The Portland 5
I see 5 major areas of focus to help keep our community strong and viable for today and tomorrow.
Public Infrastructure: We have made great strides in restructuring wastewater operations and received one of the States largest sewer tap releases. The City was also recognized for its innovative approach to inflow/infiltration repairs. On the water side, we continue to struggle with our limited raw water supply from West Fork Drakes Creek; and instead of focusing on one solution, we should pursue a multiprong approach as I identified in my Capstone Research paper https://ourcityportlandtn.com/reclaiming-our-resources/capstone-project-2021-finished-pdf-12-11-21/
As we continue with an aggressive leak detection and repair program, a water purchase contract, expand production of the water treatment plant, and work with the State to implement a reclaimed water program; we will stay focused on this capacity & conservation approach as agreed upon with the State. The City is working hard on a regional water supply project, and look forward to its completion.
Public Safety: We made the move in 2018 to go to a full-time fire department, but we are still short of the firefighters we need; and we are in need of a third Fire Hall. The Police department needs to add at least 5 more officers so we can fully implement a Flex Unit and a Traffic Enforcement Unit. Besides the needed personnel, we need more police cars and updated fire trucks as well, to ensure our men and women in Public Safety have the resources they need to keep our community safe.
Planning: We are launching the City’s first ever comprehensive land use plan as well as the first parks master plan in over 20 years. These two documents will help guide our community into the future and show us where our investments need to be. The land use plan will allow our community to decide where growth should be, and what kind of growth is desired.
Parks: We have worked hard to begin addressing deficiencies within our parks system, and some of the proposed projects will transform the amenities that we have. Richland gym received air conditioning that allows for year-round use, along with paint, windows, and other upgrades. A splash pad is being designed. Lighting of walking tracks needs to be completed, and the 18-hole disc golf course stays busy with visitors.
Partnerships: We have been able to work with other communities and agencies for the betterment of Portland. These partnerships have led to significant contributions to our budgets, along with fully funded projects. Whether it is the State or County, building relationships is of the utmost importance since we cannot go it alone as we navigate these big issues.
Having a plan and focus is important, and I hope to continue the work of helping make my hometown a great place to be.