WKRN News
Posted: Dec 30, 2011 9:20 PM CST
By Joseph Pleasant, Reporter
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -
Concerned neighbors living near the Nashboro Village Golf Course are fighting a plan by Metro Nashville to purchase the golf course and turn it into green space.
Neighbors worry selling the golf course will hurt property values and community safety.
The Metro Nashville's Board of Parks and Recreation plan to take up a proposal to buy the 144-acre golf course at its January 10th meeting.
The city plans to pay $595,000 for the land, according to parks officials.
"This is a beautiful course," said Bob Preston, a 9-year homeowner. "There is no reason for it to close the functionality of it."
Preston, like many of his neighbors, bought his house, in part, because of the access to the golf course.
"I did it so I could enjoy a golf course and the way of life," he said. "That is being taken away."
Neighbors told Nashville's News 2 they first learned of the pending sale from a letter sent to them by District 29 Councilwoman Karen Johnson.
"I don't want a park. I don't want ball fields. I don't want community centers," long-time resident Gary Peterson said. "I want a golf course."
The golf course closed in November. It has been up for sale for about five years, according to neighbors.
Some neighbors would rather have a private buyer take over the golf course. They worry that the city could later rezone the land for commercial development.
"I think it will have a negative impact on our entire village," neighbor Jo Beth Hastings said. "There are 1,970 homes out here."
She continued, "It was built and designed around a golf course, and the impact it's going to have will be huge."
Other neighbors worry about safety. Currently, the golf course is private property and people can be cited for trespassing if they are on the golf course without permission.
The course backs up to the back of many of the residents homes. They worry about having a city park right outside their back doors.
"We would have people in back of our houses were we would have no control," neighbor Jacquelin McCoy said. "My house is one of the homes that is actually sitting on the golf course."
McCoy continued, "I think there will be a lack of security."
McCoy and other neighbors want Metro officials to consider their concerns before finalizing the sale.
They say a private buyer has shown interest in purchasing the golf course. They would not reveal the identity of the buyer.
"We bought into this with our dollars," McCoy said. "I am hoping they will listen to the community and not decide on their own."
The Nashboro Village Golf Course would be the latest course purchased by the city and turned into green space.
Metro Council approved the purchase of Ravenwood Country Club in Hermitage. The city paid nearly $3 million for the 181-acre once private country club earlier this month.
The city plans to adjoin the land with the nearby Stones River greenway.
Councilwoman Johnson did not return a message left by Nashville's News 2 for comment.
She plans to host a community meeting about the sale on January 5, 2012 at Smith Springs Church of Christ, located at 2783 Smith Springs Road.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Letter to Councilwoman Karen Johnson
December 30, 2011
Councilwoman Karen Johnson
Metropolitan Council – District 29
2928 Moss Springs Drive
Antioch, TN 37217
Dear Councilwoman Johnson:
I hope all is well with you and that you had a good holiday break. I am Richie Hoffman, President of the Masters Association of Nashboro Village Golf Community. I have recently heard about your proposal to have Metro purchase the Nashboro Golf Course. It is critical that you please stop this fast movement of the acquisition. I hope that you received my voice mail messages from yesterday, December 29, 2011. Others and I also left you messages with the council staff. We know that you are very busy, but we wanted you to know that there is a private buyer that is interested in the acquisition of the Golf Course. This is huge! And we are very excited about this new development.
Councilwoman Johnson, just consider, if given the opportunity for the private entity it would result in generating positive tax dollars to Metro government, creation of jobs, and the sustainability of a community that is already a form of open green space. Jo Beth Hastings, one of my neighbors from the Nashboro Woods Association says it best if the private acquisition is given the opportunity to purchase, “The federal dollars that were going to be used for the public purchase can now be directed elsewhere which would be a win-win for everyone”.
We asked you and others involved for your support to allow the private acquisition the opportunity. I understand that he has reached out to you and other officials regarding his interest. Please help us save our community. I look forward to hearing from you and would truly appreciate talking with you.
Sincerely,
Richie Hoffman
CC: The Honorable Mayor Karl Dean
The Honorable Vice-Mayor Diane Neighbors
The Honorable Metro Council members
Parks Board Commissioners and Acquisition Committee
Members of the Masters Association
Friend us on Facebook @ Save Nashboro Golf Course
Councilwoman Karen Johnson
Metropolitan Council – District 29
2928 Moss Springs Drive
Antioch, TN 37217
Dear Councilwoman Johnson:
I hope all is well with you and that you had a good holiday break. I am Richie Hoffman, President of the Masters Association of Nashboro Village Golf Community. I have recently heard about your proposal to have Metro purchase the Nashboro Golf Course. It is critical that you please stop this fast movement of the acquisition. I hope that you received my voice mail messages from yesterday, December 29, 2011. Others and I also left you messages with the council staff. We know that you are very busy, but we wanted you to know that there is a private buyer that is interested in the acquisition of the Golf Course. This is huge! And we are very excited about this new development.
Councilwoman Johnson, just consider, if given the opportunity for the private entity it would result in generating positive tax dollars to Metro government, creation of jobs, and the sustainability of a community that is already a form of open green space. Jo Beth Hastings, one of my neighbors from the Nashboro Woods Association says it best if the private acquisition is given the opportunity to purchase, “The federal dollars that were going to be used for the public purchase can now be directed elsewhere which would be a win-win for everyone”.
We asked you and others involved for your support to allow the private acquisition the opportunity. I understand that he has reached out to you and other officials regarding his interest. Please help us save our community. I look forward to hearing from you and would truly appreciate talking with you.
Sincerely,
Richie Hoffman
CC: The Honorable Mayor Karl Dean
The Honorable Vice-Mayor Diane Neighbors
The Honorable Metro Council members
Parks Board Commissioners and Acquisition Committee
Members of the Masters Association
The Nashboro Village Masters Association is comprised of the Hunters Trace, Fairways, Fairway Pointe, Fairway Villa, Lakeside Villas, Nashboro Woods, The Greens, and Woodridge Homeowners Associations and the Nashboro Village Apartments.
Friend us on Facebook @ Save Nashboro Golf Course
Press Release Regarding Our Concerns - Golf Course
Concerned Neighbors Want Options Explored
NASHVILLE, TN – Residents of the Nashboro Village Golf community have learned that Metro is interested in the purchase of the Nashboro Golf course to be used as open space and community center. Residents state that they were recently informed of the deal, and are concern about the purchase stating that many brought homes into the community with the value that the golf course community would bring to their home investment. Some residents also stated that they were surprised to learn that Metro had entered into a contract without notification to the community. “I thought that there had to be community and council engagement before any transaction occurs, says Richie Hoffman, President of the Masters Association. “With open space that would increase public accessibility, many of us are concern that home value would plummet in an already shaken economy, with increased traffic and potentially compromise the safety of the community,” Hoffman continues. The Masters Association is comprised of nine separate homeowners associations within the Nashboro Village Golf community. Hoffman and others go on to say that they appreciate the efforts of their governmental officials, but there exists an identified private buyer, who is willing to pay a competitive price to keep the golf course as a golf course. The private buyer has reached out to government officials, including Councilwoman Karen Johnson. The residents are hoping that Mayor Karl Dean, Council woman Karen Johnson, Metro Parks and other officials would entertain this option by giving the private buyer, who is extremely interested, the opportunity to enter into negotiations. That may involve deferring the legislation that would give metro the power to purchase the golf course. Jo Beth Hastings, a resident of the Nashboro Village Homeowners neighborhood says, “The Federal dollars that were going to be used for the Metro acquisition can now be directed elsewhere which is a win-win for everyone.” Hoffman says, “If given the opportunity for the private entity purchase, the Nashboro Golf Course property would result in generating positive tax dollars to Metro government, creation of jobs, and the sustainability of a community that is already a form of open green space. The Masters Association strongly encourages all residents to attend the community meeting that will discuss Metro’s intent to purchase hosted by Councilwoman Karen Johnson.
6:30 pm, Thursday, January 5, 2012
Smith Springs Church of Christ
2783 Smith Springs Road
Nashville, TN
The Nashboro Village Masters Association is comprised of the Hunters Trace, Fairways, Fairway Pointe, Fairway Villa, Lakeside Villas, Nashboro Woods, The Greens, and Woodridge Homeowners Associations and the Nashboro Village Apartments.
Friend us on Facebook @ Save Nashboro Golf Course
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Metro eyes purchase of 144-acre Nashboro Golf Club for parkland
The City Paper
By Joey Garrison
Metro officials are eyeing the city’s third major open space acquisition in just nine months, with plans to buy southeast Davidson County’s Nashboro Golf Club and convert its 144 acres to parkland.
The Metro Parks and Recreation Board is set to vote Jan. 10 on the parks staff’s recommended purchase of the 18-hole privately owned Nashboro Golf Club, which opened in 1975 but closed in November. Its acquisition would fall under Metro’s Open Space Plan, which guided Metro’s recent purchases of Cornelia Fort Airpark in East Nashville and the Ravenwood Country Club in Hermitage.
Nashboro Golf Club, which the real estate group Southeast Venture owns, is appraised at more than $900,000, according to Metro Parks Director Tommy Lynch. Under the proposed deal, Metro would by the land for $595,000. He said the company has agreed to sell.
Lynch said the city’s open space plan, which seeks to preserve land that could otherwise be developed, identifies southeast Davidson County and Antioch as areas in need of open space preservation.
“From the standpoint of meeting the open space plan and from the point of meeting the parks and greenways master plan, it falls in line with what we should be doing to add space in that part of town for parkland,” Lynch said.
A planning process would help decide the future of the purchased Nashboro Golf Club land, Lynch said. Broadly, he said the land would be used as public open space, retrofitted with trails and walking areas.
