Portland, Tennessee Blog

Speaking of councilmembers.......what's happened to the decidion to move City Hall ? Are they still doing that or has that been put on the back burner ??

hello councilmembers!!!!1
are you still out there?
oh, thats right election season is over.
we'll hear from you when we need to, and unfortunatly too many ignorant hayseeds will vote you right into your positions.

The only councilman I have any faith in is Jody McDowell. He is the only "progressive". The rest are just happy that this town is made up of churches being run in vacated office buildings and tin metal trailers being rented out to the poor by the slumlords that control this town. You know, those tin metal trailers not fittin' for a dog to live in, where our local slumlords charge $400 a month or more to live in? ... They LOVE Portland staying just where it is....

Also....The only reason the mayor cut off the Gas company's use of our water is because of the public's outcry.

This is one crooked town.

i agree, we need a revolt. the problem is that we can voice our complaints here but only a couple of the council-members even bother to log on and comment.yet when election time comes around, they want everybodys input until the elections are over, then its right back to good ole boy corruption.

To be quite blunt, Portland is going to hell in a hand basket. All the good retail, restaurants, and opportunities are being researched and developed in Franklin KY and White House, it seems. Everything around us is growing, yet we sit here and stagnate. What's up with that? The citizens of Portland need to get together for a town meeting and voice our complaints and ideas- maybe someone will listen before this town self destructs.

the reason that semi trucks are allowed to put the public in danger on our city steets is simple:we have now and in the past small buissinesmen that are in office. some of you may remember back when dan jenkins was mayor he was quoted in the p. leader as saying that a bypass for truckers would divert traffic away from his and other stores in town. ya know forget public saftey.dont forget, if a bypass is built, passenger cars can use it too, and it may make it convienient for people to competitively shop for better products and prices.
on another note, has anybody noticed that on the northbound stretch of 109 coming into portland just about 30 yards after you pass the "PROUD PROGRESSIVE PORTLAND" sign the tool and die junkyard that welcomes everybody? there is about 10 to 12 junkheaps that have been sitting there rusting since i moved here 15 years ago. why doesnt the city council do anything about this illegal junkyard that is in the city limits?
does anybody know who owns it? probably somebody that the council and mayor are beholden to or scared of. how about it councilman callis? whats up?

And we are amazed by how many names you go by and how you never add anything to the debate of the issues. Simple question . . .is she wrong?

Another TOPIC on which the local expert weighs in. I'm amazed by the KNOWLEDGE including mpg of SEMI's and the price of TRUCK tires.

Michelle is exactly right.

JW,

guess me to stepud to answer, so can I says dittos to what Michelle Hanners says? Thuanks u's

OK. This argument is not making sense to me.

The question is why would truck drivers cut through Portland if they don't have a delivery in Portland?

If they are running up Hwy 109 from I-40 to I-65, I contend that for MOST it would be to avoid Nashville construction and traffic. Not to mention that it knocks off 22 miles. With trucks getting an average of 6-7mpg the savings would be approx. $10.00 each way. Depending on how many trucks a company has going that route and how often they run it, that is a considerable savings over the course of a year. Not to mention that truck tires cost around $900.00 EACH. In other words, I think it has to do with a companies "bottom line" moreso than avoiding scales. Which doesn't hold water since they have to go through KY's scales less than a mile after they enter I-65.

Anyway, the trucking industry is highly regulated and they are subject to random inspections at ANY TIME. They don't have to be at a scale or have done anything wrong to be stopped, searched, log books audited, safety inspection, load inspection, etc., and if something isn't right, they can be shut down on the spot!

I think that a by-pass will benefit everyone and I look forward to the day that it is completed, but I take exception to some of the blanket comments made about truck drivers. Most are out there trying to make an honest living and want to make it safely back home to their families.

DC

I notice you didn't answer the question? So I will repeat it....for a 5 year old to understand!

If the trucks that are coming through Portland are not making a delivery in Portland....what is the reason they are coming through Portland?

Is that clear enough?

JW

You just don't have a clue do you? That is about the dumbest statement I've ever seen. Now the highways are just for cars? Give me a break, with that type of statement from you, I'm guessing your one of those dumb drivers that don't know when to turn on their headlights, or when to use their turn signals. A truck has every right, if not more of a right to use any road he wants (unless marked) then you do. Trucking Companies pay a lot more highway taxes then you do. Get a grip JW.

Well I must pipe in on this issue.

