Because I believe it is vitally important for state and federal officials to be apprised of the needs of Warren County, I maintain open lines of communication with local, state and federal officials. I have frequent meetings and conversations with Congressman Lincoln Davis, Senator Eric Stewart, Representative Charlie Curtiss, and Representative Judd Matheny as well as the staff of U.S. Senators Alexander and Corker. All of our legislators welcome the opportunity to provide assistance and support. Through consistent efforts to keep legislators informed of issues relevant to local business, industry, and private citizens, progressive legislation is passed and funding is secured for current and proposed projects within the county.

The Upper Cumberland Development District and the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency assist Warren County through obtaining grants and providing critical services for our citizens. My office works cooperatively with the UCDD and UCHRA on many projects. Additionally, strong relationships have been developed with USDA Rural Development, the State of Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, and many other state and federal offices. The Harrison Ferry Mountain Water Project received funding from local, state and federal agencies and serves as a prime example of the benefit of building intergovernmental relationships.

The promotion of industrial recruitment is a very important priority of this office. United efforts of county and city government, along with the McMinnville/Warren County Industrial Development Board, have the potential to positively impact Warren County now and in the future. As a delegate with Governor Bredesen’s Trade Mission to Germany in October 2008, I had the privilege of hand-delivering recruitment information to representatives of German industries which may relocate and/or expand their operations to Tennessee in support of the Volkswagen facility which is under construction in Chattanooga. As you will recognize from the information contained here, Warren County has many attributes that are attractive to potential industry.

Education is also a priority of this administration. The educational resources available in Warren County are evidence of the importance of this issue to the local community. Students who have advanced through local public and private schools have the opportunity to pursue college degrees at the McMinnville campus of Motlow State Community College, and advanced technical training is offered at the local Tennessee Technology Center.

My door is always open to the citizens of Warren County, and I welcome the opportunity to speak personally with each of you.