“On down the line, we’ll have to assess maybe adding amenities, picnic shelters and things like that,” he said. “But, what we’re thinking about is a 144-acre park.”
Metro’s Open Space Plan began with a balance of $5 million. The Metro Council, which would need to authorize the Nashboro golf course purchase, approved the $2.8 million purchase of the Ravenwood County Club earlier this month. The plan is to adjoin its 181 acres to nearby Stones River Greenway.
In April, Metro finalized the $1.2 million purchase of East Nashville’s Cornelia Fort Airpark to add its 135 acres to Shelby Park’s Shelby Bottoms Greenway.
“We had $5 million to spend on the open space plan,” Lynch said. “This makes it three very good acquisitions: one adjacent to Shelby Bottoms, one adjacent to the Stones River Greenway and one where we don’t have anything.”
By Joey Garrison
Metro officials are eyeing the city’s third major open space acquisition in just nine months, with plans to buy southeast Davidson County’s Nashboro Golf Club and convert its 144 acres to parkland.
The Metro Parks and Recreation Board is set to vote Jan. 10 on the parks staff’s recommended purchase of the 18-hole privately owned Nashboro Golf Club, which opened in 1975 but closed in November. Its acquisition would fall under Metro’s Open Space Plan, which guided Metro’s recent purchases of Cornelia Fort Airpark in East Nashville and the Ravenwood Country Club in Hermitage.
Nashboro Golf Club, which the real estate group Southeast Venture owns, is appraised at more than $900,000, according to Metro Parks Director Tommy Lynch. Under the proposed deal, Metro would by the land for $595,000. He said the company has agreed to sell.
Lynch said the city’s open space plan, which seeks to preserve land that could otherwise be developed, identifies southeast Davidson County and Antioch as areas in need of open space preservation.
“From the standpoint of meeting the open space plan and from the point of meeting the parks and greenways master plan, it falls in line with what we should be doing to add space in that part of town for parkland,” Lynch said.
A planning process would help decide the future of the purchased Nashboro Golf Club land, Lynch said. Broadly, he said the land would be used as public open space, retrofitted with trails and walking areas.
“On down the line, we’ll have to assess maybe adding amenities, picnic shelters and things like that,” he said. “But, what we’re thinking about is a 144-acre park.”
Metro’s Open Space Plan began with a balance of $5 million. The Metro Council, which would need to authorize the Nashboro golf course purchase, approved the $2.8 million purchase of the Ravenwood County Club earlier this month. The plan is to adjoin its 181 acres to nearby Stones River Greenway.
In April, Metro finalized the $1.2 million purchase of East Nashville’s Cornelia Fort Airpark to add its 135 acres to Shelby Park’s Shelby Bottoms Greenway.
“We had $5 million to spend on the open space plan,” Lynch said. “This makes it three very good acquisitions: one adjacent to Shelby Bottoms, one adjacent to the Stones River Greenway and one where we don’t have anything.”
City eyes purchase of Nashboro golf course
Channel 4 WMSVPosted: Dec 29, 2011 5:47 AM CST
Updated: Dec 29, 2011 6:16 AM CST
Posted by Scott Sutton
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) -
Nashville city leaders are looking again to expand the city's park system.
The Metro Parks Board is considering the purchase of the Nashboro Village golf course.
Park officials tell the Nashville City Paper the owners have agreed to sell the land for $595,000.
The golf club closed for the winter last month.
The park board will vote on the purchase plan next month. The golf course has been in operation since 1975.
If it passes, this would be the city's third park purchase in recent months. Nashville has already acquired the Cornelia Fort Airpark and the Ravenwood Country Club in Hermitage.
Copyright WSMV 2011. All rights reserved
Updated: Dec 29, 2011 6:16 AM CST
Posted by Scott Sutton
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) -
Nashville city leaders are looking again to expand the city's park system.
The Metro Parks Board is considering the purchase of the Nashboro Village golf course.
Park officials tell the Nashville City Paper the owners have agreed to sell the land for $595,000.
The golf club closed for the winter last month.
The park board will vote on the purchase plan next month. The golf course has been in operation since 1975.
If it passes, this would be the city's third park purchase in recent months. Nashville has already acquired the Cornelia Fort Airpark and the Ravenwood Country Club in Hermitage.
Copyright WSMV 2011. All rights reserved
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
DISTRICT 29 COMMUNITY MEETING----Urgent - Please pass on
What: Proposed Purchase of Nashboro Village Golf Course Property
When: Thursday, January 5, 2012
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Smith Springs Church of Christ (Gym) - 2783 Smith Springs Road.
In Attendance will be Metro Park Police, Metro Parks and Recreation Director Tommy Lynch, and other Government Officials
Southeast Ventures on behalf of Private Property owner Great Oaks Golf has entered into official negotiations for the purchase of the Nashboro Village Golf Property. Parcel 276 the pond property is included in the proposed acquisition and purchase.
This property is scheduled to be heard at the next Metro Planning Commission Meeting January 12, 2012 at 4:00 pm , 800 2nd Avenue South.
A meeting was held with Neighborhood Leaders and Association Presidents from every area of District 29 on Saturday December 10 to discuss this property as well as other projects in District 29. Every Neighborhood was invited. Only 3 neighborhood Presidents attended - Mr. Dave Kuhlman with Nashboro Woods, Mr. Mike Hassell with Priest Lake Neighborhood Association and Angeline Burns with Percy Priest Meadows Neighborhood Association. Concerns and ideas were shared and this information was given to Metro Government officials working on this proposed purchase.
Thank You!
www.District29Community.Blogspot.com
Monday, December 26, 2011
DISTRICT 29 COMMUNITY MEETING - Urgent
What: Proposed Purchase of Nashboro Village Golf Course Property
When: Thursday, January 5, 2012
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Still being confirmed - Will post the location by Tuesday after the Christmas Holiday, so Save the Date and Time
In Attendance will be Metro Park Police, Metro Parks and Recreation Director Tommy Lynch, and other Government Officials
Southeast Ventures on behalf of Private Property owner Great Oaks Golf has entered into official negotiations for the purchase of the Nashboro Village Golf Property. Parcel 276 the pond property is included in the proposed acquisition and purchase.
This property is scheduled to be heard at the next Metro Planning Commission Meeting January 12, 2012 at 4:00 pm , 800 2nd Avenue South.
A meeting was held with Neighborhood Leaders and Association Presidents from every area of District 29 on Saturday December 10 to discuss this property as well as other projects in District 29. Every Neighborhood was invited. Only 3 neighborhood Presidents attended - Mr. Dave Kuhlman with Nashboro Woods, Mr. Mike Hassell with Priest Lake Neighborhood Association and Angeline Burns with Percy Priest Meadows Neighborhood Association. Concerns and ideas were shared and this information was given to Metro Government officials working on this proposed purchase.
Thank You!
Councilwoman Karen Y Johnson District 29
Email: JohnsonKarenY@gmail.com
Blog: District29Community.blogspot.com
Website: www.KarenJohnson.org
Telephone: 615-977-6721/862-6780
When: Thursday, January 5, 2012
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Still being confirmed - Will post the location by Tuesday after the Christmas Holiday, so Save the Date and Time
In Attendance will be Metro Park Police, Metro Parks and Recreation Director Tommy Lynch, and other Government Officials
Southeast Ventures on behalf of Private Property owner Great Oaks Golf has entered into official negotiations for the purchase of the Nashboro Village Golf Property. Parcel 276 the pond property is included in the proposed acquisition and purchase.
This property is scheduled to be heard at the next Metro Planning Commission Meeting January 12, 2012 at 4:00 pm , 800 2nd Avenue South.
A meeting was held with Neighborhood Leaders and Association Presidents from every area of District 29 on Saturday December 10 to discuss this property as well as other projects in District 29. Every Neighborhood was invited. Only 3 neighborhood Presidents attended - Mr. Dave Kuhlman with Nashboro Woods, Mr. Mike Hassell with Priest Lake Neighborhood Association and Angeline Burns with Percy Priest Meadows Neighborhood Association. Concerns and ideas were shared and this information was given to Metro Government officials working on this proposed purchase.
Thank You!
Councilwoman Karen Y Johnson District 29
Email: JohnsonKarenY@gmail.com
Blog: District29Community.blogspot.com
Website: www.KarenJohnson.org
Telephone: 615-977-6721/862-6780
Friday, December 16, 2011
Fire Destroys Duplex, Claims Family Pet
Channel 5 News
Posted: Dec 14, 2011 8:39 PM CST
Updated: Dec 15, 2011 9:18 AM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A grease fire destroyed a duplex in south Nashville on Wednesday night.
Fire crews responded to the duplex on Longhunter Court Nashboro Village around 8 p.m.
Officials said it appears that a man was visiting his brother and was cooking, when something caught fire and the fire quickly got out of control and spread throughout the duplex.
Multiple engines and fire crews were called to the scene.
Three adults were home at the time of the fire and were able to escape. Fire officials said the family's dog died in the fire.
The duplex was a total loss.
The Red Cross came out to help the family who lost all its possessions so close to Christmas.
"It's very sad to have people to lose everything that they have anytime of the year, but it's extremely hard during the holiday season," said Nashville Fire Captain Ricky Taylor.
Although the other side of the duplex didn't have any serious damage, power was turned off to the entire building, so both families didn't have a place to stay.
The fire rekindled around 8 a.m. Thursday morning, but was put out quickly.
To See Video Click Here!
Posted: Dec 14, 2011 8:39 PM CST
Updated: Dec 15, 2011 9:18 AM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A grease fire destroyed a duplex in south Nashville on Wednesday night.