I work out of my car and I am on the road at least 5 days a week. I very often use 109 from or to Gallatin, and there is not a day that goes by that I do not get behind a line of Semi-trucks going one way or the other on 109. I don;t care why they are doing it....isn't this why interstate highways were created (besides for miltary use), was for these big trucks, was it not? So why don't they use the interstates? If they do not have business in Portland....then why don't they stay on the interstate? What other reason could there be for them to come through?

I suspect this issue will be left on the table until someone gets killed. What will be the repsonse then, I can see the headline now:

Family killed by 18 wheeler: Trucker was just keeping America Moving.

Hopefully it won't be my family or yours!

I'd sooner ask for cars to be rerouted than trucks. Portland drivers are scary.

I don't see the trucks DebraP is talking about because we rarely come from the interstate at 52, however my husband drives in from I-40 daily and atleast 3-4 times a week he follows semi's off I-40 thru Lebanon, Gallatin, Portland & up to Hwy 52 to the interstate or the state line! I think we need to point the fingers at the powers to be that decided not to do the I-840 northern section.

I think if we were only dealing with the Semi's that need to come through our town we could deal with it a lot easier until the roads are straightened out, until then those of us that are aware of the narrow winding areas needs to just bite the bullet, be patient, give them room, and be thankful you made it to the next light.

It is funny to see all the argurements about the truckers. Yes they are necessary to move our goods around the country. And yes they, the drivers do live in town, but some think they do not have to obey some of the laws here. I see truckers everyday(NOT THE LITTLE DEBBIE TRUCKS) driving down college street to their house in the small street subdivisions although signs are posted that no truck are allowed. I have been run off N Harris Rd bc of a neglegant driver in a yellow semi going to his house. He speeds up and down N Harris about once a week. My truck has lost a mirror bc 2 truckers wanted to run side by side north on 109 near Market St and one has to cross the line into on coming traffic to avoid hitting the other trucker. So he hits me instead. No smart driving. I see dump truck and cement trucks use N and S Russell to avoid the traffic lites although these roads are small and crumble under their massive weight. All the citizens of this town want to see is that truck be prohibited from 52 north to around Freedom Dr, bc of the narrow lanes. It is just too dangerous for large trucks to be in the center of town unless they are making a delivery to a business there. They can go out 52 to 31w and north to 109 and back down to Kirby if that is their destnation. Just a thought and my 2 cents.

DC, I could care less if you believe me or not. Why would I lie about something like that?

Again, the point of my post is not by-passing the scales. The point is the need for a truck BY-PASS. There is way too much truck traffic on our narrow roads thru town.

Yes there are some factories here that only pay $7.50 an hour and some that pay $10 to $12 an hour. Which one you work at is going to depend on your experience, education, and a drive to do better and want more out of life. Don't down the city because they allow low paying jobs. These jobs are a necessity. If it wasn't for them alot of people wouldn't be working at all because they would not qualify for the higher paying jobs.

I agree with M.E.'s post. We have WAY too many companies locating here that have nothing to offer other than poverty level wages, and miserable and unsafe work conditions.

This city needs to attract industries here that want to locate here for some other reason than the fact that people here accept $7.50 an hour.

I think that it was digman who posted months back about how we have these big ribbon cutting ceremonies for these sweatshops and low-pay dumps that locate here, where all the local politicians smile for the camera and pat each other on the back, knowing full and well that there is no way in heck they would work there, nor would anyone in their family.

This town has many families struggling working long hours for almost NO pay in our local factories, and there are a handful of good ole boys here that benefit from this, in many,many ways!!!!

I think it should be mandatory for everyone to ride in a big truck before they get their license. Then they'll see what drivers deal with, from the scheduling messes;angry dispatchers,crappy routes and idiotic drivers of four wheelers. I know firsthand that truckers hate going through dinky little towns like ours. And I also know that sometimes it's necessary when you have to get to I40 from I65 because you have to deliver or pick up a load in an hour... It isn't the truckers fault they have to go through town. They're trying to do their job in the time that they are given so they can keep things moving. Middle TN has grown, there's more traffic on the roads, the state just can't cope with the funds needed to develop a more functional road network...

The traffic is the least of this town's troubles. More time should be spent on our youth's lack of activity options and getting different businesses in to give skilled workers a shot at jobs closer to home. I know at least 16 people who work at offices in Davidson County or in Hendersonvile, and yep, that's where they spend their money. When you spend 40 plus hours a week at work, you tend to do your errands and shopping in the community you work in. Portland has limited itself to being strictly blue collar- low paying blue collar at that. Who has the money or time to spend here anyways when you work 50-60 hrs a week at a job making 7.50 an hour?

