events
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:27 AM): I would
think marketing. but that might not be in the master plan. see you do
need an assistant.
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:27 AM): OMG
you think if not me then who
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:30 AM): of
course it's you! you single handedly run this city.
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 11:30 AM): lol
your a mess
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 11:31 AM): no I'm
not! you know your the back bone to this city
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 1:28 PM): hey
no kidding lets make a awesome FB page do you need anything from
me?
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 1:28 PM): a
marketing facebook page?
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 1:30 PM): we
don't need all these different FB accounts I just would like all
our events posted just emailed you something
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 1:33 PM): yeah I
got it. I agree. and it seems that made at times things don't fit
under "Crossville Parks" but more of a community page type.
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 2:50 PM): ok, do
you want me to create a fb page?
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 2:54 PM): geez
put a ice pick in my retina I you like you as in Amy the
one that is boarder line being special needs to add things to our
current City of Crossville in good ole Tennessee FB page or pages
do need to have a meeting? lol
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 2:56 PM): I'm just
needing proof that it's you and not me.
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 2:56 PM): ok, the
current City page is listed as government. Do you want just a page
about local happenings?
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 2:57 PM): If
this is over your head maybe the lady that is down in finance
could understand it?? whats her name Suzanne ?
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 2:57 PM): hey I've
had those IT guys mad at me before. I need someone to take the blame.
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 2:58 PM): BUM has
just upgraded to BUTT
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 2:58 PM): that
would be great if you think that is a better fit then by all
means lets go that route
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 2:58 PM): LOL
you're just trying to get me for sexual harassment.
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 3:01 PM): email me
a copy of good pictures of the city or something that makes you think
of the city.
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 3:02 PM): ok
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 3:23 PM): OKAY!!!
you've got more pics than anyone!
Billy Loggins(9/1/2016 3:24 PM): Do I
stay busy Am I the Marketing Director lol
Amy Hester(9/1/2016 3:25 PM): LOL don't
break that arm patting yourself on the back
September 2, 2016
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 8:57 AM): loser
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 8:57 AM): bum
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 8:57 AM): is WW
there
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 8:58 AM): ha yes
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 8:59 AM): what
about Gerald conversation why was my name brought up?
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 9:00 AM): I don't
know. she thinks you are going to apply for the CM
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 9:00 AM): not
for a 1,000,000.00 lol
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 9:00 AM): she said
it's money and you're putting numbers out here.
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 9:01 AM): what
#'s
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 9:01 AM):
1,000,000.00
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 9:01 AM): this
whole thing is crazy!!
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 9:01 AM): what
#'s am I putting out there
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 9:02 AM): how much
money you want for the CM job
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 9:04 AM): unreal
is this coming from the Council Member
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 9:04 AM): I don't
know
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 9:05 AM): has
any other employee mention this?
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 11:41 AM): can
you email me this link I would like to send it to a few folks
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 11:41 AM): I can.
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 11:42 AM): could
you pull it up?
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 11:42 AM): I'm not
FB friends with the council members that you are so be sure they all
like the page and share it with their friends.
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 11:43 AM): will
do yes I could
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 11:50 AM): did it
look okay to start with?
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 11:51 AM):
Absolutely!!
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 11:51 AM): I liked
those two pictures to use as the cover and profile pics.
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 11:52 AM): I
send you tons of stuff
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 11:52 AM): you did
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 12:06 PM): could
you add the video
Amy Hester(9/2/2016 12:06 PM): I'm not
sure I can add the one you just sent. I'll add the Hispanic day
Billy Loggins(9/2/2016 12:12 PM): ok
tks
Email from Billy Loggins upon finding out his messages and emails had been requested by Tammie French the day before he sent this out.
From: Billy Loggins [mailto:billy.loggins@crossvilletn.gov] Sent: Tuesday, December 20, 2016 12:07 PM To: steve.hill@crossvilletn.gov ( City Mgr. ) Subject: Weekly IP / Email review
Good afternoon all,
There has been a records request made by Tammie French for my
emails and ip switch messages.