Fire crews responded to the duplex on Longhunter Court Nashboro Village around 8 p.m.
Officials said it appears that a man was visiting his brother and was cooking, when something caught fire and the fire quickly got out of control and spread throughout the duplex.
Multiple engines and fire crews were called to the scene.
Three adults were home at the time of the fire and were able to escape. Fire officials said the family's dog died in the fire.
The duplex was a total loss.
The Red Cross came out to help the family who lost all its possessions so close to Christmas.
"It's very sad to have people to lose everything that they have anytime of the year, but it's extremely hard during the holiday season," said Nashville Fire Captain Ricky Taylor.
Although the other side of the duplex didn't have any serious damage, power was turned off to the entire building, so both families didn't have a place to stay.
The fire rekindled around 8 a.m. Thursday morning, but was put out quickly.
To See Video Click Here!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Breaking News Two School Buses Crash In Antioch, Injuries Reported
News Channel 5
Posted: Dec 15, 2011 5:26 PM CST
Updated: Dec 15, 2011 5:26 PM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- Emergency Crews are on the scene of a two school bus crash in Antioch where at least four people have been injured.
Police said the crash happened on Hobson Pike around 5 p.m. Thursday. It was unclear what caused the crash.
Officials said at least four people were injured in the crash and were transported by ambulance to the hospital.
Police have not released the name of the school the bus were from.
Posted: Dec 15, 2011 5:26 PM CST
Updated: Dec 15, 2011 5:26 PM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- Emergency Crews are on the scene of a two school bus crash in Antioch where at least four people have been injured.
Police said the crash happened on Hobson Pike around 5 p.m. Thursday. It was unclear what caused the crash.
Officials said at least four people were injured in the crash and were transported by ambulance to the hospital.
Police have not released the name of the school the bus were from.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Smartphone suicide prevention app being announced
WKRN Channel 2
Posted: Dec 13, 2011 3:13 AM CST
Updated: Dec 13, 2011 3:13 AM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - State officials are announcing a new suicide prevention smartphone app for soldiers.
Gov. Bill Haslam and Maj. Gen. Terry "Max" Haston, the state adjutant general, will announce "Guard Your Buddy" Tuesday afternoon. According to a news release from the Tennessee National Guard, it is the first app of its kind in the country.
The announcement will coincide with a celebration of the 375th birthday of the National Guard.
Clark Flatt, founder of the Jason Foundation, is also scheduled to discuss the app. The foundation works to prevent youth suicide.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Posted: Dec 13, 2011 3:13 AM CST
Updated: Dec 13, 2011 3:13 AM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - State officials are announcing a new suicide prevention smartphone app for soldiers.
Gov. Bill Haslam and Maj. Gen. Terry "Max" Haston, the state adjutant general, will announce "Guard Your Buddy" Tuesday afternoon. According to a news release from the Tennessee National Guard, it is the first app of its kind in the country.
The announcement will coincide with a celebration of the 375th birthday of the National Guard.
Clark Flatt, founder of the Jason Foundation, is also scheduled to discuss the app. The foundation works to prevent youth suicide.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Tennesseans reminded to test smoke alarms monthly
Tennessean
Posted: Dec 12, 2011 3:11 AM CST
Updated: Dec 12, 2011 3:11 AM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Tennessee Fire Marshal Julie Mix McPeak reminds homeowners that smoke alarms should be tested at least monthly.
The suggestion is listed in a safety checklist she provided with the onset of cold weather. Tennessee, she said, has a high rate of fire deaths.
Other recommendations:
Don't leave decorative candles unattended.
Fireplaces should be professionally cleaned before using them during the season.
Furniture, clothing and other combustible materials should not be placed in front of permanent heaters like those on walls or on baseboards. If vents blow warm air, this way there will be little worry about the items catching fire.
Don't smoke in bed or in a chair.
Posted: Dec 12, 2011 3:11 AM CST
Updated: Dec 12, 2011 3:11 AM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Tennessee Fire Marshal Julie Mix McPeak reminds homeowners that smoke alarms should be tested at least monthly.
The suggestion is listed in a safety checklist she provided with the onset of cold weather. Tennessee, she said, has a high rate of fire deaths.
Other recommendations:
Don't leave decorative candles unattended.
Fireplaces should be professionally cleaned before using them during the season.
Furniture, clothing and other combustible materials should not be placed in front of permanent heaters like those on walls or on baseboards. If vents blow warm air, this way there will be little worry about the items catching fire.
Don't smoke in bed or in a chair.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
You're Invited to the Historic UNA Community's Annual Lighting of the Star of UNA
LIGHTING OF THE "STAR OF UNA".
Come Enjoy a tradition with hot cider and our neighbors in the Historic Una Community.
TIME: 6:00PM
DATE: MONDAY, DECEMBER12TH
LOCATION: 2211 SMITH SPRINGS RD
Look for the bonfire!
For more information please contact Jan Cain or Richard Curran at 361-6406 or 361-4310. Thank You!
Friday, December 9, 2011
Reminder Tonight District29 Christmas Party at Camp Widjiwagan Clark Baker Bldg 6:30p - 8:30p - Please bring canned goods for Second Harvest Food Bank
You're Invited to our Annual District 29 Christmas Party tonight Friday December 9th from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Beautiful Joe C. Davis YMCA Camp Widjiwagan Clark Baker Building. Please Come Out, Enjoy the Festivities and Please consider bringing Canned food items to support our Second Harvest Food Banks at Una Church of Christ and Hamilton United Methodist Church.While donations lag in a sluggish economy, demand on food bank rises
http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/city-news/while-donations-lag-sluggish-economy-demand-food-bank-rises
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Planners urge approval for backyard hen bill
Tennessean
The Metro Planning Commission has voted to recommend a bill allowing Davidson County residents to raise domesticated hens at home after two councilmen spoke in favor of it.
No one spoke in opposition to the bill.
“I think urban chickens are a wonderful thing for Nashville,” said Councilman Anthony Davis. “Karen Bennett has drafted a good bill and I’m supporting it.”
Davis said the chickens will provide educational opportunities and fresh produce for residents.
Councilman Scott Davis agreed and also urged approval.
The Metro Planning Commission has voted to recommend a bill allowing Davidson County residents to raise domesticated hens at home after two councilmen spoke in favor of it.
No one spoke in opposition to the bill.
“I think urban chickens are a wonderful thing for Nashville,” said Councilman Anthony Davis. “Karen Bennett has drafted a good bill and I’m supporting it.”
Davis said the chickens will provide educational opportunities and fresh produce for residents.
Councilman Scott Davis agreed and also urged approval.
Free flu shots offered at 3 Nashville health centers
Written by Tom Wilemon | The Tennessean
Metro Public Health Department is offering free flu shots.
Health departments in suburban counties also plan to drop their charges for the vaccinations.
The shots are available on a walk-in basis at three health centers in Nashville: 1015 E. Trinity Lane, 224 Oriel Ave. and 311 23rd Ave. N. The shots are offered from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m weekdays at the first two locations. The Lentz Health Center at 23rd Ave. N. opens and closes at the same time, but does not offer the vaccinations from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Metro stopped charging for the shots after learning that the Tennessee Department of Health is offering its remaining vaccines to county health departments for free.
Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all Americans get vaccinated, some groups are especially vulnerable to deadly complications from the flu. They include pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions, people in households with a child younger than 6 months and people who come into contact with vulnerable individuals.
Metro Public Health Department is offering free flu shots.
Health departments in suburban counties also plan to drop their charges for the vaccinations.
The shots are available on a walk-in basis at three health centers in Nashville: 1015 E. Trinity Lane, 224 Oriel Ave. and 311 23rd Ave. N. The shots are offered from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m weekdays at the first two locations. The Lentz Health Center at 23rd Ave. N. opens and closes at the same time, but does not offer the vaccinations from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Metro stopped charging for the shots after learning that the Tennessee Department of Health is offering its remaining vaccines to county health departments for free.
Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all Americans get vaccinated, some groups are especially vulnerable to deadly complications from the flu. They include pregnant women, people with certain chronic medical conditions, people in households with a child younger than 6 months and people who come into contact with vulnerable individuals.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
You're Invited to the District 29 Christmas Party - Please bring canned goods for Second Harvest Food Bank
While donations lag in a sluggish economy, demand on food bank rises
http://nashvillecitypaper.com/content/city-news/while-donations-lag-sluggish-economy-demand-food-bank-rises
Below are Directions to the Joe C. Davis YMCA Camp Widjiwagan Clark Baker Buildinghttp://www.ymcacampwidjiwagan.org/directions
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Updated Information on Adjacent Metro Council District 33 Cleanup - which is a Roadside Cleanup ONLY with no dumpsters
Please Accept my Apologies. The Flyer received was not clear that the cleanup planned for tomorrow is only for Roadside Pickup for District 33 Residents to help pick up signs and trash along Murfreesboro Road. I had made plans like many of you to clean out and take items to a dumpster but new information was shared with me this evening that their cleanup on tomorrow is not the same as the cleanup we had for our district back in October. I am just getting an opportunity to send this email since receiving the information due to my participation tonight in the Nashville Gas Christmas Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting at Public Square with Mayor Dean and Metro Council members. Additionally I attended a neighbors 50th Birthday party tonight immediately following and I am just getting home to send you this update. Again, I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you.
Metro Beautification Commissioner Sidney Ames
Councilmember Robert Duvall
Metro Public Works
Metro Beautification
TDOT Litter Grant
Publix - Mount View Market Place
District 33 Neighborhood Cleanup
Keep Nashville Clean and Beautiful because Cleaning up is Everyone’s Business!
visit www.nashville.gov/beautification
Date: Saturday, December 3, 2011
Time: 9 AM to 1 PM
Location: Publix - Mount View Market Place
3352 Murfreesboro Pike
For More Information and to Volunteer your services.