Just sayin'.

DebraP,

You are so out of touch. I know and have done business with many truckers and companies, so I don't believe the " I have followed trucks many, many times from the interstate, thru Portland, past Kirby Rd on towards the state line.", these guys and gals would rather pull their own teeth then drive through Portland, like I said, I know this to be a fact, I have done lots of business with them. However, during the hours of 3:00pm until 6:00pm, a lot of them use hwy 109 to bypass Nashville, but just to bypass the scales, I don't think so, at least not to the people I know. I've had to do work for different clients that where there were accidents between a car and a 18-wheeler, and 99% of the time, it's the cars fault, and yes, that's a fact as well. So I have to agree with KL and Hello, give them room and take your time, please. I've seen way to many bodies of stupid people cutting off a truck or slamming on their brakes etc...give these people the respect they deserve. Nuff said.

KL, meowwwww..... you a trucker or married to one I would guess.

Like I said, the trucks are a necessary annoyance. I didn't say MOST of them I said probably half of them use Portland to by-pass the scales. Big difference there.

I have followed trucks many, many times from the interstate, thru Portland, past Kirby Rd on towards the state line. Don't tell me they don't do this to by pass the scales. It would be closer for them to just stay on the interstate or if they get off to go down 31W but either way they have to stop at the scales.

I use to be a shipping clerk at a factory here in Portland. I know how many trucking companies do business here and I know they deliver food, medicine, clothes, and I know they do this to feed their familes, etc. etc. etc.

You are missing my point completely!!!!

DebraP....The next time your out riding around town go down by the factories and see how many trucks are sitting in the parking lots.More do buisness here then you think. Then drive around town and see how many trucking companies there are here. While your at it drive around and notice how many truckers live here. They will out weigh the amount that comes through town to by pass the scales. There is a huge fee set for going around the scales and most will not do that because its not worth the chance of getting hit with that fine. It's really not fair for you to say that most of them are doing that , because you don't know where they are going, what address their delevery bills have on them and so forth, yr assuming they are going around the scales. These guys that are such annoyance are the ones who bring you your groceries and the clothes you wear. They are doing a job and trying to make money to feed their families, its not that they just want to take a joy ride through Portland, nor is their fault the rds are small. Be curtious and realize their trucks need more space and don't crowd them, be patient instead of being in a hurry to get nowhere and then there shouldnt be any problems. It all comes down to having respect for each other and making due with what you have to work with.

Ok, I have sat here and read everyones input, It seems to me the same things keep going back and forth. So, I might as well put in my 2 cents worth. In 1986, I moved here the summer of my freshman year of high school. Back then, Portland had very little. The feed mill was where McDonalds is and Mokes Automotive was where Arbys is. People who did not live here would not believe how Portland has changed in 21 years. Except, Portland still does NOT have anything for the teens to do. They didn't in 1986, and they still don't. When I was a teenager, we cruised Hardees and the carwash. Or we went to Franklin. I now am a mother of a 14 year old. He complains that there is nothing for him to do here. I do not mind taking him to the mall or someplace fun. Don't get me wrong, I don't want a mall here. I do not mind going to Wal-mart for things, or to Hendersonville. If all I need is something like socks, I can go to Fred's or the dollar store. No big deal. I know that I have rambled on and on. I apologize for that.

KL....I think people on here know that truckers and their rigs are a necessary annoyance. The complaints are about the truckers that use Portland as a by-pass around the scales on I-65. It would probably be safe to say that half the trucks that come thru Portland do not stop here for any reason.

I know Hwy 109 is a state route but could there be a sign put up at the 109-52 intersection that all trucks, not having business in Portland, have to use Hwy 52 W to 31 W. It would also be nice to see a by-pass from the interstate to Freedom Dr or Kirby Rd. This would cut down on the truck traffic going thru our little town.

I was in no way criticizing our police force.In fact what I was saying is give them the equipment and manpower they need to truly make headway against the crime in this town.I respect each and every police officer and the job they do.I believe if we had increased pressure in the "high crime"areas of town it would discourage those people from staying in this town.