I am well aware that our wonderful IT Dept. can pull these at any time,
but I would like to offer every Friday at 2:00 pm
that if anyone would like to stop by office for a weekly email
and ip review to please do so. This would make a wonderful time
for fellowship, catch up, etc. we will also have refreshments
After some 6 months in the position, interim Crossville city manager Steve Hill has survived two attempts to dismiss him, criticism for removing items from his personnel file that reflected badly on him and and ethics complaints filed against him by councilman Pete Souza. Now an employment grievance has been filed against him by the head of the department he once ran who worked as his secretary then moved up to manage the Parks Department.
Parks and recreation director Tammie French has filed a lengthy grievance complaint against interim city manager Steve Hill stating that she feels Hill has an vendetta against her or the department. The grievance is scheduled to go before the city's personnel board at a meeting set for January 11 at noon in the third floor conference room of city hall. Members of the personnel board include Brooks Boston, Beth Davis, John Eldridge, Tom Isham and Lou Morrison.
Crossville Parks Director Tammie French
(from city website)
Interim city manager Steve Hill
(Photo by Jim Young)
French wrote, “With a very heavy heart, I feel I have no choice but to file a grievance against my supervisor, interim city manager Steve Hill. From the very beginning of his tenure as city manager, he has singled out me and my department and is acting on some vendetta he has against me/us.”
French then outlined numerous incidents starting with one that has been discussed numerous times at city council meetings last year when Hill took the pickup truck assigned to the parks department director for his own use. The initial discussion of the swap came after Hills first staff meeting the morning after he was appointed and the swap was made later that day. “This initial act caused quite an uproar among other employees, many coming to me with sympathy and concern,” wrote French.
French stated that next during the budget process a raise for her and one of the parks department maintenance department employees was approved. And even though the raises were approved by the council with the budget, Hill never responded to multiple email requests from French to him about the raises going into effect.
French said that in July she was blindsided by an internal city text message concerning a decision to remove the Palace Theatre and the Crossville Depot operation out of the parks department and put them under Billy Loggins at the Marketing department. “I had no prior knowledge of this even being discussed or considered,” wrote French. French said shortly after she read the message she drove to the Palace and found out that the Palace Manager Ronny Hill, who is Steve Hill's brother, said that he was also shocked about the change and did not know it was being considered. Ronny Hill told French that he had no issues in working with French and that he appreciated what she had done for the Palace.
The next issue came in September when French began investigating the process for her and the Park maintenance supervisor Rick Houston to drive city vehicles home to be able respond to after hours and non-scheduled incidents. When French communicated with Hill on it as he needed to approve it, he said that he didn't have a problem with it but said that a permanent city manager should make the decision and refused to sign off on it saying the council would a new city manager in a month or two.
French continues saying that in late September she bean hearing from employees of other departments that Hill was talking to employees in her department and it was creating a serious rift between some employees. French wrote that in early November one employee came to her and said they were uncomfortable with the information but wanted French to know that there was a direct line of communication between her office and Steve Hill's and the employee had been shown text messages between Hill and a Park department employee.
French outlined that an written complaint had been filed against her with human resources (HR) but the employee did not want to turn it into a formal grievance. Mr. Hill had directed HR to speak with members of the Park's department. After a month and French requesting that Mr. Hill address the matter he spoke to the employees and told HR that he had told the complainant that the matter was a personal issue and the workplace was not the the platform to air them.
Then on November 30 French was called to Hills office and told that the Park maintenance employees would become part of the public works department. Hill told French that even as public works employees the crew would be assigned to the Park. According to French she was told that the decision was made by the city council.
It should be noted that the matter of the maintenance department reorganization has never been discussed at an open council meeting nor was any such official change approved by council vote.