Please Contact: Sidney Ames 870-8942
Trash Pickup (Murfreesboro Road from Lavergne City limit to Hamilton Church Pike)
Illegal Sign Drop-off (Remove from Public Right of Way and Utility Poles ONLY)
Supplies will be provided.
Coffee and Donuts will be Served.
The refreshments are being provided by our Publix in support of this clean-up event.
Friday, December 2, 2011
October 2011 Minute Meetings
Present at the board meeting of October 20, 2011 at the Deerfield Clubhouse were: Lin Rutherford, Gary Peterson, Justin Sauer, Robert Wolfgang, Fran Oroson and Jim Curley, of Jim Curley Properties.
Items discussed –
1) Proposed operating budget for 2012, a copy of which is attached to these minutes. There will be an increase of $10.00 in the monthly maintenance fee, which will now be $120.00 starting in January of 2012. Approval of budget was motioned by Fran and seconded by Bob. This budget was approved.
2) Demolition and installation of new post and anchor systems on decks at #’s 101, 111, 113, 115, 117, 119, 125, 149, 151, 153, 155, 157, and 159. A copy of the estimate is attached. The estimate was approved.
3) An insurance claim has been approved for the deck at unit #109, including a new air conditioner. The deductible will be paid by the residents of #109.
4) Mack Enterprises to check drainage on Westminster section homes.
5) Lin Rutherford volunteered to get estimates on painting and caulking all homes in Westminster section with bay windows.
6) There was a discussion regarding changing all visitor parking to “overflow parking” due to continued parking by residents in visitor parking. This issue has not been voted on yet.
7) Pruning pear trees at some point.
8) Possible assessment next year if needed to cover unexpected expenses.
The annual meeting will be January, 2012 at Metro Library Branch off Bell Road. Nominations for open positions for the board of The Greens to be made at this meeting, if there is a quorum.
Bob moved for homeowners meetings every other month in 2012. Motion seconded and approved.
Items discussed –
1) Proposed operating budget for 2012, a copy of which is attached to these minutes. There will be an increase of $10.00 in the monthly maintenance fee, which will now be $120.00 starting in January of 2012. Approval of budget was motioned by Fran and seconded by Bob. This budget was approved.
2) Demolition and installation of new post and anchor systems on decks at #’s 101, 111, 113, 115, 117, 119, 125, 149, 151, 153, 155, 157, and 159. A copy of the estimate is attached. The estimate was approved.
3) An insurance claim has been approved for the deck at unit #109, including a new air conditioner. The deductible will be paid by the residents of #109.
4) Mack Enterprises to check drainage on Westminster section homes.
5) Lin Rutherford volunteered to get estimates on painting and caulking all homes in Westminster section with bay windows.
6) There was a discussion regarding changing all visitor parking to “overflow parking” due to continued parking by residents in visitor parking. This issue has not been voted on yet.
7) Pruning pear trees at some point.
8) Possible assessment next year if needed to cover unexpected expenses.
The annual meeting will be January, 2012 at Metro Library Branch off Bell Road. Nominations for open positions for the board of The Greens to be made at this meeting, if there is a quorum.
Bob moved for homeowners meetings every other month in 2012. Motion seconded and approved.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Your Help is needed for our Newly Expanded Library proposed for Hickory Hollow
District Christmas Party Dec 9 at Gran Dale Manor from 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm More information will be shared in my next newsletter
The library is conducting surveys to gauge what programs and services the residents of the Hickory Hollow/Antioch area would like to see in their new library building. This is the first step in designing the new library.
The survey will take place at the Southeast Branch Library and the Kroger on Mount View Road. Each volunteer is required to get a minimum of 20 surveys, after which they may leave from their shift if they like. We have had some interest from our regular, library volunteer but have been unable to fill all of the openings.
The following openings are still available:
Wednesday, November 30th: 10:00am to 1:00pm
Wednesday, November 30th: 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Wednesday, November 30th: 4:00pm to 7:00pm
Thursday, December 1st: 10:00am to 1:00pm
Thursday, December 1st: 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Thursday, December 1st: 4:00pm to 7:00pm
Saturday, December 3rd: 10:00am to 1:00pm
Saturday, December 3rd: 1:00pm to 4:00pm
The times are not set in stone, and I would be happy to take any and all help I can get. If you know of anyone interested, please feel free to send them my contact information (in the email signature below) or forward their email address or phone number to me and I will follow-up!
Thank you for any help you can provide!
http://www.library.nashville.org/locations/loc_southeast.asp
Ryan
_________________
Ryan Darrow
Library Volunteer Services
615 Church Street
Nashville, TN 37219
(615) 862-5769
District 29 - The 59th Annual Nashville Christmas Parade - Metro Nashville Parks and Arts in the Park
The 59th Annual Nashville Christmas Parade hosted by Piedmont Natural Gas will be held Friday, December 2nd beginning at 7:00 p.m. On the same evening, the Mayor’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on the Public Square in front of the Courthouse at 6:00. p.m.
Hope Everyone had a wonderfully blessed Thanksgiving Holiday. The next newsletter will share updated information on our District 29 Christmas Party, Legislation and our next District 29 Community Meeting being planned for early 2012 with our Metro Hermitage Police Precinct and apartment managers and more. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
District 29 NEWS - District 29’s Una Art Student, Judging for Holiday Lights, Metro Parks, Community Ed and More
TVA Rate Impacts - December 2011
NES recently completed the bill effects evaluations for the December 2011 bills. The average residential home with 1,300 kWh usage will have a bill of $135.15, approximately a 3.9% increase from last month. There are two factors which contribute to higher bills in December: 1) the higher winter rate and 2) an in Impacts - December 2011crease in the fuel cost adjustment (from 0.447 cents per kWh to 0.657 cents per kWh).
You may recall that TVA implemented seasonal rates earlier this year. The highest rates are in the summer and winter months when the cost of purchasing/producing energy is higher; the rates are lower in the transitional months. These rate fluctuations are to the TVA base rates; NES has not increased its rates in more than two years.
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Temporary Street/Alley Closings
Bell Road, Dodson Chapel to Stewarts Ferry
Closed through December 15, maintenance on Percy Priest Damn
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Another Opportunity to Clean Up and Clean Out! You can participate in our adjouring Metro Council District 33's Cleanup this Saturday.
Metro Beautification Commissioner Sidney Ames
Councilmember Robert Duvall
Metro Public Works
Metro Beautification
TDOT Litter Grant
Publix - Mount View Market Place
District 33 Neighborhood Cleanup
Keep Nashville Clean and Beautiful because Cleaning up is Everyone’s Business!
visit www.nashville.gov/beautification
Date: Saturday, December 3, 2011
Time: 9 AM to 1 PM
Location: Publix - Mount View Market Place
3532 Murfreesboro Pike
For More Information and to Volunteer your services.
Please Contact: Sidney Ames 870-8942
Trash Pickup (Murfreesboro Road from Lavergne City limit to Hamilton Church Pike)
Illegal Sign Drop-off (Remove from Public Right of Way and Utility Poles ONLY)
Supplies will be provided.
Coffee and Donuts will be Served.
The refreshments are being provided by our Publix in support of this clean-up event.
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Nashville Beautiful Art Contest Winners Announced - Congratulations to District 29's own Una Elementary student Cadence Brown!
Art students from Una, Glendale, Crieve Hall and Hickman elementary schools have been named winners among the 70 finalists in this year’s “Nashville Beautiful” art contest. The competition features original works by 3rd and 4th grade public students in Metro, and is designed to raise awareness about recycling and environment. The grand prize winning entry by Cadence Brown of Una Elementary will be featured in the city’s Christmas Parade on Fri., December 2. Mayor Dean will host a public viewing of all winning artwork on Sat., December 3, at 10 a.m. in Lot R of LP Field. The student artwork will be displayed on the sides of Red River waste collection trucks through May 2012, to be seen by more than 9,000 people each day while the trucks are on their routes. To learn more, visit www.nashville.gov/pw
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Metro to Offer Christmas Tree Recycling Sites Again This Year
Starting December 27th, Metro residents will be able to recycle their live Christmas trees at 11 sites in Davidson County for pickup by Public Works. In order to be mulched at the city’s Bordeaux Mulch Facility, trees must be free of all lights, ornaments, garland and tinsel. The list of sites will soon be posted at www.nashville.gov/recycle.
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JUDGING STARTS MONDAY IN ‘ HOLIDAY LIGHTS’ CONTEST
District winners, then five regional winners to be selected from 37county wide entries
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The entry deadline has passed, and now the contestants have a few more days to add any finishing touches to their displays for one of Metro’s longest-running holiday traditions, the 2011 Alice Chapman Holiday Lights Competition.
Judging will begin Monday, December 5, with winners in each Councilmanic district represented being selected. From those district winners, five regional winners will be chosen December 7-8; final judging to select the Overall County Wide Winner is Friday, December 9.
This is the 24th year of the contest, sponsored by Mayor Karl Dean, Metro Beautification and Environment, Metro Public Works, NewsChannel 5 and Nashville Electric Service.
The competition is open to all Davidson County residents, and this year boasts a total of 37 entries. “We have twenty-two of the (35) council districts represented, and while we would love to see every district have an entry, we’re still pleased with the level of county wide participation this year,” Metro Beautification Director Veronica Frazier said. “And as always, our judges will have a tough time deciding from so many colorful, unique and original holiday displays.”
Residents are judged according to their designs, originality and use of environmental elements such as LED lighting, recycling and/or nature themes, or including recycled items in their display.