I come here and read the blogs from time to time but never really say much. However tonight after reading a few I felt a need to voice my thoughts on a few things. First of all I wanted respond to the comments about the semi trucks. These companys and owner operators already pay a heavy highway use tax each year of 550.00 to use the roads. In addition the tags for their trucks run anywhere from 1,425.00 and up each year. I'd say thats a lot more then we pay for our plates on our cars. In addition people seem to forget these trucks bring our groceries, supplies the convient stores, Freds....etc. They also keep these factories going that most people here work at. The truckers are doing a job and keeping America moving, they are not out just for a stroll through our town. Also if people would take the time to notice there are a lot of truck drivers who live here in town , who also onate the use of their trucks and trailers for the parades here. Maybe these drivers should get a little more respect then what they get. The next subject I would like to comment on, is the complaining about Portland all the time. Yes, I admit there is some areas that need to be cleaned up and painted, I feel everyone should take pride in their homes and place of buisness no matter how big or small. On the other hand most people live here or have moved here because of the small town feel, and to get away from the hustle from the larger cities. Then want to sit and complain that we our not as big or have the places other cities have. In reality though if that big city feel is what you want, why not move to the bigger cities. I bet if Portland did grow and had everything everyone wanted, that then the topic would be on how we lost the small town feeling. Then there is the people who complain about the police....I know there are times some may not do exactly right, but there are some that do the best they can. They are people just like us, and make mistakes just like us. Bottom line is some people complain they harrass people, some complain they don't do enough. Maybe people need to take the time to look at theirselves more instead of always so quick to throw negative comments toward others. We should be greatfull for what we have and proud of our town, and show respect for others. If you don't like where you live, then move! Remember that old saying, " You can't always please everyone."

Dave Ramsey can be found on cable channel 49 1-3pm m-f I love watching his show, also daveramsey.com will give you all the information about upcoming seminars, etc. you can also purchase his books from the website or at books a million in rivergate.

I think it is one of the churchs that give the Dave Ramsey classes. I have took the classes and read his books. You can learn just as much from his books. Very helpful info if you just apply it.

Cindy,

Check the Portland Leader; they have been running a column of Dave Ramsey information. I haven't heard about anyone who is doing a class, but if you call the Leader, they may know.

I think I remember a while back someone -- or someplace -- advertising Dave Ramsey classes being taught.

Will these happen again? Or was that a one time thing?

Thanks!

Thanks Daniel....

As far as WH cops go, they are a little TOO ridiculous about pulling people over. I got pulled over the other night for something very minor by one of them, and someone I know was pulled over on interstate by them. Neither of us were cited. Neither of us were speeding. Like I said, it was something silly in both instances. They find a bogus reason to pull you over in hopes of getting the big bust, but in the end, it just results in the inconvenience of many of their law-abiding citizens.

As far as Portland Police keeping criminals out, maybe we should make those who rent property to them do a background check. Portland is a very easy place for passing criminals to come through, find them a place for a few weeks, then split.

Mack-we've done a couple of stories on it over the past few weeks. The mayor is supposed to be getting some work done on the issue...we'll keep on it.

I agree. I'm not trying to slam the current police officers, but it does seem that things could be done better. White House, for example, has a reputation as a place where you don't want to go more than 1-2 miles over the speed limit, or you KNOW you will be stopped by the police. When going the speed limit between the two funeral homes on 109, I am usually passed by numerous cars; and some of them are police cars that are not pursuing anyone, they are just impatient.

Last week, I saw Mr. Wix standing in the middle of Hwy 109 after school, stopping traffic so the busses could get out. I couldn't help but wonder why the police couldn't do that, at least for the first week or two of school. Or better yet, hire another crossing guard, like they have finally put in at the middle school. They high school needs more traffic control, as well. A 4-way stop at Searcy and College would make life so much easier.

I think my opinions have been misunderstood.I am not satisfied with the way things are now,but I know we cant just follow the crowd.Trying to keep up with the Jone's will get you broke and nothing else.We need to find something the three surrounding cities don't offer.I believe a good start to a better city would be a top notch,well manned,high pressure police force to run the criminals out of town.If you take out that element you've already gone a long way toward a better town.Let's stop skimping on the infrastructure of the town while spending on the pretty things.Just my opinion.

Why must every issue in Portland be segmented into "us" (meaning natives) and "them" (meaning transplants)? Aren't we all equal citizens?

Why did I move here? Because I'm from a small town and didn't want to live in Metro. The first year I loved the small-town atmosphere and the feeling that I had stepped back in time. But folks, the 60s and 70s are gone. The entire country is different than it was then, and it seems that Portland is having a hard time catching up. Change is hard, but more for some than for others. Those of us who weren't born here don't have the warm fuzzy memories that sustain the locals. We see a run-down business area -- those who are from here see their town the way it used to be.

