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OUR COUNTY
D. GARY DAVIS
COUNTY MAYOR

Back to Business

Now that Bradley County’s election is over, I am glad we can once again devote our full attention to the County’s business. There is nothing more important to my office and the County Commission than charting this community’s future.

The 4-year election cycle is important. It gives you, the voter the chance to pass judgment on the job we do as your employees and make changes where changes are needed. However, elections can also be divisive. Emotions can run high and political speech and ads can become heated. Now that the returns are in, it is my hope and desire that we come together for the good of the community.

The election placed 5 new commissioners on the Commission. They will face the immediate challenge of making decisions that will impact this community for decades. Many of the issues we face are spelled out in the long range strategic growth plan funded jointly by Bradley County, City of Cleveland, Cleveland Utilities and the Chamber of Commerce. (See the growth plan at www.bcc2035.com)

The research shows Bradley County can expect a population growth of 33,000 new residents in the next 25 years. The community’s economic growth and industrial expansion is expected to generate 19,000 new jobs. Growth of this magnitude means we will need 14,000 new homes as well as additional roads and schools to accommodate the new residents. It will place additional demands on our water and energy supplies. Meeting these challenges will require unprecedented cooperation between all of our elected leaders.

I believe there is a correlation between effective government and strong, effective economic growth that puts us in a position to compete for more and better job opportunities for our citizens. By working together we can build upon the recent successes of industrial recruitment. Wacker Chemi is expected to begin moving dirt in January as it begins construction of its $1-billion plant. Volkswagen will roll its new sedan off the assembly line early next year. Other unnamed industries are showing interest in Bradley County which indicates we face the prospect of an above-average local economic future.
 
By their very nature, elections create division as voters choose sides and build alliances. This can sometimes put a strain on families and tear friendships apart. But when the election dust has settled it is good to remember that there was something that we liked about each other in the first place. We have many things in common that transcend the unpleasantness. Let’s commit to working together to make the most of this opportunity to build a better tomorrow and contribute to a high quality of life for everyone. Our disagreements should remain an argument among friends who share an unshaken belief in our future.

As your County Mayor, it is truly an honor to serve the best people in the best community in Tennessee. Let’s all work together to make Bradley County an even better place.