A list of all 2011 entries is available online at www.nashville.gov/pw. The list will be updated late next week to show district and regional winners.
The five regional winners selected will be highlighted on NewsChannel 5 the week of December 12-15. The overall County Wide Winner will be announced live on their 6:00 p.m. newscast on Friday, December 16.
For more information, contact District 29's Metro Beautification Commissioner Karen VanCleave at 399-1550.
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New Embroidery and Silk Screening Business in Hickory Hollow
Metro Police Department Promotions
Chief Steve Anderson announced the promotion of 14 officers to the rank of sergeant effective January 1, 2012. These new sergeant positions are necessary to staff the new Madison Precinct, which will begin operating on January 1.
The 14 officers being promoted to sergeant are:
- Officer Matthew Barnes, a six-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. Barnes is currently assigned to the Hermitage Precinct Flex Unit;
- Detective Anthony Brooks, a six-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. Brooks is currently assigned to the Gang Unit;
- Detective Troy Gossett, a ten-year police department veteran, who is currently assigned to the Fraud Unit;
- Officer Ryan Hampton, a five-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from The University of West Florida in Pensacola. Hampton currently works the South Precinct evening shift;
- Officer Matthew Howlett, a 14-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Alabama. Howlett is currently assigned to the Strategic Development Division;
- Officer Scott Hull, a 30-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Hull is currently the School Resource Officer at H.G. Hill Middle School
- Detective David Layne, an 18-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Middle Tennessee State University. Layne is currently assigned to the Specialized Investigations Division;
- Officer Jonathan Marklein, a 14-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Middle Tennessee State University. Marklein is a School Resource Officer currently assigned to Maplewood High School;
- Officer James McGill, Jr., a ten-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Hobart College in Geneva, New York. McGill is currently the School Resource Officer at Two Rivers Middle School;
- Detective Robert Peterson, a ten-year police department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Peterson is currently assigned to the West Precinct Investigative Unit;·
- Officer Marty Reed, a seven-year police department veteran, who has completed the equivalent of an Associate’s Degree. Reed is currently assigned to the East Precinct;
- Officer Matthew Sears, a six-year police department veteran, who holds a Master’s Degree from Lipscomb University. Sears is currently a Field Training Officer at the East Precinct;
- Detective Michael Straube, a five-year Police Department veteran, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Trevecca Nazarene University. Straube is currently assigned to the Gang Unit;
- Officer Mark Wells, a seven-year police department veteran, who holds an Associate’s Degree from Georgia Military College. Wells currently works as a School Resource Officer at McGavock High School.
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Community Education Opportunities
Hello Council Members,
I hope this message finds you well.
My name is Philip Stoecklein and I am the Program Coordinator for Nashville Community Education Commission.
We have completed our Spring 2012 catalog.
I am writing and asking you to please forward the Spring 2012 catalog link below to your constituents.
Your assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Community Education is once again growing, and with your help we will continue to grow.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Philip
http://www.nashville.gov/ce/docs/catalog/current.pdf
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METRO PARKS: Holiday Season Art Exhibit and Sale - Don't miss it!
Hope Everyone had a wonderfully blessed Thanksgiving Holiday. The next newsletter will share updated information on our District 29 Christmas Party, Legislation and our next District 29 Community Meeting being planned for early 2012 with our Metro Hermitage Police Precinct and apartment managers and more. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Bell Road over dam to reopen Thursday
Tennessean
Nov 29,2011
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Monday that Bell Road across the J. Percy Priest Dam will reopen in time for the morning commute on Thursday.
This section of Bell Road has been closed to traffic since Aug. 1 for scheduled maintenance on the dam.
The Stones River Greenway Trailhead, the J. Percy Priest visitor information center and the Overlook remained open to the public. The Right Bank Tailwater area will remain closed as repair work to the river bank below the dam continues.
Concerns or questions can be addressed to the J. Percy Priest Resource Manager’s Office at 615-889-1975.
— Cindy Smith
The Tennessean
Nov 29,2011
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Monday that Bell Road across the J. Percy Priest Dam will reopen in time for the morning commute on Thursday.
This section of Bell Road has been closed to traffic since Aug. 1 for scheduled maintenance on the dam.
The Stones River Greenway Trailhead, the J. Percy Priest visitor information center and the Overlook remained open to the public. The Right Bank Tailwater area will remain closed as repair work to the river bank below the dam continues.
Concerns or questions can be addressed to the J. Percy Priest Resource Manager’s Office at 615-889-1975.
— Cindy Smith
The Tennessean
Monday, November 21, 2011
Razz'z Restaurant
One of our area businesses Razz'z Restaurant is offering a special today and tomorrow - Buy One Meal and Get One Free Monday November 21 and Tuesday, November 22.
Please Support Razz and his business. They are a real asset for our area.
Their facebook page is http://www.facebook.com/pages/Razz-Restaurant-Bar/255917245053
and you can print off a coupon there or below.
Look forward to seeing everyone there!
Bagging Leaves for Pickup, Home Foreclosure Prevention Information
Information on Bagging Leaves for Pickup
I received several inquiries regarding Metro's new requirement for disposing of leaves.
Metro accepts leaves in plastic bags at any of the below convenience centers, however the biodegradable paper bag requirement is for pickup with Brush Removal only. The next Brush Removal scheduled for our area is January 23, 2012 http://www.nashville.gov/Recycle/Brush/map/pdfs/AREA4.pdf
The bags will not last until January if left outside and during the upcoming pick up time no plastic bags will be picked up. The biodegradable bags can be purchased at the convenience centers. If you have regular trash bags placed on the curb, please try to have these dropped off at the convenience centers below.
The Convenience Center locations that accept bagged leaves are below
Omohundro
1019 Omohundro Place (entrance on Freightliner Drive)
Nashville, TN 37210
Phone:880-1955
Hours: Tue.-Sat.: 8:00am-4:30pm
and
Bordeaux Mulch Facility
1400 County Hospital Road
Nashville, TN 37218
Phone:862-8640
Open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Accepts: untreated wood; limbs and brush; leaves and non-commercial grass clippings only in biodegradable paper bags that are free from any other trash or material.
Does not Accept: stumps (with roots and/or dirt)
http://www.nashville.gov/Recycle/Centers/compost_center.asp
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Many of our neighbors are experiencing difficulty during this time with mortgages due to the number of foreclosures that have developed in neighborhoods around our city. Please share the below information with others so that if there are neighbors who are in need of help, they can find assistance and we can keep our property values from experiencing declines.
Lost your job? Don’t lose your home.
If you live in Tennessee and lost your job, there is a great new program to help you avoid losing your home. Not a lot of people know about it and your mortgage company may not even know about it. It is called “Hardest Hit Fund.” This program is also available in about a third of the other states of the union but it can differ from state to state and I only know the details of how the program operates in Tennessee.
I am a housing counselor with the Woodbine Community Organization which is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. I want to tell you about this great new program.
What will the program do:If you qualify, the program will do one of two things,
(1) it will bring your loan current, or,
(2) it will make your house payment for you for up to a year or until $15,000 (or $18,000 in some counties) has been paid out on your behalf.
The program provides money in the form of a loan, but it is a “loan” that never has to be repaid, assuming you stay in your house for five more years. The loan is forgivable at the rate of 20% a year.
Who qualifies?
One must have had an income reduction of at least 30%. Usually, this means you must have lost your job, however, a reduction in work hours or reduction in commissions, or a reduction in earnings if one is self employed, may also qualify one for the program. The job lost must have been through no fault of your own. If you quit your job, you do not qualify. If you were dismissed for cause however and subsequently were able to get unemployment benefits, then you still may qualify. There are other qualifying requirements, but a reduction in income due to job loss or job income reduction is the first test that must be met.
How to make application:
The easiest thing to do is just call me at 850-3453 and I will walk you through it, or you may do the following:
(1) Go to the website WWW.KeepMyTNHome.org, log in and answer the twelve qualifying questions and then complete the on-line application. Be careful. Read the qualifying questions carefully before answering. If you are told you do not qualify and do not understand why, call me at 615-850-3453 and I will review your situation with you on the phone.
(2) While at the Keep My TN Home website, choose “Woodbine Community Organization” as your counseling agency. That’s me. You will see a question that asks if you are working with a counseling agency. Please answer “yes.” You will then see a drop down box and you are to select the agency with which you are working. Woodbine Community Organization is the last name on the list in the drop down box.
(3) After, the above is completed, call me, Rod Williams, 615-850-3453. Please call immediately. I will set an appointment with you to complete the Hardest Hit packet. If you do not reach me, please leave a message. You may also email me at Rodwilliams47@yahoo.com.
This is a great program, however not everyone qualifies. The same type documentation that one must provide when financing a home, one must provide to be approved for this loan, and more. I will walk you through the process. I have been a housing counselor for over twenty years and while I hesitate to brag on myself, I do what I do very well. I have all of the training and certifications one could have and recognitions and awards. I know how these programs work. If anyone can get you approved for the program, I can.
If you do not need this program, but have coworkers or relatives who may, then please pass this information on to them. If your civic group, church group, or place of employment located in the Nashville area would like to have me come speak about this program to them as well as other loss mitigation options, I will be glad to do so.
As a word of caution: Please do not pay anyone to help you with mortgage default or loss mitigation services. Most companies charging to provide mortgage default resolution are scam artist who will take your money and deliver no service. I often see people who have paid a company money to help them save their home, when if they had used that money wisely, it could have been part of a down payment on a mortgage default resolution work-out or at least paid the rent on their new lodging if their home could not be saved. Also, it seldom helps to pay a lawyer to represent your interest when dealing with a mortgage company. Tennessee is a “non-judicial” state with regards to home foreclosure and there is little an attorney can do for you.