I know, because when I go back to my hometown, I see the memories of places that don't exist anymore. I go home and wonder; why did they tear down the beauty/barber shop that has always stood on the corner of Front and Oak? Because the barber died 10 years ago, and the beauty shop has been vacant and deteriorating for years. I may have had a lot of fun at the Teen Center, but now it's a run-down, musty building that nobody wants. All that is still there are the memories. It hurts to realize that the town is dying and run down; it's not happening just here in Portland.

Sometimes you have to put aside the emotions and look at things realistically. Portland was a thriving town when the Railroad was King, and families had just one car -- and Dad needed it to get to work. But now we live in our cars, and the Railroad is pretty much a thing of the past, and if we want OUR town to survive, we should all pull together to see what needs to change to become part of the 21st Century.

Daniel-

Are you serious? There is NO A/C in the animal shelter? Someone needs to point this out to the Humane Society and also call one of the local news outlets. I also heard that there is no restroom for the workers/visitors there. So if somebody brings their kid to pick up an animal, they have no place to go to the bathroom while there.

Another problem, how many times have you or anyone else stopped at the animal shelter, and there be NO ONE there. The place is locked. Kinda hard to adopt out animals if you pull up, and the place is locked in the middle of the weekday.

Daniel, I ask that you investigate these issues, and do a story on it for the paper.

They are building on it now, about halfway between Portland and Gallatin. Wouldn't expect it to open before late 2008, maybe 2009.

When is the New 109 expected to open up does anyone know? I don't know much about this, anyone have any info wirh regard to this new highway. I assume that is what we see going on back in the woods along highway 109?

I think people are paying to much to northern Portland and Franklin and not enough on the southern end. Portland has been held up for years because of the treacherous length of highway we all know as the ridge. The new and improved ridge will open up the Gallatin - Portland corridor, which is now just beautiful countryside and I expect to develop into a lot of great residential developments and a bustling strip of businesses. It would be a great area for high end residential subdivisions for people who commute to Southern Sumner or North Davidson.

thanks JW

Daniel,

I don't think you are a bad guy, never did. Actually I very much enjoy our debates. We do have something in common, I spent about 20 years in radio in the midwest where I am from, First as news director then as PD. So I do enjoy your radio show when I am able to listen.

Your a good guy for the most part, and suprisingly many times we are on the same page, it just seems that the few times we haven't been seem to stick out, LOL!

Daniel - I based my comment on what I got off the City's new web site where it lists all the industry in this town and employee counts, only did a rounded quick in my head calculation, with that being said..... anything's possible I guess.. LOL

JW-we're agreeing a lot lately, maybe we can be friends!
Judy-actually in talking to city leaders and police officers, the double the population amount is about right. But most aren't going anywhere in Portland to spend their money. They are driving down to Franklin or waiting to buy stuff on the way home like gas, since it's cheaper elsewhere. Do we really think our five fast food places are going to support our future? Reminds me of a song about rose color glasses...

Jazzy - As for why I moved here, Spouses employment/relocation. Another is my husbands family all live here and thru the years of visiting all we heard is how Portland is a booming town! Much like the city sells itself now. We figured we would step back & grow with the community and how exciting it would be to see and be a part of it's growth. We also thought of the "southern hospitality" this area is/was best known for, ya know everybody's welcome!

Doubling in size is a bit over stated since the industries employ about 5k total and over half of them are local residents, a good point though. It's a shame, lets just say 1,200 -1,500 people come from out of town daily m-f, imagine how much tax revenue we could get if we truly had something to offer these extra 1500 people who travel thru our town every day!! Instead they place a strain on our roads, not to mention the public safety dept, take jobs from locals and pay nothing in taxes to our city.

Daniel and DDP,

Very VERY well said.

I think it is clear if you read down this thread..those that are from around here are satisfied with Status Quo...those that are not from around here aren't.

Someone asked why did I move here? I have a special needs son and the Schools here in Portland were the best we could find in terms of dealing with his issues. Trust me Portland was NOT my first choice, but had the better schools.....actually White House was my first choice. BUT, my sons needs come before my wants. So, the way I saw it was I could try to help affect change, apparently since I am not from around here, that is not allowed!

It is probably fair to say that between 7am and 3pm our population doubles 5 days a week. This is due to people coming to Portland to work in our factories. These people buy gas here and frequent our fast food establishments or maybe stop at the grocery on their way home. So they are supporting our town with their money. This is no different than you or I going to another town to eat or shop. It is impossible to keep ALL your tax dollars in the town in which you live. IMPOSSIBLE. Anytime you take a vacation you are supporting another city or country. People complain that this is an "industrial" town but where would we be without them??

