5.
Citizens Comments
Citizens Comment Limited to three (3) minutes per person - Ordinance 2008-24
Jessica Needham Scales, 12425 Lebanon Road, addressed the Board regarding upcoming
community celebrations. She invited residents to attend a Memorial Day event at 735 North
Mt. Juliet Road featuring a drone show, in recognition of veterans, and participation from
representatives of each branch of the United States military, along with the Tyler Cates
American Legion Foundation. She also invited residents to attend a Fourth of July fireworks
celebration at the same location, which will include family activities such as food trucks, face
painting, bounce houses, and fireworks. Ms. Scales stated the events are intended to bring
the community together, she would like local participation, and will have ample parking and
space for families to gather and celebrate.
Clay Scales, 12425 Lebanon Road, Mt. Juliet, addressed the Board regarding the Citizens of
Mt. Juliet fireworks display. He stated he has been a resident of Mt. Juliet since 2017 and has
enjoyed watching the community grow. Mr. Scales said he has been involved with the Citizens
of Mt. Juliet fireworks display and described it as the largest in Wilson County. He invited the
City of Mt. Juliet, the Parks Department, and City Beautiful to partner in future events. Mr.
Scales expressed concerns regarding the location due to traffic access, parking, and public
safety challenges associated with the city-sponsored fireworks event. He encouraged support
for the Citizens of Mt. Juliet Memorial Day drone show and Fourth of July fireworks display
and invited sponsorship participation from local businesses while encouraging residents to
shop local.
Paul Garrison, 100 Catapla Drive, addressed the Board regarding communication and notice
related to future projects and roadway improvements along Pleasant Grove Road. He stated
he is new to the community and requested clearer information and advance notice for
residents concerning planned developments, right-of-way acquisitions, and construction
timelines, noting that many neighbors are confused and have received differing information.
Mr. Garrison expressed concern about the potential taking of private property, impacts to
trees and utilities, and the effect such projects may have on his home. He also raised
concerns regarding the proposed multi-use path, questioning maintenance responsibilities
under current city ordinances if adjoining property owners are required to maintain sidewalks.
Mr. Garrison invited officials to visit the area to better understand resident concerns and
thanked the Board for their service.
Stephen Hoekendorf, 393 Page Drive, Mr. Hoekendorf addressed the Board regarding
Resolution 8.1. and stated appreciation for prior discussions with members of the Board. Mr.
Hoekendorf indicated he had a better understanding of the intent of the resolution, but
expressed concern that the proposed time period of up to two years was too long and
suggested a shorter timeframe would be more appropriate. Mr. Hoekendorf stated that
circumstances can change over a two-year period and encouraged consideration of a smaller
window as the matter moves forward.