If you have questions about the Hardest Hit fund or other mortgage default questions, feel free to call me, Rod Williams (615)850-3453.
Also Mr. J.R. Herrell with Crye Leike Realtors is a resource for assistance in foreclosure prevention and he can be contacted at (615) 361-6949 email: herrell@realtracs.com
http://www.nashville-mdha.org/pdfs/2011FactsSheet.pdf
The above link also shares information on a program that is available for homeowners.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Meeting with Congressman Jim Cooper, District Holiday Lights Contest Time is Running Out, Legislation Update
Meeting with Congressman Jim Cooper on Federal Funding
Last week I along with many members of the Metro Council met with Congressman Cooper to learn of grant funding cuts on the federal level that can impact State and Local funding. This link http://www.nashville.gov/finance/docs/omb/20110908_Memo.pdf provides information on what was discussed.
Update on Hickory Hollow Mall Improvements -
This past Tuesday at our Metro Council meeting, the funding request was approved.
RESOLUTION NO. RS2011-77
A resolution authorizing the Director of Public Property, or his designee, to exercise an option to purchase real property (Map 163-00-0 Parcel 255.00) for use as a community/recreation center, public library, and storage, including conversion of the parking area to a recreational area (Proposal No. 2011M-022PR-001).
Click on this link to view what was approved http://www.nashville.gov/mc/resolutions/term_2011_2015/rs2011_77.htm
Former Metro Councilman Mike Jameson was appointed to fill the late Judge Leon Ruben's seat in Metro General Sessions Court by the Metro Council.
Legislation Update
http://www.nashville.gov/mc/ordinances/term_2011_2015/bl2011_47.htm
Continue to provide feedback and share this information with neighbors who may not be on my email list so that they can join in the discussion and feedback and also be added to future newsletters. I thank each and everyone of you for the significant number of emails with feedback to date. Thank you for taking time to respond. I will represent your voice accordingly on the council floor.
The Ordinance regarding Tri-faced Billboards - Item 4 on this link
http://www.nashville.gov/mpc/docs/meetings/2011/111110sr.pdf has been deferred http://www.nashville.gov/mpc/docs/meetings/2011/111110ac.pdf at the request of the Planning Staff and Commissioners.
I appeared before the board last week and this item was on the agenda to be disapproved.
However with the assistance of Attorney's I was able to provide information that they are now considering. When the Commission learned that they had approved this on consent without discussion also they wanted to discuss what was shared further.
One of the commissioners asked if I would be open to deferring this and in an attempt to act on good faith, I agreed.
This item will be moved from the public hearing agenda in January at the Metro Council to the February public hearing.
However the billboard company who has demonstrated they are not willing to act in good faith and be a good neighbor in our community took advantage of the deferral and placed just the pole up in pouring down rain in a rush so that whatever happens they can still proceed through a grandfathering option.
What I have learned is that when there is pending legislation such as what I have no action can be taken by any company during this time, however if a deferral takes place, they can proceed with at least starting and it is apparent that one of the commissioners was knowledgeable of this and moved quickly to have this done when it appeared that the other commissioners were wanting to consider discussion and to look at the issue since it was on consent with no discussion when it was passed earlier this year in January.
I will continue to work with the staff and commissioners and the hope is that a fair decision is made that can truly allow neighborhoods and communities to have input into decisions on billboards that affect their areas instead of how it is presently, whereby it is automatically approved due to a technicality of moveable/changeable tri faced boards not being defined.
Therefore resulting in them being considered the same as a static billboard face which does not move and is stationary. You can view this meeting that has been replaying this week tonight at 9:00 pm on Cable Channel 3. It has also been scheduled to be replayed on Saturday, November 19 at 9:00 am. A list of times when this is being replayed can be viewed at this link http://www.nashville.gov/calendar/metro.asp
The Ordinance regarding overgrown lots passed Second Reading and is coming up for final reading. http://www.nashville.gov/mc/ordinances/term_2011_2015/bl2011_34.htm
A Special thank you to all who participated in Mayor Karl Dean's 5 K Run/Walk last Sunday. Southeast Nashville was one of the largest groups in participation and it was equally as exciting to see so many of us from District 29. I have posted pictures on my facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-Y-Johnson-for-Metro-Council/136610609741870 please visit, view and comment on these and/or any other items that are posted.
Friday December 9, 2011
6:30 pm until 8:30 pm
Planning for Tentative Location - Our District's Very Own Gran Dale Manor - Planning has begun for our District Christmas Party. Please join me at my office hours Saturday at First Tennessee Bank from 10 am until 12 noon if you would like to help. Also other meetings have been planned for Monday, November 21 and Monday, November 28 at 6:00 pm at 500 Moss Landing Drive. You can also contact me by emailing me at Karen.Johnson@nashville.gov or JohnsonKarenY@gmail.com to help make our event a success for everyone. Thank you for your involvement in our District.
METRO NASHVILLE'S HOLIDAY LIGHTS CONTEST - TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO ENTER AND WE WANT DISTRICT 29 TO SHINE TIME IS RUNNING OUT TO ENTER 'HOLIDAY LIGHTS' CONTEST
One more week until November 23 deadline for annual Metro tradition
Just one more week left to enter Metro's Holiday Lights Competition, which invites all Davidson County residents to share the Christmas spirit by decorating their homes and lawns. This is the 24th year of the contest, sponsored by Mayor Karl Dean, Metro Beautification & Environment, Metro Public Works, NewsChannel 5 and Nashville Electric Service.
The deadline to enter is Wednesday, November 23, and judging begins on December 5. Winners will be selected in each of the 35 Councilmanic Districts, and the County Wide Winner will be announced live on NewsChannel 5's 6:00 p.m. newscast on Friday, December 16.
Contestants are encouraged to include Environmental Elements such as energy conservation, recycling and/or nature themes, or recycled items in their display. Rules for the competition and a list of judging criteria are available at www.nashville.gov/beautification. For more information, contact our Beautification Commissioner Karen VanCleave at 399-1550 or by email at bubbavan@comcast.net.
Click here for Entry Guidelines
All Entries must be returned by Wednesday November 23, 2011
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you. I look forward to working with each of you to make our district the best that it can be.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Opryland Hotel To Flip Switch On Lights Thursday
News Channel 5
Posted: Nov 17, 2011 6:08 AM CST
Updated: Nov 17, 2011 7:42 AM CST
By Janet Kim
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A Nashville holiday tradition continues at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. The hotel will flip the switch on their 28th annual "A Country Christmas" celebration on Thursday night.
Hundreds will gather for the lighting ceremony which kicks off at 5:40 p.m. Two million Christmas lights will shine outside the Gaylord Opryland Resort throughout the holiday season.
The light display is one of the signature attractions of the Opryland's Country Christmas celebration, going hand in hand with decorations throughout the resort. They include a 48 foot Christmas tree, a 25 foot tree made up of poinsettias, and an additional 200,000 lights throughout the inside the hotel.
NewsChannel 5 got a look behind the scenes as the final touches went up; the poinsettia Christmas tree alone took four hours and more than half a dozen people to complete.
"Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland is so neat because people come from all around Kentucky, Alabama and their spirit is so full of Christmas. That's what's so neat about us, because we get to provide a place where people can come and share the Christmas spirit. And we get to put it forth for them too," said Horticulture Supervisor Brooks O'Brien.
This year, the ICE attraction has a new theme, in a new building that was built after the devastating flood 18 months ago.
Gaylord Opryland has teamed up with DreamWorks to bring the animations from its movies throughout the resort. This year, ICE will feature Merry Madagascar.
The indoor frozen attraction includes life size characters and scenes from the movie and 20-foot tall ice slides. The exhibit was hand carved out of two million pounds of ice by 40 artisans.
Organizers said this is their second Christmas since the flood, and they haven't missed a beat.
"The flood was certainly tragic but it's amazing that we're back and we're better than ever, and this Christmas, it's going to be our best yet," said Spokesperson Jenny Barker.
The Radio City Rockettes are also back in town with their world famous "Radio City Christmas Spectacular". Louise Mandrell is also back this year for her final year with her Christmas Dinner Party.
For the kids, there are all kinds of things to do including a ShrekFeast Interactive Character Meals, a Puss in Boots scavenger hunt, and wake-up calls from favorite DreamWorks characters.
www.gaylordopryland.com
To see Video and Pictures Click Here:
Posted: Nov 17, 2011 6:08 AM CST
Updated: Nov 17, 2011 7:42 AM CST
By Janet Kim
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A Nashville holiday tradition continues at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. The hotel will flip the switch on their 28th annual "A Country Christmas" celebration on Thursday night.
Hundreds will gather for the lighting ceremony which kicks off at 5:40 p.m. Two million Christmas lights will shine outside the Gaylord Opryland Resort throughout the holiday season.
The light display is one of the signature attractions of the Opryland's Country Christmas celebration, going hand in hand with decorations throughout the resort. They include a 48 foot Christmas tree, a 25 foot tree made up of poinsettias, and an additional 200,000 lights throughout the inside the hotel.
NewsChannel 5 got a look behind the scenes as the final touches went up; the poinsettia Christmas tree alone took four hours and more than half a dozen people to complete.
"Country Christmas at Gaylord Opryland is so neat because people come from all around Kentucky, Alabama and their spirit is so full of Christmas. That's what's so neat about us, because we get to provide a place where people can come and share the Christmas spirit. And we get to put it forth for them too," said Horticulture Supervisor Brooks O'Brien.
This year, the ICE attraction has a new theme, in a new building that was built after the devastating flood 18 months ago.