I really don't think that the, let's say, 2 or 3 visits I make a month outside of Portland is going to break this town or make another town any better off.

I do enjoy my ride to Gallatin or Nashville or Franklin. We live in a beautiful part of the country.

Well said, our crime rate in Portland is already much higher than any other city it's size in the county and has a higher ratio than Gallatin and Hendersonville. The tax hikes will have to come at some point and the part about supporting other cities with our tax dollars is spot on.

It's obvious that eyes are closed in this situation, this city is running on a borrowed time, soon you will be told to open up your pockets and dig deep to continue to keep it afloat. Without additional tax revenue YOU, ME and everyone else that calls Portland home will be paying more to live here, so keep that in mind while you thrash others who are bringing in thoughts on how to avoid this from happening.

Oh yeah, when you're digging deep in your pockets and complaining about that..... don't forget how much of your money has already left this town each and every day because "you were within 30 minutes of almost anything your heart desires"

Be sure to ask those other communities that you support with your money to allow your children to play sports in their town because your's can no longer support youth activity, use their parks for picnics and gatherings because ours are in disrepair because our city doesn't have the money, Place your child in their schools because ours are so overcrowded there isn't room for more! Then come home to your safe haven secured by metal bars because our city cannot afford proper protection.

GB you said one thing I'll agree with..... "many will only realize that when it's gone"

Enjoy the Ride!!!

Well said G.B.

I have lived in Portland for 21 years. I was born and raised in Gallatin. I moved here because I did not want my youngest to go to Gallatin schools. I wouldn't move back even if someone offered to pay me to do so.

I like a small town. I like not having traffic jams and a red light at every corner. I do hate the big rig traffic but I think that will be taken care of in the near future.

In the 21 years I have lived here Portland has grown. The population has more than doubled. We don't have fancy resturants but we do have more choices. The roads have been greatly improved and we have 2 big grocery chains. I knows this does not sound like much. You would have to lived here years ago to really know how this town has grown.

I have thought about this in recent months and I have complained about Portland not having LBTD and not having fancy stores etc etc. but I don't want Portland to grow like that. I want it to stay small like it is now. Instead of big chains moving in I would like to see the parks improved with more things to do. I would like to see more Mom and Pop speciality store. I would love to see a truck by-pass. There is so much this town could do and still keep the small town feel.

Like G.B. said, You are only 30 minutes away to get to whatever your hearts desire. Enjoy the ride!!!

Yeah, and when you want a pair of socks you also have to make a 25 minute trip.
I think it's pretty obvious to those who follow the issues, a great deal of legislation is passed based on religious pressure. But that's changing to. Portland will never be Nashville, or Gallatin, I sure don't want it to be. But I would like for our city to have enough money to take care of common needs, wouldn't you? Or would you like to work in a building with no AC all day?

Portland is a theocracy?
People always have to blame someone when they do not get their way. Get over it and move on.
What do you want Portland to be? Restaurants, movie houses, nightclubs, shopping. Where is it written that every town must have everything? The best growth is steady growth. This town has grown and those of us who have lived here no that to be true.

Quit complaining and start being thankful.
You are within 30 minutes of almost anything your heart desires and you can still come home to a fairly safe community. Far away from the busy shopping districts.

And as far as our town looking bad; open your eyes. Drive around Gallatin, Hendersonville, and Nashville and take a long look. Don’t just go to the new built up areas, go to the rest of their city. When is the last time you went down rivergate parkway (old 2 mile pike) that is falling a part.

People who seem to hate everything and are never satisfied usually do not like their personal life.
Quit punching the air, suck it up, and try something positive for a change.

I like this city, the safety, ease of life, the schools, the parks, the country, the people; and if I want "EXCITEMENT" I will take a 25 minute trip. We have got it good, but many will only realize that, when it is gone.

I have a question for the people that are not native of Portland.
Why did you move here? I'm sure before you moved you did a check to see what Portland did and did not have to offer.
Why didn't you move to Gallatin, Hendersonville, or Nashville that has just about anything you would want.
I'm just curious.

Well here we go again.

Complain, complain, complain about something that that none of us can change unless we vote in every election, go to city council meetings, call or email the mayor and aldermen and get involved in this town. Posting our feeling on this blog might make you feel better but it accomplishes nothing.
If you don't agree with something or want a change, get involved. Don't sit on your hands and complain.
I have been a complainer of this town but I finally realized it was getting me no where.