Further meetings on the change involving French, public works maintenance superintendent Steve Powell, Hill and HR indicated that the employees would remain on the Parks budget but not in control of the Parks director, something French said she was not happy with since she was responsible for the Park's budget.
French said that she called Steve Powell to let him know that she had no issues working with him and that he was getting a good group of employees. She added that she wanted him to know her only problem with the situation was in how the transition was handed and that no one at Parks was even consulted about the changes until the decision was final.
French explained that the last incident lead to her filing the grievance, “I feel Mr. Hill is systematically tearing apart the recreation department a piece at a time, all because of some vendetta he holds against me.” French points out she has a 19 year spotless personnel record with the city, 17 years as Hill's secretary/administrative assistant. She said she was contacted by city manager David Rutherford upon Hill's retirement to become the director.
“It was apparent to the current department that Steve Hill left the department with bitterness. His appointment as interim city manager has offered him the opportunity to act on his bitterness.” She wrote that no other department that she was aware of had been targeted like the parks department. “His actions towards me have left me feeling like I am under direct attack.” French pointed out that while Hill wanted to wait on a permanent city manager to decided about a drive home vehicle, reassigning two separate divisions of a department was less important.
French concluded saying, “I have concerns about exacerbating an already uncomfortable situation or even losing my job. As director I am more than willing to work with other city departments on any and all projects as I have for the past 19 years. I'm hopeful this situation can be addressed and the recreation department can remain intact and proceed with business as usual. We are anticipating an exceptionally exciting 2017 season with bigger local sports leagues than ever before, increased tournament bookings and the repurposing of Garrison Park. Current much needed facility updates are underway at Centennial Park and the destruction of this department cannot help but cause undue problems with this progress.”
While there are some efforts to try and
save the old grandstand at Garrison park, the structure is not in
very good shape with leaks and mold problems, and the city says there
are plenty of baseball fields at Centennial Park that are in better
shape.
Crossville recreation director Tammie French said that the park would become a community park that would provide activities and play for children in the area and for adults, a walking trail. The second phase of the project will include a multi purpose field that would allow football and soccer games as well. French pointed out that the city currently has no football fields in its inventory.
In 1947, the start of the city of
Crossville’s recreation department included approval by the
Crossville city commission to approve the financing of the
construction of Garrison Park Grandstands. The dream of grandstands
had been in the works back into the 1920's when a fund raiser was
held at the Mecca. It is not know what happened to any funding
raised, but until almost 1950 there was just a baseball field at
Garrison Park.
The property at Garrison Park was most
likely acquired when the city got the land for the construction of
City School on Fourth Street. The city kept ownership of the park
when they gave the city school to the county to operate.
From it's construction until the time
the Crossville Blues semi-pro baseball team was disbanded in the
early 1950's it was their home field. It was a big part of the warm
weather entertainment of that time. After the semi-pro team
disbanded, the field and grandstands were used for a variety of local
teams to play baseball including the Cumberland Co. High School team and it was operated by the city recreation
department.
The field was named after Bill
Garrison, a local resident who went north to make his fortune in
Chicago. He was also known as “Dollar Bill” for the story that
he left Crossville with only a dollar in his pocket. When he
returned he built the Will-Nell building where Highland Federal is
today and the Palace Theatre. He also owned the house on 70-E that
was also known as the Oaklawn Country Club.
The story is that he donated money
towards the construction and that is the reason the park was named
after him. If the city's current plans goes through, the park would
remain known as Garrison Park.
Below are some photos of the current state of the grandstands. We were able to get access to the space under the grandstands and there are leaks and mold problems currently.
This photo shows an area under the grandstand that is leaking badly.
This is below both the roof and the concrete seats.
Ladies Restroom
Door frame rusting out
Under the grandstand
Bricks, rust and water under the grandstand
Water coming in causes the white scaling
Concrete damage and rust
The photos below are exterior damage. It appears that the brick exterior may be of a later date then the original construction.