Gaylord Opryland has teamed up with DreamWorks to bring the animations from its movies throughout the resort. This year, ICE will feature Merry Madagascar.
The indoor frozen attraction includes life size characters and scenes from the movie and 20-foot tall ice slides. The exhibit was hand carved out of two million pounds of ice by 40 artisans.
Organizers said this is their second Christmas since the flood, and they haven't missed a beat.
"The flood was certainly tragic but it's amazing that we're back and we're better than ever, and this Christmas, it's going to be our best yet," said Spokesperson Jenny Barker.
The Radio City Rockettes are also back in town with their world famous "Radio City Christmas Spectacular". Louise Mandrell is also back this year for her final year with her Christmas Dinner Party.
For the kids, there are all kinds of things to do including a ShrekFeast Interactive Character Meals, a Puss in Boots scavenger hunt, and wake-up calls from favorite DreamWorks characters.
www.gaylordopryland.com
To see Video and Pictures Click Here:
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Cancer patient's dog missing in Brentwood
Posted: Nov 15, 2011 4:39 PM CST
Reported By Stephanie Langston, Reporter
BRENTWOOD, Tenn. - A Mid-State woman battling cancer is hopeful her dog, missing for more than three months, will be found safe and returned to her.
Jill Napier was in the hospital receiving treatment for ovarian and uterine cancer when her dog, Skippy Lou, wandered off from her pet sitter in August.
"Skippy Lou is like a child," Napier said, adding, "She is a part of the family."
Friends of Napier's, volunteers from the community and animal rescue squad members have been searching non-stop for Skippy Lou since her disappearance.
Leslie Morrison is charge of the search effort and told Nashville's News 2 the dog search team, Team Skippy Lou, has spent more than $1,000 and hours of volunteer time placing flyers throughout the Mid-State.
Recently, however, officials with Brentwood's codes department said the flyers violated policy and took them down.
Morrison told Nashville's News 2 she wishes there was a compromise.
"Without public awareness, without the sightings, there is no way to find her," she said.
In recent weeks, a bloodhound has joined the search for Skippy Lou.
"She has given positive indicators on three of the last sightings," said Michael Fay, among the dozens of volunteers who has spent time searching for Napier's pet.
"It's for a good cause. We have to get this animal back home because it has a mother that needs it and it's going to help her through recovery," He continued.
Napier said she continues to hope Skippy Lou will be come home safe and worries about the dog's safety as cooler weather moves into the area.
"The part I worry about the most is [bad weather]," she said. "She might die out there in the elements."
Skippy Lou is a light golden colored Lab mix with white around her nose. She has a pinkish-brown nose and is six years old.
Skippy Lou was last seen wearing a pink collar with dots on it and a heart shaped ID tag.
The bloodhound last picked up Skippy Lou's scent in the Southernwoods area of Brentwood.
Volunteers say their main goal is to get Skippy Lou food and then try to lure her into an enclosed area.
Anyone with information on Skippy Lou's whereabouts should call 615-772-7368.
To See Video: CLICK HERE!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tennessee's Big Health Care Decision
Tennessean
Posted: Nov 09, 2011 4:59 PM CST
Updated: Nov 09, 2011 6:48 PM CST
by Scott Arnold
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - For many Tennesseans health insurance will undergo a significant change in 2014 due to federal reforms.
A number of major decisions about health insurance at the state level still have to be made. State officials have asked Tennesseans to share their opinions about the options.
Governor Haslam and state lawmakers have to decide if the state will handle health care reform or if they will leave it up to the federal government to create what is being called a Health Insurance Exchange.
The Health Insurance Exchange is a government-regulated marketplace of insurance plans with different levels of coverage, offered to individuals without health care, or to small companies.
The debate about state versus federal control has already began.
"I for one don't want you all to manage an insurance exchange. We have a history going back to the Civil War, when you turn federal programs over to the states, they are invariably administered, heavily handed, against poor and minorities," said Reverend Joe Ingle.
"One of the advantages if the state were to offer the exchange, is we can use existing infrastructure, and organizational talent to bring this thing forward. If the federal government does it, they are going to have to build a whole new system, hire new staff that means the people who use the exchange will have to pay more for it. "said Brian Haile, with the Health Insurance Exchange.
"It scares me when I think about the community that I serve, and the people who are in the community understanding what is actually going on," said Sharon Hurt with the Jefferson Street Merchants Association.
Over the next few months Governor Haslam will make the call if Tennessee should be in charge of health care, but he'll need the backing of state lawmakers.
Regardless of who's behind the wheel health care reform will mean up to $700,000 uninsured Tennesseans will get health care in 2014.
The price tag has many worried, and it's predicted insurance premiums for many of us could jump dramatically.There are several things that could happen to make all of this worry irrelevant. The U.S. Supreme Court could rule health care reform is unconstitutional or this month, on the 23rd that budget super-committee in D.C. could dramatically cut Medicare and Medicaid spending.
But either way the state has to be ready with a decision.
Info on listening sessions for Health Insurance Exchange
http://www.tn.gov/nationalhealthreform/forms/listeningsessions.pdf
Info on giving feedback on Health Insurance Exchange
http://www.tn.gov/nationalhealthreform/forms/listeningsessions.pdf
Posted: Nov 09, 2011 4:59 PM CST
Updated: Nov 09, 2011 6:48 PM CST
by Scott Arnold
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - For many Tennesseans health insurance will undergo a significant change in 2014 due to federal reforms.
A number of major decisions about health insurance at the state level still have to be made. State officials have asked Tennesseans to share their opinions about the options.
Governor Haslam and state lawmakers have to decide if the state will handle health care reform or if they will leave it up to the federal government to create what is being called a Health Insurance Exchange.
The Health Insurance Exchange is a government-regulated marketplace of insurance plans with different levels of coverage, offered to individuals without health care, or to small companies.
The debate about state versus federal control has already began.
"I for one don't want you all to manage an insurance exchange. We have a history going back to the Civil War, when you turn federal programs over to the states, they are invariably administered, heavily handed, against poor and minorities," said Reverend Joe Ingle.
"One of the advantages if the state were to offer the exchange, is we can use existing infrastructure, and organizational talent to bring this thing forward. If the federal government does it, they are going to have to build a whole new system, hire new staff that means the people who use the exchange will have to pay more for it. "said Brian Haile, with the Health Insurance Exchange.
"It scares me when I think about the community that I serve, and the people who are in the community understanding what is actually going on," said Sharon Hurt with the Jefferson Street Merchants Association.
Over the next few months Governor Haslam will make the call if Tennessee should be in charge of health care, but he'll need the backing of state lawmakers.
Regardless of who's behind the wheel health care reform will mean up to $700,000 uninsured Tennesseans will get health care in 2014.
The price tag has many worried, and it's predicted insurance premiums for many of us could jump dramatically.There are several things that could happen to make all of this worry irrelevant. The U.S. Supreme Court could rule health care reform is unconstitutional or this month, on the 23rd that budget super-committee in D.C. could dramatically cut Medicare and Medicaid spending.
But either way the state has to be ready with a decision.
Info on listening sessions for Health Insurance Exchange
http://www.tn.gov/nationalhealthreform/forms/listeningsessions.pdf
Info on giving feedback on Health Insurance Exchange
http://www.tn.gov/nationalhealthreform/forms/listeningsessions.pdf
MTA Considering Fare Increases
Channel 5 News
Posted: Nov 09, 2011 5:01 PM CST
Updated: Nov 09, 2011 5:01 PM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- Riders could soon be paying more to take the Nashville bus, but before prices are raised the public will get their chance to weigh in.
The Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority is considering a 10-cent increase in the basic cash fare, raising the price from $1.60 to $1.70. AccessRide cash fare might also see a 20-cent increase from $3.20 to $3.40.
MTA is also considering increasing the rates for Regional Transportation Authority's basic cash fare, changing it from $3.50 to $4.00.
MTA said that rising healthcare, fuel and other related operating costs are the reasons for the proposed fare increases.
Meeting to discuss the potential raises will be held next week at the Music City Central off of Charlotte Avenue.
Meeting times are:
7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14.
11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15.
Posted: Nov 09, 2011 5:01 PM CST
Updated: Nov 09, 2011 5:01 PM CST
NASHVILLE, Tenn.- Riders could soon be paying more to take the Nashville bus, but before prices are raised the public will get their chance to weigh in.
The Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority is considering a 10-cent increase in the basic cash fare, raising the price from $1.60 to $1.70. AccessRide cash fare might also see a 20-cent increase from $3.20 to $3.40.
MTA is also considering increasing the rates for Regional Transportation Authority's basic cash fare, changing it from $3.50 to $4.00.
MTA said that rising healthcare, fuel and other related operating costs are the reasons for the proposed fare increases.
Meeting to discuss the potential raises will be held next week at the Music City Central off of Charlotte Avenue.
Meeting times are:
7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14.
11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Middle TN homeowners get relief
Tennessean
Retooled federal program affects Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans
12:32 AM, Nov. 6, 2011
For some of the 67,000 homeowners in Middle Tennessee whose properties are financially underwater or near it, partial relief could be close at hand, thanks to a retooled federal program affecting droves of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans.
President Barack Obama late last month announced changes to a federal refinancing program that will allow hundreds of thousands of homeowners nationwide to refinance their mortgages, some of whom may be able to take advantage of historically low interest rates.
But for other homeowners who haven’t kept their monthly payments current, the situation may remain bleak. The revamped program applies only to borrowers who haven’t fallen behind on their mortgages, even if they owe more on the house than it’s currently worth.
Despite such caveats, the program could put more money in the pockets of many Middle Tennessee homeowners who will end up with lower monthly rates after refinancing.