I'm just not sure that there are enough people in Portland who want it to grow. Another issue is that religion plays too big of a role in politics currently and that will hamper a lot of growth. There are some that say adding liquor/beer is immoral, at the same time, our animal shelter doesn't have an ac and the animals get so hot some of them are constantly throwing up. Not to mention the stress on the officers there. But there is no money at the end of the day.
Portland has many tools to be able to grow in the future, and it will grow in terms of population, but the city needs a few risk takers and leaders who aren't afraid to try something different instead of playing with theocracy and voting with traditional public opinion.

Terry - I've lived here 12 years, I spent 4 years in Upstate NY prior to moving here and prior to that I lived 35 yrs in South Florida. Having said that NO I haven't lived here all my life, but that doesn't mean that we transplants don't care about the community we live in! We too have an investment here, many are property owners, business owners, we pay taxes, send our kids to schools here, and would like to take pride in the community we live in.

You have lived here all your life, this is what you have become accustomed to and are happy with, some of us have lived in different environments and can't understand why "change" is so feared by this community. It shouldn't matter if we are a native here or not, each and everyone of us has a stake in this community.

Terry,

No I am not native to Portland, Does this matter?

I am a resident here now, I have lived in other towns that were in similar positions as Portland and pulled themselves out of it. They did this with vision and unity. It did not matter who was native or not. All points of view are important and those that were not native to the community offered a point of view from "the other side" so to speak and could bring ideas to the table that may not have been considered otherwise.

My problem with much of the leadership in Portland is it seems there is an aweful lot of Talk and very little action.

My grandmother taught me as a child, "actions speak louder than words'. We need leadership with a little less talk and a lot more action. This is when Portland will become the "Progressive" community the signs along the highway claim it to be.

I'm curious to know haw many of you posting in this forum are native to Portland.It seems to me that everyone who is complaining about the living conditions here MOVED here.I have lived here all my life and remember when the mom and pops were thriving.The reason they're not now is because of places like Wal-Mart and if you look around there is one in each of our closest neighbors.I don't know what the answer is,maybe it's one we don't want to hear,that's part of life.I've always heard,true happiness comes from being content.I may not always agree with what goes on here but it is my hometown.

From what little I know about Portland since I have lived here....and observed...it seems to me that Portland is a town that it is a town built on a few people's self-interest. I don't see Portland being much more than a truck route...and home to a few small industries who take advantage of the low wages and I'm sure big tax breaks given them.
That Portland seems to be controlled by a handful of people...I don't see much future for it.

All you see when you drive into town from the one side is tractors,& trucks, and a huge junkyard from the other. Hmm...sorta goes with the truck route theme.....

It's a shame they can't tax the trucking companies for the use of our roads.....we'd have zero money problems then ! A trucking impact fee sounds reasonable to me....they sure do impact our town.

First of all, Jay, it's GOD, not God or god.(just giving you all a hard time LOL)
Next, I moved from Portland because it has nothing to offer anyone. Portland will always be the same, going no where. I mean, just look at your city workers, they still take their time eating, both in the am and pm, let's see, an hour in the am, and an hour in the pm, not to mention the number of 20min breaks they take during the workday, and did anyone see how they fixed the road on Kirby Drive and Hwy 109? They cut out a big section and made it worse then what it was, now come on, what is going through their minds when they did that, and yes, that was our, or should I say your money they wasted doing that work, or lack of work there. I still do a lot of business in Portland, and most of the people are really good people, but until you get those so called honest people out of office, then this is all what Portland is going to have. Portland should learn from Franklin, Gallatin and White House. Now they have no water? Come on people, have they ever heard of a back up plan?! I would love to know who in the world put who in charge of painting the "stop ahead" on the roads, have we not been taught to read left to right and top to bottom? So why in the world did someone put it on the road they way they did, we can see both words at the same time, and when you can see both at the same time, should it not say "stop ahead" instead of "ahead stop"? Instead of someone hiring "Bubba" that has no education whatsoever, hire someone that has at least made it past 11th grade. Portland will most likely self-destruct within a decade or so. Anytime you have a town that throws trash everywhere, and so very few show up to vote, it will self-destruct.