“It could boost consumer spending because money that used to go to banks to pay for mortgages will now be used on other things,” said Gregory Brown, an economics professor at Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, Tenn. “The new program has the potential to have a real stimulus effect on the local economy.”
Underwater cap gone
The Home Affordable Refinancing Program, or HARP, was introduced in spring 2009 and was intended to assist many troubled borrowers with refinancing.
The rub, though, was thatthe program applied only to borrowers who were no more than25 percent underwater on their mortgage loan.
Fewer than a million borrowers refinanced under HARP, which was expected to help many millions more.
The new rules remove the underwater cap and scrap some appraisal requirements in addition to nixing closing fees and other charges associated with the former program. Thus, refinancing will be cheaper and easier.
“It is certain that many more borrowers will benefit than would have otherwise,” said a statement from CoreLogic, a real estate data firm.
“There are no silver bullets that will solve the issues facing the housing and mortgage markets, only solutions that play their small part,” the statement continued.
Nationwide, nearly 1 in 4 of the country’s homeowners are underwater, according to CoreLogic. That’s roughly 11 million borrowers.
In the Nashville area, 13 percent of all homeowners, about 42,000 borrowers, are underwater, and an additional 25,000 people are on the cusp, owing more than their home’s value, according to the firm’s latest report.
Local lenders expected to embrace program
The announcement of the revamped program from the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the overseer of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, noted that the new program relies on private bank participation, which is voluntary.
A spokeswoman for Bank of America confirmed by email that the bank will participate in the new HARP program. Other big lenders are expected to follow suit.
Furthermore, banking experts in Middle Tennessee expect local lenders to also embrace the rules.
The federal government will provide lenders with pricing guidelines on Nov. 15, and some banks will begin taking applications by Dec. 1.
“What bank would say no to helping borrowers lessen their burden? I can’t imagine any,” said Ross Kinney, Pinnacle’s residential and mortgage manager. “The legislation is aimed at big banks, and they’re the ones who will make the decision.”
Geoff Hill, president of Fifth Third Bank’s mortgage division, said the program will shore up housing markets in certain hard-hit pockets of Florida and Nevada far more than it will affect Middle Tennessee.
Still, “it will get people talking about the program again. There are people in Nashville who are already eligible and don’t know it,” Hill said.
Nearly half of the country’s mortgages are backed by Fannie or Freddie.
When one of the two agencies guarantees a loan, the lender promises the loan will meet federal standards. If it fails to, Fannie or Freddie can force the lender, typically a bank, to put the loan on its books.
Consequently, banks were hesitant to issue new loans for underwater homeowners to refinance because they wanted to steer clear of more troubled loans.
But the new rules reverse that.
Now, Fannie and Freddie no longer have the authority to force a lender to buy back a sinking loan. The government justifies the change by insisting that nearly all the loans eligible for the program are “seasoned,” meaning they are not expected to fail, according to a FHFA statement.
“That provides a big incentive for banks to do this,” economist Brown said.
Borrowers must be current on payments
The revised HARP applies only to borrowers who have been current on their mortgage payments the past six months.
That means hardscrabble borrowers who are unemployed or underemployed are still out of luck, according to local housing advocates.
“Most people I see who are underwater are in a crisis mode. They haven’t been current for months,” said Ron Williams, senior housing counselor for the Woodbine Community Organization. “I think it will help a handful of people, but every federal program I’ve seen so far has failed to live up to expectations.”
Others, including some local mortgage bankers, also remain skeptical.
“We want to minimize risk to the bank and be able to assist the public as much as possible, but I don’t know if it’s going to be as widespread as some are predicting,” said Steve Swain, senior vice president of direct lending for First Tennessee Bank.
“For some people, it’s just putting off the inevitable,” Pinnacle’s Kinney said, suggesting that borrowers who do qualify may end up in foreclosure on their homes anyway.
Edsel Charles, chairman of MarketGraphics research group based here, said the program does not address declining home values, which, he predicts, will soon return to pre-crisis levels in Nashville.
“I’m glad there’s some effort to fix what is a very difficult issue, but only time will fix the equity problem,” Charles said.
Alice Walker, president of the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors, said any effort designed to provide incentives for homeowners to stay in their homes should be applauded.
Homeowner stability helps entire neighborhoods, she said.
“For a certain segment of homeowners, tweaking this program can be quite effective at that,” Walker said.
Contact Bobby Allyn at 615-726-5990 ormailto:ballyn@tennessean.com.
Retooled federal program affects Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans
12:32 AM, Nov. 6, 2011
For some of the 67,000 homeowners in Middle Tennessee whose properties are financially underwater or near it, partial relief could be close at hand, thanks to a retooled federal program affecting droves of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans.
President Barack Obama late last month announced changes to a federal refinancing program that will allow hundreds of thousands of homeowners nationwide to refinance their mortgages, some of whom may be able to take advantage of historically low interest rates.
But for other homeowners who haven’t kept their monthly payments current, the situation may remain bleak. The revamped program applies only to borrowers who haven’t fallen behind on their mortgages, even if they owe more on the house than it’s currently worth.
Despite such caveats, the program could put more money in the pockets of many Middle Tennessee homeowners who will end up with lower monthly rates after refinancing.
“It could boost consumer spending because money that used to go to banks to pay for mortgages will now be used on other things,” said Gregory Brown, an economics professor at Martin Methodist College in Pulaski, Tenn. “The new program has the potential to have a real stimulus effect on the local economy.”
Underwater cap gone
The Home Affordable Refinancing Program, or HARP, was introduced in spring 2009 and was intended to assist many troubled borrowers with refinancing.
The rub, though, was thatthe program applied only to borrowers who were no more than25 percent underwater on their mortgage loan.
Fewer than a million borrowers refinanced under HARP, which was expected to help many millions more.
The new rules remove the underwater cap and scrap some appraisal requirements in addition to nixing closing fees and other charges associated with the former program. Thus, refinancing will be cheaper and easier.
“It is certain that many more borrowers will benefit than would have otherwise,” said a statement from CoreLogic, a real estate data firm.
“There are no silver bullets that will solve the issues facing the housing and mortgage markets, only solutions that play their small part,” the statement continued.
Nationwide, nearly 1 in 4 of the country’s homeowners are underwater, according to CoreLogic. That’s roughly 11 million borrowers.
In the Nashville area, 13 percent of all homeowners, about 42,000 borrowers, are underwater, and an additional 25,000 people are on the cusp, owing more than their home’s value, according to the firm’s latest report.
Local lenders expected to embrace program
The announcement of the revamped program from the Federal Housing Finance Agency, the overseer of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, noted that the new program relies on private bank participation, which is voluntary.
A spokeswoman for Bank of America confirmed by email that the bank will participate in the new HARP program. Other big lenders are expected to follow suit.
Furthermore, banking experts in Middle Tennessee expect local lenders to also embrace the rules.
The federal government will provide lenders with pricing guidelines on Nov. 15, and some banks will begin taking applications by Dec. 1.
“What bank would say no to helping borrowers lessen their burden? I can’t imagine any,” said Ross Kinney, Pinnacle’s residential and mortgage manager. “The legislation is aimed at big banks, and they’re the ones who will make the decision.”
Geoff Hill, president of Fifth Third Bank’s mortgage division, said the program will shore up housing markets in certain hard-hit pockets of Florida and Nevada far more than it will affect Middle Tennessee.
Still, “it will get people talking about the program again. There are people in Nashville who are already eligible and don’t know it,” Hill said.
Nearly half of the country’s mortgages are backed by Fannie or Freddie.
When one of the two agencies guarantees a loan, the lender promises the loan will meet federal standards. If it fails to, Fannie or Freddie can force the lender, typically a bank, to put the loan on its books.
Consequently, banks were hesitant to issue new loans for underwater homeowners to refinance because they wanted to steer clear of more troubled loans.
But the new rules reverse that.
Now, Fannie and Freddie no longer have the authority to force a lender to buy back a sinking loan. The government justifies the change by insisting that nearly all the loans eligible for the program are “seasoned,” meaning they are not expected to fail, according to a FHFA statement.
“That provides a big incentive for banks to do this,” economist Brown said.
Borrowers must be current on payments
The revised HARP applies only to borrowers who have been current on their mortgage payments the past six months.
That means hardscrabble borrowers who are unemployed or underemployed are still out of luck, according to local housing advocates.
“Most people I see who are underwater are in a crisis mode. They haven’t been current for months,” said Ron Williams, senior housing counselor for the Woodbine Community Organization. “I think it will help a handful of people, but every federal program I’ve seen so far has failed to live up to expectations.”
Others, including some local mortgage bankers, also remain skeptical.
“We want to minimize risk to the bank and be able to assist the public as much as possible, but I don’t know if it’s going to be as widespread as some are predicting,” said Steve Swain, senior vice president of direct lending for First Tennessee Bank.
“For some people, it’s just putting off the inevitable,” Pinnacle’s Kinney said, suggesting that borrowers who do qualify may end up in foreclosure on their homes anyway.
Edsel Charles, chairman of MarketGraphics research group based here, said the program does not address declining home values, which, he predicts, will soon return to pre-crisis levels in Nashville.
“I’m glad there’s some effort to fix what is a very difficult issue, but only time will fix the equity problem,” Charles said.
Alice Walker, president of the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors, said any effort designed to provide incentives for homeowners to stay in their homes should be applauded.
Homeowner stability helps entire neighborhoods, she said.
“For a certain segment of homeowners, tweaking this program can be quite effective at that,” Walker said.
Contact Bobby Allyn at 615-726-5990 ormailto:ballyn@tennessean.com.
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