I was curious, what are Portland schools doing about outdoor practices in this heat?? It is unbearable for me to even play with my son for more than 10 minutes out there! I can not wait until it cools down..come on,Fall! :)

Oh yes, Judy. I completely agree. I love the "good ole town" feel in the middle of Gallatin, where the courthouse is and all of the small shops...they keep it well kept and it seems to take you back to the good ole days where you knew everyone's name around the corner. I'd love to see that here in our very own small town. But that means that the business owners have to take pride in their business,meaning appearance,which Portland is obviously not known to do..I mean, dare I mention the overfilled dumpsters,and window painting with sloppy handwriting? Not my idea of inviting,nor a quality company I want to be putting my hard in money into. I realize how hard it must be to own a business,but if you want people to buy your items, you have to put forth effort in advertising acceptable merchandize...

Jay - Excuse my punctuation, that's a given my mistake for not proofing.

You're right we don't have alot to offer consumers in this town, and with all the goodies being offered nearby what chance do we have to get little own keep even small businesses here? Where will they set up shop? Retail space, we've all heard the stories of what one must go thru to set up shop in this town and how little retail space there is available. I love small shops, but when you must invest thousands of dollars for site plans, etc on a chance you will get a permit who wants to chance that.

I think I would just like to see some progress towards something in Portland other than Industry, maybe that old town look and feel of a historic site, Cleaner roads, more trees & greenery, the sidewalks lined with trinket & specialty shops, Candles, Quilts, an Ice Cream parlor, a Clock shop, Novelty T's, a Christian Book Store, sporting goods store, a dress shop, a shoe store, etc, etc. We need more things to keep our hard earned dollars in town and a reason for our neighbors to come and spend their money here too.

Judy,

That would be God, not god.

I agree we do need a larger tax base. And frankly, I don't know where it will come from because we don't have a whole heck of a lot to offer. We have plenty of people, but no business. Plenty of industry but not a lot for the consumer. We have become the town on the interstate where the wharehouses are, where you can live without a state tax and shop just up the road for no food tax.

What can we do to make it enticing for small business to come in. When there are more small businesses for consumers, there will be more shopping, with more shopping, you get more taxes, to generate more revenue, to entice more small business.

I know that's the most confusing run on sentence ever, but you get my point.

Jay - Yes the topic is about what is going around in our town/community, however I feel that surrounding areas reflect on us. Besides that this blog has been DEAD for the past week, and controversial matter always seems to bring it back to life! LOL

Terry George - OK, I'm with you, what do we work off? Industry? Don't know about you but I've lived in an area that had nothing but industries to offer, not a pretty picture when they start abandoning ship and moving elsewhere, I thank god every day we never bought a home there or we'de probably still be there paying ungodly county & city property taxes while trying to sell at far less than accessed value.

The bottom line is for Portland to prosper and grow we need a tax base, so where is it going to come from?

Terry...

What are Portland's strenghts ?

Portland is going to be a truck route, it seems.

Perhaps that is our strength...to provide a gateway between interstates for truckers.....

Instead of saying they have this so we need this,or they have that why can't we have that,we need to realize we are stuck in the middle and offer something different than what Franklin,White House,and Gallatin are offering.Let's work off our strengths instead of trying to be something were not.

I thought this was a thread about what is going on around Portland. Why are we talking about what is going on in another town in another state on this thread. By the way, until Portland get's out of the stone age, they will never have the residential and commercial prosperity that Franklin has. Instead of asking about a 1,000 acre tract of land, it looks like we should be asking their business and civic government advice on how to take a town from good to great. We need the help.

My understanding is that Kentucky Downs was built despite the fact that the city of Franklin did not allow liquor by the drink at that time. I guess they thought they would let them serve liquor anyway. Looks like they were right, although it took several years.

By the way, I am in favor of liquor by the drink, it's just a shame that it can only happen when Big Business throws its weight around.

The paper notes
Annexes an area that runs along US 31W from the area of Wal-Mart and the future Lowes store south to the Kentucky Downs race course. It does include 31W/I-65 interchange, business properties in the area including Flying J, Barbe Baptist Church, PIC, Tourism Office, Cracker Barrell, McDonalds, and Keystop. Does NOT include businesses south of Kentucky Downs such as the drive in Restlawn Memory Gardens nor the Lake Springs subdivision.

One word,CASINO!

To the race track? You mean the Horse racing track? I assume that would not be all one piece of land? seems to be much more than 1000 acres between wal-mart and the race track.

Seems that Franklin has alot more going on right now than Portland does. It amazed me to learn the other day that we actually have residents around Portland that don't even have a permanent water source, they have to bring water in to thier homes in tanks.

Does this sum it all up or what?

What does everyone think about the City of Franklin KY annexing all the land (about 1,000 Acres) from Wal-Mart down to the Race track into the City limits?